483114 - Coastal and Great Lakes Passenger Transportation
When it comes to passenger transportation over water along the United States' coasts and the Great Lakes, NAICS code 483114 plays a pivotal role. This classification covers a specialized industry segment dedicated to moving passengers via ferries, sightseeing cruises, and other water-based transport services across some of America’s most scenic and commercially vital waterways. Whether you're a business owner, government contractor, or investor, understanding this NAICS code is essential for tapping into opportunities in the transportation and warehousing sector.
What is NAICS Code 483114?
NAICS code 483114 is the official classification for Coastal and Great Lakes Passenger Transportation. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing passenger transportation services on coastal waters and the Great Lakes. Services include ferry operations, sightseeing cruises, and other passenger water transportation activities specifically within these geographic regions.
This classification is part of the broader Transportation and Warehousing sector and includes a variety of passenger transportation methods occurring on coastal routes, the Great Lakes, and intercoastal waterways.
Sector and Typical Business Activities
- Sector: Transportation and Warehousing
- Industry Focus: Passenger transportation on coastal and Great Lakes waters
- Typical Business Activities Include:
- Ferry services transporting passengers between coastal cities
- Sightseeing cruises on the Great Lakes
- Passenger boat services operating along coastal or intercoastal routes
- Ship chartering with crew for passenger transportation in these waters
Businesses operating under NAICS 483114 provide essential transportation links for commuters, tourists, and commercial passengers, leveraging the natural waterways for efficient, scenic, and eco-friendly travel alternatives.
Size Standards for NAICS 483114
For the purpose of government contracting and small business eligibility, the size standard for NAICS code 483114 is defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as:
- 550.0 employees
Businesses with 550 or fewer employees are generally considered small and may qualify for small business programs, set-asides, and other government contracting benefits under this NAICS code.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 483114
- Ferry Services: Companies operating ferries between coastal ports like those in Washington State, California, or Florida.
- Great Lakes Sightseeing Cruises: Operators offering tours on the Great Lakes, including the St. Lawrence Seaway.
- Intercoastal Passenger Boats: Services running along the Eastern Seaboard or Gulf Coast transporting passengers over intercoastal waterways.
- Ship Charters with Crew: Businesses that rent out passenger ships with necessary crew members for coastal or Great Lakes excursions.
Detailed NAICS Code 483114 Classification Table
| Code Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Coastal passenger transportation | Passenger movement to and from domestic coastal ports |
| Cruise lines | Deep sea passenger transportation to and from domestic ports (including Puerto Rico) |
| Deep sea passenger transportation | Transport of passengers via deep sea routes to/from domestic ports (including Puerto Rico) |
| Ferry passenger transportation | Regular ferry services for passengers on coastal or Great Lakes routes |
| Great Lakes (including St. Lawrence Seaway) | Passenger transportation across the Great Lakes and connecting waterways |
| Intercoastal passenger transportation | Movement of passengers along intercoastal waterways to and from domestic ports |
| Lake passenger transportation | Passenger boat services operating on lakes, including the Great Lakes |
| Ship chartering with crew | Renting passenger vessels with crew for coastal or Great Lakes transportation |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What transportation modes are included under NAICS 483114?
A1. The industry includes ferries, sightseeing cruises, deep sea passenger transport, and passenger boats operating on coastal waters, Great Lakes, and intercoastal waterways.
Q2. Does this NAICS code cover international passenger transportation?
A2. No. NAICS 483114 specifically covers transportation to and from domestic ports, including Puerto Rico, but excludes international operations.
Q3. What is the employee size standard for small businesses under this code?
A3. The SBA size standard is 550 employees or fewer for businesses to qualify as small under NAICS code 483114.
Q4. Can government contractors obtain set-asides under this NAICS?
A4. Yes, qualifying small businesses under this NAICS code are eligible for federal small business programs and contracting opportunities.
Q5. Are sightseeing cruises included in this classification?
A5. Yes, sightseeing and recreational passenger cruises operating on coastal and Great Lakes waters fall under NAICS 483114.
Conclusion
NAICS code 483114 captures an essential part of America’s transportation infrastructure — passenger services on coastal waters and the Great Lakes. This industry combines critical commuter routes with leisure travel offerings, underpinning economic and tourism activities in key waterways. Whether managing a ferry service, operating sightseeing cruises, or chartering passenger vessels, businesses under this classification enjoy a vital niche in the Transportation and Warehousing sector. Understanding the scope, size standards, and opportunities related to NAICS 483114 can aid in strategic planning, government contracting, and market growth.
Keywords: NAICS 483114, Coastal and Great Lakes Passenger Transportation, ferry services, Great Lakes cruises, passenger water transportation, government contracting, small business size standards, transportation and warehousing industry.
