One has to go deep into this guide (page 34) for one to learn that private vessels are exempt but this Guide is applicable even on the Great Lakes. Lee With little fanfare, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) posted its Vessel Inspection Guide. The Guide discusses the procedures, regulations, and documentation for crew and passengers arriving in the United States by ship. (December 2009). <http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/travel/ inspections_carriers_facilities/vessel_guide.ctt/vessel_guide.pdf> or <http://tinyurl.com/yzaztla>