The Bahamas Shipowners Association (The "BSA") which was inaugurated on 11th July 1997 to promote the interests of shipowners of Bahamian registered vessels provides an effective conduit through which ship owners may voice their opinions and concerns and also facilitates dialogue between shipowners and the BMA. Together the BMA and BSA, based on their tonnage and independence as well as and their large representation of ship owners world wide have a powerful voice in the shipping world.