Panama Canal – Neopanamax draft restriction update

11 June, 2026 – The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has announced a new draft restriction affecting Neopanamax transits as part of its water management measures aimed at maintaining the safe, reliable and sustainable operation of the canal under current hydrological conditions.

⚠️ Effective 3 July 2026, the maximum authorised draft for vessels passing through the Neopanamax Locks will be:

🔹 15.09 metres (49.5 feet) TFW

The adjustment comes amid increasing concerns around the possible development of El Niño patterns over the watershed in the months ahead. According to the ACP, lake levels and hydrological projections remain under close monitoring, with additional measures possible if required.

Based on current and projected Gatun Lake levels, operators and charterers may need to reassess cargo intake, draft calculations and voyage planning for upcoming Panama Canal passages.

As the situation evolves, local coordination and forward planning remain key.

YOUR VESSELS, OUR PORTS 

Together with CAPAS EEV, CORP. – Shipping Agency, our local partner in Panama, MasOceans supports vessel calls across key 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.

⚓ For vessels 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