The Bahamas has implemented a comprehensive set of stringent maritime regulations specifically targeting the water sports industry, with a primary focus on preventing sexual misconduct and enhancing overall safety protocols. A central provision of these new rules explicitly prohibits jet ski operators from riding with guests, a measure directly designed to eliminate opportunities for unwanted sexual advances or assault.
This regulatory overhaul follows sustained international pressure, particularly from the United States, after multiple allegations of sexual assault involving watercraft operators emerged. Senior Commander Berne Wright, Acting Port Controller, emphasized the critical nature of the rider-passenger separation during a recent multi-agency workshop on crime prevention and victim response. “This measure closes the door to potential misconduct,” Wright stated. “Operators should never share a jet ski with guests under any circumstances.”
The enhanced framework, which took effect July 1 of last year, introduces several significant changes: Operators must now hold a Class D license issued by the Port Department and undergo rigorous background checks that extend beyond basic police records to deeper vetting processes. License holders face immediate suspension if charged with criminal offenses, placed under electronic monitoring, or convicted of crimes.
Additional safety measures include maintaining a 200-foot distance from shore except at designated access points, displaying visible identification numbers on all watercraft, and wearing company-issued uniforms with visible ID cards. The regulations also establish a code of conduct prohibiting operators from harassing tourists, using profanity, engaging in disorderly behavior, or carrying weapons.
To address commercial disputes, the new system implements a rotational approach for customer assignments and prohibits aggressive solicitation. Enforcement is coordinated through a specialized Jet Ski Task Force that combines resources from multiple agencies including the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Royal Bahamas Defence Force, and US Embassy representatives.
Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles revealed impressive enforcement statistics from Operation Tidal Wave, a targeted crackdown that has resulted in thousands of inspections, numerous arrests, and vessel confiscations. The workshop itself focused on strengthening interagency collaboration, with US Deputy Chief of Mission Kimberly Furnish acknowledging the importance of these measures while recognizing tragedies that have affected both tourist and Bahamian families.