> Contrasting Perspectives on the > Bahamian Yachting Industry
The Bahamas Charter Yacht Show and the ongoing discussions about the state of the Bahamian yachting industry reveal a sharp divide between the aspirational image of luxury and the realities voiced by industry stakeholders. While the show presents a vision of opulence and thriving growth, critiques from local stakeholders—such as Peter Maury, President of the Association of Bahamas Marinas—reflect a more contentious and divisive reality.
The 2025 Bahamas Charter Yacht Show promotes an image of the Bahamas as a yachting haven. Featuring vessels like the 185-foot starship and the 160-foot no bad ideas, the show highlights state-of-the-art amenities such as outdoor cinemas, helipads, and Jacuzzis, catering to affluent clientele. This narrative celebrates the Bahamas’ unique geographical position, natural beauty, and high-end experiences, emphasizing its allure as a top-tier yachting destination.
The marketing of the event aligns with the Bahamas’ longstanding reputation as a paradise for yachters, promising exceptional cruising grounds, exclusive itineraries, and proximity to U.S. markets. From Bimini to the Exuma Cays, the Bahamas is positioned as an accessible luxury destination for those seeking indulgence and adventure.
In stark contrast, Peter Maury has drawn attention to declining yachting activity, citing increased taxes, complex entry procedures, and competition from other destinations as key drivers. He asserts that marinas in the southern Bahamas are seeing occupancy declines of up to 60%, while the central Bahamas has suffered a 30% drop. The fallout is being felt across the economy, with grocers, fuel suppliers, and service providers reporting steep declines in revenue.
Maury portrays the situation as a direct consequence of government policies that he claims have made the Bahamas less attractive to visiting yachts. However, this perspective has drawn criticism for oversimplifying the challenges faced by the industry.
Maury’s argument that increased taxes and bureaucratic hurdles are driving yachts away is a little sceptical, Mr Maury. An increase in taxes or entry fees would lead yachters to bypass the Bahamas for destinations further south—incurring significantly higher costs in fuel, time, and potential risks—which is viewed by some as unconvincing.
Government by an oligarchy has turned the Bahamas into a graveyard for innovative Bahamian business ideas, which often wither under the weight of systemic indifference and a culture of dismissiveness typified by attitudes such as, “Who does he think he is? He’s not speaking to me; he’ll wait for this.” When Bahamian officials begin ignoring emails and phone communications, it signals that something questionable, if not outright notorious, may be at play—particularly when the idea in question garners the attention or interest of the entrenched oligarchy.
"I am sickened to hear this 41-year-old MAN referred to as a 'child.' Call the man my son or address him by his given name. It seems clear that he is simply tired of the overbearing control in his life and has decided to separate himself from his gay lifestyle. Sickening."
The early nomination of an ambassador by the government could signal the beginning of early-stage diplomatic negotiations like taking 50,000 immigrants. However, one might also interpret this as a potential prelude to harsh demands on government corruption and drug trafficking issues. A past example is President Donald Trump’s approach for instance, his infamous comment about 'shithole countries' illustrates how such diplomatic pressures were sometimes deployed in a manner that sparked global debate and raised concerns about international relations ...we all know Trump is a fool, birdbrain.
The Bahamas Agricultural Health and Food Safety Authority (BAHFSA), established under the Food Safety and Quality Act, is tasked with the critical responsibility of implementing and enforcing food safety measures to protect public health. However, this raises a poignant question: who is truly prioritizing public health in The Bahamas?
From the unchecked air pollution caused by poorly maintained and unmonitored vehicles to the substandard and discarded food products that make their way onto our plates, there appears to be a troubling disregard for the well-being of the Bahamian people. Instead of ensuring safe and healthy living conditions, the prevailing focus seems to be on extracting as much money as possible from consumers, with little accountability for the consequences on public health.
> "What Are We Eating in The Bahamas, > and Is It Safe?"
