Can the Island Vibez Bring Its Vibe to Coastwise Trade?
Published Date: 11/6/2026
Notice
Summary
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.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Foreign-built 12‑passenger vessel may seek coastwise entry
The foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V ISLAND VIBEZ (a vessel proposed to carry no more than 12 passengers for hire) has an eligibility request pending for use in U.S. coastwise trade. MARAD will decide whether allowing the vessel to operate would be allowed only if it determines the use will not adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels.
Public comment opportunity and requirements
You may submit comments about the M/V ISLAND VIBEZ request to DOT Docket Number MARAD-2026-1750 by December 7, 2026, via regulations.gov or mail/hand delivery. Comments must state the vessel name, your interest, and provide supporting documentation showing any undue adverse effect; all comments will be posted publicly, though you may request confidential commercial treatment by emailing MARAD as instructed.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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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!
Next: 2026-22704, Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: Generic Clearance of Customer Satisfaction Surveys
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) wants to keep collecting feedback through customer satisfaction surveys to make their services better. They’re asking the public and businesses to share their thoughts within 30 days. This renewal won’t cost extra or change how the surveys work but helps MARAD stay connected and improve how they serve everyone.