You’ve just bought a fancy new boat or yacht, and you’re itching to sail across the border into the USA. You can literally see the islands and shoreline across the ocean from Victoria. You can totally do this, but you’ll need to get your ducks in a row first, as there are some very serious consequences for sailing across the border without getting your documentation in order before you go. We’ll dive into the most important things that you need to prepare for before you sail. Read on and get ready to explore the amazing coastline of Washington State and beyond!

There is a glut of natural beauty in the United States to explore by boat. Just south of us in Washington, when sailing from British Columbia, you’ll find destinations like the San Juan Islands, Anacortes and Blake Island State Park; all well-known sailing destinations and adventure spots. Just like in BC, Washington State is home to dramatic island chains, rugged cliffs and coves, lots of wildlife and an abundance of Pacific Northwest charm.

However, you can’t just toss a picnic in your boat and cast off to the USA. Sailing across the border isn’t so simple. Just like crossing a land border, there are very specific rules and regulations specific to watercraft that you need to be aware of before you haul anchor.

 

Personal Identification

Every person on board age 16 and older will need identification in order to cross into the United States. This is the requirement for entry by water under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). A valid Canadian passport is your best option – just make sure each passport is valid for the entire duration of your travels. For children under 16, a passport will work but is not necessary if you’re carrying either a birth certificate (a copy will work) or a Canadian citizenship certificate.

As an alternative to a passport, you can present a NEXUS card. NEXUS is meant to expedite the border crossing process, but you can still expect a face-to-face inspection along with the completion of other border crossing steps.

Canadians are permitted to enter the US without a visa, so long as the trip is under 6 months and for tourism. If you’re travelling for work or to study, you’ll need special documents. Visit THIS SITE to learn more about travelling to the USA for study.

 

Boat Documents

On top of ID for each passenger, your vessel is required to provide its own identification as well. First, you’ll need proof of vessel registration from Transport Canada, which acts as a formal title of ownership with a unique official number and name reservation. Basically, prove that you own the vessel and have permission to operate it.

In addition to registration, you may also need a license. As a leisure boater, your best option is the Pleasure Craft License (PCL), which remains valid for 5 years and costs just $24 to apply, renew or transfer. The PCL is required if the boat is operated and maintained in Canada and has one or more engines totalling at least 10 horsepower. If your boat is registered in Canada already, you likely won’t need a PCL. Always do your research before you leave! These types of permissions can change on a whim.

Learn more about the Pleasure Craft License on the federal government site.

Each PCL has a unique number, similar to the license plate on your car. This decal must be displayed on both sides of the bow of your vessel.

If your boat is 30 ft or longer, you’ll also need a special DTOP decal, which stands for Decal and Transponder Online Procurement System. This can be purchased online ahead of time and displayed on the vessel. They cost $38 (USD) and last for one calendar year, with renewal available at the same price.

 

Crossing the USA  Border

Before You Cross

Crossing the border by boat isn’t as simple as showing up unannounced and waiting in line. By boat, there are steps that need to happen before you arrive.

The first step is to download the CBP ROAM™ app on your phone. It’s a free app released by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which gives pleasure boaters the option to report their border crossing from their phone. Before you leave, get the app set up with your personal profile, boat details, and IDs loaded up.

The I-68 Program

The Canadian Border Boat Landing Program, known as I-68, is an alternative to in-person reporting once you’ve crossed the border. This is a great way to speed up the process, giving you the ability to check in 100% digitally without any inspections. Though it does require some planning.

You can get an I-68 in person at a designated CBP office, located throughout the US with many locations in the Puget Sound/Pacific Northwest region. Here, CBP will conduct an interview and inspection complete with photographs and fingerprinting. Just be sure to call ahead and show up with valid ID for each applicant.

Crossing the Border

Once you cross the border into the US waters, you can officially check in using the ROAM app. Doing so may prompt a video or phone call with a CBP officer, which may alleviate the requirement for a face-to-face inspection. If you don’t have an I-68, CBP may direct you to report to a physical port for an in-person inspection.

