The Panama Canal Authority announced on July 25 the increase to the maximum authorised draft for Neopanamax vessels sailing through the Panama Canal, due to recent rainfall that impacted the area.
Specifically, recent rainfall in the Canal watershed has allowed the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) to increase to the maximum authorized draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks.
Moreover, the authority added that they will continue monitor the level of Gatun Lake in order to announce future draft adjustments in a timely manner.
The new update follows May’s advisory, when the Authority according to which vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks will be 13.11 meters (43.0 feet) Tropical Fresh Water (TFW). Yet, in early May, ACP’s announcement focused on vessels arriving after 30 April 2019, with drafts over 13.41 meters (44.0 feet) TFW may be allowed to transit, depending on the actual level of Gatun Lake at the time of transit.
From 27 February, the maximum authorized draft for vessels transiting the neo-panamax locks had been 14.63 metres (48.0 feet) TFW , while from 10 April 2019, the Maximum Authorized Draft was 13.72 meters (45.0 feet) TFW.
Thanks for the information. I am so grateful for the rainfall and I am happy to see that it can allow more vessels through he canal!