Pleasure boats are generally dutiable when imported into the United States. If you are importing a yacht or other pleasure boat purchased abroad, please contact your nearest Customs office before you import the boat to learn more about entry requirements and the specific duty rate for your vessel. A pleasure boat and its usual equipment may be entered duty free by a non-resident for a temporary stay to take part in races or other contests. If the contests are for other than money purses and the Customs officer is satisfied as to the importer's good faith, the boat may be admitted without formal entry or bond for up to 90 days. If the boat is not exported, nor a bond obtained within 90 days after the date of temporary importation, it will be subject to forfeiture.
Bond is taken in an amount equal to twice the estimated duty.
Cash may be deposited in lieu of surety on the bond and will be refunded in the boat is exported within the time limit and under U.S. Customs supervision. Pleasure boats brought into the U.S. for sale on approval will not be accepted for entry under bond. The length of stay in these circumstances is normally one year and may not exceed three years. Contact your local Customs office for additional specific requirements for each of these exemptions from duty.