Neopanamax Ship

What is a Neopanamax Vessel?

‍A Neopanamax vessel is a large ship designed to fit through the expanded Panama Canal locks, which were opened in 2016 as part of the canal’s modernization project. These vessels are capable of carrying much larger loads than the older Panamax class ships and are primarily used for container shipping. The term "Neopanamax" refers to the new size limitations set by the expanded canal, allowing for more efficient transportation of goods across major global shipping routes.

What are the Dimensions of a Neopanamax Vessel?

A Neopanamax vessel can have a maximum length of 366 meters (1,200 feet), a beam (width) of 51 meters (168 feet), and a draft (the depth of the ship below the waterline) of 15.2 meters (50 feet). These dimensions allow the vessel to navigate the wider, deeper locks of the expanded Panama Canal.

What is the Deadweight of a Neopanamax Vessel?

The deadweight tonnage (DWT) of a Neopanamax vessel can range from 120,000 to 150,000 tons. This represents the ship's total carrying capacity, including cargo, fuel, crew, and other supplies. Container capacity is around 14,000 TEU.  Compared to Panamax ships, Neopanamax vessels can transport significantly more containers or bulk goods.

Neopanamax vs. Panamax: What's the Difference?

The primary difference between Neopanamax and Panamax vessels is their size. Neopanamax ships are larger and designed to transit the expanded Panama Canal locks, while Panamax ships are smaller and were built to fit the original locks. Neopanamax vessels have greater cargo capacity, wider beams, and deeper drafts, which enable them to move larger shipments more efficiently across global routes.

What East Coast Ports can Accommodate Neopanamax Ships?

Several East Coast U.S. ports have expanded their infrastructure to accommodate Neopanamax vessels. Major ports like the Port of New York and New Jersey, Port of Virginia (Norfolk), Port of Savannah, and Port of Charleston have deepened their channels and upgraded their facilities to handle these larger ships.