On 22 Sep 2006 14:38:01 -0500, Dave wrote:

In any event, however, the text of the statute really has little to do with
the subject under discussion, which is sensible application of law and
regulation.

When push comes to shove, "sensible" almost never enters into the
discussion, only strict legal interpretation of what the law actually
says.

Assuming the quoted text is current law, there is a provision for both
"preliminary" and "electronic" check in. There is also a 24 hour
requirement that comes into play. It would appear that if forced to
anchor temporarily you should be within requirements if you call in
with a preliminary electronic check in, followed by a formal check in
within 24 hours.

Here in south Florida I have heard of several boats who called customs
as soon as they entered US waters, only to be told that they should
call again when actually docked.