Stricter safety and compliance rules are being enforced for water taxis and pleasure craft operating in St John’s Harbour, the Antigua Port Authority has said.
Port Manager Darwin Telemaque said all operators must now be fully licensed, vessels properly registered, and safety requirements — including life jackets and passenger limits — strictly observed.
He said large ships were often uneasy when small vessels approached them without clear purpose or regulation.
Marine Manager James Lee has been assigned to oversee compliance as the new measures take effect.
The Montserrat Ferry Terminal, currently used as a temporary relocation site, is also being assessed as a permanent water taxi hub after easing congestion in cruise ship areas.
The Port Authority said the changes aim to improve safety, streamline harbour traffic and create a more orderly marine environment. Operators have been warned that permits issued by other agencies will no longer allow access within the port’s jurisdiction without full compliance.
