Panama Canal’s new piloting requirement
From October 1, 2023, all vessels with a beam of 109 feet or more transiting the Panama Canal will be required to have a fixed (non-portable) piloting unit with Real Time Kinematics (RTK) for submeter accuracy.
If requirements are not met, a portable piloting unit with Real Time Kinematics (PPU-RTK) will be temporarily installed in the vessel, at an additional cost (starting January 1, 2024).
Upon arrival it must be reported that the vessel does not have the required RTK system installed. The boarding officer will proceed with the installation during the inspection.
As per a communique, from January 1, 2024, the rental charge for portable unit (CAT/AIS – RTK) will be as follows:
* Rental fee for PPU-RTK portable unit, per transit or per day; for the first transit for all vessels with a beam ≥ 33.22 metres or 109 feet in the neopanamax locks, without antenna - $5,000.00
* Rental fee for PPU-RTK portable unit, per transit or per day; for the second transit for all vessels with a beam ≥ 33.22 metres or 109 feet in the neopanamax locks, without antenna - $5,000.00 + 100% surcharge
* Rental fee for PPU-RTK portable unit, per transit or per day; beyond the third transit for all vessels with a beam ≥ 33.22 metres or 109 feet in the neopanamax locks, without antenna - $5,000.00 + Disruption charge low impact $65,000.00
Source: Exim News Service: Panama City, Sept. 28