Clearing Customs




Sidney Spit

Departing Roche Harbor in the afternoon, we made our way across Haro Strait, commonly referred to as ‘the big pond,’ to clear customs in Sidney.  The seas were calm and the beaches on Sidney Spit glistened in the sunlight.  

At the Customs Dock, Port Sidney

We pulled up to the customs dock in Port Sidney Marina and called 888-226-7277 to clear customs.  “No we don’t have any fresh fruit or vegetables including potatoes; no house plants or firearms; and no cash over $10,000.”  Yes, we were under the limit allowed for wine and beer (see page 19 in the 2017 Waggoner Cruising Guide).  After providing our vessel’s documentation number, our names and passport numbers and verification of our dog’s rabies vaccination, we were given a clearance number to be posted on the portside and starboard side windows of the pilothouse.  

Sidney's Waterfront Promenade

The next step was to call the marina for a slip assignment and settle-in and enjoy one of British Columbia’s most livable cities.  Sidney offers some great restaurants, a beautiful waterfront promenade, and is a convenient destination to stock-up on fresh fruits and vegetables along with other items for the galley.  

Sidney, a great place to stretch the legs!

There are two main grocery stores in town, one of which is within easy walking distance of the marina, and a liquor store nearby.  Boaters can find haul-out and repair services at Van Isle Marina a short distance north in Tsehum Harbour along with several chandleries.  A small chandlery with boat supplies and gifts (Booty's Boat Locker) is conveniently located at Port Sidney Marina upstairs from the harbormaster’s office.  Our first purchase was the flag of Canada to be flown while in Canadian waters.  It is customary for boaters to fly a flag of the country in which they are cruising, commonly called a ‘courtesy flag.’  

Downtown Sidney

Our Canada flag was so worn from last year’s cruising, we needed a replacement.  Our other emergency was replacing the espresso maker which had gone on the fritz, an easy item to find in Sidney.