The Panama Canal was constructed in the beginning of the XX century, connecting the Atlantic with the Pacific Oceans. The first journey through was conducted in 1914. Although it is not an easy one, roughly 14,000 ships yearly transit through the canal today.
If you have chosen to transit your own private yacht through the Panama Canal, there are some important things not to be neglected before embarking on the journey. The most significant matters shall become time and expenses, as traveling through a system of locks might come out really time-consuming, expensive and stressful. Still, the transition might become a unique adventure and even the most epic story to be told for the rest of your life. Here are some details to think over, before you decide upon a journey.
In terms of time limits, the journey through Panama Canal solely might last up to eight to nine hours. An intricate system of locks should be passed on your way through, guiding your private sailboat from one ocean to another.
Prior to that, there is obligatory paperwork to be done, along with the vessel screening (to make sure your boat complies with size regulations etc.). That is why you have to consider in advance the time your boat will be docked at either the Pacific side marina or Caribbean side marina to await your turn before transit. Average waiting time varies, but be prepared that it normally takes several days at least.
As to the paperwork, The Panama Canal Authorities demand an advance notification of 96 hours to accommodate the arrival for vessels desiring to transit the Panama Canal. If you are planning on transiting the canal without hiring an agent, you will need to call to the Admeasurer’s office (English is spoken by all canal officials) to arrange a time and location for your boat’s measurement. You have to go through measurement and payment first, before entering the ACP system to get a transit date assigned, as it cannot be reserved in advance.
If dealing with documentation yourself, you need to fill in a form stating where you are and when you would like to get measured. Then, an official Ad measurer will come out, to measure your yacht according to canal regulations. Once the process is completed, you will receive a form to be proceeded to a bank for an official deposit. Once you are measured and your money is deposited, you will call the official schedulers office and make an appointment for transit. Again, be prepared that paperwork might take from three to seven days.
Money wise, the price to pay for closing the Canal naturally varies depending on the size of your yacht. For small vessels of up to 15 metres LOA, the price makes around $1,875; for larger ones of up to 30 metres LOA it makes around $ 4,275, etc. Furthermore, you should consider extra transit fees including long lines, car tires and making sure you have line handlers on board.
Finally, depending on your appointment time and your port of entry you can expect to depart in the afternoon, around 1pm or 2pm. You will be assigned an official advisor from the Panama Authority to join you on-board, provided everything is going as planned. Thus, you need to provide hot meal and drinking water for your advisor. He or she will serve as your sailing mentor, attempting to get you through the canal as quickly and efficiently as possible. Still, you might end up having to stay the night for some unforeseen reason. In that case, expect to pay up to $500 dollars extra to dock.
On your journey, You will go through a series of locks (12 in total) composing is a system of levels that lift a ship up 85 feet to the main elevation of the Panama Canal and back down. Each lock is around 300-metre long and can be filled and emptied in 10 minutes. Once you have transited through all of them, you can continue on to either the Pacific or Caribbean side ocean.
All in all, if you decide to cross a Chanel on a private vessel, below are some tips for a smoother canal transit (Yachting World):
• Start researching information in advance, at least 3 months ahead, for comfortable preparation.
•It is better to keep the yacht’s decks clear. Move or stow items to keep the area around bow and stern cleats as clear as possible.
• Ensure all fairleads are fair to start. Re-leading takes time you may not have if currents start spinning the raft.
• Stern lines took the most load. Consider running them to a cockpit winch with the stern cleat as a guide to provide better control and mechanical advantage.
• Prep line handlers well. Hold a crew meeting. Make sure they understand how critical it is to be alert: they should not expect to use a GoPro or post on social media during transit.
• Repeat instructions from the adviser. It confirms you have heard and are responding to the action called for. It may serve to clarify the adviser’s intentions when issuing rapid instructions.
• Engage your adviser. Talk through manoeuvres in advance, asking for clarification on next steps and understanding actions they will want you to take before they need to happen.
