Panama Canal increases daily vessel transits and draft limits

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) is increasing daily vessel transits and raising the maximum authorized draft for Neopanamax locks. Starting October 15, the number of daily Neopanamax bookings will rise from nine to 10, bringing the total daily capacity across both Neopanamax and Panamax locks to 33 slots.

Additionally, the maximum authorized draft for vessels using the Neopanamax locks has been increased to 49 feet (14.94 meters) with immediate effect. This reversal from previous restrictions follows improved water outlooks for Gatun Lake, the rainfall-fed reservoir that supplies the canal's lock system.

The ACP attributed these adjustments to near-average precipitation across the canal’s watershed and effective water-saving measures. While conditions have improved compared to the severe El Niño scenarios previously feared, officials noted that a water deficit remains in the watershed. Consequently, the Transit Reservation System remains essential, as ships arriving without a booking may face indefinite delays.