In little more than a decade, the Bahamian fleet has grown into one of the world’s largest. Since 1983 this open registry has increased its fleet tonnage from less than one million gross registered tons (GRT) to more than 25 million GRT today. The Bahamas ship registry currently lists more than 1,500 vessels and constitutes the world’s fourth largest fleet. Many of the most respected international shipowning companies fly the Bahamian flag, including: Exxon International, Maersk Line, Carnival Cruises, Holland-America Cruises, Teekay Shipping, Chevron and Disney Cruise Line.

This success is the result of The Bahamas’ political stability, strategic location in the Western Hemisphere and its favourable business climate. Shipowners enjoy freedom from tax-ation, flexibility in crewing, ease of safety and tonnage certification and world-class banking services.

The commitment of the Bahamian Government to make the registry the most responsive available is demonstrated by the recent establishment of the Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA). This body will further enhance service to flag registrants and ensure that the Bahamian registry remains one of the world’s most prestigious.