Advisory to shipping A-20-20233 https://pancanal.com/en/maritime-services/advisory-to-shipping/
The new restrictions on maximum authorized draft for Neopanamax size ships transiting the Panama Canal are a result of the continuing low water level in Gatun Lake caused by the long dry spell over the dry season. The new restrictions will require vessels to reduce their cargo loads even further, leading to additional costs and potential delays.
The Panama Canal Authority has been implementing water-saving measures to minimize draft restrictions, but the severity of the situation has necessitated these new restrictions. The maximum authorized drafts will gradually reduce from 14.48 m (47.5 feet) TFW on April 19, 2023, to 13.41 m (44.0 feet) TFW on May 30, 2023.
It is important for vessels to comply with the maximum authorized draft at the time of transit, and to take into consideration the waiting time for transit. The situation is expected to improve with the onset of the rainy season.
