Clearing the way
How American Yacht Agents streamline US compliance for captains and their vessels entering US waters
For yacht captains navigating US waters, regulatory compliance is as essential as a seaworthy hull. But the intricacies of US Coast Guard (USCG) protocols, Customs and Border
Protection (CBP) procedures, and Department of Agriculture (USDA) waste handling regulations can overwhelm even the most experienced maritime professionals. That’s where American Yacht Agents (AYA) comes in.
Founded on a commitment to service, compliance and industry leadership, AYA has become a vital ally for captains seeking to successfully enter and operate within US waters. With a footprint stretching from South Florida to the Great Lakes and Puerto Rico, and connections from port officials to Washington policymakers, AYA ensures vessels meet all federal requirements while maintaining seamless operations.
Your trusted liaison in a regulated landscape
“Captains shouldn’t have to be regulatory experts just to enter a US port,” says Debora Radtke, founder of AYA and a veteran of the maritime compliance world. “Our job is to remove the barriers so vessels can enter, operate and cruise legally, efficiently, and without delays.”
AYA’s approach is rooted in expert knowledge of federal maritime regulations and strong, longstanding relationships with US government agencies, including the USCG, CBP, and USDA.
These relationships go beyond local field offices. AYA actively engages with senior officials in Washington, D.C., ensuring they remain a voice for the yachting industry at a national level.
A testament to that commitment: Ms Radtke was recently elected to the Board of Directors of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF), the owners of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS). As a member of the US Superyacht Association (USSA) as well, the organisations play a key role in national discussions on access, security and growth in the US superyacht sector.
South Florida and beyond: a national footprint
South Florida remains the epicentre of yachting in the United States, with Fort Lauderdale dubbed the ‘Yachting Capital of the World’. AYA’s headquarters in the region provides strategic access to CBP field offices, USCG Sector Miami, and an array of world-class marinas, yards and services.
But AYA’s services extend far beyond South Florida. “Our cruising grounds and service providers are diverse, and so are the needs of our clients,” says Operations Manager Michelle Van Lenten, “Over the last few years, our business has grown dramatically. We now support yachts in Florida, Georgia, the Northeast, the Great Lakes, New Orleans, and San Juan, Puerto Rico (in a partnership with Dockside Management).
Each of these regions has unique interpretations of federal rules and localised inspection practices. AYA bridges those gaps, ensuring consistency of compliance and smooth operations regardless of destination.
CBP entry and immigration: compliance without headaches
For foreign-flagged yachts, entry into the US requires coordination with CBP under the authority of the Department of Homeland Security. AYA handles all aspects of vessel clearance, from Notice of Arrival (NOA) submissions to cruising license applications, crew immigration checks.
“CBP rules can vary significantly between ports, and officers often exercise discretion,” says AYA Operations Manager. “We coordinate directly with local CBP supervisors and field agents to ensure our clients are in full compliance before arrival.”
Whether assisting with non-immigrant visa concerns, or arranging clearance at a remote port of entry, AYA removes the friction from an otherwise complex process.
Coast guard compliance
The US Coast Guard plays a central role in ensuring maritime safety, security and environmental compliance. For foreign-flagged yachts, especially those over 300 gross tons, this includes filing notices of arrival and departure (EOA/D) assisting with filing COFRs – Certificate of Financial Responsibility for pollutions – and NTVRP – nontank vessel response plan required for vessels over 400GT.
AYA also assists setting up Port State Control (PSC) inspections.
By staying ahead of changes in the PSC Targeting Matrix and maintaining contact with officers at USCG Sectors and Activities nationwide, AYA ensures yachts are not caught off guard during inspections.
USDA & APHIS: managing regulated waste
The US Department of Agriculture, through its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), enforces strict rules regarding the handling and disposal of regulated garbage from foreign ports. Items such as meat, dairy, fruits and even used tea bags are considered potential threats to US agriculture.
“Many crews are unaware of how strictly the USDA enforces these rules,” says AYA Environmental Compliance Officer. “Improper storage, or disposal of foreign garbage can lead to steep fines.”
AYA ensures yachts contract with USDA-approved waste carriers and that crews are trained in onboard segregation and documentation. They also help vessels manifest stores and prepare for dockside inspections when necessary.
From the marina to Washington, D.C.
In addition to their dockside role, AYA maintains a presence in national policymaking spaces. Recently, Ms Radtke spent four days in Washington, D.C., meeting with US government representatives to seek clarity on visa policy for yacht crew and to advocate for smoother entry procedures. The DC trips are organised by MIASF Government Liaison, Patience Cohn.
“With a changing political landscape and ongoing tariff discussions, it’s vital that we send a message: the US is open for business and welcomes foreign yachts,” Ms Cohn said. “Our work is as much about shaping the regulatory environment as it is about reacting to it.”
This proactive government liaison role ensures that AYA clients benefit not just from current policies but from early knowledge of upcoming changes.
Tailored service, nationwide support
Whether a vessel is entering Miami or heading to the Great Lakes for a summer cruise, AYA tailors their services to match each yacht’s size, registry and mission. Their support is 24/7, with agents always on call to assist with last- minute NOA changes, after-hours inspections, or emergency detentions.
“Our clients don’t just get a checklist,” says AYA Client Services Manager. “They get a strategic partner who understands their operations, anticipates their needs and represents their interests at every level.”
AYA’s vision: a safer, smarter, more accessible US As regulations continue to evolve and scrutiny increases, particularly around safety and environmental compliance, AYA is investing in tools, training and advocacy to ensure captains remain confident and prepared.
“Our mission is to make operating in US waters not just possible, but productive and enjoyable,” says Ms Radtke. “We’re here to protect our clients, guide them and promote a thriving, compliant yachting environment in the United States.”
In the ever-shifting regulatory waters of the modern yachting world, American Yacht Agents offers not just expertise, but peace of mind.
For more information on cruising in US water contact:
Tel: +1 954 908 7559 | Mob: +1 954 684 9456
or visit www.americanyachtagents.net
