In 2009 and 2010 we spent a total of 12 months cruising in Japan, 11 months in South
Korea and we were fortunate (?) in being invited to Quingdao,
China to enter their 'International'
race. ( we are a
steel 53ft yacht..definitely a cruiser rather than a racer) . Our hosts in China paid all our entry expenses, the Marina was free...and best of all they paid us to enter their
race.
While we were away we did a blog
Kiwis cruising in Charioteer
We found Japanese official to be extremely friendly and helpful...once we learnt the right questions to ask.
The Korean officials were always helpful and friendly no matter what questions we asked. The Korean people were always amazed that we were cruising there...they do not know what a beautiful country they have.
In both countries between two/ three miles of the coast is considered as an 'off shore or long distance' voyage...and there will be paper
work...