The question of food safety in The Bahamas has become a matter of growing concern. With no clear traceability regulations in place, consumers are left to wonder about the origins, quality, and safety of the poultry and meat they consume. Unlike nations with stringent standards, such as the United States, where frozen poultry can be stored for up to a year under controlled conditions, The Bahamas appears vulnerable to becoming a dumping ground for products that may be nearing their export expiration dates.
The issue is exacerbated by reports of poor-quality poultry—characterized by foul smells, toughness, and a lack of freshness after cooking. These signs may indicate prolonged freezing, improper storage, or bacterial contamination, all of which pose serious health risks to the population. Without proper oversight and traceability, there is no way to ensure that the imported poultry meets acceptable food safety and quality standards.
Internationally, food traceability is a cornerstone of consumer protection. It ensures that every step of the supply chain is documented, from slaughter to freezing and transportation. The absence of such systems in The Bahamas leaves consumers exposed to potentially unsafe products and undermines public trust in the food supply. This lack of accountability enables unscrupulous suppliers to exploit regulatory gaps by exporting inferior or near-expiry poultry to markets with weaker import controls.
The implications for public health are profound. Poultry stored improperly or for extended periods can harbour harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Listeria, posing significant risks. Additionally, prolonged freezing degrades the nutritional value of meat, diminishing its role as a reliable protein source.
***To address these challenges, The Bahamas must implement robust food safety measures, including:***
* - Traceability Regulations: Require all imported poultry to include detailed documentation on its origin, slaughter date, freezing date, and transportation conditions.
* - Inspection Protocols: Strengthen routine inspections of imported poultry to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
* - Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate consumers on identifying signs of substandard products and encourage reporting of questionable poultry.
* - Supplier Accountability: Enforce stricter penalties for importers and distributors found to be selling unsafe or low-quality meat.
The lack of traceability and enforcement not only endangers public health but also erodes confidence in our food systems. It raises a critical question: *What are we eating in The Bahamas, and is it safe? As a nation, we must demand higher standards, greater transparency, and stronger regulatory frameworks to protect the health and well-being of our people. Anything less is unacceptable.*
These interconnected stories paint a troubling picture of the political environment in the Bahamas, where corruption seems to be allowed to fester unchecked. Dr. Minnis is right to call for a commission of inquiry that would not only expose those involved but also recommend meaningful reforms to prevent future abuses. However, the reluctance of Prime Minister Philip "Brave" Davis to act—citing the high cost of such an inquiry—raises troubling questions about his administration’s commitment to transparency and justice. Davis’s defence of inaction suggests a fear of the political ramifications such an investigation would have, particularly for individuals within his circle, including those who may be implicated in the very scandals the commission would seek to uncover.
Moreover, as highlighted by the recent scandals involving Rolle and Wells, it is clear that public officials who become embroiled in significant corruption should never be allowed to return to public office under a new administration. The reinstatement of Wells, despite his controversial past, undermines the principle of accountability and sends the wrong message to the public. A government that truly values integrity must ensure that individuals caught in such scandals are permanently removed from positions of power.
The unresolved BahaMar and FTX scandals also cast a long shadow over the Davis administration. These unresolved concerns leave the Bahamian public searching for clarity regarding the true nature of the deals and the individuals involved.
The demand for a commission of inquiry is not just about exposing corruption but about holding the government accountable to the people it serves.
Need for Commission on Governance and Systemic Corruption in the Bahamas Beyond the Recent Drug Trafficking Scandal
Hubert Minnis underscored the urgent need for a commission of inquiry into the deepening scandals that have tarnished the reputation of the Bahamas. He emphasized that allegations of drug and weapons trafficking implicating high-ranking officials—some of whom have held significant positions within the police force and government—require more than the internal, police-led inquiries currently underway. According to Minnis, these investigations have failed to restore public trust, and only an independent commission of inquiry, free from political influence, could adequately address the scope of corruption that has infiltrated the nation's leadership. He warned that failure to act decisively would further erode the people’s confidence in their institutions, particularly at a time when the country's international relationships and security are at stake.
