The Maritime Authority was established to implement the provisions of the Shipping Act of 1998, (which itself provides for the establishment of maritime administration). Under the Shipping Act, the objective of the Maritime Authority is to pursue the development of shipping and to regulate matters relating to merchants shipping and seafarers. The Authority has accordingly, responsibility for the wide-ranging activities regulated under the Act and ensuring that they are carried out in an efficient and sustainable manner.

• To administer the registration of ships and to regulate the certification of seafarers. 

• Regulate the safety of shipping as regards the construction of ships and navigation. 

• Inspect ships for the purposes of maritime safety and prevention of marine pollution. 

• Make enquiries as to shipwrecks or other casualties affecting ships, or as to charges of incompetence or misconduct on the part of seafarers in relation to such casualties. 

• Establish maritime training and safety standards. 

• Administer policy for the development of shipping in general.