The Panama Canal will increase daily transit capacity and allow deeper drafts for Neopanamax vessels as water conditions improve across the Canal watershed. From 15 October 2026, the Canal will offer 10 daily transit slots through the Neopanamax locks. This will bring total capacity across the Neopanamax and Panamax locks to 33 transits per day. At the same time, the maximum authorised draft for vessels using the Neopanamax locks has been increased to 14.94 metres, or 49 feet. The draft adjustment takes effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice. Improved water conditions support higher capacity The Panama Canal attributed the changes to current and projected levels at Gatun Lake, alongside rainfall that has been close to average across the watershed. Water-saving measures implemented at the locks have also contributed to the decision to increase the maximum draft. However, the Canal stressed that a water deficit continues across the watershed. It will therefore continue monitoring rainfall and lake conditions before making any further operational adjustments. Booking remains essential for guaranteed transit Despite the increase in capacity, the Panama Canal warned shipping companies that its Transit Reservation System remains the only way to guarantee a transit date. Vessels arriving without a reservation could face indefinite delays, even as the number of available daily slots increases. The Canal said any further adjustments to transit capacity or draft restrictions will depend on evolving water and rainfall conditions. The post Panama Canal raises vessel draft and daily transit capacity appeared first on Container News .