The Fisheries Division is currently experiencing a significant transformation in its vessel registration process, and it has been assigned the responsibility of registering Sports Fishers and Recreational Fishers under its jurisdiction.

Furthermore, the remarking of the commercial fleet commenced in late 2023, beginning with the vessels marked using Barbados' call sign 8P (eight papa), followed by a series of numbers which is the hull number of the vessel in our registry. Consequently, the sports fishing and recreational fishing fleet will adopt this same format, incorporating additional suffixes to distinguish between vessel types.

The formal registration process for Sport fishing and recreational vessels is scheduled to begin on World Oceans Day, 8 June 2026.

Senior Vessel Inspector Mr. Khyle Pooler and contracted Vessel Inspector Mr. Tristain King will be leading the registration process. Fisheries Services Coordinator Ms. Akeila Chapman will also support the process.

Senior Vessel Inspector Mr. Khyle Pooler | Vessel Inspector Mr. Tristain King | Fisheries Services Coordinator Ms. Akeila Chapman

Book an appointment and submit documentation via email

Call 535-5821 or 243-1759 or email [email protected] to book an appointment from Tuesday, 26 May 2026. Appointments are available from 8 June – 11 December 2026.

Submit documentation via email to [email protected], copied to [email protected] and [email protected]

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION FOR REGISTRATION

  • Marine Surveyor report
  • Bill of Sale
  • Seaworthy certificate
  • Vessel Insurance Certificate
  • Deregistration letter from Barbados Maritime Transport Administration
  • Completed application form


BENEFITS

  • Duty and VAT free concessions on vessel safety and navigation equipment, fishing gear, maintenance equipment (engine parts) and outboard and inboard engines
  • Duty and VAT free importation on vessels 5 years and younger
  • VAT free fuel
  • Free Vessel Monitoring Device and access to dashboard
  • Free billfish conventional tags
  • Free registration
  • Annual inspections by Certified Vessel Inspectors
  • Access to monthly fish landing reports and e-reporting form
  • Excellent Customer service

DEADLINE FOR FREE REGISTRATION: Friday, 11 December 2026

Registration Number Placement on Sport Fishing Vessel Take a Chance

Cover photo credit: Dos Hermanos Fishing Charters