The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has announced significant updates to the Neopanamax Locks, effective immediately and in the coming months.

These changes are driven by recent precipitation in the Canal watershed, which has improved water levels in Gatun Lake.

Effective immediately, the maximum authorised draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax Locks has been increased to 14.33 meters (47.0 feet). This will further increase to 14.63 meters (48.0 feet) starting 11 July.

Furthermore, starting on 5 August, the number of daily booking slots for Neopanamax vessels will increase. The total number of booking slots in both the Neopanamax and Panamax Locks will rise to 35.

These measures aim to optimise the Canal’s capacity and efficiency, ensuring smoother and more frequent transits for larger vessels.

The Canal provides more details in its official advisory.