PANAMA CLASSIFICATION
Welcome to Panama Classification
When it comes to ensuring the safety, integrity, and compliance of your vessels, partnering with a reputable classification bureau is essential. At Panama Classification, we specialize in providing comprehensive classification services that meet international standards. Our mission is to ensure your vessels operate safely and efficiently while remaining fully compliant with the strict regulations established by global maritime authorities.
Why Panama Classification is Important
Panama is one of the most popular flag states in the world, renowned for its cost-effective and streamlined ship registration process. A vital part of operating under the Panamanian flag is ensuring that your vessels meet all required technical and safety standards. This is where Panama Classification comes in. We work closely with the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) to assess and certify ships for safety, structural integrity, and environmental compliance.
Classification is a mandatory regulatory requirement for vessels registered under the Panama flag. Without proper classification, your ships may be restricted from operating, transporting cargo, or accessing certain ports. That’s why choosing the right classification bureau—like Panama Classification—is essential to maintaining safe, compliant, and successful maritime operations.
Why Choose Panama Classification?
At Panama Classification, we provide more than just ship certification—we deliver peace of mind. Here are a few key reasons why we are the ideal classification partner for your maritime operations:
Experience and Expertise
With years of hands-on experience in the maritime industry, our team possesses the technical knowledge and skills to manage even the most complex classification requirements. Our certified inspectors and surveyors specialize in maritime safety, structural assessments, and international compliance.Recognized by the Panama Maritime Authority
Panama Classification is fully authorized by the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA), allowing us to simplify and accelerate the classification process for Panama-flagged vessels. This means quicker approvals and fewer administrative delays—so your ships can stay on schedule.Complete Classification Services
From initial assessments to annual and special inspections, Panama Classification offers comprehensive end-to-end services. We ensure full compliance with key international maritime conventions, including SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea), MARPOL (Marine Pollution), and ISM (International Safety Management).Worldwide Presence
Thanks to our global network of offices and certified surveyors, Panama Classification provides fast, reliable service no matter where your vessels operate. Whether your fleet is in Panama, Europe, Asia, or beyond—we maintain consistent quality and responsiveness.Cost-Effective and Reliable
We know that safety and efficiency must go hand in hand with affordability. Our services are competitively priced to deliver exceptional value without compromising the thoroughness or reliability of our work.
About Us
Panama Classification is your expert partner in the maritime sector. Since the establishment of the Panama Ship Registry in 1917, Panama has become the largest open registry in the world, with over 9,100 registered vessels and a total tonnage of 222.6 million GRT. Our headquarters are located in Panama City, and we are proud of our ISO 9002 certification and participation in the IMO Audit Scheme.
We offer a wide range of services, including vessel registration, crew certification, and safety inspections. Our Manning and Certification services have no nationality restrictions for officers or crew, and we provide certification for seafarers from IMO “white listed” countries. Additionally, fully qualified Panamanian seafarers and cadets are available. With years of experience, we are committed to providing fast and reliable solutions for all your maritime needs, including processing over 2,100 Panama Seafarer endorsement applications annually.
Over 2100 Panama Seafarer endorsement applications annually
Our Services
VESSEL REGISTRATION SERVICE
The office is completely empowered to process all applications for temporary and permanent registration of a vessel and including the registration of maritime Liens, issuance of seafarer endorsements, obtaining transcript of registry amongst many other Panama related vessel documentation.
SHIP REGISTRATION
Panama Classification is open to all types of vessels including bulk carrier, cargo ships, tankers, containerships, passenger ships, fishing vessels, tugs, yachts, barges, MODUs and other ocean-going vessels.
ELIGIBILITY
There is no restriction in ownership as all foreign owned companies or individuals may register vessels under the Panama Flag.
MANNING REQUIREMENTS
Panama is a party to the STCW Convention, as amended and is on the IMO White List of countries that have given full effect to this Convention. There are no nationality restrictions.
PANAMA SEAFARER ENDORSEMENTS
The Seafarers Department is responsible for the processing of seafarer documents in accordance with the STCW Convention
and the monitoring of crew compliance on board all Panama registered vessels. Application for endorsement certificates can be made through our office and will be issued within a matter of 2 hours.
RECORDING OF TITLE AND MORTGAGE
The recording of title deeds, mortgages, liens and encumbrances or any other assignments relating to any registered vessel is governed by the Merchant Shipping Act.
WHAT THEY SAY
