COVID-19: General BMA information

To our valued customers, stakeholders and partners

The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) continues to follow the expert advice of the World Health Organisation and local national medical authorities on COVID-19.  We are aware of the ongoing challenges being faced by the entire shipping sector due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The BMA wishes to reiterate its commitment to upholding its responsibilities and duties as a flag state as we monitor developments and take into account all international and industry guidance on this issue.

The BMA, in conjunction with Bahamian governmental agencies, will work with all our industry partners to offer support, provide guidance and consider solutions for our shipowners, their ships and seafarers affected by COVID-19.

In addition to direct issues resulting from crew or passengers being taken ill, we are aware of the possible impact to statutory surveys, audits and inspections. The BMA has issued Technical Alert 20-03 to provide advice and general guidance on actions to be taken in the case of extension of Seafarer Employment Agreements and/or postponement of statutory surveys, audits and/or inspections.

Further specific advice and contact on individual cases can be obtained from the BMA website as below contacts:

• For registration related issues, contact the Registration Department: [email protected]
• For surveys, audits and inspections issues, contact the Inspections & Surveys Department: [email protected]
• For seafarer related issues, contact the Seafarers & Manning Department: [email protected]

The BMA requests that the BMA Investigations Department is immediately advised of all suspected and confirmed cases of COVID-19 onboard, or due to attendance onboard, Bahamian ships: [email protected]

Shipping is a global business with ships and their crew operating internationally and the BMA has contingency plans in place to ensure the provision of service through our worldwide offices.  Should it become necessary to restrict BMA office hours for ship registration and other related services, the  BMA office hours’ restrictions will be provided in Technical Alert 20-04.

As we continue to prioritise health and safety above all, there has never been a more critical time for the industry to come together to demonstrate its resilience in the face of adversity.

In this dynamic and evolving situation, we thank you for your patience and we remain available to assist and support you in this unprecedented and challenging time.