Feds Weigh Foreign Bucket List Yacht for US Coastal Passenger Runs

2026-22617, Deepwater Port Application Processing and Licensing

The government is switching who handles deepwater port license applications from the Coast Guard to the Maritime Administration (MARAD). This change means MARAD will lead the environmental review process, while the Coast Guard keeps managing port safety and operations. If you’re involved in deepwater ports, get ready to send your comments by January 4, 2027, and watch for new rules that could affect how licenses are processed.

2026-12547, Tanker Security Program

The Tanker Security Program (TSP) helps keep a fleet of U.S.-flagged tankers ready for national defense and security needs. This final rule updates the program based on feedback and sets new rules for which tankers qualify, including limits on government charters. Starting July 23, 2026, eligible tanker owners can receive payments to support their operations, boosting America’s maritime strength and economy.

2026-22703, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V ISLAND VIBEZ

The Maritime Administration is checking if the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V ISLAND VIBEZ can be used for U.S. coastwise trade without hurting American boat builders or businesses. They want your thoughts by December 7, 2026, before making a decision. This affects companies using small passenger boats and could impact local jobs and trade rules.

2026-22699, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V JULIANA

The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V JULIANA should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, with comments due by December 7, 2026. It’s a chance to weigh in on protecting American jobs while considering new vessel use.

2026-22702, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V NIUHI 2

The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V NIUHI 2, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are open until December 7, 2026, so now’s the time to weigh in!

2026-21638, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V GT PRINCESS

The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V GT PRINCESS, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. shipbuilders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, with comments due by November 23, 2026. The goal is to make sure this won’t hurt American jobs or businesses while considering new vessel use.

Previous: 2026-15894, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V PROVIDENCE

The Secretary of Transportation, as represented by MARAD, is authorized to make determinations regarding the coastwise use of foreign built; certain U.S. built; and U.S. and foreign rebuilt vessels that solely carry no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received such a determination request and is publishing this notice to solicit comments to assist with determining whether the proposed use of the vessel set forth in the request would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.- built vessels in those businesses. Information about the requestor's vessel, including a description of the proposed service, is in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below.

Next: 2026-15896, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V MALIA

The Secretary of Transportation, as represented by MARAD, is authorized to make determinations regarding the coastwise use of foreign built; certain U.S. built; and U.S. and foreign rebuilt vessels that solely carry no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received such a determination request and is publishing this notice to solicit comments to assist with determining whether the proposed use of the vessel set forth in the request would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.- built vessels in those businesses. Information about the requestor's vessel, including a description of the proposed service, is in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below.