Panama Canal | Neopanamax draft restriction update 

6 August, 2026 – The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has announced new maximum authorised draft limits for vessels transiting the Neopanamax Locks as part of its ongoing water management programme. The changes respond to current watershed conditions, Gatun Lake levels and projected hydrological trends, while maintaining the reliability and safety of Canal operations.

• From 26 August 2026, the maximum authorised draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax Locks will be 14.63 metres (48.0 ft Tropical Fresh Water).
• From 3 September 2026, and until further notice, the maximum authorised draft will be adjusted to 14.48 metres (47.5 ft Tropical Fresh Water).

Although the rainy season is already underway, the ACP considers these adjustments necessary under current hydrological conditions. Weather forecasts, watershed inflows and Gatun Lake levels will continue to be monitored, and further operational updates will be issued whenever required. Advance notice of future adjustments will be provided whenever conditions allow.

Operational update:

• The ACP has confirmed that transit capacity remains unchanged.
• No reduction in available transit slots is planned.
• Capacity at both the Neopanamax and Panamax Locks remains stable.
• Customers are encouraged to use the Transit Reservation (Booking) System to support voyage planning and minimise potential delays.

YOUR VESSELS, OUR PORTS 

Through our exclusive partnership with CAPAS EEV, CORP. – Shipping Agency, MasOceans manages port calls across key Panama terminals and logistics areas including:

📍 Bahía Las Minas (𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗮 & 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝘃𝗿𝗼𝗻), Colón 2000, Colón Container Terminal, Oil Tanking, Manzanillo International Terminal, Melones Oil Terminal, PPC Balboa & Drydock MEC, PATSA & POTSA, PPC Cristóbal & Telfer Tanks, PSA, PTP Charco Azul, PTP Chiriquí Grande and Taboguilla.

⚓ If your vessels are scheduled for Panama Canal passages in the coming weeks, feel free to contact us for local support and coordination.

Martaxelle Erussard
📩 martaxelle@masoceans.com
📞 +41 (0)22 552 0051