Dr. Minnis's call for an inquiry comes against the backdrop of various corruption allegations, including the case involving former Minister of Youth, Sports, and Culture, Lanisha Rolle. Rolle was charged with fraudulently awarding contracts exceeding $750,000 during her tenure in government. The allegations highlight a systemic problem of abuse of power and mismanagement, which calls for urgent scrutiny and accountability. Rolle’s actions, if proven, serve as a stark reminder of the lack of checks and balances that persist within public offices. Her case underscores the pressing need for a thorough examination of not just the individuals involved, but also the broader structures that allowed such misconduct to take place.
The broader culture of impunity is also exemplified in the controversial case of Renward Wells, a former Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Works. Wells, who signed a dubious Letter of Intent (LOI) with Stellar Waste to Energy Bahamas Limited—a deal that sparked public outrage and legal challenges—was dismissed from his post following the scandal. Yet, despite the gravity of his involvement, Wells was reappointed to a government role under the Minnis administration. This decision raises serious concerns about the lack of accountability and the failure to uphold ethical standards in the political landscape of the Bahamas. The public outcry against Wells's return to office speaks to the growing frustration with a system that allows scandal-ridden officials to retain influence.
Yes, GodSpeed, many would agree with your vision 100%. A transformed Bay Street, alive with vibrant culture, impeccable design, and a sense of harmony, is an aspiration we all share. But lofty dreams must contend with practical realities—namely, the billions of dollars needed to bring this vision to life. And here lies a crucial truth that many conveniently overlook: the very industry that benefits most from our shores has consistently avoided meaningful contributions to the sustainability and revitalization of Nassau.
Let’s not pretend the cruise industry is some innocent bystander in the decay of our capital city. This is an industry that baulks at the idea of a modest increase in passenger taxes while raking in record profits. Consider the facts: under the Passenger Tax Amendment Bill 2023, the head tax for cruise passengers departing Nassau or Freeport would rise from $18 to $23—an increase of just $5. A paltry sum, by any measure, especially for an industry that collects millions from passengers in fees and surcharges. If they visit a private island without stopping at another Bahamian port, that tax rises to $25, alongside a $5 tourism environmental levy and a $2 tourism enhancement levy, bringing the total to $32.
And how does this multi-billion-dollar industry respond? With outrage. They throw tantrums, lobbying furiously as if these negligible fees are an existential threat when in reality they are pocket change to the companies profiting off our waters and resources. Worse still, they’ve actively worked to bypass Nassau entirely—building exclusive private islands designed to keep cruise passengers from engaging with Bahamian culture or spending money on our economy. If they could eliminate the mere $20 per passenger head tax outright, they would.
While Bahamians are often quick to criticize their own, let’s not ignore how we are systematically exploited by an industry that treats our nation as a convenient pit stop rather than a valued partner. The cruise lines benefit from our beauty, our heritage, and our infrastructure, yet contribute so little to maintaining or enhancing it. It is no coincidence that Nassau struggles to meet its potential when our supposed “partners” actively undermine our economic sovereignty.
As for your critique, GodSpeed, while the current state of Bay Street is admittedly disheartening, let’s not pretend this outcome is solely a product of poor planning or local failure. It is the byproduct of decades of exploitation and an unequal economic relationship with an industry that prioritizes profits over partnerships. Fixing Bay Street isn’t just about beautification; it’s about shifting power dynamics and demanding accountability from those who profit most from our shores.
IslandWarrior says...
> Contrasting Perspectives on the
> Bahamian Yachting Industry
The Bahamas Charter Yacht Show and the ongoing discussions about the state of the Bahamian yachting industry reveal a sharp divide between the aspirational image of luxury and the realities voiced by industry stakeholders. While the show presents a vision of opulence and thriving growth, critiques from local stakeholders—such as Peter Maury, President of the Association of Bahamas Marinas—reflect a more contentious and divisive reality.
