The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is inviting public comments on a request to determine the coastwise endorsement eligibility for the foreign-built vessel SEA STAR. This vessel intends to operate as a taxi and tour service in Puget Sound and the Inside Passage, accommodating no more than twelve passengers. MARAD seeks input on potential impacts this determination may have on U.S. vessel builders or businesses that utilize U.S.-flag vessels. Comments can be submitted through various methods by January 6, 2025, and will be publicly available unless submitted confidentially following specific procedures.
Simple Explanation
The government is asking people what they think about letting a boat from another country take up to 12 people on trips around Puget Sound. They want to know if this would be a problem for boat builders and businesses that use American boats.