The Government has issued a clarifying statement regarding the Bahamas Moorings Ltd. project, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable marine conservation while addressing concerns over the project's approval process.
According to the statement, Bahamas Moorings Ltd., a Bahamian-owned company with government equity, was granted a seabed lease to install 253 moorings throughout the Exuma Cays, excluding the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. This $2.5 million investment is designed to protect the delicate marine environment and encourage responsible boating practices.
“The Cabinet of The Bahamas approved the project in June 2022, and in January 2025, Bahamas Moorings Ltd. was granted a lease agreement,” said the government. “This approval was contingent on the group obtaining all necessary governmental approvals, including public consultation. However, preliminary activities under the lease began before receiving all required approvals, prompting the government to issue a cease-and-desist order."
The government further clarified that the project is a private commercial venture in the national interest, explaining that a Request for Proposal (RFP) was not required since the initiative does not involve government expenditure. “This project, while important for the environment and tourism, was proposed directly to the government by Bahamas Moorings Ltd.,” the statement reads.
Highlighting the environmental importance of the initiative, the government noted the long-term damage caused by unregulated anchoring, particularly to coral reefs and seagrass beds. “Recent research has documented a 20-30% decline in seagrass coverage in parts of the Exuma Cays over the past decade, underscoring the urgent need for action,” the statement emphasized. The installation of eco-friendly moorings will help preserve these vital ecosystems while improving vessel safety and reducing seabed disturbance.
The project will utilize environmentally-friendly moorings equipped with helical anchors, a system already implemented successfully in other parts of the Exuma Cays, including the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. “These moorings will help organize anchoring patterns, reduce anchor-related destruction, and minimize environmental impact,” the government explained.
In addition to marine conservation, the initiative will support climate research and the Bahamas Blue Carbon Project, aimed at generating funding through carbon credit sales linked to the protection of seagrass beds and marine sediment. The project will also facilitate the collection of valuable environmental data to support global conservation efforts.
Economically, the project is expected to bring in revenue through fees paid by boaters using the mooring fields. The government outlined that fees will range from $0.50 per day per foot for smaller vessels to $1.00 per day per foot for larger yachts. The Port Department will also collect rental fees, while VAT and business license fees will be directed to Inland Revenue.
“This initiative underscores The Bahamas’ commitment to sustainable tourism, responsible marine management, and the long-term preservation of its world-renowned marine environment,” concluded the government’s statement.