The 2025 Bahamas Charter Yacht Show promotes an image of the Bahamas as a yachting haven. Featuring vessels like the 185-foot starship and the 160-foot no bad ideas, the show highlights state-of-the-art amenities such as outdoor cinemas, helipads, and Jacuzzis, catering to affluent clientele. This narrative celebrates the Bahamas’ unique geographical position, natural beauty, and high-end experiences, emphasizing its allure as a top-tier yachting destination.
The marketing of the event aligns with the Bahamas’ longstanding reputation as a paradise for yachters, promising exceptional cruising grounds, exclusive itineraries, and proximity to U.S. markets. From Bimini to the Exuma Cays, the Bahamas is positioned as an accessible luxury destination for those seeking indulgence and adventure.
In stark contrast, Peter Maury has drawn attention to declining yachting activity, citing increased taxes, complex entry procedures, and competition from other destinations as key drivers. He asserts that marinas in the southern Bahamas are seeing occupancy declines of up to 60%, while the central Bahamas has suffered a 30% drop. The fallout is being felt across the economy, with grocers, fuel suppliers, and service providers reporting steep declines in revenue.
Maury portrays the situation as a direct consequence of government policies that he claims have made the Bahamas less attractive to visiting yachts. However, this perspective has drawn criticism for oversimplifying the challenges faced by the industry.
Maury’s argument that increased taxes and bureaucratic hurdles are driving yachts away is a little sceptical, Mr Maury. An increase in taxes or entry fees would lead yachters to bypass the Bahamas for destinations further south—incurring significantly higher costs in fuel, time, and potential risks—which is viewed by some as unconvincing.
On Marinas seek ‘mercy’ with boating-related food sales off 20%
Posted 27 January 2025, 4:51 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
Government by an oligarchy has turned the Bahamas into a graveyard for innovative Bahamian business ideas, which often wither under the weight of systemic indifference and a culture of dismissiveness typified by attitudes such as, “Who does he think he is? He’s not speaking to me; he’ll wait for this.” When Bahamian officials begin ignoring emails and phone communications, it signals that something questionable, if not outright notorious, may be at play—particularly when the idea in question garners the attention or interest of the entrenched oligarchy.
Welcome to the club.
On Skydive licence delay on police probe into threats
Posted 16 January 2025, 6:42 a.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
"I am sickened to hear this 41-year-old MAN referred to as a 'child.' Call the man my son or address him by his given name. It seems clear that he is simply tired of the overbearing control in his life and has decided to separate himself from his gay lifestyle. Sickening."
On 'Police should have done more to find Taylor Casey', says mother
Posted 30 December 2024, 8:42 a.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
The early nomination of an ambassador by the government could signal the beginning of early-stage diplomatic negotiations like taking 50,000 immigrants. However, one might also interpret this as a potential prelude to harsh demands on government corruption and drug trafficking issues. A past example is President Donald Trump’s approach for instance, his infamous comment about 'shithole countries' illustrates how such diplomatic pressures were sometimes deployed in a manner that sparked global debate and raised concerns about international relations ...we all know Trump is a fool, birdbrain.
> So let us not celebrate so quickly
On Govt ‘pleased’ by early ambassador nomination
Posted 19 December 2024, 12:24 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
The Bahamas Agricultural Health and Food Safety Authority (BAHFSA), established under the Food Safety and Quality Act, is tasked with the critical responsibility of implementing and enforcing food safety measures to protect public health. However, this raises a poignant question: who is truly prioritizing public health in The Bahamas?
From the unchecked air pollution caused by poorly maintained and unmonitored vehicles to the substandard and discarded food products that make their way onto our plates, there appears to be a troubling disregard for the well-being of the Bahamian people. Instead of ensuring safe and healthy living conditions, the prevailing focus seems to be on extracting as much money as possible from consumers, with little accountability for the consequences on public health.
On Super Value ‘not getting hopes too high’ for Xmas
Posted 17 December 2024, 7:27 a.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
> "What Are We Eating in The Bahamas,
> and Is It Safe?"
