Bahamas Boat Registration

Register your yacht in Bahamas

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.

Bahamas Boat Registration Advantages:

There are several advantages to registering a boat in the Bahamas and flying the Bahamian flag:

  1. Tax benefits: The Bahamas offers tax benefits to boat owners who register their vessels in the country. There are no import duties, no annual property taxes, and no sales taxes on vessels or their equipment.
  2. Ease of registration: The registration process in the Bahamas is relatively easy and straightforward. The Bahamas Maritime Authority has an online registration system that allows boat owners to apply for and receive their registration certificate quickly.
  3. International recognition: The Bahamian flag is recognized worldwide as a symbol of quality and safety in the shipping industry. Registering a boat in the Bahamas and flying the Bahamian flag can enhance the vessel's reputation and make it easier to travel internationally.
  4. Access to Bahamian waters: Boats registered in the Bahamas are permitted to sail and operate in Bahamian waters without restrictions. This is a significant advantage for boaters who wish to explore the many beautiful islands and beaches of the Bahamas.
  5. Protection under Bahamian law: Boats registered in the Bahamas are protected by Bahamian maritime law. This means that in the event of a dispute or accident, the vessel's owner can turn to the Bahamian legal system for resolution.
Overall, registering a boat in the Bahamas and flying the Bahamian flag can offer several advantages to boat owners, including tax benefits, ease of registration, international recognition, access to Bahamian waters, and protection under Bahamian law.

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 the 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.
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.