13-Jun-2018
INCREASE OF TRANSIT DRAFT FOR NEOPANAMAX LOCKS
Panama Canal, Panama
Increase of transit draft for Neopanamax locks
Wednesday, June 13, 2018, Panama Canal, Panama
The recent rainfall in the Canal watershed has increased the levels of Gatun and Alhajuela Lakes considerably in the past few days. Therefore, effective immediately, the maximum authorized draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks will be 14.94 meters (49.0 feet) Tropical Fresh Water (TFW).
Vessels arriving with drafts over 14.94 meters (49.0 feet) TFW may be allowed to transit depending on the actual level of Gatun Lake at the time of the transit. Otherwise, they will be required to trim or off-load cargo in order to be allowed to transit.
The maximum authorized transit draft is the deepest point of immersion in TFW permitted for a particular vessel in Gatun Lake. Water density of Gatun Lake is 0.9954 at 29.4 deg. C (85 deg. F). Vessels shall arrive at Canal waters with no list.
(For information about operations in the Panama Canal, contact GAC-Wilford & McKay at gac-wilfordmckay.panama@gac.com)
Source: Panama Canal Authority Advisory to Shipping No.A-22-2018 dated 13 June 2018
