Panama Canal updates the maximum authorized draft in the Neopanamax locks

The Panama Canal Authority has issued an advisory updating the maximum authorized draft in the Neopanamax locks.

This advisory was issued on May 29, 2023.

Due to recent rainfall in the Panama Canal watershed, the Panama Canal Authority has decided to postpone the implementation of the maximum authorized draft of 13.41 m (44.0 feet) TFW in the Neopanamax locks.

The new effective date for this draft is June 13, 2023, instead of the previously scheduled May 30, 2023, as stated in Advisory to Shipping A-20-2023.

Consequently, the current maximum authorized draft of 13.56 m (44.5 feet) TFW will remain in effect until June 12, 2023.

The maximum authorized drafts for the upcoming weeks:

  • June 13, 2023: 13.41 m (44.0 feet)
  • June 25, 2023: 13.26 m (43.5 feet)

The Panama Canal Authority will continue to monitor the water level of Gatun Lake and provide timely updates regarding any future adjustments to the draft limits.


For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):


Update to the Maximum Authorized Draft in the Neopanamax Locks


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