Sun Dancer's Dance: Foreign Vessel Eyes U.S. Shores
Published Date: 4/23/2025
Notice
Summary
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V Sun Dancer, 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. It’s a chance to weigh in on protecting American jobs while considering new vessel use.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Foreign-built small vessel review
If you are a U.S. boat builder or a business that uses U.S.-built small passenger vessels, MARAD is asking whether the foreign-built M/V Sun Dancer should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastwise trade. The vessel would carry no more than 12 passengers for hire, and MARAD is soliciting public comments (with supporting documentation) on whether allowing this use would have an undue adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses; comments are due May 23, 2025.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-12547, Tanker Security Program
The Tanker Security Program (TSP) helps keep a fleet of U.S.-flagged tankers ready for national defense and security needs. This final rule updates the program based on feedback and sets new rules for which tankers qualify, including limits on government charters. Starting July 23, 2026, eligible tanker owners can receive payments to support their operations, boosting America’s maritime strength and economy.
2026-20761, Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: War Risk Insurance, Applications, and Related Information
The Maritime Administration wants to keep collecting info for war risk insurance, which helps ship owners get coverage when commercial options aren’t available. This insurance protects U.S. trade and ship owners from war-related losses. If you have thoughts, share them by December 8, 2026, to help improve the process without adding extra hassle or cost.
2026-20760, Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: Application and Reporting Elements for Participation in the Tanker Security Program
The Maritime Administration wants to renew and update the paperwork for companies running U.S.-registered tankers in the Tanker Security Program. They’re making small changes to the application form and asking for public feedback within 30 days. This keeps the program running smoothly to support national defense without adding big costs or delays.
2026-20584, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V BACK OFF
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel called M/V BACK OFF should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, and your input can help decide if this move is fair. Comments are due by November 9, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
2026-20587, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V BEAR PAW
The U.S. Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V BEAR PAW, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade carrying up to 12 passengers. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are due by November 9, 2026, so speak up if you have thoughts on protecting U.S. maritime jobs and trade!
2026-20588, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V BACK OFF
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel called M/V BACK OFF 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 November 9, 2026. It’s all about making sure this new vessel won’t hurt American jobs or trade.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-07011, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V SUMMER SUNSET
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V SUMMER SUNSET, 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.
Next: 2025-07013, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V South'n Breeze
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger boat, the S/V South'n Breeze, 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.