Federal Register #MARAD-2026-1191

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

The Maritime Administration (MARAD), under the Department of Transportation, is seeking public comments on a request to use the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V WATCHDOG in U.S. coastwise trade. - Government Buyer: - Department of Transportation (DOT) - Maritime Administration (MARAD) - Subject of Request: - Use of the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V WATCHDOG for carrying up to twelve passengers for hire in U.S. coastwise trade - No specific OEMs or commercial vendors are named; the focus is on the vessel M/V WATCHDOG - Products/Services Requested: - Regulatory determination and public comment regarding the vessel's eligibility for coastwise trade - Notable Requirements: - MARAD is authorized to determine if the use of foreign-built vessels like M/V WATCHDOG would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or businesses operating U.S.-built vessels - The notice is not a procurement of goods or services, but a regulatory solicitation for industry and public input - No technical specifications, part numbers, or purchase quantities are provided - The process may impact future opportunities for U.S. shipbuilders and operators

Description

The Maritime Administration (MARAD), under the U.S. Department of Transportation, is authorized to determine the coastwise use of foreign-built and certain U.S.-built vessels carrying no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received a determination request for the vessel M/V WATCHDOG and is soliciting public comments to assess whether the proposed use would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses using U.S.-built vessels. Comments are requested to help evaluate the impact on the domestic maritime industry. The notice includes instructions for submitting comments and information about the vessel and proposed service.

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