The Bahamas Shipowners Association (BSA) joined the Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) for a meeting with senior representatives of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in Washington, D.C., on 21 October 2026.
The meeting brought together representatives of the Bahamas maritime community and the US authorities for an exchange on matters affecting Bahamas-flagged vessels operating in US waters, including Port State Control performance, regulatory developments and environmental compliance.
Particular attention was given to the performance of the Bahamas fleet under the US Port State Control regime and its continued eligibility for the USCG’s QUALSHIP 21 programme. The fleet’s low detention rate remains an important factor in maintaining this status and reflects the ongoing focus on compliance across the register.
The discussions also covered developments in US maritime regulations, including ballast water management and the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (VIDA), as well as safety and operational considerations relating to alternative fuels and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
The exchange provided an opportunity for the BSA to contribute the shipowners’ perspective to discussions with the USCG, while addressing issues of practical importance to its members. It also reflected the close working relationship between the Association and the BMA, and the value of maintaining direct communication with the US. authorities.
A constructive meeting, bringing together regulatory and industry perspectives on the issues shaping the operation of the Bahamas-flagged fleet.
