Security Measures For Foreign Ships And Mariners

Many rumors and false reports concerning the U. S. Coast Guard's security measures relating to vessels, crews, and passengers arriving in U. S. ports have circulated in the maritime community and some news media organizations. The gist of these rumors is that ships, crews, and passengers from particular countries would not be allowed into port and that certain crew and passengers for some ships allowed to enter would not be allowed to leave their ship. These rumors are false.

The U. S. Coast Guard is enforcing a wide range of security measures on all ships entering U. S. ports, and these measures may include a thorough check of crew and passenger lists and identifications. For instance, the Coast Guard has long required ships arriving from foreign ports to provide 24-hour advance notice of arrival. These ships must now also provide a list of all persons aboard along with the advance notice. This requirement is being applied to all ships (including US flag) regardless of their country of registry, last port of call, or the nationality of those on board.

In addition to nationwide measures, each Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) may employ any security measures they deem necessary to ensure the safety and security of their particular port. We are coordinating our maritime security efforts with other law enforcement and regulatory agencies (such as Customs, Immigration and Naturalization Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Public Health Service, etc.), which may take actions that affect the movement of ships, crews and passengers.

Overall security measures may vary from port to port. Any changes in national policies affecting the maritime industry will be announced by the Coast Guard through normal channels and news releases as appropriate. We are certain that ship operators and the maritime community will continue to work with us to ensure the safety and security of ships, crews, passengers, cargoes and ports.