STRENGTHENING MARITIME HEALTH AND SAFETY IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
MSATT WELCOMES OPENING OF PERMANENT PORT HEALTH OFFICE IN CHAGUARAMAS
The Marine Services Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MSATT) proudly welcomes the official opening of the new Port Health Office at CrewsInn Marina, Chaguaramas, marking a major step forward for maritime health coordination, vessel clearance efficiency, and the continued development of Trinidad and Tobago as a leading Caribbean marine destination.
The facility was formally opened during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on April 29, 2026, bringing together representatives from government, the marine industry, and the cruising community in what many are describing as a historic moment for Trinidad and Tobago’s maritime sector.
For years, MSATT has advocated for a permanent Port Health presence in Chaguaramas — one of the Caribbean’s most active yachting and marine service hubs. The importance of that need became especially clear during the COVID-19 pandemic, when health declarations, vessel clearances, and public-health coordination became critical components of maritime operations worldwide.
What began as temporary procedures and remote processing during the pandemic has now evolved into a permanent and professional health- clearance facility designed to support both national public health objectives and the practical realities of modern marine travel.
The new Port Health Office provides a centralized location where officers can efficiently process vessel arrivals, oversee health-related protocols, and coordinate with mariners entering Trinidad and Tobago waters. The office will support local boaters, international cruisers, visiting yachts, and the broader marine sector while helping ensure that health standards are maintained in a consistent and organized manner.
According to MSATT President Jesse James, the opening of the office represents far more than a new administrative facility.
“This is an important advancement for Trinidad and Tobago’s maritime infrastructure and for the long-term strength of our marine sector. A dedicated Port Health Office improves efficiency, supports public safety, and reinforces confidence among international cruisers and marine businesses operating in our waters.”
James noted that effective port health systems are increasingly recognized worldwide as essential infrastructure for maritime nations, particularly those with active cruising, tourism, and marine-service economies.
“Cruisers and marine operators value clarity, professionalism, and safety. Having a dedicated Port Health presence in Chaguaramas demonstrates that Trinidad and Tobago takes maritime health coordination seriously while remaining committed to being a welcoming destination for vessels from around the world.”
MSATT extended special thanks to CrewsInn Marina for generously providing office space for the initiative and acknowledged the strong collaboration between government ministries and private stakeholders that helped bring the project to completion.
Particular recognition was given to Minister of Trade, Investment and Tourism Satyakama Maharaj for championing the initiative as part of broader efforts to improve ease of doing business within the maritime and tourism sectors. MSATT also acknowledged the support of Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism Dr Colin Neil Gosine and the partnership between the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism and the Ministry of Health.
The association emphasized that the success of the project reflects what can be achieved through cooperation between government agencies, private industry, marinas, and the maritime community itself.
As regional marine traffic continues to grow and international health awareness remains elevated, the establishment of a permanent Port Health Office positions Trinidad and Tobago as a forward-looking maritime nation focused on resilience, professionalism, and safe harbour operations.
Absolutely amazing progress has been made through the combined efforts of government, industry partners, and the marine community to strengthen public health coordination while improving the experience for vessels arriving in Trinidad and Tobago.
MSATT reaffirmed its commitment to continuing work with national stakeholders to strengthen marine infrastructure, support cruising and marine tourism, and maintain Trinidad and Tobago’s reputation as one of the Caribbean’s premier yachting destinations.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jesse James
President
Marine Services Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MSATT)