Official Text and Analysis.

Expands the authorization that allows an entity other than a person to obtain nonresident vessel permits. The length of the vessel that may be permitted is increased from 164 feet to 200 feet. The entities eligible for such permits may include an owner or entity chartering a vessel with a captain or crew, as long as individual charters are for at least three or more consecutive days, not including transit time to or from the charter starting or ending locations. The restriction that limits the number of nonresident vessel permits that may be received by a entity other than a person is removed..

(1) Clarifies that nonresident vessel permits are available to vessels from outside the country, as long as they have a valid cruising license issued by United States Customs. (2) Allows for a qualifying charter transit to and from under the nonresident vessel permit, but that transit time does not count toward the duration of the charter. (3) Subjects qualifying charter vessels owned by natural persons to the same requirements as entity-owned vessels..