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).

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.

Aug. 11, 2025

2024 Flag State Control Annual Report

The Coast Guard’s Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance is pleased to announce the publication of the 2024 Flag State Control Domestic Annual Report.

Aug. 5, 2025

Watch Monitoring Devices on Small Passenger Vessels, Interim Rule Clarification

On December 27, 2021, the Coast Guard published an interim final rule: Fire Safety of Small Passenger Vessels, Interim Rule, Federal Register 73160, December 27, 2021 (link).  This interim final rule applies to covered small passenger vessels (CPSVs) with overnight accommodations for passengers and includes requirements for the installation and arrangement of watch monitoring devices.