Panama Canal will increase daily transit to 24, starting January 16

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has decided to reverse the planned reduction in transits, increasing them from 18 daily transits starting February 1st, due to improved rainfall. Beginning in January, the number will increase to 24 daily transits, "since November's rains were not as severe as October's and water conservation measures were implemented."

Currently, due to the drought caused by El Niño, only 22 ships are transiting daily—six Neopanamax and 16 Panamax vessels—because of the low water levels in Gatun Lake. Although there are plans to increase this to 24 transits by mid-January, it is still lower than the usual 36.

2023 was one of the driest years in the history of the Panama Canal. In response, the number of daily transits was gradually reduced: from 24 in November to 18 in February.

To improve transit bookings, a limit of one booking per customer per date will be applied, except in special cases, allowing more vessels to secure a reservation. As of December 15, there are only 23 vessels without a reservation and 41 with a waiting list.

The Canal Authority has implemented water conservation strategies and direct communication with customers and the country to adapt to these challenging weather conditions. These changes aim to ensure reliable transit during the dry season and reduce the impact on navigation through the Panama Canal.

Source: https://www.seatrade-maritime.com/panama/panama-canal-increases-daily-transits-24-16-january