May 12, 2026

New CVC-WI-037(1) Articulated Tug-Barge (ATB) Vessel Manning: James Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023, H.R. 7776, SEC. 11508

The U.S. Coast Guard Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance (CG-CVC) has published guidance in CVC-WI-037(1): Articulated Tug-Barge (ATB) Vessel Manning, regarding issuance of Certificate of Inspection to certain articulated tug-barge (ATB) units inspected under 46 CFR Subchapter M – towing vessels.

May 4, 2026

Coast Guard Announces Updates to QUALSHIP 21 and E-Zero Program Guidance

The Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance (CG-CVC) announces the publication of a revised Work Instruction, CVC-WI-002(2), updating the guidance and eligibility criteria for the Quality Shipping for the 21st Century (QUALSHIP 21) and E-Zero programs. These updates are intended to enhance the integrity and effectiveness of the programs, which recognize and reward high-quality, foreign-flagged vessels operating in U.S. waters.

Feb. 12, 2026

Notification of the Revocation of Facility Exemptions from the Port Security Advisory

The Coast Guard announced that it is revoking port facility exemptions from the Port Security Advisory for Cameroon, Iraq, and Madagascar and has issued a Port Security Advisory (PSA 1-26):  https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2026-02721. The actions listed in PSA 1-26 apply to vessels that arrive in the United States after visiting ports in Cameroon, Iraq, and Madagascar as described in that document.

Feb. 12, 2026

Reduction of Plan Review Requirements for Control Systems on Small Passenger Vessels

The Coast Guard will no longer require plan review for certain microprocessor-based control systems on small passenger vessels.

Feb. 10, 2026

Solicitation for the 2026 International Maritime Organization Honours for Exceptional Bravery at Sea Award

This message announces the International Maritime Organization (IMO) solicitation for nominations for the 2026 IMO Honours for Exceptional Bravery at Sea.