Panama Canal: Draft adjustments in the Neopanamax locks

The Panama Canal Authority has recently issued three documents about the draft adjustments in the Neopanamax locks.

Draft Adjustment in the Neopanamax Locks

The precipitation in the Canal watershed for the first 11 days of April is approximately 70% below the historical average, and the water supplied by the rivers to the Canal’s watershed is 80% below average.

Effective April 19, 2023, the maximum authorized draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks is 14.48 m (47.5 feet) TFW, and effective April 27, 2023, the maximum authorized draft will be 14.33 m (47.0 feet) TFW.

In addition, effective May 5, 2023, the maximum authorized draft will be 14.17 m (46.5 feet) TFW, and effective May 12, 2023, the maximum authorized draft will be 14.02 m (46.0 feet) TFW.

Draft Adjustment to 14.32 m (47.0 feet) TFW in the Neopanamax Locks

Effective May 3, 2023, the maximum authorized draft allowed for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks will be 14.32 m (47.0 feet) TFW.

Vessels arriving with drafts over 14.32 m (47.0 feet) TFW may be allowed to transit past May 3, 2023, depending on the actual level of Gatun Lake at the time of transit.

Otherwise, they will be required to trim or off-load cargo in order to be allowed to transit.

Draft Adjustment to 14.48 m (47.5 feet) TFW in the Neopanamax Locks

Effective April 22, 2023, the maximum authorized draft allowed for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks is 14.48 m (47.5 feet) TFW.

Vessels arriving with drafts over 14.48 m (47.5 feet) TFW may be allowed to transit past April 22, 2023, depending on the actual level of Gatun Lake at the time of transit.

Otherwise, they will be required to trim or off-load cargo in order to be allowed to transit.