I'm an western American, which means I'm used to carrying any type of fire arm anywhere at anytime. Naturally, when planning a voyage, I'm also planning to take a weapon. My question is this: can I expect to have my boat searched by a nations customs every time I enter another country's port? Can I declare that I have a weapon that is locked away, unloaded, not accessible, etc. or do they not care because it's illegal across the board? How thorough can I expect a search to be? Could I hide my gun well and be certain they will only do a cursory search, or can I expect them to pull up seat cushions, open cabinets, and/or even bring dogs on board?

While planning to sail the open seas and visiting other countries, I have decided to take a personal firearm. Owning and carrying a personal firearm is legal in my home state. What would be the proper procedures upon entering ports around the world. Could I expect my firearm to be confiscated permanently? Temporarily? Would having a lockable firearm safe aboard be acceptable?