Originally posted by gnukid
Boating is fraught with complications and unexpected results based on the crew and captain. Nearly every day things go super haywire on board vessels,
from mechanical to formalities even with the best preparation and people. Every day I am surprised people on board don't follow instructions and
don't take things seriously, (while having fun) thinking someone else will take care of the problems.
Look at this report with the same view one might approach a circumstance anywhere. If you fail to comply 100% with those responsible to enforce the
law you will find yourself suffering and it can be quite serious.
In San Francisco and throughout California while boating we are often approached by law enforcement, military, etc... (all with newfound guns and
power) on armed vessels at full speed weapons drawn on turrets and no chance for discussion. Often they pull away at the final moment, sometimes they
don't
In Mexico, I live with marines and naval people. Mexican Military are highly trained to be professional and systematic, of the highest level of
professionalism without aggression, beyond reproach, though its quite easy for anyone to make mistakes. I can see that if you fail to provide some
id, and proper fishing licenses promptly or falsely you will be detained and you will likely loose something in the process.
The circumstances are not so strange, quite the opposite from the tone of bloodydecks, such efforts may benefit all of us if in fact the rule of law
was being enforced which more than likely it was, no visas, no valid fishing license. Every boat capt is the same, they hold blank licenses for each
fisherman until the navy boats finally arrive one day and then fill them out and charge the fisherman the money for a license anyway. Thats 15 bucks
more per person per day, 4 fisherman = $60 bucks/day permit approximately.
FYI I carry two fishing valid licences, cause I expect to lose one, one in the boat and one at in my wallet plus copies of everything in sealed
envelopes in sealed plastic in every vehicle, boat and at home. I actually take velcro and peel and stick it to the bag of docs and glue it to the
inside of the boat so it is always there regardless of rogue waves. I review these packets every 6 months. You can make these travel packs at home in
about 5 minutes and put them everywhere, so they are easily provided at any moment plus trade them with a good friend whose phone number you memorize.
It allows me the freedom to go where I want with confidence without ever thinking about it again. It might sound paranoid to you, but when the s---
goes down I remain quite confident which makes it all go better, fast. There have been many many times when I was stopped three times in a day in the
area of La Paz in cars and boats, they just want to check in and say hi especially if you are having fun and you look like you have more than 10
dollars.
Be polite, calm, direct and personable with formal introductions, "Hi how are you, very nice to meet you, my name is ______ what is your name and
where are you from. what a handsome uniform may I take your picture, click, I can send a copy to your family and boss...", it will go a long way to
super quick resolution and if it goes bad, your good behavior and proper docs will make a good case for yourself later in court.
No tickets or accidents (reported) n 15 years!
[Edited on 9-15-2007 by gnukid]
[Edited on 9-16-2007 by gnukid] |
Never been one.
Federal Zone setback, environmental permits, importing a vehicle, what can
you bring across the border without duty, etc etc etc. You get a ton of answers. Many conflict. And it is hard to find clear, authoritative answers.
I'd be
curious to know what 'ton" license they hold. 
Either the "Captain"/ person in
charge of the Mexican ship is a total idiot and being protected by whoever put him in command of a warship or we're not getting the whole story.