Lengthy Delays For Yachts Transiting Panama Canal

Created by doina. Last modified on 2008-03-21 19:20:20
Contributors:
Topic: Cruising Information
Countries: Panama

Latest reports from Panama are that yachts preparing to transit the Canal are experiencing lengthy delays before they are able to transit. Yacht agents have reported that only 3 yachts are making the northbound (Pacific to Caribbean) transit, and 3 southbound (the reverse), a total of six a day on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

The majority of yachts are queuing up to go through southbound and current delays are of 3 to 4 weeks. Fewer yachts are headed northbound so the delay is much less or minimal. Panama marinas are crowded with yachts waiting to go through.

Usual numbers at this busy time of year would be about 15 to 20 per day going through. The backlog for ships is even worse, even though they do get priority over yachts. A Panama Canal Pilot told a Noonsite source that there are no particular functional problems on the canal just an unexpected large number of ships wanting to use the canal. The result undoubtedly is that to accommodate the ships the yachts are being restricted.

Agents advise the best thing to do is to complete formalities for transit and pay the necessary fees, then take off for a cruise nearby until your turn comes up. Keep in touch with your agent though.

It does not appear that the backlog is set to improve soon.