If you fail to check in via the ROAM app or declare entry with CBP, you could be subject to heavy fines, vessel seizure or cancellation of travel privileges. However, you do not need to check in if you’re simply passing through US waters without anchoring, mooring, or contacting another vessel.

 

A Few Extra Rules You Should Know Before You Sail

When travelling into the US from Canada by boat, there are a few extra rules to be aware of outside of documentation and the border-crossing process.

First, you’ll need to have your head on a swivel for other vessels. To be safe, retain at least 100 m of distance between your boat and any military, cruise or commercial vessel.

Near ports and harbours, there are also strict slow-no-wake rules to abide by. That means travelling at the slowest possible speed while maintaining steerage, while producing minimal to no visible wake. This will be enforced near marinas, fuel docks, boat ramps, narrow channels, bridges and anchorages – basically anywhere there are other boats, people and infrastructure.

Next, there are similar rules in place as standard land or air border crossings. That includes absolutely no cannabis going over the border in either direction. It also means no firearms (unless declared and compliant with US laws) or agricultural products.

 

Looking for a new boat for your next adventure? Visit Van Isle Marina in Sidney, BC, and browse our selection of new and pre-owned motor yachts and sailboats. Contact us to inquire about buying, selling or trading in:

A Complete Overview of BC Fishing Regulations on the Ocean

The west coast of Canada is a fishing enthusiast’s paradise, and we all want to keep it that way. That’s why BC fishing regulations are designed to ensure that the resident species can be fished without being depleted too quickly.

While fishing regulations may seem inconvenient to some, they act as on-paper stewardship for the marine ecosystem, ensuring fish populations remain strong for generations to come.

Read on to learn 6 things you should know before saltwater fishing on the west coast, including the saltwater fishing regulations BC enforces, licensing rules and the types of fish found in British Columbia’s coastal waters.

 

New Regulations for 2026

Many rules and regulations have changed in the past couple of years. The 2025-2027 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis was released with plenty of new info, and some catch restrictions and saltwater regulations have been updated. Here are some notable changes:

1. Prohibition on Certain Hooks

As of September 1st, 2026, treble hooks (the ones with three individual hook points) are now prohibited when fishing for all salmon in BC tidal waters. Anglers must stick with single hooks from now on, with a maximum hook gap of 22mm. You can still run a tandem single hook setup, provided the hooks comply with size limits.

2. Chinook Rule Changes

Chinook Salmon rules changed in July 2026 for the Vancouver Island marina areas. In order to protect at-risk Fraser River stocks, the daily Chinook limit is now zero in most of Areas 11-20. Certain subareas (like 11, 111, 12-14) are still allowed two per day at 45cm minimum size. Other subareas have seen maximum retained size limits reduced from 80 to 75cm. Be sure to keep an eye on precise area regulations when out on the water.

3. Halibut Rule Changes

Recreational halibut season reopened on April 1st, 2026, with some new rules. Effective September 1st, the daily limit has doubled to 2 halibut per day, provided you haven’t yet exceeded the annual limit of 10 halibut per person. Just watch for the size – you cannot retain a halibut greater than 112cm (head on) or 85cm (head off).

4. Freshwater Licensing System

The BC Government made a change in the freshwater licensing system, which took effect on April 1st, 2026. The old E-licensing platform and traditional angler numbers have been put to bed. Instead, we’ve transitioned to the Wildlife Information and Licensing Data (WILD) System, and anglers must now register to get their Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID). For the first time, fishing and hunting licenses are available through the same system! That means if you’re already a hunter, you already have a FWID.

5. Further Killer Whale Protection Measures

The Government of Canada announced stronger protections for Southern Resident killer whales in 2026. In southern BC coastal waters (between Campbell River and north of Ucluelet), boats must now give southern residents at least 1,000m of distance. You can maintain the standard 200m for Bigg’s, transient killer whales, other whales and porpoises. But that’s if you can correctly identify the difference. It’s best to give 1,000m in all scenarios.

