Definitions — Us Code Code § 30501

Us Code Code § 30501 — Definitions. Reproduced from the official United States Code, with a citation summary, verification link, and related provisions.

§ 30501. Definitions

In this chapter:

(1) Covered small passenger vessel.—The term "covered small passenger vessel"—

(A) means a small passenger vessel, as defined in section 2101, that is—

(i) not a wing-in-ground craft; and

(ii) carrying—

(I) not more than 49 passengers on an overnight domestic voyage; and

(II) not more than 150 passengers on any voyage that is not an overnight domestic voyage; and


(B) includes any wooden vessel constructed prior to March 11, 1996, carrying at least 1 passenger for hire.


(2) Owner.—The term "owner" includes a charterer that mans, supplies, and navigates a vessel at the charterer's own expense or by the charterer's own procurement.

(Pub. L. 109–304, §6(c), Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1512; Pub. L. 117–263, div. K, title CXV, §11503(b), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 4130.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised

Section

Source (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
30501 46 App.:186. R.S. §4286.

The words "In this chapter" are substituted for "within the meaning of the provisions of title 48 of the Revised Statutes relating to the limitation of the liability of the owners of vessels" because of the codification of title 46, United States Code. The word "supplies" is substituted for "victual" for clarity. The words "and such vessel, when so chartered, shall be liable in the same manner as if navigated by the owner thereof" are omitted as unnecessary.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2022—Pub. L. 117–263 amended section generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "In this chapter, the term 'owner' includes a charterer that mans, supplies, and navigates a vessel at the charterer's own expense or by the charterer's own procurement."

About This Section

46 U.S.C. § 30501 is part of Title 46 of the United States Code. The United States Code is the official codification of federal statutes maintained by the Office of the Law Revision Counsel of the U.S. House of Representatives. Congress amends the Code through new public laws, which are eventually incorporated into the relevant title.

This section may be cited in legal writing as 46 U.S.C. § 30501. For the most current official text, including any recent amendments, use the official source links below. Do not rely on this page as the sole authority for legal citation or litigation.

How to Read This Statute

Statutes are organized by title, chapter, section, and subsection. Pay attention to words like "shall," "may," "and," and "or," because they determine whether a requirement is mandatory or permissive and whether multiple conditions must all be met. Historical notes and amendments often appear at the end of a section.

Using This Page

This page is intended for research and educational use. Lawyers, students, journalists, and compliance professionals can use it as a starting point, but should always verify the current text through an official government source before relying on it for legal advice, filings, or compliance decisions.

Sources

Source: official Us Code text · Last verified 2026-08-27

At a glance

Verify the text

Statute text is transcribed from the official United States Code. Confirm it against the primary source before relying on it:

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed Us Code attorney.

Common questions

What is the source of United States Code § 30501?

The text above is transcribed from the United States Code, the codified statutes of Us Code. The official publisher link appears under "Verify the text" on this page.

What subject does United States Code § 30501 address?

It addresses "Definitions". Read the section together with the surrounding provisions listed under "Nearby provisions" for the full picture.

Is United States Code § 30501 still in force?

Statutes are amended, repealed, and renumbered every session. Confirm the current version at the official Us Code source before relying on this text.

Can this page be used as legal advice?

No. This is a reference transcription for research. Applying Us Code law to your facts requires a licensed Us Code attorney who can review the specifics.