Latest update from Ushuaia.

With reference to report dated August 2010 – Argentina, Ushuaia, Customs Levy Fines on Foreign Flagged Yachts.

The Customs rules, unfortunately, are still unclear. There has been a lot of discussion at high levels and we are told different things come out every day.

Concrete facts

A private cruising yacht was detained in Buenos Aires on suspicion of chartering – so the problem is nationwide, not just Ushuaia.

Two known charter yachts were entered into Ushuaia with a shipping agent and so far there have been no issues. They have been advised that they will be considered commercial craft and will undergo port state control inspection and their immigration status will have to be changed to ship crew before leaving.

Private yachts entered:

One left with no issues.

Another had a long interview at customs on entry looking for possible infractions.

A third entered and has been advised by customs that their last exit was not properly done and they are being investigated for possible infractions.

Conclusions

It seems that private yachts are faring worse than charter yachts.

So far no clear guidelines have been handed down and a great deal of uncertainty is hanging around – though so far using a shipping agent seems to solve the immediate problem.