but you still need to arrange prior to, and I think "physically" appear to do the Local Boater Option. So we just check in when we get back, it's the same amount of trips to Customs. As I understand it the Local Option really only makes sense if you're doing more than one trip/year.

We check in at Fort Pierce. Not entirely convenient. We call when we come in the Inlet, they give us 24 hours to "appear". I'm assuming you have your User Fee Decal, you give them that number, they will give you a Clearance Number, write that down, you will give that to Customs when you appear. I think US Customs tel is (800) 432-1216 or (800) 451-0393. Ft. Pierce Immigration is (772) 461-1733. We keep the boat in Vero at my folks house, so depending on when we get there, we borrow my mom's car and drive down that day or the next day. Customs is at the Ft. Pierce airport, and they do have operating hours that I'm not sure of. If you come into FP, probably the best thing to do is go to Harbortown, or the City Marina at FP, and either call a cab or preferably find someone who is willing to buzz you down there. The airport is probably about 10 minutes away from Harbortown, the clear-in process usually takes 10 minutes, make sure you have everything you need …

You could also call when entering the Inlet, and then mosey on up to the City Marina at Vero Beach. This is about 20-25 minutes from the FP Customs office, so a cab is going to be more of a hassle & expense, but you're probably more likely to find someone here with car to whip you down there. Vero Beach is generally a cool place to hang.

Cheers, John