Learning Curves Vessel Takes Lesson in Trade Waivers
Published Date: 5/22/2026
Notice
Summary
The Maritime Administration is considering allowing the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V LEARNING CURVES to operate in U.S. coastal trade, carrying up to 12 passengers for hire. They want to hear from the public by June 22, 2026, to make sure this won’t hurt U.S. boat builders or businesses using American-made vessels. If approved, this could open new opportunities for small passenger boat services along the coast.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Foreign 12‑Passenger Vessel Seeks Coastwise Entry
The Maritime Administration received a request to allow the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V LEARNING CURVES to operate in U.S. coastwise trade carrying no more than 12 passengers for hire. MARAD will decide whether this use would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or coastwise businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels, and approval could open new opportunities for small passenger boat services along the coast.
Stakeholders Can Comment by June 22, 2026
Stakeholders, including U.S. vessel builders and coastwise trade businesses, may submit comments to DOT Docket MARAD-2026-0763 by June 22, 2026 to show any undue adverse effect; comments must include the vessel name, the commenter’s interest, and supporting documentation. Comments will be posted publicly unless confidential commercial information is specifically submitted and justified to MARAD.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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