In addition, the government has banned fishing and navigation and placed more stringent speed restrictions around certain areas to protect the whales. For example, navigation and fishing are banned around Saturna Island and Pender Island from June 1st – Nov. 30th, 2026.

 

6 Things to Know About Saltwater Fishing in BC 

Even frequent anglers can’t be expected to remember all the fishing regulations for British Columbia. So, it’s always good to refresh your knowledge before going out on a fishing trip, especially for a species with which you are less familiar. 

As a starting point, here are five things you should know before saltwater fishing in BC.

1. BC Saltwater Fish Species

BC’s coastal waters are home to a wide variety of saltwater fish species, including some considered “anadromous,” meaning that they spend part of their lifecycle in the ocean and in freshwater.

While fishing species like halibut, ling cod, albacore tuna and any of the 5 types of salmon are among the most popular to fish, there are many species that anglers are likely to come into contact with in the oceans off BC’s west coast.

This Department of Fisheries and Oceans fish identifier list for the Pacific region details the fish found in the area and how to identify them.

2. Fishing Licensing Rules in BC

By law, anyone who wishes to go fishing in British Columbia must have the correct license. To catch any species of shellfish or finfish, you will need a BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing License. 

It is useful to know the following regulations connected to the use of a BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing license:

• The license is not transferable.
• The license must be carried when fishing and produced on request by conservation officers, fishery officers or guardians. 
• All retained halibut and chinook caught in a Management Area must be recorded on the license.
• All retained ling cod caught in waters off the eastern coast and southern tip of Vancouver Island (Management areas 12-19 plus 20-5 to 20-7, and 29-5) must be recorded on the license.
• BC salmon fishing regulations state that anyone intending to catch and retain any species of Salmon must have a Salmon Conservation Stamp in addition to their BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing License. However, the stamp is optional if the angler intends to release all Salmon caught.

3. License Types and Fees

There are various saltwater fishing license options available depending on how often you plan to go ocean fishing. You must choose a non-resident license if you are not a resident of Canada. 

You can find details of the types of licenses available, their associated fees, and an online license application here.

Note: Although children under 16 require a tidal water fishing license, it is free.

4. Saltwater Fishing Gear Restrictions

Since saltwater fishing often goes beyond the simple fishing rod and hook gear selection, there are regulations in place to specify and restrict how much and what kind of gear may be used in catching saltwater fish.

Looking for a new fishing boat? Read more about the best boats for fishing.

Below is a quick breakdown of the restrictions and allowances surrounding the use of particular gear.

General

• Gear restrictions and allowances are subject to change mid-season.
• You can use multiple rods in coastal tidal waters, but only one rod is allowed when fishing in BC’s tidal rivers.
• You may not use a sinker weighing more than 1 kg unless you use a downrigger line. In this case, the fishing line must be attached to the downrigger with a release clip.
• A gillnet for smelt fishing may be at most 7.5 meters, with a mesh size between 25 mm and 50 mm.
• Only one gillnet may be used at one time and must have a buoy with the owner’s details clearly marked on it.
• If you use a dipnet to catch mackerel, smelt, sand lance, sardines or anchovies, it must measure at most 90 cm, with a bag no longer than 1.5 times that measurement.

Hooks

• Barbed hooks, including triple-barbed hooks, may be used for all finfish except salmon and trout.
• Barbless hooks must be used when fishing in the tidal waters of BC rivers.
• Your line may only have one hook except for:
  • Multiple hooks may attach a piece of bait to the line, provided they aren’t intended to catch more than one fish.
  • Multiple hooks may catch mackerel, herring, anchovy, Pacific Sand Lance or Pacific Sardine.

Using Fish as Bait

• Fish suitable for human consumption may not be used as bait in sport fishing.
• Fish offal, mackerel, sardines, or herring may be used when baiting traps.

