Polaris Points North: Foreign Boat Begs for US Coastal Trading Rights
Published Date: 9/15/2025
Notice
Summary
MARAD is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V POLARIS, can be used for U.S. coastal trips carrying up to 12 passengers. They want to hear from folks who might be affected, like U.S. boat builders or businesses using American-made vessels. This is your chance to speak up before a decision is made—no money changes yet, but the clock is ticking!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Foreign-built 12‑Passenger Vessel Review
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is asking whether the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V POLARIS can be used in U.S. coastwise trade carrying no more than 12 passengers for hire. MARAD is soliciting public comments to determine if allowing this use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders. This is a formal chance for U.S. boat builders to submit concerns before MARAD makes a determination.
Coastwise Operators' Competition Check
MARAD is reviewing a request to allow the M/V POLARIS, a foreign-built boat carrying up to 12 passengers for hire, to operate in U.S. coastwise trade and is asking for comments on whether that would adversely affect U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels. Businesses that operate U.S.-built vessels can submit information to MARAD before it decides whether to allow the foreign-built vessel to be used.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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