Welcome to the Turks and Caicos Island Government (TCIG) Department of Maritime and Shipping. As a Government department in the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services, we strive to continue the excellent legacy set by the Ministry in every conceivable way for the Government and People of the Turks and Caicos Islands. As you may be aware, the islands have a deep and meaningful maritime history of which the TCI people are extremely proud. So understand that if you are already a boat owner or planning to be a boat or ship owner under our flag, you do this with a view of continuing the proud traditions already set by the fore fathers of this great island nation.

We are upgrading every conceivable aspect of our maritime heritage to show the world that we are indeed an island not only deep in maritime history and tradition, but serious about our shipping legacy and its high levels of maritime activity. We are committed from this year onwards to improving on the high ideals that we hold dear to our hearts. These ideals will be driven by the Department to ensure that the TCI maritime industry and the rest of the world knows that TCI may be small in size, but great in delivering on maritime excellence.

Notable features for includes:

1. The introduction of a new legislation for the safety of life and property at sea and protection of the marine environment;

2. The upgrade of the TCI British Shipping Registry;

3. The creation of a maritime policy for the TCIG and its People;

4. The formulation of easier communications links between the maritime community and the maritime administration body of TCI;

5. The recruitment of new office staff for the Department; and

6. The involvement of the Department in activities happening across the length and breadth of the TCI.

As a result of everyone’s hard work and dedication thus far, the department is poise to enjoy what I believe will be one of the most significant years in its history. It gives me great pride and pleasure to thank our Minister, Ministerial Staff and Departmental Staff for their commitment to a most stimulating and exciting future for all of us associated with the Department of Maritime and Shipping.