The MARAD waiver deals with commercial boats operating in the United States. It falls under the Jones Act and requires that boats used in commerce be built in the United States, though there are a few exceptions that allow for foreign-made vessels. The Passenger Vessel Services Act is another part of the Jones Act and…
If you have a foreign vessel and want to use it in the United States, either for recreational or commercial use, you will need to apply for a MARAD waiver. That’s because the United States has protections that control access to business between domestic ports. Ships that were built outside of the country must have…
In the interest of protecting local boating businesses, the United States Government has certain specific regulations to benefit the American people. To prioritize local vessel owners and those which were built in our country as well, the Maritime Administration has certain rules to give premier access for them to commerce at domestic ports. Because of…
The small vessel MARAD waiver is a document that the owner of a small vessel may submit to the United States Coast Guard to be excused from complying with certain restrictions that have been established by them. The waiver makes it possible for a small vessel to be utilized for commercial purposes even if it…
Did you know those small sailboat owners might qualify for a remission of the registration fee? Those who own small vessels are free from paying the yearly Restricted Area Clearance yearly under the Small Vessel MARAD Waiver. Small vessel owners will find the Small Vessel MARAD Waiver a valuable resource. This waiver relieves property owners…
Did you recently come into possession of a vessel that you want to use in a commercial capacity but aren’t sure if it was made in America? Do you have a boat that may not exactly be “new,” and you know it wasn’t made in the United States and you want to see if you…
Are you a boat owner for the US Coast Guard concerned about the impact the government shutdown might have on your job? Have no fear – there are ways to get a small vessel MARAD waiver and keep your career moving forward. In the next blog article, we will go through the actions you need…