Panama: requirements for a Single International Voyage

The Panama Maritime Authority has published a new circular regarding statutory requirements for a Single International Voyage.

The purpose of this Merchant Marine Circular is to inform of the requirements applicable to ships that are not normally engaged on international voyages but which, in exceptional circumstances, are required to undertake a single international voyage.

It references various regulations and guidelines, including the SOLAS Convention Chapter I, Resolution A.765(18), and MSC/Circ.884.

The circular states the purpose, scope, and background of these requirements. Ships in such exceptional circumstances must comply with specific technical requirements: having all applicable statutory certificates, certificates issued by the Panamanian Administration, and adhering to safety management systems. If a ship is managed by a company without a Document of Compliance (DOC/ISM) under the Panamanian flag, an equivalent DOC/ISM from another Administration might be accepted.

The requirements are applicable to ships intending a single voyage for delivery purposes, without carrying cargo or passengers. In cases where ships cannot comply with specific international conventions or codes due to exceptional circumstances, the Administration might evaluate issuing Exemption Certificates or single voyage authorizations.

For commercial towing operations, the circular refers to the Guidelines for safe ocean towing (MSC/Circ.884), which cover aspects like responsibilities, manning, planning, preparation, survey, environmental conditions, weather forecast, vessel and equipment requirements, and emergency procedures.

The circular provides contact information for inquiries and more details. It was issued in August 2023.

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