Sanlorenzo will bring two yachts this year at the Monaco Yacht Show scheduled from 27 to 30 September 2023.57Steelphoto by Guillaume PlissonThe 57Steel, despite its 1050 GT tonnage, showcases Sanlorenzo's signature purity of form. The collaboration with Studio Zuccon International Project for exterior architecture and Piero Lissoni for interior design resulted in an innovative superyacht. Premiered at the Monaco Yacht Show 2023, it reimagines traditional layout configurations. The wheelhouse, typically on the upper deck, now resides on an additional deck, housing the owner's cabin, offering a 55 sq. m space with panoramic views from the owner deck. photo by Guillaume PlissonPiero Lissoni describes the yacht as an architectural creation, blending spaces, vertical elements, and his unique staircase. The redistribution of spaces has also allowed for a full-beam VIP cabin on the main deck and a vast 150 sq. m beach area. Placing the garage at the bow enables accommodation for tenders up to 7.5 meters, while a 30 sq. m gym and a sauna cater to the owner's well-being.AlloyImaginative spaces come to life through innovative redesigns, offering fresh perspectives. Alloy boasts an owner's cabin, a true private suite spanning three levels. Designed to enhance onboard living, this cabin occupies the main deck's spacious midsection. It comprises a sleeping area, a mezzanine-level lounge, another on the upper deck, a versatile indoor study, and a generous open area on the bow featuring a sundeck, Jacuzzi, and relaxation zones.Alloy seamlessly blends intimate spaces with social areas. It provides dedicated zones for the owner and guests, including four double cabins on the lower deck, a sun deck, and an expansive beach club housing a gym and an outdoor platform at water level, creating a seamless connection with the sea.The innovative concept and design are the result of collaborative efforts within the Sanlorenzo team. Zuccon International Project studio contributed to the exterior lines and concept development, while the interior design of the Alloy superyacht showcased in Monaco is by the German firm Ash.SP110The superyachts will share the space with SP110. A pioneering model, the first yacht in the smart performance range, SP110 is the result of the collaboration of a team of professionals at the highest levels of their individual skills: Bernardo Zuccon for the exteriors, Tilli Antonelli for product development at Sanlorenzo, Marco Arnaboldi for the hull design, Piero Lissoni for the interiors.The Sanlorenzo models will be joined by the Bluegame newcomer presented at the Cannes Yachting Festival, the BGM75, the first model in the new BGM range with which the Sanlorenzo Group brand enters the multihull segment.Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: Sanlorenzo
September 25, 2023
Camper & Nicholsons has announced the sale of the 46.67m Sea Falcon II, with senior sales broker Jean-Marie Recamier and yacht sales advisor Jessica Ruez, introducing the buyer. The seller was represented by Edmiston.Built by Italian shipyard Puglia in 1993, Sea Falcon II underwent a major refit between 2015 and 2017. She can accommodate up to 11 guests across five cabins, including an owner’s cabin forward on the main deck with a large en suite with bathtub and shower, plus a further two double cabins and two twin cabins on the lower deck. Out on deck, there’s room for alfresco dining on the main deck aft, while the flybridge offers panoramic views either from the hot tub or the forward-facing bar area. When the two tenders are in use, the bridge deck aft becomes a large area for guest use. Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
September 25, 2023
This Rossinavi’s creation was made by collaboration between the Italian shipyard and Philippe Briand, Founder of Vitruvius Yachts, who is responsible for the exterior design of the vessel and the naval architecture. The interior and outdoor spaces styling was made by Enrico Gobbi, Founder of Venice-based practice Enrico Gobbi - Team for Design. Alchemy, who spreads across three decks, a testament to luxurious design and environmental responsibility. Commissioned by a discerning private client, this yacht is the embodiment of elegance, efficiency, and wellness-focused living.At the heart of Alchemy's innovation is its diesel-electric propulsion system, powered by pods. This cutting-edge design minimizes energy loss between the engines and navigation speed, making it an eco-conscious vessel.The client's vision was to maximize outdoor spaces and wellness aspects, resulting in over 330 sq. m of generously appointed outdoor areas spread across three decks. From hot tubs to sunpads, bars to barbecue areas, Alchemy offers unparalleled amenities. The bridge deck boasts a stylish saloon and alfresco dining, while the main deck features a spacious cockpit.For the adventurous at heart, Alchemy's garage is a treasure trove of water toys, tenders, paddleboards, windsurfs, water skis, inflatable docks, and even mountain bikes for onshore exploration.Internally, Alchemy's interior reflects tranquility and elegance. Enrico Gobbi's vision comes to life with a soothing color palette of beige and ivory, along with natural materials. The beach club, resembling a spa, features teak wood complemented by stainless steel and white marble with a matte finish.Lighting plays a pivotal role in creating ambiance, with indirect lights hidden behind panels and marbles, creating mesmerizing reflections. Natural teak, white natural stone surfaces, and prestigious steel detailing dominate the exterior design.A stunning suspended staircase in the main saloon, connecting the bridge to the upper deck, stands as a testament to design innovation. The guest cabins share common materials for ceilings but incorporate personal elements like artworks sourced from worldwide travels.What sets Alchemy apart is the lobby-free layout, where a central staircase connects the