Panama Canal operational regulations and compliance notices

The Panama Canal Authority on 1 January 2024 published 13 notices to shipping. We bring you the overview of all 13 notices.

Vessel Requirements

This document outlines vessel requirements for transiting the Panama Canal. It stresses compliance to avoid delays or denial of transit. The Vice Presidency for Operations manages traffic control, and communication channels are provided. Updates cover various aspects including equipment requirements, documentation, and annexes detailing lock clearances.

Harbor Operations

This notice outlines harbor operation rules for safer vessel movement in specific Canal areas. It updates information on vessel length limits at Dock 16 and depth at Telfer Bunker Fuel Transfer Pier, Dock West. It replaces a previous notice and will be revised annually.

Communication on Transit Activities

This notice provides detailed instructions and requirements for vessels transiting the Panama Canal. It covers topics such as training tools, vessel declaration procedures, submission of BAPLIE files, payment processes, and direct communication channels. Key points include the necessity of timely submission of vessel information, consequences of non-compliance, procedures for obtaining customer and agent codes, and various contact points for different inquiries.

Illegal Activities on Transiting Vessels

The notice addresses illegal activities on vessels transiting through the Panama Canal. It emphasizes compliance with regulations regarding gifts and conduct, implementing shipboard measures to prevent illegal activities, prompt reporting of incidents, immediate notification of unauthorized access or possession, restricting line handlers' belongings, conducting searches when necessary, and refraining from presenting gifts to Canal employees.

Official, Courtesy and Guest Transits

The notice sets rules for Official, Courtesy, and Guest transits through the Panama Canal. It outlines who can transit, how to get approval, and the responsibilities of passengers and escorts. It emphasizes safety, proper documentation, and the need for coordination with Canal officials or agents for any transit-related matters.

Embarking or Disembarking During Transit

The notice outlines rules for embarking and disembarking during transit through the Panama Canal. It requires special approval for such operations, with specific procedures for requesting authorization and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Designated locations for embarkation/disembarkation are provided, along with guidelines for handling various situations.

Panama Canal Transit Reservation System

The notice details how to make transit reservations and access related information. It highlights the availability of the Booking Application and support services through the ACP Help Desk. Access to vessel information is regulated, with specific entities allowed access based on agreements. Procedures for obtaining and maintaining Customer Codes for transit visits are explained, stressing the importance of accurate representation and compliance.

Attachment of Vessels by the Judicial Branch or the Public Ministry

This notice outlines procedures for vessels attached by Panama's Judicial Branch or Public Ministry. Attached vessels are deemed "not ready" until released by authorities, with local agents responsible for immediate notification. Charges for services during attachment follow ACP tariff rules. If an attached vessel has a transit booking, it must cancel or retain the slot, risking fee forfeiture if not ready. No attachments will be served on vessels underway for transit, with attachments occurring post-transit. Masters must inform ACP officials, referencing Article 5 for vessel departure regulations.

Marine Accident Investigations

This notice outlines procedures for marine accident investigations at the Panama Canal. It emphasizes the legal mandate for investigations by the Board of Inspectors before vessel departure, with forfeiture of recourse against the Authority if departure occurs before completion. It also highlights standards of conduct during investigations, including ethical behavior, respect for authority, and prohibition of ex-parte communication. The Board may exclude non-compliant parties and decisions are final without appeal.

Operational Equipment Tests

This notice emphasizes the importance of testing operational equipment on vessels transiting the Panama Canal to ensure safety and efficiency. It outlines procedures for conducting tests, reporting deficiencies, and calibrating magnetic compasses. Masters must verify equipment readiness, report issues promptly, and ensure proper calibration of compasses to avoid transit delays or deficiencies.

Operation of Commercial and Non-Commercial Small Craft in Panama Canal Waters

The notice establishes rules for small craft in Panama Canal waters, emphasizing safety and rule adherence. It cancels the prior notice, clarifies legal regulations, and stresses compliance with VHF radio requirements. Sanctions for non-compliance include fines and certificate revocation. It warns against endangering vessel safety and Canal operations, requiring protection for installations and compliance with regulations to avoid sanctions.

Panama Canal Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (PCSOPEP) Requirements

The notice explains the requirements of the Panama Canal Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (PCSOPEP), effective since January 1, 2005. Vessels must have a plan for Canal waters and pay tariffs for oil spill response services provided by the Panama Canal Authority (ACP), which acts as the sole Oil Spill Response Organization (OSRO) for vessels in transit or awaiting transit through the Panama Canal.

Implementation of ISPS Code Requirements at the Panama Canal

The notice outlines security requirements at the Panama Canal, in line with the ISPS Code, effective since July 1, 2004. Non-compliance may lead to measures such as inspections or transit denial. It details procedures for ACP personnel boarding vessels and mandates updated crew lists for local vessels. Contact info for inquiries is provided.

For more information, please see the documents below (available only to subscribers):

Vessel Requirements No. N-1-2024

Harbor Operations No. N-2-2024

Communication on Transit Activities No. N-3-2024

Illegal Activities on Transiting Vessels No. N-4-2024

Official, Courtesy and Guest Transits No. N-5-2024

Embarking or Disembarking During Transit No. N-6-2024

Panama Canal Transit Reservation System No. N-7-2024

Attachment of Vessels by the Judicial Branch or the Public Ministry No. N-8-2024

Marine Accident Investigations No. N-9-2024

Operational Equipment Tests No. N-10-2024

Operation of Commercial and Non-Commercial Small Craft in Panama Canal Waters No. N-11-2024