Based on the present and projected level of Gatun Lake for the upcoming weeks, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has announced that, effective 30 March 2020, the maximum authorised draft for vessels transiting the neopanamax locks will be 13.87 m (45.5 ft) Tropical Fresh Water (TFW).
Vessels arriving after this date with drafts over the specified TFW may be allowed to transit, depending on the actual level of Gatun Lake at the time of transit. Otherwise, they will be required to trim or off-load cargo in order to be allowed to transit.
Draft adjustments will be announced in 6 in. (15.24 cm) increments/decrements, generally with at least four weeks advanced notice.
The ACP will continue to monitor the level of Gatun Lake in order to announce future draft adjustments in a timely manner.