Federal Register #MARAD-2026-1261

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

The Maritime Administration (MARAD), under the Department of Transportation, is soliciting public comments on a request to use the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V NOMAD in U.S. coastwise trade. - Government Buyer: - Department of Transportation (DOT) - Maritime Administration (MARAD) - Subject Vessel: - M/V NOMAD (foreign-built small passenger vessel) - Purpose: - MARAD is considering whether to allow the M/V NOMAD to operate in U.S. coastwise trade, carrying no more than twelve passengers for hire - Public comments are requested to assess potential adverse impacts on U.S. vessel builders and businesses operating U.S.-built vessels - Unique Requirements: - Focus on regulatory determination regarding the use of a foreign-built vessel in U.S. coastwise trade - No specific OEMs, vendors, or product/service line items are identified - Emphasis on stakeholder feedback to inform the decision-making process

Description

The Secretary of Transportation, represented by MARAD, 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 NOMAD and is soliciting public comments to assess whether its proposed use would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses using U.S.-built vessels. Comments are requested to assist in this evaluation, with details about the vessel and proposed service available in the supplementary information section. The deadline for comments is September 9, 2026.

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