Keys to Registering Vessel and Yachts in the Panama Maritime Authority

Welcome sailors, seafarers, and lovers of the sea. Today we delve into the exciting world of vessel registration in Panama. Often, the sea is a reflection of freedom and adventure, but just like any other journey, sailing also has its practical and regulatory side. Yes, we are referring to that paperwork that can be as daunting as the roar of the sea in the middle of a storm. But fear not, here at Delvalle & Delvalle we are ready to turn those stormy waves of uncertainty into a tranquil seaside stroll.

Panama, with its turquoise waters and strategic location, is a true paradise for yacht and vessel owners. However, before diving into these waters and enjoying its benefits, there is a crucial step that must be completed: vessel registration. That’s where the Panama Maritime Authority comes in, the lighthouse that guides sailors through the bureaucratic processes.

At Delvalle & Delvalle, as experts in vessel registration in Panama, we have charted a route for you through the waters of maritime law. In this article, we will deploy the keys to registering yachts and vessels in the Panama Maritime Authority. So get ready to set sail with us on this journey towards understanding how to navigate Panamanian regulations, ensuring a safe journey and complying with all necessary requirements.

The Panama Maritime Authority and its Relevance

Sailing the ocean can be a challenge, especially when the waves of maritime law stand in your way. Fortunately, in Panama, we have a bright lighthouse that guides us in the midst of these turbulent waters: the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP).

The AMP is the government entity responsible for regulating and supervising all maritime activities in Panama, including vessel registration. It has the responsibility of ensuring that all vessels and yachts registered in the country comply with safety standards and legal requirements. In short, the AMP is the helm that directs navigation in Panama.

Now, what does this mean for you as the owner of a vessel or yacht? First, it means that you should consider the AMP as your main interlocutor when it comes to the management of your vessel. It is the AMP that will grant your registration and the license to operate in Panamanian waters.

In addition, and here is where Delvalle & Delvalle comes in, it is crucial to have effective representation before the Panama Maritime Authority. In this process, you need someone who speaks the language of maritime law, someone who can translate technical and legal terminology and make it understandable to you. At Delvalle & Delvalle, we have the experience and knowledge to be that voice and shield for you.

Completing the Application

The first thing you need to do to start vessel registration is to complete an application. But what should this application contain? This is where we need to be careful, as it is essential that the application is correctly completed. An error could take us off course and delay the registration process.

Along with the application, you will need to grant a special power of attorney to our firm to represent the vessel before the Panama Maritime Authority. This special power of attorney is a document provided by us, which grants us the authority to act on your behalf and ensures that all requirements of the registration process are met.

Required Documentation for Vessel Registration

Once the application is in place, it is time to gather the necessary documentation for vessel registration. Just like when you are getting ready to set sail, it is important to have everything you need before you start the journey. Here is a list of the documents you will need and why they are essential:

• Purchase Agreement: This is the document that proves that you legally acquired the vessel. If the vessel is new construction, you will need to provide the construction certificate.
• Purchase Agreement Acceptance: Another document that we provide, which confirms the purchase and sale transaction.
• Technical Certificates: These certificates provide evidence that your vessel meets the necessary technical and safety requirements.
• Previous Registration Cancellation Document: This document proves that the previous registration of the vessel has been canceled. Does not apply if the vessel is new construction.
• Tonnage Certificate: This document, issued by a classification society recognized by the AMP, proves the measurements of the vessel.
• Classification Society Confirmation: This document validates the classification society that issued the Tonnage Certificate.
• Radio Authority Confirmation: This confirmation shows that the classification society is responsible for the radio authority.
• Pollution Insurance Policy: This document is only necessary for tankers and shows that they are insured against pollution.
• Technical Certificate for Vessels over 20 years old: If your vessel is over 20 years old, you will need a certificate that proves that the vessel is seaworthy.

Completed Radio License Application: This is another document that we provide, which confirms your application for a radio license.

Of course, each of these documents needs to be authenticated and apostilled, a process that we will detail later. At Delvalle & Delvalle, we are ready to help you gather all of these documents and ensure that they are properly prepared for your vessel’s registration.

The Navigation License and the Radio License

To legally navigate the waters, we will not only need a boat, but also a license. In Panama, both the Navigation License and the Radio License are essential to ensure your ability to operate your vessel.

The Navigation License, once issued, is valid for a period of four years and is renewable every four years. It is the identity card of your vessel, the document that proves that it is in compliance to navigate in Panamanian waters.

The Radio License, on the other hand, is vital to ensure safe communication at sea. It is not only necessary for communication in case of emergency, but it is also a legal requirement. Obtaining this license is done through a properly completed application that we provide.

Authentication and Apostille of Documents

Authentication and apostille of documents are crucial stages in the vessel registration process. They are processes that certify the legitimacy of your documents for international use, and without them, your vessel’s registration may be stranded at the port.

• Authentication: This process involves the verification of the authenticity of the documents. It must be done by a duly authorized public notary of the country of issue of the document.
• Apostille: This process involves the certification of the authenticity of the signature of the public notary on the documents. It is done in accordance with the Hague Apostille Convention, and the apostilled document will be legally recognized in all countries that are party to this Convention.

If the country that issues the documents is not a party to the Hague Apostille Convention, the documents must be authenticated by the Consul of Panama in the country where the documents were issued.

At Delvalle & Delvalle, we understand how essential it is to properly authenticate and apostille documents for the vessel registration process. That is why we are proud to offer our assistance at every step of the way, ensuring that your vessel registration is completed smoothly and without obstacles.

No matter how stormy the waters of bureaucracy may be, at Delvalle & Delvalle we are prepared to face them alongside you. We offer our expertise and dedication to make the vessel registration process as serene as a sea breeze at sunset.

So, if you are ready to set sail and explore the wonderful waters of Panama, do not forget about your crew on land. At Delvalle & Delvalle, we are always ready to help you navigate the “vessel registration” waters. Together, we will make your journey through Panamanian waters an unforgettable experience.