V Ships Usa News

The year 2000 was another busy one for the cruise ship industry. European yards, which are filled to capacity with myriad orders of ship series from major operators - will have their hands full for the next five years. The U.S.' entrance has entered into the cruise shipping market - for the first time in more than 30 years has made headlines, as two separate contracts were signed with Litton Ingalls Shipbuilding last year for new vessels that will have the potential to shape the future of the U.S. cruise ship industry. Known for constructing a variety of military and commercial vessels, Litton Ingalls will build two vessels for American Classic Voyages' (AMCV) new U.S. Lines. The vessels, which will be delivered in 2003 and 2004, will offer cruises exclusively through the Hawaiian Islands.

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is seeking comments on the impact on the Maritime Security Program (MSP) of the proposed acquisition of CP Ships Limited by TUI AG. CP Ships Limited is a Canadian company and the parent of CP Ships USA, LLC, which is a participant in the MSP. TUI AG is a German corporation and the parent of Hapag-Lloyd, a German vessel operator, neither of which have any present connection with MSP. Comments must be received by September 23. 70 Fed. Reg. 54102 (HK Law).