Panama Canal announces increase in draft and daily transit

The Panama Canal announced Today, through an Advisory to Shipping, that it will increase to 10 the number of daily transits in the Neopanamax locks, for a total of 33 daily slots within Neopanamax and Panamax locks beginning October 15, 2026, based on the present and projected level of Gatun Lake.

Additionally, taking into consideration the positive effect of the close to average precipitation on the Canal watershed and the effective water saving measures implemented in the Locks, effective immediately and until further notice, the maximum authorized draft, for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks will be 14.94 m (49.0 feet).

While the water deficit continues in the Canal watershed, the Transit Reservation (Booking) System remains the only way to guarantee a transit date. Vessels without a reservation may therefore face indefinite delays.

The Canal remains committed to closely monitoring water conditions and rainfall levels and to communicating any further adjustments in a timely manner, as circumstances allow.

This story was originally published by Panama Canal Authority. Read the full story at Panama Canal Authority →