The question of food safety in The Bahamas has become a matter of growing concern. With no clear traceability regulations in place, consumers are left to wonder about the origins, quality, and safety of the poultry and meat they consume. Unlike nations with stringent standards, such as the United States, where frozen poultry can be stored for up to a year under controlled conditions, The Bahamas appears vulnerable to becoming a dumping ground for products that may be nearing their export expiration dates.
The issue is exacerbated by reports of poor-quality poultry—characterized by foul smells, toughness, and a lack of freshness after cooking. These signs may indicate prolonged freezing, improper storage, or bacterial contamination, all of which pose serious health risks to the population. Without proper oversight and traceability, there is no way to ensure that the imported poultry meets acceptable food safety and quality standards.
Internationally, food traceability is a cornerstone of consumer protection. It ensures that every step of the supply chain is documented, from slaughter to freezing and transportation. The absence of such systems in The Bahamas leaves consumers exposed to potentially unsafe products and undermines public trust in the food supply. This lack of accountability enables unscrupulous suppliers to exploit regulatory gaps by exporting inferior or near-expiry poultry to markets with weaker import controls.
The implications for public health are profound. Poultry stored improperly or for extended periods can harbour harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Listeria, posing significant risks. Additionally, prolonged freezing degrades the nutritional value of meat, diminishing its role as a reliable protein source.
***To address these challenges, The Bahamas must implement robust food safety measures, including:***
* - Traceability Regulations: Require all imported poultry to include detailed documentation on its origin, slaughter date, freezing date, and transportation conditions.
* - Inspection Protocols: Strengthen routine inspections of imported poultry to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
* - Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate consumers on identifying signs of substandard products and encourage reporting of questionable poultry.
* - Supplier Accountability: Enforce stricter penalties for importers and distributors found to be selling unsafe or low-quality meat.
The lack of traceability and enforcement not only endangers public health but also erodes confidence in our food systems. It raises a critical question: *What are we eating in The Bahamas, and is it safe? As a nation, we must demand higher standards, greater transparency, and stronger regulatory frameworks to protect the health and well-being of our people. Anything less is unacceptable.*
On Super Value ‘not getting hopes too high’ for Xmas
Posted 16 December 2024, 6:30 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
These interconnected stories paint a troubling picture of the political environment in the Bahamas, where corruption seems to be allowed to fester unchecked. Dr. Minnis is right to call for a commission of inquiry that would not only expose those involved but also recommend meaningful reforms to prevent future abuses. However, the reluctance of Prime Minister Philip "Brave" Davis to act—citing the high cost of such an inquiry—raises troubling questions about his administration’s commitment to transparency and justice. Davis’s defence of inaction suggests a fear of the political ramifications such an investigation would have, particularly for individuals within his circle, including those who may be implicated in the very scandals the commission would seek to uncover.
Moreover, as highlighted by the recent scandals involving Rolle and Wells, it is clear that public officials who become embroiled in significant corruption should never be allowed to return to public office under a new administration. The reinstatement of Wells, despite his controversial past, undermines the principle of accountability and sends the wrong message to the public. A government that truly values integrity must ensure that individuals caught in such scandals are permanently removed from positions of power.
The unresolved BahaMar and FTX scandals also cast a long shadow over the Davis administration. These unresolved concerns leave the Bahamian public searching for clarity regarding the true nature of the deals and the individuals involved.
The demand for a commission of inquiry is not just about exposing corruption but about holding the government accountable to the people it serves.
On OP ED BY DR HUBERT MINNIS: Commission of Inquiry essential
Posted 16 December 2024, 12:40 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
Need for Commission on Governance and Systemic Corruption in the Bahamas Beyond the Recent Drug Trafficking Scandal
Hubert Minnis underscored the urgent need for a commission of inquiry into the deepening scandals that have tarnished the reputation of the Bahamas. He emphasized that allegations of drug and weapons trafficking implicating high-ranking officials—some of whom have held significant positions within the police force and government—require more than the internal, police-led inquiries currently underway. According to Minnis, these investigations have failed to restore public trust, and only an independent commission of inquiry, free from political influence, could adequately address the scope of corruption that has infiltrated the nation's leadership. He warned that failure to act decisively would further erode the people’s confidence in their institutions, particularly at a time when the country's international relationships and security are at stake.
