Passports, Puppies, and Port Entries: A Yacht Agent's Guide

The complex world of maritime immigration can be challenging for even the most experienced captains and crew. In this illuminating conversation, Kristina Hebert sits down with Debora Radtke, President and Owner of American Yacht Agents, to demystify the often misunderstood B-1/B2 visa process for yacht crew entering U.S. waters.Drawing from over 25 years of maritime experience, Radtke offers crystal-clear guidance on proper documentation, common pitfalls, and practical strategies for seamless entry. She emphasizes that while regulations haven't substantially changed in years, enforcement has become more stringent, with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) more carefully tracking cumulative time spent in the United States.The discussion ventures beyond basic visa requirements to explore the broader maritime ecosystem, including vessel documentation requirements for different tonnage categories, the critical role of yacht agents in facilitating smooth arrivals, and the significant shortage of U.S.-certified mariners affecting the industry. Particularly eye-opening is Radtke's insight into how CBP evaluates crew histories and the importance of maintaining appropriate status documentation.For captains, what stands out is practical advice on crew responsibility and vessel compliance. For crew members, the conversation offers invaluable strategies for successful visa applications and maintaining legal status. Perhaps most refreshingly, Radtke dispels the notion that CBP is adversarial to the industry, noting that most officers recognize the economic importance of yachting to South Florida and are willing to work with well-prepared, respectful visitors.Whether you're a captain planning your vessel's U.S. arrival, a crew member navigating the visa application process, or a boat owner concerned about compliance, this episode delivers essential knowledge for anyone involved in international yachting. Subscribe to the Ward's Way podcast for more expert insights on navigating the maritime industry's most pressing challenges.

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