BMA Strengthens Cruise Industry Engagement at Seatrade Cruise Global 2026

The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) reaffirmed its commitment to the global cruise industry through its participation at Seatrade Cruise Global 2026 in Miami, where it once again served as Presenting Sponsor of the Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) Business on the Bay, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation.

Hosted at the Pérez Art Museum Miami, Business on the Bay welcomed industry leaders from across the cruise sector for an evening that celebrated The Bahamas’ enduring partnership with the industry. The event provided a platform to showcase the strength of the Bahamian flag  – the leading registry for passenger ships – and to highlight the country’s maritime and tourism synergies.

Leading the BMA delegation was Deputy Chairman Peter John Goulandris, who addressed guests during the event, underscoring the Authority’s commitment to regulatory excellence, strong partnerships, and the continued growth of the cruise sector under the Bahamian flag.

“The cruise industry remains a vital pillar of the global maritime sector, and The Bahamas is proud to play a leading role in its continued evolution,” said Goulandris. “Through strong partnerships with CLIA and its members, and with the implementation of our modernised regulatory framework under the Merchant Shipping Act 2021, we are well positioned to support sustainable growth, innovation, and the highest standards across the industry.”

The delegation also included LaMarque Drew, Board Director; Bryant Lowe, Board Director; Capt. Dwain Hutchinson, Managing Director & CEO; Stephen Keenan, Senior Deputy Director, Inspections & Surveys; Kindinicia Moore, Registrar; Leah Davis, Marketing Manager; and Kenneth Carey, Technical Officer.

The event marked the start of a week of high-level engagement for the BMA delegation during Seatrade Cruise Global, the industry’s premier annual gathering. Throughout the week, the delegation participated in a series of strategic meetings and events with cruise line executives, CLIA leadership, and key maritime stakeholders.

Discussions focused on critical industry priorities, including sustainability, innovation, operational efficiency, and the evolving regulatory landscape. The BMA also highlighted recent advancements within its regulatory framework, including the implementation of new regulations under the Merchant Shipping Act 2021, which reinforce its commitment to quality, safety, and customer service.

The Authority’s presence at Seatrade Cruise Global reflects its ongoing strategy to strengthen relationships with existing partners while identifying new opportunities for collaboration and growth within the cruise segment.

As a CLIA Diamond Member and a leading flag for passenger vessels, the BMA remains committed to supporting the sustainable development of the cruise industry and maintaining The Bahamas’ position as a flag of choice.