To whom should vessels submit their Notice of Arrival (NOA)?

The Notice of Arrival (NOA) is primarily submitted to the National Vessel Movement Center (NVMC). This central body operates under the U.S. Coast Guard and is responsible for collecting and processing information regarding the movement of vessels in U.S. waters. The NVMC serves as the focal point for monitoring vessel arrivals and ensuring compliance with the regulations surrounding port safety and security.

Submitting NOAs to the NVMC is crucial as it helps the Coast Guard and other relevant authorities have a structured overview of all vessels approaching U.S. waters, thereby enhancing maritime security and facilitating operational coordination between various agencies.

While the Coast Guard plays a significant role in the regulatory framework concerning vessels, the specific task of handling NOAs is assigned to the NVMC. Other organizations, like the EPA or local Port Authorities, may have distinct roles and responsibilities regarding maritime operations but are not the designated recipients for NOAs. This delineation of responsibilities helps streamline data collection related to vessel movements and supports effective maritime governance.