Coastwise Trade Waiver Sought for S/V KELMAR
Published Date: 6/11/2026
Notice
Summary
The Maritime Administration is asking for your thoughts on letting a foreign-built small passenger boat, the S/V KELMAR, operate in U.S. coastal waters carrying up to 12 passengers. This decision could affect U.S. boat builders and local businesses, so they want to hear from the public by July 13, 2026. If approved, it might shake up the small passenger vessel scene without costing taxpayers a dime.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Foreign Vessel May Affect U.S. Builders
MARAD has received a request to allow the foreign-built S/V KELMAR to engage in U.S. coastwise trade carrying no more than 12 passengers for hire. If approved, MARAD is asking whether that use would have an undue adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses; interested parties may comment by July 13, 2026 (Docket No. MARAD-2026-0927).
Approval Could Allow 12-Passenger Service
Under 46 U.S.C. 12121(b), the U.S. Coast Guard may issue a certificate of documentation with a coastwise trade endorsement for eligible small passenger vessels authorized to carry no more than 12 passengers for hire. The notice concerns a determination request for the foreign-built S/V KELMAR and solicits public comment on that request by July 13, 2026 (Docket No. MARAD-2026-0927).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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