5. Be Aware of Daily Catch Limits

Catch limits protect local fish populations while allowing anglers to retain something from their catch. Because some fish species have healthier populations than others, daily limits for saltwater fishing in BC vary according to the species and the Management Area you are fishing in.

Always research daily catch limits for the area you are fishing in before setting off and remember to record all halibut, chinook and lingcod catches on your license.

6. Reporting Your Catch

To monitor the impact of recreational fishing on the species found in BC’s oceans, DFO requires any BC Tidal Water Sports Fishing license holder aged over 16 to report their complete catch, whether retained or not, for a fixed period.

For example, an annual license holder will be asked to report all catches for one specific month, indicated on their license.

Participation in this recreational monitoring program is mandatory and a condition of being granted a license. 

 

Fishing Boats For Sale – In Stock Right Now

Our yacht and fishing boats for sale listings are always being updated. Here are a couple of fall fishing boats we’re featuring right now:

Parker Poland 920 Explorer Max

This 30-ft 2021 model is one of Europe’s most versatile and capable pilothouse cruisers. It can be used for family cruising or a serious fishing trip, with twin F200 four-stroke outboards and an ideal cockpit layout for offshore fishing.

Price: $269,500 CAD

Learn more: 2021 Parker Poland 920 Explorer Max

Riviera 40 Flybridge

The Australian-built 40-ft Riviera Flybridge is another capable offshore fishing model with an open teak cockpit, live bait tanks and a tackle station. We’ve got a 2001 model in stock with a brand-new upper flybridge enclosure that was just price reduced by $20K.

Price: $299,900

Learn more: 2001 Riviera 40 Flybridge

 

Get On the Water and Catch the Big One

Now that you know the regulations and licensing requirements, it’s time to get out onto the beautiful west coast ocean and get fishing!

You can easily access the world’s best sport fishing from your southern Vancouver Island base at Van Isle Marina.

Do you need a new fishing boat to get you out to the best fishing spots? Our yacht sales team can help you find the perfect vessel. Contact us today to find out more.

 

FAQ

Q: Are treble hooks still legal?
A: No, not when salmon fishing in BC tidal waters. It’s now single hooks only with a maximum gap of 22mm, or roughly the size of a nickel.

Q: What Chinook fishing rules have changed?
A: In many Vancouver Island areas, the daily Chinook limit is now zero (most of Areas 11-20). Other subareas have seen maximum retained size limits reduced from 80 to 75cm.

Q: What Halibut fishing rules have changed?
A: Effective September 1st, the daily limit has doubled to 2 halibut per day, provided you haven’t yet exceeded the annual limit of 10 halibut per person. But you cannot retain a halibut greater than 112cm (head on) or 85cm (head off).

Q: What’s all this about the new licensing system?
A: As of April 1st, 2026, the old E-licensing platform and traditional angler numbers have been retired. Instead, we’ve transitioned to the Wildlife Information and Licensing Data (WILD) System, and anglers must now register to get their Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID). For the first time, fishing and hunting licenses are available through the same system.

Contact us to learn more or visit us any time in Sidney

Summertime is peak boating season here in BC. Every year, thousands of British Columbians hit the open waters in recreational boats to enjoy our stunning waters, beaches and islands.

Waterways and marinas will be busy this time of year. It’s up to boat captains to take responsibility for their safety and the safety of others, while being diligent to protect the environment.

This article highlights how to approach the Van Isle Marina fuel dock safely and refuel responsibly.

 

Fuel Dock Quick Links:

• Out on the water? Click for Google Maps coordinates to the fuel dock and marina.
• Driving? Click for Marina directions.
• Fuel Prices: Call us at 250.656.1138
• Fuel Dock Hours:
  • 8am – 4:00pm daily (Winter Hours)
  • 8am – 8:00pm daily (Summer Hours)
• Marine Diesel & Gas Discounts: See our fuel dock info page.

