Bahamas Boat Registration
  • Ready within just a few weeks
  • The whole procedure can be completed online
  • Easy and fast process
  • No Original Documents Required
  • Valid for 1 year
  • Available for individuals of any nationality
  • Obtain the MMSI license through our service
  • Also suitable for the registration of commercial yachts
  • Low registration costs
  • Enjoy a beneficial tax and legal environment

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Bahamas Boat Registration

Register your boat under the Bahamas flag!

How does Bahamas registration work?

The Government of The Bahamas requires all boats and jet skis used for private use to be registered with the Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) through the Port Department. The registration process is designed to assist private boat owners in obtaining their licenses in an efficient manner. This includes providing the necessary information such as the vessel's name, length, and engine information, as well as proof of ownership. The boat must also pass an inspection by a Marine Surveyor to ensure it meets safety and navigation standards before registration can be granted. Once the registration is approved, a valid Bahamas Shipping Certificate will be issued, which must be renewed annually to keep the boat legally in Bahamian waters.

The Bahamas boat registration process involves registering the vessel with the Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) and obtaining a Bahamas Shipping Certificate. This certificate acts as evidence of registration and is required for the vessel to legally operate in Bahamian waters. To register a boat in the Bahamas, the owner must provide certain information such as the vessel's name, length, and engine information, as well as proof of ownership. The BMA also requires the boat to be inspected by a Marine Surveyor to ensure it meets safety and navigation standards before registration can be granted.

The Bahamas Shipping Certificate is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. The renewal process is similar to the initial registration process, and involves submitting a renewal application, paying the relevant fees, and ensuring that the vessel continues to comply with safety and navigation standards. The BMA may also conduct inspections of the vessel to ensure compliance before renewing the certificate.

Benefits of registration your boat with Bahamas flag

There are several benefits of registering a vessel under the flag of The Bahamas:

International Recognition: The Bahamas is a member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and is a signatory to many international maritime conventions, which means that vessels registered under the Bahamian flag are recognized by other countries and comply with international safety and environmental standards.

Tax Advantages: The Bahamas has a favorable tax regime for vessels registered under its flag, with no income or corporate taxes on profits derived from international trade.

Experienced and Professional Registry: The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) is the government agency responsible for the registration and inspection of vessels and has a team of experienced and professional staff to assist with the registration process and provide ongoing support to vessel owners.

High-Quality Services: The BMA provides a wide range of services to vessels registered under the Bahamian flag, including navigation and safety inspections, survey and certification, and marine casualty investigation.

Strategic Location: The Bahamas is strategically located near the United States and the Caribbean, making it an ideal location for vessels engaged in international trade, as well as for yachts and pleasure craft.

Strong Legal System: The Bahamas has a strong legal system based on English common law, which provides a high level of protection for vessel owners and investors.

Reputation: The Bahamas has a reputation for providing a high level of service and support to the maritime industry, and for maintaining a modern and efficient registry.

What document are required?

In order to register a boat or jet ski in The Bahamas, the owner must provide certain documents as proof of ownership and compliance with regulations. These documents include:

  • Proof of ownership of the boat, such as a bill of sale, registration certificate, or insurance policy.
  • Proof of payment of Customs Duty if the boat was not purchased in The Bahamas.
  • A valid form of national photo identification, such as a passport or national ID card, to confirm the owner's identity and Bahamian citizenship.

It takes one to four weeks to process a private registration.

What contains on the registration document?

The Bahamas Shipping Certificate, which is issued by the Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) for a vessel registered under the Bahamian flag, is typically a multi-page document that includes the following information:

  • The name of the vessel, as well as any other names it has been known by in the past.
  • The official number assigned to the vessel by the BMA, which is used for identification purposes.
  • The vessel's characteristics, such as its length, breadth, and tonnage.
  • The vessel's engine and propulsion information, such as the type and horsepower of the engines.
  • The name and address of the owner of the vessel.
  • The date of registration and the expiration date of the certificate.
  • The signature of the Registrar of Shipping and the BMA's seal.
  • Any additional information required by the BMA, such as the vessel's classification or any special conditions or restrictions on its operation.

The certificate is usually printed on high-quality paper and has a distinctive design with the flag of the Bahamas. It is important to always keep the certificate on board when operating in Bahamian waters, as it serves as evidence of registration and is required by authorities to verify the vessel's compliance with safety and navigation standards.