Cruisers aiming to transit the Panama Canal in 2020 are in for some sticker shock. The canal authority has doubled the minimum charge for small vessels in its first toll increase in many years.
Sailors with boats under 50ft have every right to feel peeved at the increase. Until December 31, they’ll pay $800 under the existing rate; after that, the toll increases to $1,600. At the same time, the size bracket for the minimum toll increases from 50ft to 65ft. As a result, a 50ft-65ft yacht that would have paid $1,300 under the old rate will now be charged only $300 more.
The new tolls take effect on January 1, 2020. For more information, click here.
MHS Winter 2019
