Affected by the war in Iran, ships sought alternative routes. The waiting time for the Panama Canal was over a week, and a container ship paid 4 million US dollars to “queue up.” According to people familiar with the matter, the winning bid amount, which is close to a historical record, was paid by the shipowner of the Seaspan Benefactor. Since the tender data was not disclosed, people familiar with the matter requested anonymity. Normally, ships can cross this waterway by booking and paying a standard fee. However, the Panama Canal Authority also offers customers a skip-the-line bidding option.

Affected by the war in Iran, ships sought alternative routes. The waiting time for the Panama Canal was over a week, and a container ship paid 4 million US dollars to “queue up.” According to people familiar with the matter, the winning bid amount, which is close to a historical record, was paid by the shipowner of the Seaspan Benefactor. Since the tender data was not disclosed, people familiar with the matter requested anonymity. Normally, ships can cross this waterway by booking and paying a standard fee. However, the Panama Canal Authority also offers customers a skip-the-line bidding option.