Despite the Panama Canal Authority’s (ACP’) continuous efforts to minimize draft restrictions by implementing water-saving measures in the transit operation, the level of Gatun Lake has been falling faster than originally predicted due to severe drought. The ACP finds it necessary to update the maximum drafts and in its latest Advisory to Shipping A-17-2023 it notes effective April 19, 2023, the maximum authorized draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks will be 14.48 m (47.5 feet) TFW and gradually reduces to 14.02 m (46.0 feet) TFW on May 12th. The ACP advises that waiting periods should be considered when scheduling transit near or at the highest authorized draft when arriving. The ACP has stated that it will continue to closely monitor the water level in Gatun Lake and provide timely updates on future changes in the draft.
