The Port & Pilotage Service was established on 1 July 1947. This service was led by a Harbor Master and was responsible for Pilotage, Hydrography, Concrete and Beaconing. The pilot service was previously carried out by private individuals. The Shipping Supervision task was later added to the service. The service changed on 25 March 1982 to Shipping Service and on 14 May 1998 to Maritime Authority Suriname (MAS).

Nationally and internationally, the MAS plays an increasing role and it is of great importance for the economy of Suriname. Developments in the world are constantly making higher demands on safe, secure and environmentally friendly waterways and shipping. In Suriname the MAS supervises compliance with legal regulations of the Shipping. It guarantees the safe and efficient passage of seagoing vessels from and to Suriname based on internationally accepted standards, rules and conventions ratified by Suriname. The company strives to become the best Maritime Authority of the Region.

In the coming years, the company therefore wants to pursue a “proactive” policy and grow into an innovative company in the sector. With Mr. M. Amafo LL.M as director, supported by a 4-member management team, 36 staff members and 68 CAO employees, the company is meeting this challenge.

Some of the MAS employees are employed at the branch in Nickerie.
Furthermore, the MAS has a Maritime library, a Maritime Museum and an educational space. The latter is also rented to third parties. The Caribbean Maritime Information Center (CMIC) is also housed at the MAS.

THE MARITIME AUTHORITY SURINAME AIMS:
• ENSURE A SAFE AND EFFICIENT PASSAGE OF SEA-GOING VESSELS TO AND FROM SURINAME BASIS ON INTERNATIONAL ACCEPTED STANDARDS AND RULES AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANDATES GIVEN BY SURINAME RATIFIED INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS;

• MONITORING OF COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS ON THE SHIPPING AND MARITIME TRAFFIC;