Updates on Yacht Registration

The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) is aware of recent concerns and commentary regarding updates to our yacht registration policies and procedures. We appreciate the feedback from our stakeholders and welcome the opportunity to provide clarity when needed.

As a leading international ship registry, the BMA remains committed to transparency, customer service excellence and regulatory compliance with operational and maintenance requirements in accordance with international maritime obligations. We are aware of recent statements that are either inaccurate or misrepresent the intent and scope of our updated guidance regarding yacht registration.

To clarify and note that an existing yacht is one that was registered with The Bahamas prior to 1 July 2025:

• Changes to eligibility criteria for registration apply only to new registrations; existing yachts remain unaffected and are encouraged to stay on the registry.
• Charter operations for yachts under 24 meters are not being phased out; existing vessels remain eligible, and new applications will be considered within the established framework. For further clarification, please see BMA Bulletin YN05.
• The requirement for inspections is based on a five-year safety inspection cycle, introduced to ensure yachts maintain seaworthiness and compliance with safety standards. For existing private yachts, there is significant flexibility built into the timeline. These vessels are required to complete their first inspection any time between 1 April 2025 and 31 March 2030, after which a five-year anniversary cycle will apply. For further clarification, please see BMA Bulletin YN05.
• There has been no change to the definition of a passenger vessel, which remains aligned with SOLAS requirements and national legislation. As clarified in YN02, any vessel carrying more than 12 passengers – regardless of whether it operates privately or commercially – is considered a passenger ship and must meet the relevant requirements.
• Certification requirements depend on vessel type and tonnage, and qualifications continue to be assessed in line with international conventions and on a case-by-case basis.
• Reports of new tax liabilities on private yachts are inaccurate. The recent administrative change affects charter yachts only and simplifies the payment process. The 10% VAT on charter yachts is now payable directly to the Port Department and avoids the need to register with the Inland Revenue Department.
• The Restricted Charter Program (PYRC) remains active and compliant, and the referenced technical requirements do not apply under this framework.

Full details are outlined in the relevant Yacht Notices (YN02, YN03, YN04, YN05, and YN08), which we encourage all stakeholders to review. Should you have further questions or require clarification, our team remains available to assist and guide you through any aspect of the updated guidance.

For More Information:
Email [email protected]