Water Taxi Crackdown: New Rules to Boost Safety in St. John’s Harbour

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Water Taxi Crackdown: New Rules to Boost Safety in St. John’s Harbour
Water Taxi Crackdown: New Rules to Boost Safety in St. John’s Harbour
New safety measures are being put in place to govern water taxis and other small crafts in St John’s (photo by At Ease Travel Adventures)

New compliance and safety measures are coming to water taxi and pleasure craft operations in St. John’s as the Port Authority enforces stricter standards across the harbour.

Port Manager Darwin Telemaque tells Antigua.news all operators must now be fully licensed, vessels properly registered, and safety provisions—such as life jackets and passenger limits—strictly upheld.

“Ships are not comfortable with watching a small vessel approaching them. They don’t know why they are coming…”, Telemaque said.

Water Taxi Crackdown: New Rules to Boost Safety in St. John’s Harbour
Antigua Port Authority CEO Darwin Telemaque

Meanwhile, Marine Manager James Lee has been tasked with overseeing the transition and ensuring that operators comply with the newly reinforced regulations.

The Montserrat Ferry Terminal, which has been used as a temporary relocation point, is being evaluated as a permanent water taxi hub, having proven effective for pickups and drop-offs outside congested cruise zones.

Authorities say these initiatives will streamline vessel movement, enhance tourist safety, and establish a more organized and compliant marine environment.

The Port Authority is asking operators to cooperate fully as monitoring continues and warns that permits from other agencies will no longer grant access to operate within the quay’s jurisdiction.

Officials believe these changes will ultimately create a safer, more efficient harbour experience for passengers, operators, and cruise stakeholders alike.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/12/28/water-taxi-crackdown-new-rules-to-boost-safety-in-st-johns-harbour. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (9)

  • Juju Bee December 28, 2025, 11:16 AM

    Once you providing service you should be licensed. It’s about damn time
    Reply
  • Informed citizen December 28, 2025, 1:25 PM

    Safety is important, but don’t suffocate people trying to earn bread.
    Reply
  • Too much hindsight December 28, 2025, 3:09 PM

    Does the port manager only respond to safety concerns in and around the country’s marine spaces? Is the marine manager properly equipped, capable or competent to execute such tasks that affect or vital economic bloodline? I’m concerned such a reactive approach reeks of someone holding strain on things they should leave to professionals.
    Reply
    • Don't be naive December 28, 2025, 3:19 PM

      Check back on this “transition” in a few months. With these people, foresight regarding national interests is almost always an afterthought. It’s the culture everywhere to only react to situations with remedial efforts.
      Reply
  • RealTalk December 28, 2025, 3:28 PM

    Great! But I’d like to see waste disposal and fuel handling standards included too. Protect our sea.
    Reply
  • Ben Simmons December 28, 2025, 3:37 PM

    Government should help operators upgrade, not just punish them. Training and support must be part of this.
    Reply
  • Concerned Antiguan December 28, 2025, 7:27 PM

    The ferry terminal works well \make it permanent. The harbour will be less chaotic, and tourists will appreciate it.
    Reply
  • Quan December 28, 2025, 9:05 PM

    We want to comply, but the fees and paperwork take forever. Fix that too!
    Reply
  • Unruly One December 28, 2025, 11:11 PM

    Too many near misses in the harbour. Rules must apply to everyone. Safety first! Its about time
    Reply

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