Sunbelle's Sneaky Sail: Can Foreign Ferry Join U.S. Coasts?
Published Date: 8/6/2025
Notice
Summary
MARAD is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V SUNBELLE, can be used for U.S. coastal trips carrying up to 12 passengers. They want to hear from people who might be affected, like U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, before making a decision. If approved, this could change who’s allowed to operate these boats along U.S. shores, so keep an eye out for comment deadlines!
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Foreign-Built 12-Passenger Vessel Review
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is asking for public comments on a request to allow the foreign-built vessel M/V SUNBELLE to operate in U.S. coastwise trade carrying up to 12 passengers for hire. MARAD wants information to decide whether allowing this use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels.
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.
2026-19800, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V KUDU
The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V KUDU, 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 open until October 28, 2026, so now’s the time to weigh in!
2026-19794, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V NAIAD
The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for your thoughts on letting a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V NAIAD, operate in U.S. coastal waters carrying up to 12 passengers. They want to make sure this won’t hurt American boat builders or businesses using U.S.-built vessels. If you have opinions, send them in by October 28, 2026!
2026-19793, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V SUZIE MANUELA
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the S/V SUZIE MANUELA, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision could affect U.S. shipbuilders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are due by October 28, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
2026-19786, Capital Construction Fund Revision; Correction
The Maritime Administration fixed a small mistake in its recent Capital Construction Fund (CCF) update notice. This correction clarifies the paperwork rules and confirms the $2,160 yearly cost for applicants using the CCF program. If you’re involved in maritime construction funding, this update keeps things clear and on track starting September 28, 2026.
2026-19799, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V MY OFFICE
The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel called S/V MY OFFICE 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 October 28, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-14901, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V YAMUY
The Maritime Administration is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V YAMUY, can be used for U.S. coastal trips. They want to make sure this won’t hurt American boat builders or businesses that use U.S.-made vessels. People have a chance to share their thoughts before a final decision is made.
Next: 2025-14903, Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed eCollection eComments Requested; Revision of a Previously Approved Collection: Application To Transfer and Register NFA Firearm (Tax-Exempt), ATF Form 5320.5 (“Form 5”)
The ATF is updating the form people use to transfer and register certain tax-exempt firearms, called Form 5. This affects gun owners and dealers who handle these special firearms, making the process clearer and easier. They’re asking for feedback now before the updated form gets approved, so watch for deadlines and no new fees are expected.