Why do US cruises have to stop in a foreign port?

Why do US cruises have to stop in a foreign port?

US cruises often have to make a stop in a foreign port due to a legal requirement known as the Jones Act. The Jones Act, officially known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is a federal law that regulates maritime commerce in the United States. It stipulates that any vessel transporting goods or passengers between two US ports must be built, owned, and operated by US citizens or entities.

This means that if a cruise ship wants to embark and disembark passengers at different US ports, it must meet the criteria set by the Jones Act. However, the US cruise ship industry is primarily serviced by vessels that are registered in foreign countries, often referred to as “flag of convenience” countries. These countries have less stringent regulations and lower operating costs, making it more economically viable for cruise lines to register their ships there. Consequently, these ships do not meet the requirements of the Jones Act, which is designed to protect the US maritime industry.

To comply with the Jones Act while still providing a variety of destinations for their passengers, US-based cruise lines are required to include at least one foreign port of call in their itineraries. By doing so, they are able to satisfy the legal requirement of the Jones Act and maintain their operations. This means that even if the cruise is primarily focused on visiting US destinations, it will still make a stop at a foreign port in order to follow the law.

Frequently Asked Questions about US cruises stopping in foreign ports

1. Does every US cruise have to stop in a foreign port?

Yes, according to the Jones Act, every US cruise that embarks and disembarks passengers at different US ports must include a stop in a foreign port.

2. What is the purpose of the Jones Act?

The Jones Act was established to promote and protect the US maritime industry, including shipbuilding, shipping, and employment of US citizens in the industry.

3. Can US cruise ships be built in foreign countries?

Yes, US cruise ships can be built in foreign countries. However, they must adhere to the ownership and operation requirements of the Jones Act.

4. Which countries do US cruise ships often stop in?

US cruise ships often make stops in countries such as Mexico, the Bahamas, Canada, and Bermuda, among others.

5. How does the Jones Act impact the cost of US cruises?

The Jones Act potentially increases the cost of US cruises due to the higher operating expenses associated with complying with the act’s requirements.

6. Can US passengers travel directly between US ports on a foreign cruise ship?

No, US passengers cannot travel directly between US ports on a foreign cruise ship unless there is a foreign port of call included in the itinerary.

7. Does the Jones Act apply to all types of vessels?

The Jones Act applies to vessels engaged in maritime commerce, including passenger cruise ships, cargo ships, and other commercial vessels.

8. Are there any exceptions to the Jones Act?

There are limited exceptions to the Jones Act, such as situations involving emergencies or for military purposes.

9. How does the Jones Act impact the US maritime industry?

The Jones Act aims to protect the US maritime industry by ensuring that vessels engaged in domestic trade or transport between US ports are US-built, owned, and operated.

10. Are there any ongoing discussions or debates about the Jones Act?

Yes, there have been ongoing discussions and debates about the Jones Act, with some arguing that it hinders competition and increases costs for consumers.

11. Can foreign cruise lines operate in the US without stopping at a foreign port?

Foreign cruise lines are not subject to the requirements of the Jones Act. Therefore, they can operate in the US without making a stop at a foreign port.

12. How long has the Jones Act been in effect?

The Jones Act, also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, has been in effect for over a century, since its enactment in 1920.