Are you dreaming of sailing down into Mexico’s blue waters? If you have your sights set on our southern neighbor’s shores this season, it isn’t too early to start preparing. This short guide provides you with everything you need to know about what documentation you need, Mexico watercraft liability requirements, and immigration requirements.

Gather Your Documentation

If you want to sail into Mexico on a personal vessel, you need more than just your passport. For starters, you have to be able to prove that the boat is yours. Make sure you have your United States Coast Guard vessel registration and that it is current. You can also use your state’s registration documentation. If you have an onboard dinghy, you are required to carry the registration or bill of sale for it as well.

Another critical piece of documentation for anyone who has a 15-foot or longer boat is the Temporary Import Permit. If you already have one, check the date. They’re good for 10 years. If yours is expired, or you’re getting one for the first time, here are a few ways you can apply for one:

• Visit a Banjercito in the U.S.: You can obtain your TIP on the same day you apply for it if you go to a Mexican military bank. The Mexican Consulates in Sacramento, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Denver have one.
• Visit a Banjercito in Mexico: If you can’t make it to a military bank in the U.S., you can locate one at an official port of entry in Mexico. Fair warning, many marinas will turn you away if you don’t already have a TIP in hand, so make sure your first stop is at an official port of entry.
• Order online: You can order your TIP online. It may take up to 60 days for you to receive your permit, so if you go this route, allow ample time!

Get Covered With Mexico Liability Insurance

A big question many sailors have is, “Is liability insurance required in Mexico?” Yes, Mexico law requires anyone sailing into the country to have liability coverage, regardless of how long they are staying or where they are traveling to. Make sure your policy designates explicit coverage in Mexico.

Prepare for Immigration

Anyone entering the country is required to show a current passport and carry it at all times. You can take pets to Mexico, as long as you have an International Certificate of Health, along with a record of current rabies and distemper vaccinations. If you have a crew on board, you’ll need to complete an Arrival Crew List Document, which is available online.

It may take some preparation for a sailing trip to Mexico. The journey is worth the time invested! If you start planning early, you’ll have plenty of time to get everything in order by the time you set sail.

About Mariners Insurance 

Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business. 

Social Title: Everything You Need To Know About Sailing to Mexico in a Private Boat

Social Description: If you’re thinking about going to Mexico this sailing season, you need to make sure you have the right documentation and Mexico liability insurance.