§3202. Application

(a) Mandatory Application.-This chapter applies to the following vessels engaged on a foreign voyage:

(1) Beginning July 1, 1998-

(A) a vessel transporting more than 12 passengers described in section 2101(21)(A) of this title; and

(B) a tanker, bulk freight vessel, or high-speed freight vessel, of at least 500 gross tons.

(2) Beginning July 1, 2002, a freight vessel and a self-propelled mobile offshore drilling unit of at least 500 gross tons.

(b) Voluntary Application.-This chapter applies to a vessel not described in subsection (a) of this section if the owner of the vessel requests the Secretary to apply this chapter to the vessel.

(c) Exception.-Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, this chapter does not apply to-

(1) a barge;

(2) a recreational vessel not engaged in commercial service;

(3) a fishing vessel;

(4) a vessel operating on the Great Lakes or its tributary and connecting waters; or

(5) a public vessel.

(Added Pub. L. 104–324, title VI, §602(a), Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3928 .)

Section Referred to in Other Sections

This section is referred to in sections 3204, 3205 of this title.