Los Angeles, CA asked in Intellectual Property and Patents (Intellectual Property) for California

Q: Is it possible to patent a voyage?

A thematic cruise route spanning over 4 continents and 10 cities.

2 Lawyer Answers
Kevin E. Flynn
PREMIUM
Kevin E. Flynn
Answered
  • Patents Lawyer
  • Pittsboro, NC

A: This does not sound like a fit for the patent system.

35 USC 101

Whoever invents or discovers any new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, or any new and useful improvement thereof, may obtain a patent therefor, subject to the conditions and requirements of this title.

The USPTO provides guidance on what sorts of things can be the subject of patents as there has been several recent decisions by the United States Supreme Court. If you want to take a deep dive, you can see this training material at https://www.uspto.gov/patent/laws-and-regulations/examination-policy/subject-matter-eligibility

I hope that this helps.

Kevin E Flynn

Peter D. Mlynek
Peter D. Mlynek
Answered
  • Patents Lawyer
  • Moorestown, NJ

A: If it is just a map or an app or a brochure that shows the route that a ship could take, then likely you won't be able to get a patent on it. You may be able to protect it by copyright, though.

If you are talking about operating a business that actually does this type of a cruise, then yes, you may be able to get a patent on this business model. Unfortunately, it may not be easy to get the patent, because there are so many different thematic cruises already.

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