A. The maximum permissible draft for Canal transits has been set at 39 feet 6 inches (12.04 m) Tropical Fresh Water (TFW) at a Gatun Lake level of 81 feet 6 inches (24.84 m) or higher.

Gatun Lake density is 0.9954 gms/cc at 85oF (29.4oC).

This provides a safe navigational margin of at least 5 feet (1.52 m) over critical elevations in the Canal proper, and a clearance over the south sill of Pedro Miguel Locks of 1 foot 8 inches (0.50 m) at a Miraflores Lake Level of 54 feet 6 inches (16.61 m).

Prior to the initial transit of a vessel whose transit draft will exceed 35 feet 6 inches (10.82 m), owners, operators or agents must supply in full the information required in the Regulation on Navigation in Panama Canal Waters (ACP Navigation Regulations, article 52), and request the maximum authorized transit draft for the vessel (deepest point of immersion TFW) from the Transit Operations Division executive manager, not later than two weeks prior to the loading of the vessel. This request will be returned with the approved maximum authorized transit draft stamped thereon.

The initial transit is permitted at or under the approved maximum authorized transit draft. After the initial transit, unless the vessel’s agent or owner is notified of any restrictions imposed by the Canal Authority, this maximum authorized transit draft will remain in effect.

All vessels transiting the Canal should have sufficient ballast to permit safe handling during transit.

A vessel whose ballast draft does not meet the minimum draft requirements may be accepted for transit on a regular basis, provided the vessel operator is granted permission by the Transit Operations Division executive manager.

Minimum Drafts Required (Length):

•Up to 425′ (129.54 m) Trimmed so pilot can see the ranges over the forecastle from center of navigation bridge

•Over 425′ (129.54 m): 8′ (2.44 m) forward, 14′ (4.3 m) aft, TSW

•Over 475′ (144.8 m): 18′ (5.5 m) forward, 20′ (6.1 m) aft, TSW

•Over 525′ (160.02 m): 20′ (6.1 m) forward, 22′ (6.71 m) aft, TSW

•Over 580′ (176.8 m): 22′ (6.71 m) forward, 24′ (7.32 m) aft, TSW

•Over 625′ (190.5 m): 24′ (7.32 m) forward, 26′ (7.93 m) aft, TSW

Vessels are expected to arrive at the Canal properly trimmed and with a draft which, when in fresh water, its deepest point of immersion will not exceed either the Published TFW Draft, the Maximum Authorized Transit Draft established by the Canal for that particular vessel, or the maximum allowable draft as a mean established by the classification society, whichever is less.