Customs formalities for yachts calling at Brest

If you're calling at Brest, it's essential to understand the customs formalities that apply to you. Customs regulations apply to all yachtsmen and yachtswomen, whether they are sailing small sailing boats or larger yachts. These formalities are designed to ensure compliance with the laws and regulations in force when entering and leaving French territory.

Customs formalities for yachts calling at Brest: who is affected?

Border checks are compulsory if:

• You are entering France by sea from a country that is not part of the Schengen area.
• You are leaving France by sea for a country outside the Schengen area.

These customs formalities apply whether you are sailing on your own boat or on a charter boat.

All persons on board are subject to border checks, regardless of their nationality.

What documents do I need to clear customs?

Before calling at Brest, you must send the entry or exit form by e-mail to the customs office, with a copy to the Brest marina concerned by your call.

This form contains all the important information concerning your arrival in Brest, the boat and the people on board. It must be sent to customs at least 24 hours before your arrival.

You will then be contacted by customs officers who will arrange to meet you at the Brest customs office.

At this appointment, each passenger must have a valid passport. Make sure you also bring the boat's papers.

Where is the customs office in Brest?

The Brest customs office is located at 14 quai de la douane, just a few minutes' walk from Marina du Château.

What other maritime border crossings are there in Brittany?

Brittany has 6 maritime border crossings:

• Saint-Malo
• Saint-Brieuc
• Roscoff
• Brest
• Lorient
• Saint-Nazaire

Do you have a question about customs formalities? Visit the customs website. You can also contact us at any time!