Passenger identification is now required for those using the water taxi.

NIDCO says under the Shipping (Local Passenger Ship Safety) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 Section 12C, the Water Taxi Service is required to provide the Works and Transport Ministry and the T&T Coast Guard with a list of names of passengers and crew, prior to every sailing.

As such, with immediate effect, the following changes will be made to ensure compliance with the new Regulations:

• The names of all passengers will be recorded by the Customer Service Representatives, prior to boarding
• Each passenger, over 16 years, will be required to present a valid Government-issued photo identification. The ID may be in the form of the passenger’s Driver’s Permit, National ID or Passport.
• Passengers under the age of 16, must be accompanied by an adult.
• Sailings will be closed-off 10 minutes before the scheduled departure times.

In order to minimize the potential for delays due to the implementation of these new safety compliance measures, passengers are being advised to arrive early for their travel.

NIDCO says the amended Regulations intend to ensure that an accurate record of all personnel aboard the vessels is available, which is particularly useful in the event of an emergency.