Changes to annual boat and mooring license renewal

MONDAY, MARCH 26 UPDATE: The Boats and Moorings Section of the Department of Marine and Ports, Ministry of Transport, today reminded boat and mooring owners of the changes to the annual license renewals.

Annual re-licensing used to be done before March 31st every year. However, re-licensing for 2012-2013 will commence as of April 1st, 2012.

Licenses will then be valid from June 1st-May 31st, with the renewal period starting April 1st of each year. Renewal notices are being sent this week and payments can be made starting the week of April 2.

As this is the first year using the new dates all currently licensed private boats and moorings will be given an extension on their licenses until May 31st, 2012.

The change is being implemented so that the collection of license fees will be accounted for in the fiscal year they apply, as well as being more in line with the boating season and generally streamlining the Department administratively.

Licenses will also have a new look this year with the decals being printed as part of the license paperwork. These can then be peeled off and stuck on to the appropriate boat or mooring.

Boat owners who know their account number can view their account and the amount owed at the Department of Marine and Ports website www.marineandports.bm and they can pay licenses prior to receiving the notice in the mail. Otherwise online payments should not be made until people receive their notice stating how much to pay.

The Department would also like to remind boat and mooring owners to provide an up to date address.