Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas  – The Bahamas Maritime Pilots Association (BMPA) and certain representatives of the International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA) continue to put forward false claims regarding the safety of BORCO’s marine operations and Freeport Harbour.

The most recent tactic of the BMPA is to issue so-called “advisories” that make baseless claims about the safety standards of vessel operations in The Bahamas. The BMPA is not a government entity and has no authority to issue safety advisories. The organization has no jurisdiction over maritime affairs in The Bahamas and is infringing upon the authority of the Grand Bahama Port Authority and the elected Government of The Bahamas and, to our knowledge, neither has afforded the BMPA a mandate of any kind.  

The BMPA, as we have stated before, is simply trying to establish a for-profit monopoly enterprise for its own financial gain at the expense of the longstanding, reputable and safe businesses operating in Freeport Harbour. The motives of the BMPA are quite clear, and the organization has virtually no credibility on this matter.  

BORCO’s marine operations are very safe, and we stand by the work of our pilots to ensure that level of safety. As we have stated before, all BORCO operations will continue with business as usual. BORCO has a dedicated team of five experienced pilots in place that is more than capable of handling our pilotage needs comfortably on a normal schedule, and there will be no interruption of or delay in service. Two new junior pilots have also joined the BORCO team and will be trained on the berthing process according to industry standards. Any statements to the contrary or accusations that BORCO pilots are currently overworked are unfounded. BORCO has conducted operations at or above international industry standards for over 50 years. We will continue to uphold the highest international performance standards that have long been key to BORCO’s success in the international oil transshipment and storage industry.