BLUEMOMENT

Hi

Just wondering if anyone had practical experience of the requirements for documentation etc when sailing to Southern Ireland? We went across to N Ireland a couple of years ago but I was wary of the border as we had (and still have) a marked lack of the sort of documentation I believe you're supposed to have before going "abroad". ie Allegro's not registered, doesn't have evidence of VAT paid status, we didn't have passports... I am right, am I, in thinking that all those things are required in theory before setting foot across the border? And in practice, I never seem to hear tales of boats being harrassed by customs in the same way that the French seem to - what really happens?!

Cheers
Patrick

You don't need passports, although there could be some circumstances where they may useful for photographic identification. I don't believe Ireland expects SSR registration, though again, there may be some situation where it may help along with the usual ship's papers.

We sailed round Ireland, calling in at a fair few harbours and anchorages, and never had, nor expected, any contact with officialdom. Can't remember, but probably just carried basic ship's papers eg copy of insurance, VHF operators' licences, etc.

Very relaxed. Carry what you have but it's extremely unlikely you'll be asked for anything.
If in doubt, carry some cans of Guinness and some Bushmills as well

I live in N. Ireland, keep my boat in S. Ireland and regularly cruise between the two, and Scotland. Never been asked for anything in the last 6 years and rarely carry anything other than ID

We went round Ireland a few years ago and were 'boarded' by customs - a very nice guy in casual wear who asked only a few basic questions about where we were from and where we were going. We showed him ships papers and I think passports, so would always carry them just in case.

All a very laid back experience.