VESSEL operators navigating the Berbice River will soon benefit from toll-free passage, as the Berbice Bridge Company Inc. (BBCI) has announced that all toll charges for vessels, vehicles, and freight will be removed starting August 1, 2025.

The historic move means that commercial and private vessels that pass under the Berbice Bridge will no longer be required to pay tolls, easing costs for river transport and boosting economic activity along the Berbice River corridor.

To facilitate the transition, the bridge will close to vehicular traffic on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 11:30 PM and reopen toll-free at midnight.
While the toll booths will remain operational for processing vehicles, no tolls will be collected from road users or vessel operators.

BBCI assured the public that all current operational and safety protocols will continue as usual. For vessels, this means that all navigation schedules, clearance requirements, and safety measures will remain in place to ensure the safe lifting and lowering of the bridge for river traffic.

“This is a significant milestone for the Berbice River’s commercial and transport sectors,” BBCI stated. “We thank all vessel operators and commuters for their co-operation and understanding during this transition and urge everyone to stay informed and travel safely.”

The removal of tolls is expected to benefit boat captains, barge operators, and other river-based businesses that rely on affordable, efficient passage along this important waterway.
BBCI encourages mariners to observe all existing protocols when approaching or passing under the bridge, even as toll charges are lifted, to ensure smooth operations and safety for all river users.