Guidance for LNG Carriers Transiting the Panama Canal (2nd ed, 2

Panama Canal Expansion Completed
Guidance for LNG Carriers Transiting the Panama Canal

Historically, LNG carriers have been unable to transit the Canal, mainly due to size restrictions. Following the completion of the Panama Canal (third set of locks) expansion project in June 2016, the majority of LNG carriers are now able to transit the Canal.

This Guide provides practical guidance on the ACP requirements, including pre-arrival procedures, security, navigation, pilotage, mooring, tugs, LNG cargo carriage, vapour management, propulsion systems, bridge visibility and contingency planning.

The Guide looks at the geography of the new locks and discusses safety, minimum equipment levels and what might be considered to be good operating practices. Some LNG carriers may need modification to comply with the ACP requirements and the Annex to the Guide summarises the structural requirements. The Guide also includes a detailed fold-out chart of the entire Canal showing depths and dimensions, navigable waters, anchorages, aids to navigation, significant features, etc (this is intended as a ready-reference and is not to be used for navigation).