The Bahamas Maritime Authority Launches Blockchain-Secured Digital Seafarer Record Book System in International Shipping News 03/06/2026 The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) has announced the launch of its blockchain-secured Digital Seafarer Record Book (DSRB), marking a significant step in the continued digitalisation of maritime administration. The new platform replaces traditional paper-based documentation with a secure, fully digital and internationally interoperable system for recording and verifying sea service. The Digital Seafarer Record Book introduces a modernised electronic method for creating, authenticating and maintaining sea service records. The platform incorporates authenticated digital discharge certificates and secure identity verification, enabling real-time, tamper-resistant sharing of seafarer credentials. This reduces administrative burdens for seafarers, shipowners and maritime administrations, while enhancing accuracy, transparency and operational efficiency. Developed using advanced security frameworks, including blockchain-based integrity safeguards, the system has been designed to support high levels of authenticity, data protection and resilience. The platform has also been developed in compliance with IMO dataset requirements, the IMO Compendium on Facilitation and Electronic Business, and internationally recognised maritime cyber security standards, supporting seamless global interoperability. Capt. Kapila Malawwethanthri, Deputy Director, Seafarers & Manning Department, BMA The launch follows the successful completion of a pilot project conducted in collaboration with Carnival Cruise Line and IDSure to test and validate the platform using high-volume seafarer documentation applications. The pilot demonstrated the system’s reliability, scalability and operational readiness for deployment across the Bahamas fleet. A key capability demonstrated during the pilot was the platform’s integrated verification process, allowing Shipmasters