(May 8, 2019) – Russell Goedjen of Shelter Bay Marina, Panama, sends a timely reminder of the do’s and don’ts when heading to Panama.

Published 6 years ago

What to put on your Zarpe:

Yachts headed to Panama with a Zarpe (sailing orders) should be very careful to list a port in Panama as the destination, not simply “Panama”. Panama is not a port but Panama City is. To avoid any issues it’s preferable to list a marina or yacht club on the Zarpe – if you are planning to stay at one, otherwise select a clearance port with authorities or be prepared for an urgent journey to visit them. Failure to do so can result in significant fines.

Stops en-route prior to arrival:

Please note that stops en route to the port of entry are not authorized. While it has become common practice to stop and visit in the San Blas and Secas Islands, any unreasonable delay in the transit will be questioned by the authorities. In the event you want to stop en route consult a ship agent to advise you on the best place to check in.

Checking into the country:

Upon arrival in any Panamian port, the captain and crew should proceed to check in with the authorities as expeditiously as possible, preferably within 12 hours of arrival.

Receiving spare parts in Panama:

UPS is not registered or licensed to bring in shipments duty-free under Vessel in Transit. FEDEX, DHL and even the Post Office are all fine, only UPS has this problem. We strongly recommend that any vessel that needs to import parts and equipment not use UPS and instruct their suppliers to also not use UPS, otherwise it will be very expensive.

Russell Goedjen
Shelter Bay Marina

The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the view of noonsite.com or the World Cruising Club.