Panama Canal raises Neopanamax draft to 14.94m and increases daily transit capacity to 33 ships starting October 15.
The maximum draft for Neopanamax vessels in the Panama Canal has been raised to 14.94 meters. The daily transit capacity will be increased from 32 to 33 vessels starting from October 15.
The Panama Canal Authority has decided to ease restrictions on vessel transits due to increased rainfall in the canal basin and the effects of water conservation measures.
Taking into account the current and projected water levels of Gatun Lake, the maximum allowed draft for vessels using the Neopanamax locks has been raised from 48 feet to 49 feet, which is approximately 14.94 meters. This change regarding the draft is effective immediately.
The daily capacity will be increased on October 15.
The daily transit quota for the Neopanamax locks will be increased from nine to ten vessels starting from October 15, 2026. Thus, the total daily transit capacity for both the Panamax and Neopanamax locks will rise from 32 to 33 vessels.
The daily capacity of the Panamax locks will be maintained at 23 vessels.
Rainfall and water conservation measures have been effective.
The canal authority reported that the rainfall recorded in September, which was close to historical averages, and the water conservation measures implemented in the locks have been effective in the regulations.
Due to reduced rainfall during the summer months, restrictions had been placed on transit capacity and draft limits. With the recent decisions, some of these restrictions have been eased.
Warning of delays for vessels without reservations.
Despite improvements in water levels, the canal authority indicated that there is still a water deficit in the basin. It was stated that reservations must be made to secure a transit date, and vessels without reservations may face indefinite delays.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
