Panama Canal enhances ship slot availability and draft depths

Posted on July 1, 2024   |  

Recent rainfall has increased water levels in the Panama Canal, allowing heavier ships with larger cargo loads to pass through the Neopanamax locks.

The Panama Canal Authority immediately set the maximum ship depth at 47 ft. (14.33 m).

From 11 July, the maximum ship depth will be increased to 48 ft. (14.63 m).

Starting 5 August, an additional transit slot for Neopanamax ships will be available for booking.

This will increase the total number of available slots in Neopanamax and Panamax locks to 35.

The Panama Canal Authority has informed customers of these new changes.