Caribbean Marine Association
About
Based in St. John's, Antigua — at the heart of one of the world's great yachting destinations — the Caribbean Marine Association (CMA) serves as the principal regional body representing the interests of the marine and yachting industry across the Caribbean basin. Its Antigua base is no coincidence: the island sits at the crossroads of the Eastern Caribbean's busiest sailing routes and hosts some of the region's most celebrated regattas and marine events.
Representing the marine industry
The CMA brings together charter operators, marina operators, boatyards, marine suppliers, yacht brokers and related service providers under a single regional voice. For those working within the charter and yachting sector — from bareboat operators to crewed-yacht agencies — membership offers a direct connection to industry-wide initiatives, shared best practices, and a network spanning the entire Caribbean arc.
Standards and best practice
A core focus of the association is encouraging all participants in the yachting industry to adopt professional, ethical, and environmentally responsible standards. This includes promoting practices designed to preserve the quality of Caribbean waters and protect the marine environment — objectives of direct relevance to charter operators, crew, and the wider marine services community whose livelihoods depend on the health of the sea.
Advocacy and regional engagement
The CMA works alongside Caribbean governments, regional tourism organisations, and international bodies on policies that shape the yachting and nautical tourism landscape. For charter companies and marine businesses operating across multiple jurisdictions, the association's non-political advisory role provides a valuable channel for influencing regulation, customs procedures, and cruising permit frameworks across the region.
Training and employment
Among the association's stated objectives is the promotion of employment and professional training for Caribbean nationals within the marine industry — an initiative that supports the long-term development of a skilled local workforce across charter, marina, and boatyard operations throughout the region.
For further information on membership, industry initiatives, or to learn how the Caribbean Marine Association can support your marine or charter business, contact the office in St. John's by phone at +1 268 562 6611 or by email at info@caribbeanmarineassociation.com.