For owners of certain foreign-built vessels, moving into passenger-for-hire operations can involve an additional federal requirement beyond obtaining Coast Guard documentation. The MARAD small vessel waiver program can provide a path for qualifying vessel owners to seek an exemption from the U.S.-build requirement that would otherwise prevent a foreign-built vessel from engaging in certain coastwise…
Foreign-built vessels can face an important obstacle when their owners want to conduct commercial passenger operations between U.S. points. The federal rules governing coastwise trade generally require qualifying vessels to meet U.S.-build requirements. For eligible small passenger vessels, applying for a MARAD waiver may provide a path to obtaining an administrative waiver of that requirement….
Operating a foreign-built boat for passenger charters in the United States involves more than purchasing the vessel and advertising trips online. Federal regulations place strict limitations on vessels that were constructed outside the United States. For many owners, obtaining a MARAD waiver is the legal path that allows limited commercial passenger operations. At the National…