Nov. 18, 2025

Dissolution of the Ship Structure Committee

On July 15, 2025, the decision was made in a Special Session meeting that the Ship Structure Committee (SSC) would be dissolved.

Nov. 18, 2025

Federal Register Notice: Request for Information on Multi-Service Vessels and Vessels of Opportunity

The U.S. Coast Guard announced in the Federal Register that it is seeking input from the public to better understand the operations of multi-service vessels (MSVs), specifically regarding the use of vessels of opportunity (VOOs).  Public feedback will help to assess the current state of MSVs and VOOs in support of the marine transportation system and oil spill response activities. 

Nov. 13, 2025

Updated U.S. Supplement to International Conventions and Classification Society Rules for Ships Enrolled in the Alternate Compliance Program

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), in collaboration with the authorized classification societies, has updated the supplement for U.S.-flagged ships certificated under the American Registry’s Alternate Compliance Program (ACP).

Nov. 13, 2025

Issuance of Marine Safety Center Technical Note (MTN) 01-25: Guidance for Submitting Design Risk Assessments of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Fueled Vessels

To enhance service delivery in response to requests from maritime industry partners, the Marine Safety Center (MSC) has issued guidance on preparing and submitting risk assessments for LNG-fueled vessels.

Oct. 29, 2025

Commercial Vessel Safety During Lapse in Coast Guard Appropriations

This post outlines the Coast Guard's guidance on commercial vessel safety during a lapse in appropriations, addressing Certificates of Financial Responsibility, Certificates of Documentation, and Merchant Mariner Credentials. It details which operations will continue and which will be limited, and provides specific instructions for vessel owners, operators, and mariners.