Foreign 'Cocoa Bella' passenger boat requests U.S. coastal sailing rights.
Published Date: 4/23/2025
Notice
Summary
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the S/V Cocoa Bella, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision could impact U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are due by May 23, 2025, so stakeholders should speak up soon!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.
Foreign-built S/V Cocoa Bella May Affect U.S. Builders
MARAD received a request to allow the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V Cocoa Bella to operate in U.S. coastwise trade carrying no more than 12 passengers for hire. MARAD is asking for public comments by May 23, 2025 on whether that use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels.
Eligibility Rule for Small Passenger Vessels (≤12)
Under 46 U.S.C. 12121(b), the U.S. Coast Guard may issue a coastwise trade endorsement for small passenger vessels that carry no more than 12 passengers for hire, but only after MARAD, following notice and comment, determines the vessel's use will not adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses. The Cocoa Bella request is being evaluated under that statutory standard.
Public Comment Deadline and Privacy Rules
Stakeholders must submit comments, with supporting documentation, to DOT docket MARAD-2025-0045 by May 23, 2025. All comments will be posted publicly (including personal information), though you may request confidential commercial treatment for specific portions; such confidentiality requests are subject to Freedom of Information Act procedures.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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