C. Fernie & Co S.A. stands as one of the most established and historically significant maritime agencies within the Republic of Panama. Founded in 1920 by Cyril Fernie, the firm has operated continuously for over a century, deeply intertwining its history with the commercial evolution of the Panama Canal. As a dedicated ship agency, the company specializes in facilitating vessel operations across the isthmus, maintaining a physical presence at both the Atlantic and Pacific terminuses of the waterway. This dual-ocean coverage allows the firm to provide seamless support for vessels transiting between the oceans or calling at local ports.
The core of the company’s operations revolves around the management of Panama Canal transits. The agency guides ship owners and operators through the complex regulatory framework of the Canal Authority, handling essential tasks such as transit booking, slot auctions, and compliance with strict navigation requirements. Their operational teams are stationed in strategic locations, including Balboa and Cristobal, ensuring that vessels receive immediate attention regardless of their direction of travel. This logistical coordination extends to a wide variety of vessel types, including container ships, bulk carriers, tankers, and passenger cruise liners.
Beyond transit logistics, C. Fernie & Co S.A. is widely recognized for its role as a commercial correspondent for Protection and Indemnity (P&I) clubs. The firm represents the interests of ship owners and insurers in legal and operational matters, a service that dates back decades. This function requires a high level of expertise in local maritime law and claims management, distinguishing the company from agencies that focus solely on logistics.
In the realm of husbandry and port services, the company provides comprehensive support for crew and technical needs. They coordinate crew changes, medical assistance, cash-to-master deliveries, and the procurement of ship spares and provisions. Their administrative headquarters in the Panama Pacifico business hub supports these field operations, centralizing communication between global principals and local authorities. Through its long tenure, C. Fernie & Co S.A. has maintained a reputation for stability and detailed local knowledge, serving as a critical link for international shipping interests navigating the strategic waters of Panama.