 

How to Approach the Dock

Docking a boat in a busy marina or fuel dock area is one of the more stressful experiences of boat ownership, especially if you’re green. But guests of Van Isle Marina have it a little easier. Give our fuel dock a call ahead of time and we’ll assist you in docking.

When it’s time to actually dock your boat, there will be a lot of moving parts to keep in mind. One of your primary concerns as a captain should be the wind. If wind is blowing into the dock, get parallel and allow it to push you home. If the wind is blowing out, approach at a steep angle before swinging the stern towards the dock. Ideally, you’ll pull up heading into the wind or current – whichever is stronger, which acts as a natural brake.

When making your approach, slow all the way down. That way the worst case scenario won’t be tragic or costly. And don’t be afraid to try your approach again. Drop your fenders and prep your lines before you approach. And once you’re satisfied with your docking job, don’t kill the engines until all lines are secure.

 

Preparing to Refuel Your Boat

Once your boat is tied securely to the dock, there are a number of preparations to consider before we even touch the fuel. The first step is to kill all power, including the engines, navigation, and electronic accessories. If you have appliances or equipment capable of producing flames, those all need to be fully extinguished and turned off.

Next, everyone on board needs to exit the vessel while the refueling is happening. This is a great time to check out the marina or catch a bite at the West Coast Grill while the ‘captain’ monitors the refueling. Before the captain leaves the boat, they’ll need to seal the cabin completely including any ports or windows. This will stop fuel vapors from entering the boat.

The Van Isle Marina fuel dock provides all of the safety and clean up requirements in case of any situation, so make sure that you know where they are and keep a few rags handy for any minor spillage. You’ll also want to check that you know exactly where the fire extinguishers are – both on the dock and in your vessel.

 

Pumping Fuel

When you’re ready to begin refueling, first double check the type of fuel you need and the capacity of your fuel tank. Then locate your fuel fill port (not to be confused with water or waste). Finally, protect the water below by wrapping a pad around the nozzle. Now you’re ready for action.

When refueling a boat, slow is the name of the game. If the fuel is dispensed too quickly, you risk a spill. Keep the fuel nozzle completely in contact with the fill port and fill slowly to allow air to escape while refueling.

Unlike at a gas station for cars, any mechanism that locks the trigger is prohibited at a marina fuel dock. A good rule to abide by is never fill your tank past 90%, as fuel is known to expand in the summer heat. And if you hear a gurgling sound, it’s time to stop pumping.

 

Cleaning Up

Oil spills will wreak havoc on the local environment, so it’s important that every little spill is addressed immediately. Oil blocks sunlight and oxygen from penetrating the surface of the water, and will damage the respiratory systems or wildlife. Even a small spill can impact acres of surface water and cause great damage to marine life.

Precaution is the best defense when refueling. Absorbent cloths, spill pads, and other protective equipment will be available at the marina and should be take advantage of.

If you do spill some oil – even just a few drops, it’s vital that you clean it up right away. When you’re done, all materials will need to be deposited into the hazardous waste bin. And never use soap, which is not only illegal, but ineffective and nearly just as harmful to marine life.

 

Departing the Dock

Before you depart back to the open water, there are a handful of safety precautions to keep in mind.

First, start your blower and open the engine hatch. If you smell fumes, that means there’s been some kind of a leak. Next, do the same with the bilge. Airborne fumes can be extremely dangerous, so the captain will need to clear the vessel before welcoming passengers and heading out to the water.

Ensuring you’ve left the fuel dock and in no worse of a state than you found it, you’re now ready to depart. At Van Isle Marina, our friendly staff will guide you out and on your way.

To inquire about moorage at Van Isle Marina, check out our updated mooring and marina rates. Contact us to reserve your spot:

 

 

With the weather finally starting to heat up along the BC coast, boating season is right around the corner. Spring is an essential time of year for boat owners. In anticipation of a busy summer of cruising, sailing or fishing, your boat will need itself a thorough spring cleaning and seasonal check-up in preparation.

This article highlights 10 items that should be on your spring haul-out checklist at a full service marina near you.

