National

New Boating Fees Spurs Mixed Reactions And Calls For Delay

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – The Port Authorities Amendment Bill 2025 has been in effect since July 1st, spurring mixed reactions for those in the maritime industry.

Published

6 months ago

July 7, 2025

Italia Hall

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – The new rules, which are a part of the Port Authorities Bill and Customs Management (Amendment) Regulations 2025 have significantly increased the cost of cruising permits for foreign vessels. Locally, it also enhances boat registration enforcement, imposes penalties and allows vessel impoundment.

Pleasure crafts under 50 feet now pay $500, vessels between 50 and 100 feet, $1,000, while yachts over 100 feet face a $3,000 annual fee.

Additional charges now include a $300 fishing permit for vessels over 50 feet.

Automatic identification system tracking systems are now mandatory on boats 50 feet or longer, or risk a $1,000 fine.

Also new, a frequent digital cruising card intended for repeat visitors is required, there are also higher anchorage fees in some cases.

The rollout has triggered backlash and questions on social media and in marina circles, Especially in the family islands, where some report cancellations for day travel and confused visitors.

Some have even created a petition online called Save Our Bahamian Maritime Industry..The group says The proposed new taxes on marina visitors and charter yachts will devastate small Bahamian operators who depend on this industry to survive.

Still, not everyone is against the changes, like Captain Isaiah Adderley.

“I am glad that they are enforcing…fees to get those who don’t follow the rules, off the road,” he said

However, some tourism advocates are now asking the government to reconsider its timing.

Kerry Fountain, Head of The Out Island Promotion Board told the Tribune Business during a recent meeting thaty they’ve asked the government to pause the new fees until October, to give The Bahamas time to strike the right balance between revenue, regulation and encouraging boating-related economic activity.