# Federal Register #MARAD-2026-1455

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

**Buyer:** Maritime Administration
**Posted:** September 28, 2026
**Respond By:** October 28, 2026
**Identifier:** MARAD-2026-1455

The Maritime Administration (MARAD), part of the Department of Transportation, is seeking public comments on a request to use the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V MY OFFICE in U.S. coastwise trade.
- Government Buyer:
  - Maritime Administration (MARAD), Department of Transportation
- Purpose:
  - Soliciting input on whether the operation of S/V MY OFFICE, a foreign-built vessel, would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or businesses using U.S.-built vessels
- Vessel Details:
  - S/V MY OFFICE (small passenger vessel, foreign-built)
- No OEMs or vendors are named
- No products or services are being procured; this is a request for comment and eligibility determination
- Notable Requirements:
  - Vessel must carry no more than twelve passengers for hire
  - Determination focuses on eligibility for coastwise trade and potential impact on U.S. industry
- No purchase quantities, part numbers, or procurement of goods/services involved

### Description

The Secretary of Transportation, represented by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), 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 vessel S/V MY OFFICE and is soliciting public comments to assess whether the proposed use would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels. Comments are requested to assist in this determination and must be submitted by October 28, 2026.

[View original listing](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/09/28/2026-19799/request-notice-use-of-foreign-built-small-passenger-vessel-in-united-states-coastwise-trade-sv-my)