HomeServices Vessel Registration Ensuring quality of service is in our DNA The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) welcomes all types of vessels to the register while ensuring relevant legal and safety standards are met. As part of the registration requirements, the technical suitability and age of a vessel are also taken into consideration before it is accepted to fly the Bahamas Flag. Ships engaged in international trade may be registered with the Bahamas and vessels which are owned by Bahamian nationals, corporations, or are foreign-owned, can hold direct title to a Bahamas flagged ship. Register for Online Services Register for BORIS online service’s or download the various registration transaction forms below. Learn more How to Register Shipowners wishing to register their vessels under the Bahamas Flag may do so through our London, Nassau, New York, Hong Kong, Piraeus and Tokyo offices. Learn more Registration Partner The Bahamas Maritime Authority is your trusted partner for quality ship registration. Find out why here. Learn more Types of Vessel Registration Under Construction A ship may be registered with us during its ship-building stage, provided the keel has been laid and the ship, once completed, will be 1600 or more Net Tonnage. Learn more New Build Applications for vessels of less than 1600 net tons may also be submitted to the register and will be assessed on an individual basis. Learn more Flag Transfer Vessels over 12 years old are subject to a pre-registration inspection undertaken by an authorised Bahamas inspector and applications are approved on an individual basis. Learn more Mortgages The BMA has a user friendly procedure for the registration, transfer and discharge of mortgages. A Bahamian statutory mortgage form (R208) should be completed. Learn more Bareboat Registration Vessels which are flagged with another Ship Register may be bareboat registered with the Bahamas as the Secondary Register. Learn more Other Registration Transactions There are a number of transactions which are undertaken for Bahamas flagged ships. Learn more Registration Forms Here you can access forms for Bahamas flagged ships and insurance forms for non-Bahamas ships. Learn more Registration Forms Guidelines Guidelines for completing Bahamas registration forms. Learn more Register for Online Services To get started with The BMA’s online registration system, simply register for a company account. Learn more Quick Links Check a Vessel Name Availability Verify a Certificate Bahamas Advantages Contact Us Access Registration Downloads Next Up A bespoke registration service from The BMA Excellence and quality are the cornerstones of the work of The BMA and its registration teams. Throughout the entire registration process, the teams work diligently to provide support and guidance to their clients. Learn more Yacht Registration As the quality registry, The BMA’s Yacht Team understands the complexity of yacht ownership and can offer a client-focused and highly responsive registration experience. Learn more
