The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) was especially pleased to take part in the Posidonia Conference and Exhibition this year as it coincided with the 10th Anniversary of the opening of its Greek office in 2014. At the time, it was the only Flag with such representation in Greece.
Officially launched by The Bahamas Minister of Transport in June of that year, the Piraeus office has grown from its small beginnings. In 2017, The BMA expanded its offerings to include complete registration services, comprising on-line certification, full technical support and the issuing of seafarers’ documentation. Today these services are not only offered to the Greek market but also further afield in Cyprus, Turkey, The Black Sea and Middle East region.
Manning the ‘ship’ in the early days was George Zarvanos who was recognised during The BMA’s reception at Posidonia. He was instrumental in the establishment of the office and provided a solid foundation for the Registry’s growth in Greece. At that time The BMA’s Greek fleet was relatively small whereas today it comprises some 275 ships totalling 13 million gross tonnage with the Greek office team registering vessels ranging from tankers to gas carriers, general cargo, offshore and yachts not to mention more than 100 bulk carriers. This, coupled with the provision of technical support and seafarers’ documentation, enables The BMA’s ships to comply with the international requirements and operate without delays.
The team in Piraeus today is headed up by BMA Regional Director, Dimitri Tsiftsis, who is supported by Greek office Registrar, Kyra Fraser, Technical and Compliance Officer, Christos Papastathoppoulos, Licensing Assistant STCW, Efstathia Gkinni, Registration Assistant, Nikolaos Roussos, and Administrative Assistant, Vassiliki Felliou.
Dimitri Tsiftsis said: “We are extremely proud that during our years in Greece so many Greek owners have entrusted their fleet to us. There is a mutual understanding between our two nations, both of which are island states with a strong maritime heritage. We also share the same commitment to the International Maritime Organisation’s strategy on Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) and the development of young talent to take on future leadership roles within our industry.
“We are honoured that The Bahamas is a flag of choice for Greek owners and we remain committed to the continued delivery of quality service that is second to none.”
Source: The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA)