Once you own or captain any kind of boat bigger than a dory, you need to get it registered and soon, because the port authority is cracking down. The Harbors and Merchant Shipping Act was amended in May, and the new regulations impose much stiffer fines and demand higher standards from boat owners and captains. Earl Valerio of the Port Authority explains that there are more boats than ever in the sea but many are not licensed.
Earl Valerio, Port Authority
"The record shows that since then, between 2004 and 2007, there will be a drastic increase in the number of vessels operating in the waters. From 700 to about 3,000 vessels in various parts of the country. All vessels should be registered but we have records to indicate that there are vessels still presently that have not re-registered and there are captains who have not renewed their licenses. To register a boat is only $50. To register a vehicle will be about $200. So if you balance both, it will be better for you to come in and register your boat, get your master's license, and prevent any embarrassment or you having to pay some kind of fine."
Natalie Tucker, Port Authority
"At this time persons who have not registered their vessels seek or will receive the penalties of $1,000 across the board. It is not discretionary. Right now this Act is to provide for maritime safety as well as to extend the number of vessels that are registered and licensed."
More than just vessels being licensed, the new law also requires that "every master and owner of a vessel shall possess a certificate of competency" - or face another of those thousand dollar fines. Also every boat master must report any collision or grounding of his vessel or, again, face a thousand dollar fine. The law has other provisions, and if you want to know more, you can contact the Belize Port Authority.