main and upper deck saloons, allowing unobstructed views down the length of the yacht. The owners' cabin, forward on the main deck, combines functionality and luxury, with open closets integrated into the cabin space, creating an office area as well.Alchemy's galley, built for three chefs, and a wine cellar that holds hundreds of bottles elevate the onboard dining experience. A full-beam gym, a vast array of water toys, an open-air wellness room, and a panoramic spa pool on the sundeck cater to all guest desires.Rossinavi's unique approach to diesel-electric propulsion, paired with naval architect Philippe Briand's commitment to efficiency, gives Alchemy a slender hull that glides through the water with minimal resistance. This green and efficient design saves both fuel and emissions.Rossinavi is an Italian manufacturer of custom steel and aluminum superyachts 28m in size and larger. The Rossi shipyard was founded in the 1970s and is located in Viareggio.Credits: Rossinavi
September 25, 2023
Fraser Yachts has acquired a majority interest in Atalanta Golden Yachts (AGY), a Greek yacht management company headquartered in Athens. This strategic integration merges the expertise of AGY, led by founding member Popy Kaia, with Fraser Yachts Greece, under the guidance of Vassilis Fotilas. Fraser Yachts and its parent company, MarineMax, Inc. (NYSE: HZO), aim to enhance their collective capabilities and offer unparalleled regional and local insights to yacht owners, charter clients, and industry stakeholders.Fraser Yachts Greece teamAGY, established in 2006, manages 51 charter yachts in Greece, ranging from 21m to 95m+, including renowned vessels like O'Pari (95m), O'Ptasia (85m), O’Eva (60m), and the recently launched O'Rea (77m). Fraser Yachts, with over 75 years of industry experience, manages a client portfolio of yachts valued at over $5.8 billion and a fleet of more than 90 charter yachts, ranging from 24m to 90m+.Vassilis FotilasJohn Dragnis, principal shareholder of AGY, retains a significant interest in the newly combined operation. After a transitional period, the merged companies will operate as Fraser Yachts Greece as part of the broader Fraser Yachts Group. Greece, with over 2,700 days booked for 2023, remains the world's premier charter destination.Brett McGill, MarineMax Chief Executive Officer and President, highlighted the value of AGY's client network and relationships in expanding their luxury yachting offerings. John Dragnis expressed excitement about the growth opportunities created by this partnership. Vassilis Fotilas, Managing Director of Fraser Greece, emphasized their shared commitment to professionalism and client service.Popi KayaPopy Kaia, Charter Director at Fraser Greece, anticipates heightened visibility and promotion worldwide, enhancing their commitment to service excellence. Popy Kaia, an industry expert, has played a pivotal role in AGY's growth.This strategic collaboration strengthens Fraser Yachts' global presence and expertise while reinforcing the prominence of the Greek yachting market.Credits: AGY
September 25, 2023
The 91m Lady Lara listed for sale for the first time by Max Bulley of Y.CO. She was built by Lurssen in 2015, features interior and exterior that was made by Reymond Langton Design. Lady Lara stands out among yachts of her size with an extended range, a convenient touch-and-go helipad, and impeccable maintenance and upgrades since her launch, making her ready for immediate cruising.This vessel offers an array of amenities, catering to diverse guest preferences. Guests can relax in the dedicated spa area, work out in the gym, socialize by the teppanyaki grill on the sun deck, or enjoy a cozy night in the onboard cinema. For those seeking aquatic refreshment, there are two large pools. The main deck pool is perfect for daytime cooling and transforms into a dancefloor at night, accompanied by a bespoke music system.The sun deck boasts another pool with a swim-up bar, a teppanyaki grill, and ample space for lounging and sunbathing. An expansive beach club, complete with a sauna and steam room, offers on-the-water relaxation.On the bridge deck, a wellness area focuses on pampering, with a beauty salon, spa-treatment room, massage room, gym, and hammam.The owner’s deck features seamless indoor/outdoor dining with a glass enclosure that becomes part of the interior space. A large private terrace is accessible from the owner's suite, featuring a hot tub and a touch-and-go helipad for extended exploration.The interior is bright and spacious, filled with natural light from large windows. Multiple areas accommodate socializing or private relaxation, ensuring options for everyone. The owner’s deck includes a lounge with a bar, in addition to the owner’s private apartment. On the main deck, a large salon with a grand piano, a formal dining table, and a spacious lounge area await.A spacious glass elevator connects the guest decks up to the bridge deck for ease of access. Six remaining cabins on the main deck, two with fold-out balconies, offer ensuite accommodations. An additional ensuite guest cabin is located on the lower deck.Lady Lara is in turnkey condition, having undergone a €15 million refit in 2022/23, including a full paint job, IT and security system upgrades, new carpets, interior updates, tender refit, maintenance, tank coating replacement, and navigation system upgrade. This comprehensive investment ensures Lady Lara is ready for immediate voyages, setting her apart from yachts of similar size.The yacht’s asking price is EUR230,000,000 and will be displayed at the Monaco Yacht Show.Lürssen is a German shipyard with headquarters in Bremen-Vegesack and shipbuilding facilities in Lemwerder, Berne and Bremen-Aumund. Founded in 1875, Lürssen is one of the world's leading builders of custom luxury superyachts and has launched many of the largest yachts in the global fleet.Credits: Yacht Harbour archive; Y.CO
September 22, 2023