PASSAGE PLANNING GUIDE - PANAMA CANAL 

Passage Planning Guide: Panama Canal (2026-27 Edition) is the most comprehensive operational and navigational Guide to the Panama Canal.

The goal for Ship Operators, Masters and the Panama Canal Authority (ACP), is that vessels arrive fully prepared to transit and with no unnecessary delays. This Guide will help operators achieve that goal.

The 2026-27 Edition incorporates the latest ACP Notices to Shipping and provides updated operational and navigational guidance.

This Guide provides emphasis on:

- The documentary submissions required by the Master

- the operational aspects of a transit of the Panama Canal

- the navigational elements and necessary contingencies.

Shipmasters will know that a canal transit means a very long day and that there are any number of potentials for stress, surprise and unexpected or unannounced occurrences. This Guide is the best available tool to prepare the Master and their officers for a successful transit, by instilling in them the knowledge and confidence necessary to aid ACP regulatory compliance, as well as the situational awareness and readiness required for each stage of the transit.