Sea Marshal

A sea marshal is a US Coast Guard armed boarding team member placed aboard a high-interest vessel transiting a US port to deter and respond to threats during the approach and berthing. The Coast Guard deploys sea marshals under its Maritime Transportation Security Act authority and 33 CFR Part 165 security and safety zones, boarding selected ships to maintain positive control of navigation and prevent the vessel being used as a weapon. The program expanded after 2001. It is a government law-enforcement function, distinct from privately contracted armed security personnel hired by shipowners.