§ 12131. Command of documented vessels

(a) In General.— Except as provided in subsection (b), a documented vessel may be placed under the command only of a citizen of the United States.

(b) Exceptions.— Subsection (a) does not apply to—

(1) a vessel with only a recreational endorsement; or

(2) an unmanned barge operating outside of the territorial waters of the United States.

U.S. Code

§ 12131. Command of documented vessels