Innocent Passage is a concept of maritime law that allows for a vessel to pass through the archipelagic and territorial waters of another state as long as no harm is rendered.
Covid concerns since March of 2020 mandated the closure of the US-Canadian border and, as of this writing, it remains restricted for the foreseeable future. Recreational cross-border traffic between Washington or Alaska and British Columbia is barred.
Last summer Jupiter remained in US waters and explored Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. After knocking up against the Canadian border in 2020 we long to sail north.
Through Transit
Currently foreign-flagged vessels may not enter Canadian waters for the purpose of touring, sightseeing, or pleasure fishing.
CBSA Website
However, Canada Border Services Agency stipulates that foreign vessels may navigate through Canadian waters if the passage is direct, continuous, uninterrupted and by the most reasonable route.
This morning the crew arises at 0400, wracked with anticipation of testing these theoretical concepts at Port of Sidney Customs Dock. Weeks of planning and research together with a large measure of hope are parlayed.
The physical and metaphysical direction of Jupiter’s summer program totters on the shoulders of two CBSA officers who stalk the dock, summoned by our offshore call to Canadian Vessel Arrivals.
yellow ‘Q’ Flag indicating the boat is in quarantine during the BC Transit
The Most Reasonable Route
Passports, Locator Forms, Crew Manifests and Jupiter’s geography-eating Float Plan are handed over and carefully examined.
The entire 620 nautical mile navigation of maritime British Columbia, which might normally be enjoyed during a month’s cruise, will be attempted in eight days.
No Unnecessary Intercourse
In times of unease and disease we must not be a threat to any Canadian soul, setting no foot upon their soil.
Rules are rendered, and we are asked to read aloud a statement of innocent intent. We are instructed by the border officers to have “no unnecessary intercourse” during our transit.
Congratulations! Sounds like a nail-biting adventure. Too bad you can’t take time to savor those BC wines you love. But will there be a chance to at least procure? Happy voyaging. Sally W splashes next week in Camden, minus a new paint job due to the painting contractor contracting COVID. Sigh. We are all making sacrifices. Cheers!
Thanks for the update! And remember, a paintless summer is not a pointless summer.
Great update and very readable. It reminded me of some strange initiation process that you passed through! Glad that all of the prep and research produced a good outcome.
Looking forward to more good reports – calm seas!
Ross and Evie
Thanks for your support and help with getting organized for this adventure! It’s a go!
Two “for reals?” 623 miles in 8 days and did you both keep a straight face as you promised
“No unnecessary intercourse” during transit.
Did you, in fact, pass muster and get underway on your innocent passage? We hope so.
Bon voyage. Will look forward to more posts.
Love,
Mary & Geof
We did, and we’re deep into BC now. Salty and sunny.
Good luck and remember no “unnecessary intercourse”
Ambiguous!
The “unnecessary” modifier is a game changer!
Indeed. Thank heaven for modifiers and grammarians.
Great news. Count the whales!
Enjoy your new salty sunny adventure.
Have a wonderful trip! I am looking forward to experiencing it through your blog and photos!!!
Thanks Lisa – delighted to have you along for the ride!
Wishing you fair winds, following seas, and just enough innocence to get you through.
Great to hear you guys are back in Canadian waters and headed for a great summer. It’s Friday May 7 so you are likely approaching Gowland Harbour today. Here’s wishing you safe travels and fun times. Keep us blog enthusiasts posted.
We will be going beyond Gowland as Seymour Narrows will be open to us soon..
Have a great time guys! Miss you. As to the unnecessary intercourse – so little time – so much to say; so I’ll pass.
With such navigational challenges, I am grateful you are both so very young.
Beautiful photographs.
You will find Ocean Reef doing well on your return.
Young is as young does. Thanks!
Bon voyage! I look forward to living vicariously with your adventures. Wish you safety and enjoyment.
Thank you! We are loving being back in these waters.
Fiona & Randy ~ Safe travels…looking forward to your terrific blog updates…and, the recipes as well ~
“Unnecessary intercourse..” really…? Love our cheeky Canadian neighbors 😉
Bottle Neck was always Susan and my favorite anchorage…think of her when you are there…thanks for sharing your plan…safe travels.
We will drink a toast there to you both.
You a both so organized. Wishing you safe travels. I can’t wait for your blog posts and photos. xo Heather
Thanks Heather! We’re enjoying our trip so far.
Your “float plan” MAY rival (in organization) Emma’s “farm plan!” Best of luck my friends! I look forward to following your adventure, intercourse or no intercourse. 🥴
❤️
Karen
What do a farm plan and a float plan have in common aside from their initials? Unpredictable due to circumstances beyond our control.
Bon Voygage intrepid travelers! <3 <3 <3