Panama Maintains 48-Foot Draft for Neopanamax Vessels

The Panama Canal will maintain the current maximum authorized draft for Neopanamax vessels at 48 feet, based on the latest evaluation of Gatun Lake levels and meteorological projections. The previously announced reduction to a 47.5-foot draft, which was scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2026, is postponed until further notice. Maintaining the current draft provides customers with greater continuity for planning their voyages and scheduling their vessels. It also reflects the Panama Canal's commitment to responding promptly to changing conditions, addressing the needs of its customers without compromising the safety or efficiency of its operations. The Canal will continue to evaluate water conditions and will provide due notice of any future changes that may affect vessel draft requirements. This ongoing monitoring is part of its commitment to offering customers a reliable, predictable, and efficient service.