Port of Vila do Conde increases maximum channel draft to 13.90 metresCorrespondent Rabb Carvalho brings us this update.The access channel to the Port of Vila do Conde, in Barcarena, Pará, is now operating with an increased maximum permitted draft of 13.90 metres.The revised operational limit represents an increase of 10 centimetres, from the previous maximum draft of 13.80 metres.Although relatively modest, the additional draft may be commercially relevant for vessels operating close to the previous restriction, particularly when determining cargo intake and preparing arrival and sailing conditions.The ability of an individual vessel to operate at the new maximum remains subject to the vessel’s particular characteristics and compliance with the applicable operational guidance and navigational safety requirements established by the competent authorities.Owners, charterers, operators and cargo interests should therefore incorporate the revised limit into voyage and cargo planning while continuing to assess the specific operational parameters applicable to each vessel and port call.Read more here.Port of Manaus updates maximum draft and under keel clearance parametersCorrespondent Rabb Carvalho brings us this update.Due to the Amazon dry season and the resulting decline in river levels, updated operational parameters for Recommended Maximum Draft, known as RMD, and Under Keel Clearance, or UKC, have been authorized for navigation through the Port of Manaus access channel. The revised limits became effective on September 17, 2026, and are expected to remain valid through September 25.The update followed a technical meeting between the local Port Authority and Pilotage, based on an assessment of critical passage data and the progress of ongoing dredging operations.The revised calculations allowed an increase in the previously applicable operational limits, providing improved draft margins and greater stability for planning vessel movements at terminals in the Manaus regi