 

1. Batteries

In order to avoid a failure when out on the water, all batteries should be inspected, cleaned and tested every spring. Corrosion is what you’re looking for. Use a wire brush and waterproof grease to clean thoroughly. Then check that the circuits are protected with breakers, and the positive terminals are guarded, tightening connections as you go along. When done, confirm your charge voltage and top of water levels.

2. Oil

Changing the motor oil of your boat is something that ideally should have been done during the winterization process before winter. If you didn’t get around to it, now’s the time. Your oil should be changed once per season, along with fuel filters replaced and steering fluids topped off. Be sure to check the lower unit gear lube for discolouration. When you’re done, it’s always a good idea to stock a supply of spare oil on board.

3. Safety Gear

Safety gear is essential for boating – are you up to date? We’re required by law to have a Canada-approved lifejacket or PFD on board for each person, along with a sound-signaling device, fire extinguishers and first aid kit. Be sure to check that your navigation lights and visual distress signals are operational. Double check our boat safety checklist for more.

4. Prop

Your boat isn’t going anywhere without a functional propellor. Keeping it in peak condition ensures not only the best performance, but fuel efficiency and safety. First, check for fishing line, dings, dents, cracks and other damage, while looking out for any pitting or corrosion. Check that the shaft is straight and true, with secured surrounding supports. Once you’ve confirmed the prop is damage-free, grease the prop shaft to prevent seizing and replace the zincs to guard against corrosion.

5. Bottom Inspection

If you’re used to boating in shallow water, your boat’s hull will be extra prone to damage. Ensuring your bottom is intact with no signs of water seepage is the first step. Next, use a dedicated hull cleaner to remove built-up grime and debris. While you’re under there, check that the running gear is moving freely, the transom is secure, and the seacocks are clean and lubricated.

6. Plumbing

Before you get out on the water, your plumbing systems should be flushed to remove antifreeze from last year’s winterization process. You’ll also want to check that the hot and cold water is working properly, and that there are no leaks coming from cracks or loose clamps. Check-in on the water pump too, ensuring it’s clean and leak-free.

7. HVAC

The priorities for your HVAC system spring cleaning should be to inspect for blockages and leaks. Drain lines tend to clog up and create water damage, and the raw water intake is prone to debris. You’ll also want to check on electrical connections, tightening clamps and verifying thermostat operation with a test run.

8. Cabin

A clean, well-maintained cabin is the key to a comfortable cruising season. Your number one enemy here is dampness and mold. Check all the cushions, mattresses and upholstery to ensure your cabin has remained dry through the winter. Next, make sure all doors, drawers – anything that opens, is secured for the lively open water.

9. Propane

Your propane system will need to be thoroughly checked before you hit the water. First, check the hoses for any damage like cracking and chafing. If those look good, ensure the solenoid switch cut-off is operational and that pressure holds in the system for at least a few hours. Remember, propane is heavier than air, which means it tends to accumulate in the bilge. Finally, check the propane locker to ensure it’s fully sealed with the drain cleared and above the waterline.

10. Bilge

Your bilges need to be cleaned every season to ensure proper flow and prevent swamping. You’ll want to test the automatic pump and float switch, inspect the hoses, and keep your eye out for any debris or oil. Remove any stagnant water or debris and clear the limber holes to ensure proper drainage.

 

The New Spring 2026 Pursuit OS 405

Looking for a new boat for summer cruising? The Pursuit Offshore 405 is all-new for 2026, and Van Isle Marina is stocked. The OS 405 got bigger in 2026 – now measuring 43’, with an updated silhouette and even more luxurious finishes.

The captain is treated with stylish Stidd seating and state-of-the-art dual 22″ Garmin Multi-Function Displays. Control this craft with joystick controls and powerful Yamaha® 450 XTO engines pushing you through the water.

Looking for something different? Visit Van Isle Marina in North Saanich to view our selection of new and pre-owned yachts for sale.

Happy boating season!