Panama Canal speed limit may prompt bunker schedule adjustments

The restriction follows International Maritime Organization (IMO) recommendations and applies to both traffic lanes in the Gulf of Panama.

IMAGE: Port of Balboa at Panama's Pacific Ocean side. Getty Images

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has imposed a seasonal 10-knot speed limit for ships navigating the Gulf of Panama from 1 August to 30 November to reduce the risk of collisions with migrating whales.

The lower speed limit could marginally extend voyage times and delay vessel arrivals at ports, a trader tells ENGINE.

"The restriction on vessel speeds may lead to slightly longer voyage times along the Pacific approach to the canal," the trader said, adding that revised arrival times could require bunker suppliers to adjust delivery schedules accordingly.

Reduced sailing speeds also come with the possibility of lower fuel consumption, the trader added.

The advisory comes as ships transiting the Panama Canal have already been facing operational constraints.

Last month, shipping agent Norton Lilly said the ACP would temporarily reduce booking slots for vessels transiting the Panamax locks because of drought conditions, adding to congestion at the canal.

Earlier in June, the ACP announced a reduction in the maximum authorised draft for Neopanamax vessels from July, citing projected water levels in Gatun Lake and the possible development of El Niño conditions.

By Gautamee Hazarika

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