NASSAU, The Bahamas — The start of compulsory pilotage across all ports, including private cruise facilities, is reshaping the Bahamian maritime industry, driving new employment, broadening service demand, and cementing the role of local expertise in the country’s shipping economy.
For the first time, every cruise ship calling at a private island destination or port will be guided by a trained Bahamian marine pilot, marking a major milestone for the industry and the country after years of industry push and government intervention.
Independent Maritime Services President Captain Justin Wallace reflecting on the operational impact of the move stated: “Beyond our team, the law has allowed us to hire a large number of employees, from pilots and trainees to pilot boat coxswains and deckhands. It also affects a wide range of services, from fuel suppliers to marina operators, and even airlines transporting staff between islands. The ripple effect of this milestone is significant for the entire maritime ecosystem.”
Captain Shawn C. Thurston, President of Bahamas Elite Maritime Company Ltd. (BEMCO), emphasised the government’s role in making the milestone possible. “This would not have been possible without their steadfast support,” he said. “They recognised the need for this law a long time ago, and now, with sufficient qualified pilots, it has been applied to benefit both the industry and the country. It’s a major achievement for Bahamian professionals and the maritime sector as a whole.”
Marine pilot Yuri Butler added: “It is a proud day for Bahamian professionals. I’m grateful to the government for standing firm and to the cruise lines for operating in good faith. Their support helped bring this mandate to life, despite initial pushback. The minister, Jobeth Coleby-Davis, and Commander Wright were integral to ensuring the law was enforced, protecting the industry and creating opportunities for young Bahamians.”
Currently, some 32 pilots are active across The Bahamas, most based in Freeport. The law also expands opportunities for apprentices, trainee pilots, and other maritime personnel, allowing the industry to grow in both capacity and skill. “The future looks bright,” Butler added. “This strengthens the industry at every level—from pilots to deckhands—and ensures coverage is seamless across all ports. It’s a chance to empower Bahamians and secure the future of maritime operations nationwide.”
The initiative also supports the next generation of Bahamian maritime professionals. Thirteen young Bahamians are currently training at the State University of New York Maritime College, preparing to join the workforce and continue strengthening the industry.
September 1, 2025, will be remembered as a historic moment in Bahamian maritime history—a day that honors local expertise, reinforces safe navigation, and marks the continued growth of a skilled, empowered maritime industry across every island in the Commonwealth.
