# Federal Register #MARAD-2026-1456

Request for Comments on Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel M/V BOWDITCH in U.S. Coastwise Trade

**Buyer:** Maritime Administration
**Posted:** September 28, 2026
**Respond By:** October 28, 2026
**Identifier:** MARAD-2026-1456

The Maritime Administration (MARAD), under the Department of Transportation, is seeking public comments on the proposed use of the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V BOWDITCH in U.S. coastwise trade.
- Government Buyer:
  - Maritime Administration (MARAD), Department of Transportation
- Subject of Request:
  - Foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V BOWDITCH
- OEMs and Vendors:
  - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; the vessel itself is the focus
- Products/Services Requested:
  - No products or services are being procured
  - No part numbers or quantities specified
- Unique Requirements:
  - Public comments must address whether the use of M/V BOWDITCH would cause undue adverse effects on U.S. vessel builders or businesses using U.S.-built vessels in coastwise trade
  - Supporting documentation may be submitted
  - Instructions provided for confidential submissions
- Purpose:
  - Regulatory determination based on public input, not direct procurement

### Description

The Maritime Administration, part of the Department of Transportation, has issued a notice requesting comments on the use of a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V BOWDITCH, in United States coastwise trade. The notice seeks public input to determine whether the proposed use of the vessel would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels. Comments are to be submitted by October 28, 2026, and should address any undue adverse effects with supporting documentation. The notice includes instructions for submitting comments and information about confidentiality and public availability of comments.

[View original listing](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/09/28/2026-19798/request-notice-use-of-foreign-built-small-passenger-vessel-in-united-states-coastwise-trade-mv)