GT Princess Seeks a Place in U.S. Coastal Passenger Trade
Published Date: 10/23/2026
Notice
Summary
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.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.
Foreign-built small passenger vessel under review
MARAD has received a request to allow the foreign-built vessel M/V GT PRINCESS (a small passenger vessel authorized to carry no more than 12 passengers for hire) to operate in U.S. coastwise trade. MARAD is asking for public comments to decide whether that use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or on coastwise trade businesses in the U.S. that employ U.S.-built vessels. Comments are due by November 23, 2026.
Comments will be publicly posted unless marked confidential
Anything you submit to the docket will be posted publicly at regulations.gov, including personal identifying information, unless you request confidential commercial treatment by emailing MARAD and labeling the submission "Contains Confidential Commercial Information" or "Contains CCI." MARAD will follow Freedom of Information Act procedures for any FOIA requests for withheld information.
Commenters must show undue adverse effect with evidence
MARAD asks interested parties to comment on the undue adverse effect the vessel's proposed use may have on U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses, and to demonstrate that effect with supporting documentation. Comments should state the vessel name, the commenter’s interest, and include evidence of adverse impact; submit by November 23, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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