Boat Called 'MY OFFICE' Wants to Cruise US Coasts
Published Date: 9/28/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel called S/V MY OFFICE should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects businesses using U.S.-built vessels and could impact the local shipbuilding industry. Comments are due by October 28, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Potential harm to U.S. shipbuilders
MARAD has received a request to allow the foreign-built S/V MY OFFICE to operate in U.S. coastwise trade and will decide whether that use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders. Interested parties can submit comments (DOT Docket No. MARAD-2026-1455) by October 28, 2026, to show any undue adverse effect.
Foreign-built passenger vessel may gain coastwise access
If MARAD determines the proposed use will not adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses, the U.S. Coast Guard may issue a certificate of documentation with a coastwise trade endorsement allowing a small passenger vessel that carries no more than 12 passengers for hire to operate in U.S. coastwise trade. Comments on the request must be submitted by October 28, 2026 (DOT Docket No. MARAD-2026-1455).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-19798, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V BOWDITCH
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V BOWDITCH, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade carrying up to 12 passengers. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, with comments due by October 28, 2026. The goal is to make sure this won’t hurt American shipbuilders or coastal businesses.
Next: 2026-19800, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V KUDU
The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V KUDU, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision could impact U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are open until October 28, 2026, so now’s the time to weigh in!