Little more than a month before it was to take place, the 2026 Bahamas Charter Yacht Show has been canceled.
The Association of Bahamas Marinas made the announcement in a statement on Tuesday.
“We regret to inform you that the 2026 Bahamas Charter Yacht Show has been cancelled due to circumstances beyond the control of the Association of Bahamas Marinas,” the statement read. “While we are saddened by this decision, we appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you back in 2027.”
The association runs the show with the support of Safe Harbor Marinas.
The announcement comes amid turbulence in the Bahamian yachting industry. On July 1, a series of new fees and regulations were introduced as part of the Port Authorities (Amendment) Bill. A 12-month cruising permit for vessels 34 feet to 100 feet was raised to $1,000; for vessels larger than 100 feet, it was raised to $3,000. For repeat visitors, a two-year Frequent Digital Cruising Card was introduced at $2,500 for vessels 34 to 100 feet and $8,000 for vessels larger than 100 feet. New fishing permit fees and AIS requirements were also introduced.
On Monday, the office of Chester Cooper, the Bahamas’ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investment and Aviation released a statement hinting at potential changes. In the statement, Cooper said his office has met recently yachting and tourism industry leaders.
“We have also heard reports of cancellations and the sentiment from some visitors that they felt unwelcome,” the statement read.
The statement gave no specifics but said Cooper plans to work with cabinet colleagues to “advance a review of the process and its ultimate competitiveness. The aim is to assess the framework, its implementation, and its impacts.”