Vie d'écumevideo

05 CUSTOMS!!! We have to turn back but we're enjoying it anyway

October 20, 2024 · 21 min · 1K views · Lac Champlain

What this video covers

The crew of the sailboat Corail, a 63-foot vessel, faced significant entry restrictions from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) while attempting to transit from Canada to the United States via Lake Champlain. Despite using the CBP ROAM application and attempting multiple video interviews, officials denied entry twice.2:12 A crew member eventually brought the boat to a customs dock, where agents conducted a thorough search and interrogated the crew for over two hours.2:41 Authorities granted the vessel only a one-week transit permit, citing concerns over the captain’s status and the crew's documentation.5:43 Fearing the legal consequences of overstaying this short window, the captain decided to abandon the U.S. route and return to Canada.6:32 This detour requires navigating the Chambly Canal, paying for lock fees, and sourcing a crane in Quebec to re-step the mast, as local facilities in Sorel and Trois-Rivières cannot accommodate the boat's size.8:20 The crew spent time at Valcour Island and Middle Bay while finalizing these logistical changes.0:15

Watch on YouTube

Boats in this video

Beneteau Oceanis 440Their boat

More from Vie d'écume

Goodbye CORAIL !!!Sep 2026The FUTURE of Vie d'écume and mineAug 2026Plans have changed, we're doing the Spanish coast, Toulon will have to waitAug 2026Watch out for the orcas of Gibraltar, I'm staying on guardAug 2026

From Vie d'écume — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.

Report an issue