Peaceful Passage? Feds Mull 'Serenity' for American Shores
Published Date: 4/23/2025
Notice
Summary
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V SERENITY should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects businesses using U.S.-built vessels and could impact the local shipbuilding industry. Comments are due by May 23, 2025, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Possible Harm to U.S. Vessel Builders
MARAD is asking for public comments on whether the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V SERENITY (authorized to carry no more than 12 passengers for hire) should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastwise trade. MARAD will consider 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. Comments are due by May 23, 2025.
Eligibility Path for Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel
Under 46 U.S.C. 12121(b), the U.S. Coast Guard may issue a certificate of documentation with a coastwise trade endorsement for eligible small passenger vessels that carry no more than 12 passengers for hire if MARAD determines the vessel's coastwise use will not adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses. The current notice seeks comments on that determination for the M/V SERENITY; comments are due by May 23, 2025.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous: 2025-07007, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V SEAS THE BAY
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, M/V SEAS THE BAY, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision could impact U.S. shipbuilders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels. Comments are open until May 23, 2025, so speak up if you have thoughts on this!
Next: 2025-07009, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V Sophia Marina
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V Sophia Marina, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, with comments due by May 23, 2025. The goal is to make sure this won’t hurt American shipbuilders or coastal businesses before giving the green light.