On June 16, 2022, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022 became Public Law 117-146. Certain provisions of the statute became effective immediately upon enactment with no allowance for a phase-in period. Regulated entities must comply with…

The Federal Maritime Commission today approved a settlement agreement reached between its Bureau of Enforcement (BoE) and Hapag-Lloyd AG (Hapag-Lloyd) where the ocean carrier will pay a $2 million civil penalty to address alleged violations related to…

The Federal Maritime Commission met in open session Wednesday to receive updates on: The Commission met in closed session pursuant to Commission regulations in 46 CFR § 503.73 to further discuss aspects of the VOCC Audit…

Commissioner Rebecca F. Dye today released her Final Report for Fact Finding 29, “The Effects of COVID-19 on the U.S. International Ocean Transportation Supply Chain,” a two-year investigation involving hundreds of Commission stakeholders participating through Team meetings,…

The Federal Maritime Commission has been advised that Proof of Claims for refunds from Crystal Cruises can be filed at https://crystalcruiseclaims.com/. The Commission strongly encourages passengers with cancelled and/or booked cruises with Crystal Cruises to complete and deliver…

The Federal Maritime Commission is amending its regulations governing non-performance by Passenger Vessel Operators (PVO/cruise lines) and establishing new requirements for when cruise passengers should be provided refunds for cancelled or delayed voyages. “Hundreds of thousands of…

Crystal Cruises, LLC (Crystal) filed a petition for Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors in Florida state court in Miami-Dade County (case number: 2022-002742-CA-01) on February 11, 2022. Crystal maintains an escrow account in compliance…

Commissioner Rebecca F. Dye today issued the below statement providing guidance on the different avenues shippers have at the Federal Maritime Commission to pursue demurrage and detention complaints. Her statement provides links to information on…

Note: 2/18/22 – UPDATE: Notice to Passengers Regarding Crystal Cruises The Federal Maritime Commission is aware of media reports that Crystal Cruises, LLC (Crystal) has ceased operations. The Commission is receiving inquiries pertaining to obtaining refunds…