§ 55103. Transportation of passengers

• (a) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter or chapter 121 of this title, a vessel may not transport passengers between ports or places in the United States to which the coastwise laws apply, either directly or via a foreign port, unless the vessel—
  • (1) is wholly owned by citizens of the United States for purposes of engaging in the coastwise trade; and
  • (2) has been issued a certificate of documentation with a coastwise endorsement under chapter 121 or is exempt from documentation but would otherwise be eligible for such a certificate and endorsement.
• (b) The penalty for violating subsection (a) is $300 for each passenger transported and landed.