Port Captain And Immigration Procedures
Port Captain
A current cruising permit is required whether you vessel is in the water or on the hard. The only exception is for recreational vessels staying less than 72 hours in Panamanian waters. Upon returning to Panama, a new permit is required. When arriving you will need vessel and crew documents as well as a zarpe (sailing order from last port). If you are sailing from one area controlled by a Panamanian port authority to another you will also need a zarpe. For example you would need a zarpe going between San Blas, Colon, Portobello and Bocas del Toro. Also, when crossing the canal you will need a zarpe from Colon to Balboa. The port captain for Cristobal, Colon, has an office at our marina to help you check-in to Panama and the port of Colon.
Immigration
If you are not ‘in transit’ and intend to stay for longer than 72 hours you will need a visa. Currently a 6 month visa is provided to citizens of qualifying countries. This visa can be renewed at least once. A representative of the Immigration Office is often available at the marina (same office as the Port Captain representative) to assist with these matters.
Please be aware that both Port Captain and Immigration representatives keep irregular schedules.
The marina office staff will be happy to help with communications.
NOTE:
Before entering Panama you should complete the YACHTS ARRIVAL DOCUMENT for the Panama Maritime Authority: HTTP://WWW.AMP.GOB.PA/ATRAQUE/CAPTACARTAATRAQUEYATES.ASPX
This will assist the authorities keep track of vessels for security.