The MARAD Waiver program of the Maritime Administration is a critical tool for American shipowners and operators, allowing them the operational flexibility and assistance they need to make necessary adjustments to their operations. It is important for shippers who are worried about the effect of this waiver program on the piers they use to keep in mind that Congress is unlikely to make major changes that may undermine the maritime industry’s long-term viability.
Waivers aren’t going to have an adverse effect on shippers’ ability to access ports, but they might lead to somewhat longer unloading time and longer stay durations at terminals. It’s doubtful that this will be a serious problem for anybody participating in the process. You must submit an application, which is a straightforward procedure. You may retain your boat for up to seven years without paying a penny in taxes, provided you meet the requirements. Here are the particular MARAD waiver qualifying standards that can assist you in determining whether or not your vessel is eligible.
You Have an Exemption from Carriage of Fire Suppression Systems.
As a general rule, all vessels flying the flag of the United States are obliged to have an authorized fire-fighting system onboard according to Wikipedia.org. Except if you qualify for a special exception from the regulation, you must comply with this basic requirement enforced by the United States Coast Guard (which is where the MARAD Waiver comes in).
The demand for a fire-fighting system derives from the fact that fire aboard a ship has been the cause of most marine accidents. The law looked at two primary factors to determine fire safety requirements: how much damage had been done and how many lives had been lost. Both of these issues must be addressed properly in your exemption application for it to be approved by MARAD (Maritime and Navigations Administration).
Your Boat Has a Maximum Speed Of 5 Knots Or Less
It’s not difficult to get a waiver from the Maritime Administration. If you can cough without choking on a few phlegm balls and have at least one hand, a fish can count to 10 in English; you’re more than qualified. A powerful engine and the ability to go swiftly don’t guarantee that you won’t find yourself stranded out in the middle of nowhere, distant from the closest port or Coast Guard station. One of the most popular boats in the United States is a sailboat.
Powerboats of this kind are at home on the water, whether you’re taking them out for a weekend sailing vacation or cruising the Caribbean. It’s equally thrilling to move at 20 mph across flat water or along the coast leisurely. You’ve probably encountered the dreaded boom swing if you’ve ever sailed before or had any aspirations too soon. This may be an unpleasant experience, so some jurisdictions prohibit boats with a speed of more than 5 knots from operating.
Your Boat Must Be Under 26 Feet in Length as One of The MARAD Waiver Qualifying Standards
It’s simple to get your yacht approved for the Maritime Administration’s MARAD waiver program. These exemptions are only available to boats less than 26 feet in length. Catamaran and dinghy owners can also participate if they own one of these boats. By MARAD regulations, the 26-foot mark is the maximum measurement permitted, and the exemptions apply to all boats ranging in length from 20 feet to 26 feet.
These exemptions are not granted to commercial fishing boats or vessels sailing under the flag of a foreign country, with one important exception. The adoption of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 resulted in eliminating the need for citizenship by the marine administration. Boats that are used for enjoyment and not for profit and have not been involved in any accidents are exempt from this requirement.
Your Boat Has Been Determined To Be Unseaworthy and Cannot Safely Voyage Outside Sheltered Waters.
Do you use inland waterways to transport your vessel? In this case, you may be eligible for the MARAD Waiver exemption. If you own a boat and have ever taken a leisurely ride on a nearby lake or pond, you know how refreshing it is to get away from the daily grind. It’s possible to enjoy a boating vacation without worrying about mundane tasks like paying the rent or mortgage. Boaters frequently worry about whether or not their vessel meets safety standards while out on the water. Before embarking on a boating excursion, boaters should know several safety laws.
Security training and verification of two years of service experience are required, for example, for commercial boats weighing more than 300 gross tons. Commercial boats must also adhere to other federal requirements, such as activating and deactivating essential equipment like navigation lights. Even recreational vessels may be subject to this federal regulation. Other than marine rules, additional restrictions are in effect for inland waterways, such as those outlined below. It makes no difference whether you’re sailing in your backyard or on a body of water that’s just a short drive from your house.
Waiver compliance is critical for many international business owners. Flagging in the United States and owning a similar vessel are two things that have numerous parallels. Working with the Maritime Administration helps you learn how to do it right. Contact us immediately at 1-800-535-8570 to learn more about the MARAD Waiver program and how it may benefit you to get started on this route.