Compliance vs Regulatory Requirements in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon: A Guide for Vehicle Travelers
Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is a beautiful destination that attracts many vehicle travelers. However, to ensure a smooth journey, it’s essential to understand the regulatory requirements and compliance necessary before embarking on your trip.
Vehicle Fares and Ticketing
Booking Your Ticket
Passengers can book their vehicle’s ticket by contacting SPM Ferries’ ticket offices, via email, or by leaving contact details on the company website. Unfortunately, direct online purchase is not yet available.
Payment Details
Once the information has been collected, the ticket office will proceed with the sale of the vehicle’s ticket and provide a secure link for payment.
Boarding and Pre-boarding
Pre-boarding Procedures
Before boarding, passengers must pre-board their vehicles in Saint-Pierre or Fortune, depending on the direction of travel. In Saint-Pierre, pre-boarding starts 1 hour and 30 minutes before departure. Passengers must present their travel documents, including:
- Tickets
- Passports
- Visas (if necessary)
- All passengers traveling in the vehicle must be present
Regulatory Requirements
Soil and Vegetation-free Vehicles
To avoid any issues with Canadian authorities, it is essential to ensure that the exterior and interior of your vehicle are free from soil and vegetation. SPM Ferries agents will visually inspect vehicles before boarding, and if they show visible signs of dirt or vegetation, Canadian authorities may refuse entry.
Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) Inspection
In Fortune, the CBSA will inspect vehicles upon arrival in Canada. If soil or vegetation is present, CBSA may refuse entry or order cleaning, with fees payable by the passenger.
Disembarkation and Customs Control
Disembarking Vehicles
Upon arrival in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, passengers must disembark their vehicles and proceed to the parking area on the pier. Border control will be carried out by the Canadian authorities, and customs checks will follow. The waiting time may be lengthy due to these controls.
Insurance Requirements
Mandatory Insurance Coverage
It is mandatory for all vehicles traveling to Saint-Pierre and Miquelon to have vehicle insurance that covers driving on the streets of the islands. Passengers must contact their insurance company before departure to verify coverage and ensure they are insured in case of accident or theft while in the region.
Cross-border Insurance Option
If unable to obtain an extension, cross-border insurance can be obtained through email bse-saint-pierre-et-miquelon@douane.finances.gouv.fr or by insuring with the customs service upon arrival.
Conclusion
While SPM Ferries aims to provide a quality transportation service, it is essential for vehicle travelers to comply with regulatory requirements and insurance mandates. Failure to do so may result in delays or penalties. By understanding these requirements, passengers can ensure a smooth journey between Saint-Pierre, Miquelon, and Fortune (TN).