Foreign Passenger Boat Eyes U.S. Waters: Local Builders Beware?
Published Date: 2/18/2026
Notice
Summary
The Maritime Administration is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V SEAIRA, can be used for U.S. coastal trips without hurting American boat builders or businesses. They want your thoughts by March 20, 2026, before making a decision. This could open doors for new boats on U.S. waters while keeping an eye on local jobs and trade.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel Review
The Maritime Administration is considering whether the foreign-built vessel M/V SEAIRA may receive a coastwise trade endorsement to carry no more than 12 passengers for hire in U.S. coastal trade. MARAD is asking for comments by March 20, 2026 to decide if allowing this use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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