40
FOGHORN
CAPT Drayer went over the new 
online application system due to be 
operational starting in September 
2026. The NAVITA system will be 
designed to allow for direct interac-
tion between the mariner, maritime 
industry, and the Coast Guard. He 
provided the following example to 
the QP: a mariner applies online for 
an upgrade on their credential that 
requires additional sea service, their 
employer directly enters pay records 
or HR documents attesting to the 
required sea service, mariner pays ap-
propriate fees via Pay.gov, the Coast 
Guard reviews application, support-
ing data, and issues new credential.
Finally, CAPT Drayer provided in-
sight into the use of limited and vessel 
restricted credentials by local officers 
in charge marine inspection (OCMI). 
He will be reminding OCMIs of 
their authority to accept certain risks/
conditions and issue local approvals. 
NMC can advise on these unique sit-
uations, but do not need to necessarily 
approve them. 
EMERGING AREAS  
OF COOPERATION
One area not fully addressed during 
the meeting was the Coast Guard’s 
initiative to develop local sector ma-
rine firefighting plans designed to 
assist shore-based firefighters in deal-
ing with vessel fires. PVA showed the 
Coast Guard the member resource 
tools developed to engage local fire 
departments and open communi-
cation through vessel tours, drills, 
and exercises to improve response to 
vessel fires.
As an offshoot of the communica-
tions concerns raised by PVA mem-
bers, the Coast Guard indicated they 
were willing to work with PVA on 
expediting the reconsideration and ap-
peals timeline as they look to update 
NVIC 16-82 “Appeal of Coast Guard 
Commercial Vessel Decisions and Ac-
tions.” PVA members welcomed the 
opportunity to participate.
The value of the partnership between 
PVA and the Coast Guard cannot 
be overstated. Over the last 30 years 
through formal working groups and 
just plain conversations, we have been 
able to address areas of mutual con-
cern and benefit resulting in a more 
safe and secure domestic passenger 
vessel industry. PVA remains commit-
ted to the partnership and will keep 
members informed as new issues are 
raised and resolved.
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