New tie-up increases Panama Canal capacity

New tie-up increases Panama Canal capacity    A new 'tie-up' where vessels can anchor to await passage through the Panama Canal will increase efficiency and thus capacity by allowing waiting vessels more quickly get into the canal.
   One Panamax or two smaller vessels may be moored at the Cucaracha (Reach) tie-up station. Officials said that would allow more flexibility in scheduling, especially during the fog season and when there are lock maintenance outages. The tie-up can also be used for vessels experiencing system difficulties while in transit.
   The new station is located near the Pacific entrance to the canal on the east side of the Gaillard Cut, and allows vessels to advance from the Pacific Ocean to the southern end of the Gaillard Cut while a vessel heading toward the Pacific is still making its passage.
   The Panama Canal Authority did not say how much the new tie-up would increase capacity, but noted it would reduce transit times for vessels that previously had to wait further out from the entrance to the canal.