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Customs seized my boat in Béjaïa. A moment I'll never forget! I wasn't expecting that.

September 18, 2026 · 13 min · 71K views · Béjaïa, Algeria

What this video covers

A solo sailor navigating the Algerian coast toward Béjaïa encounters light winds and variable sea states, relying on a mainsail with a boom brake and engine power to maintain a 6-knot average.5:06 Upon arrival at the port of Béjaïa at 1:00 a.m., the sailor contacts the harbor master on VHF channel 10.5:44 The following morning, customs officials initiate a vessel inspection, prioritizing a commercial ferry over the private boat.9:39 During the search, officers attempt to seal the boat’s cabin to prevent the use of two spearguns found on board.11:07 After the sailor complains to a superior officer about the lengthy delay, the customs agents return, perform a second search, and seize the spearguns without providing official documentation.11:51 The sailor spends four days attempting to retrieve the gear before appealing directly to the chief of customs.12:25 The chief confirms that while using spearguns in territorial waters requires a permit, possessing them on board is legal.12:52 The chief orders the immediate return of the equipment, resolving the dispute.12:46

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