Foreign Boat VADA Seeks US Coastal Passenger Run
Published Date: 1/8/2026
Notice
Summary
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V VADA, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade carrying up to 12 passengers. This decision could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are due by February 9, 2026, so speak up if you have thoughts or concerns!
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Foreign-Built 12-Passenger Vessel Decision
If you are a U.S. boat builder or a business that uses U.S.-built vessels, MARAD is asking whether the foreign-built M/V VADA should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastwise trade carrying up to 12 passengers. MARAD is seeking comments by February 9, 2026, on whether allowing this vessel would have an undue adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous: 2026-00156, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V ODYSSEY
The government is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V ODYSSEY, can be used for U.S. coastal trips without hurting American boat builders or businesses. They want your thoughts by February 9, 2026, before making a decision. This could open doors for new boats but also affects local shipbuilders and operators.
Next: 2026-00158, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V CAY MICHELE
The government is asking for your thoughts on letting a foreign-built small passenger boat, the S/V CAY MICHELE, operate in U.S. coastal waters carrying up to 12 paying passengers. This could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses that use American-made vessels, so they want to make sure it won’t hurt local jobs or trade. You have until February 9, 2026, to share your opinion—no cost changes yet, just a decision in the works!