Federal Register #MARAD-2026-0761

MARAD Seeks Comments on Use of Foreign-Built Passenger Vessel M/V DIPLOMCY in U.S. Coastwise Trade

The Maritime Administration (MARAD), part of the Department of Transportation, is requesting public comments on the proposed use of the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V DIPLOMCY in U.S. coastwise trade. - Government Buyer: - Department of Transportation (DOT), Maritime Administration (MARAD) - Vessel and OEM Information: - Vessel: M/V DIPLOMCY (foreign-built small passenger vessel) - OEM/builder: Not specified in the notice - Products/Services Requested: - No procurement of products or services at this stage - Request is for public input regarding the use of a foreign-built vessel for carrying up to twelve passengers for hire in U.S. waters - Unique/Notable Requirements: - MARAD seeks input on whether allowing this foreign-built vessel would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or U.S. businesses operating U.S.-built vessels in coastwise trade - Details about the vessel and its proposed operations are available in the DOT Docket - No specific contract, purchase, or service is being solicited; this is a request for information and public comment only

Description

The Maritime Administration (MARAD), under the Department of Transportation, is authorized to make determinations regarding the coastwise use of foreign built, certain U.S. built, and U.S. and foreign rebuilt vessels that carry no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received a determination request for the use of a foreign-built small passenger vessel in the U.S. coastwise trade and is soliciting public comments to assess whether this use would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels. The notice includes information about the requestor's vessel and the proposed service. Comments are due by June 22, 2026.

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