March 16 2026

Registering Yachts and Aircraft in The Bahamas

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The Bahamas maintains one of the world’s most respected maritime registries and a well-regarded civil aviation registry. For owners of luxury yachts and private aircraft, registration in The Bahamas offers tax neutrality, regulatory credibility, and global recognition.

However, proper structuring of ownership and compliance obligations is critical.

Regulatory Authorities

Luxury asset registration falls under:

Both authorities enforce international safety and compliance standards.

Where Are Most Yachts Registered – And Why The Bahamas Stands Out

For owners evaluating the best country to register a yacht, the choice of flag state determines your tax position, global port access, financing options, and privacy protections.

The most popular yacht registration jurisdictions globally are the Cayman Islands, British Virgin Islands, Malta, Marshall Islands, and Isle of Man. The Cayman Islands dominates the superyacht segment, with approximately 50% of yachts over 30 meters registered under its flag. Malta leads by total vessel numbers, driven by EU membership and VAT advantages for European operators.

The Bahamas consistently ranks among the top 10 flag states worldwide by registered tonnage and is widely recognised as one of the premier Caribbean yacht registration jurisdictions. What makes it one of the best countries to register a yacht:

Tax neutrality – no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax on yacht-owning entities
Open registry – no nationality, residency, or incorporation restrictions on ownership
Strong Port State Control record – fewer detentions and inspections at international ports
Caribbean and US East Coast access – geographic proximity to Florida and established US customs relationships
Sophisticated legal infrastructure – experienced maritime attorneys and full professional support for ongoing compliance

For owners comparing the Cayman Islands against The Bahamas, the deciding factors are typically cruising area and financing structure – both of which ParrisWhittaker can advise on as part of a tailored registration strategy.