Bahamas Implements Mandatory Pilotage for All Vessels, Including Cruise Ships

The Bahamian government has enforced a long-standing requirement mandating that all vessels, including cruise ships, utilize licensed maritime pilots when entering the nation’s ports. This enforcement began in September 2025 and brings significant changes to the maritime operations in the country.

Although the pilotage law has been in place for some time, it was not previously enforced due to a lack of qualified pilots. The authorities had allowed vessel movements without compulsory pilotage to avoid interrupting cruise shipping traffic and associated revenue. However, with around 30 licensed pilots currently active, mostly based in Freeport, the government believes that enforcing the pilotage requirement will enhance the sector’s capacity and skill base.

Captain Justin Wallace, president of Independent Maritime Services, highlighted that this requirement increases operational costs for cruise lines but presents substantial employment opportunities within the maritime sector. His company has already expanded its hiring for positions including pilots, trainees, and deckhands. Additionally, the rise in demand is expected to benefit associated services such as fuel supply and marina operations.

Captain Yuri Butler, VP of Bahamas Elite Maritime Company, reinforced that this regulatory change not only formalizes the industry’s structure but also helps establish pilotage as a critical component of maritime operations. This orchestration is anticipated to generate both direct and indirect economic benefits, thus solidifying pilotage’s role in the Bahamian maritime landscape.

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