Yes. Documented vessels must be built in the United States in order to engage in the coastwise trade or in the fisheries, with limited exceptions. Vessels excluded by virtue of their tonnage (under 5 net tons) or otherwise exempt from documentation must nevertheless be U.S. built and otherwise entitled to be documented with a coastwise endorsement in order to engage in the coastwise trade. There is no U.S. build requirement for vessels excluded from documentation by virtue of their tonnage which engage in the fisheries.
In essence, this means vessels that are not at least 5 net tons, engaged in commercial fishing (selling their catch) have no requirement for U.S. build.
If you intend to use your Documented vessel as a charter (6-pack UPV) or commercial fishing vessel, you may file for the Coastwise Endorsement via the link below.
https://unitedstatesvessel.us/change-endorsement-trade-indicator/
Are there exceptions to U.S. build requirements?
Yes. Certain vessels that are captured, forfeited, or wrecked may be excepted. Also, the Maritime Administration
(MARAD) can issue waivers for foreign-built vessels or vessels of unknown or unprovable build to operate as
commercial passenger vessels that carry no more than 12 passengers for hire. This requires a public notification and
comment process, and an application fee.
If your vessel is not of U.S. build, you may request a MARAD Small Vessel Waiver via the link below. Most MARAD waivers are granted.
https://unitedstatesvessel.us/marad-small-vessel-waiver-application/