Dr. Minnis's call for an inquiry comes against the backdrop of various corruption allegations, including the case involving former Minister of Youth, Sports, and Culture, Lanisha Rolle. Rolle was charged with fraudulently awarding contracts exceeding $750,000 during her tenure in government. The allegations highlight a systemic problem of abuse of power and mismanagement, which calls for urgent scrutiny and accountability. Rolle’s actions, if proven, serve as a stark reminder of the lack of checks and balances that persist within public offices. Her case underscores the pressing need for a thorough examination of not just the individuals involved, but also the broader structures that allowed such misconduct to take place.
The broader culture of impunity is also exemplified in the controversial case of Renward Wells, a former Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Works. Wells, who signed a dubious Letter of Intent (LOI) with Stellar Waste to Energy Bahamas Limited—a deal that sparked public outrage and legal challenges—was dismissed from his post following the scandal. Yet, despite the gravity of his involvement, Wells was reappointed to a government role under the Minnis administration. This decision raises serious concerns about the lack of accountability and the failure to uphold ethical standards in the political landscape of the Bahamas. The public outcry against Wells's return to office speaks to the growing frustration with a system that allows scandal-ridden officials to retain influence.
On OP ED BY DR HUBERT MINNIS: Commission of Inquiry essential
Posted 16 December 2024, 12:36 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
"I support this message"
On Biggest reputation damage yet
Posted 15 December 2024, 12:58 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
Yes, GodSpeed, many would agree with your vision 100%. A transformed Bay Street, alive with vibrant culture, impeccable design, and a sense of harmony, is an aspiration we all share. But lofty dreams must contend with practical realities—namely, the billions of dollars needed to bring this vision to life. And here lies a crucial truth that many conveniently overlook: the very industry that benefits most from our shores has consistently avoided meaningful contributions to the sustainability and revitalization of Nassau.
Let’s not pretend the cruise industry is some innocent bystander in the decay of our capital city. This is an industry that baulks at the idea of a modest increase in passenger taxes while raking in record profits. Consider the facts: under the Passenger Tax Amendment Bill 2023, the head tax for cruise passengers departing Nassau or Freeport would rise from $18 to $23—an increase of just $5. A paltry sum, by any measure, especially for an industry that collects millions from passengers in fees and surcharges. If they visit a private island without stopping at another Bahamian port, that tax rises to $25, alongside a $5 tourism environmental levy and a $2 tourism enhancement levy, bringing the total to $32.
And how does this multi-billion-dollar industry respond? With outrage. They throw tantrums, lobbying furiously as if these negligible fees are an existential threat when in reality they are pocket change to the companies profiting off our waters and resources. Worse still, they’ve actively worked to bypass Nassau entirely—building exclusive private islands designed to keep cruise passengers from engaging with Bahamian culture or spending money on our economy. If they could eliminate the mere $20 per passenger head tax outright, they would.
While Bahamians are often quick to criticize their own, let’s not ignore how we are systematically exploited by an industry that treats our nation as a convenient pit stop rather than a valued partner. The cruise lines benefit from our beauty, our heritage, and our infrastructure, yet contribute so little to maintaining or enhancing it. It is no coincidence that Nassau struggles to meet its potential when our supposed “partners” actively undermine our economic sovereignty.
As for your critique, GodSpeed, while the current state of Bay Street is admittedly disheartening, let’s not pretend this outcome is solely a product of poor planning or local failure. It is the byproduct of decades of exploitation and an unequal economic relationship with an industry that prioritizes profits over partnerships. Fixing Bay Street isn’t just about beautification; it’s about shifting power dynamics and demanding accountability from those who profit most from our shores.
On Royal Caribbean targeting 13% Bahamas visitor rise
Posted 15 December 2024, 11:32 a.m. Suggest removal