On June 1, The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) announced the launch of its blockchain-based Digital Seafarer Record Book (DSRB), marking a significant step in the ongoing digitalization of maritime administration. The DSRB is now available to eligible seafarers, with further guidance and registration information to be issued separately by the BMA.

The BMA stated that the new platform replaces traditional paper-based documentation with a secure, fully digital, and internationally interoperable system for recording and verifying sea service.

It is understood that prior to its official launch, the platform successfully completed a pilot project in collaboration with Carnival Cruise Line and IDSure. During the pilot, the platform was comprehensively tested and validated through large-scale seafarer documentation application scenarios. Results demonstrated the system's reliability and scalability, confirming it is operationally ready for deployment across the entire Bahamian fleet.

According to the BMA, the Digital Seafarer Record Book introduces a modern electronic method for generating, authenticating, and maintaining sea service records. The platform integrates certified digital certificates of discharge and secure identity verification capabilities, enabling real-time, tamper-proof sharing of seafarer qualifications. This not only reduces the administrative burden on seafarers, shipowners, and maritime administrations but also enhances data accuracy, transparency, and operational efficiency.

Developed using an advanced security framework that includes blockchain-based integrity protection mechanisms, the system is designed to deliver a high level of authenticity, data protection, and resilience. The platform has also been developed in compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) dataset requirements, the IMO Compendium on Facilitation and Electronic Business, and internationally recognized maritime cybersecurity standards, enabling seamless global interoperability.

One of the core capabilities demonstrated by the DSRB during the pilot is its integrated verification process. Through this process, ship masters can digitally confirm and certify each seafarer's period of service, with full traceability throughout. Each sea service record is cryptographically protected and independently verifiable via QR code, allowing maritime administrations and other authorized parties to verify records with confidence.