The unique Panama Canal is known as One of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I cruised through this engineering marvel dozens of times. So, read on and learn about tips and what to expect from the Panama Canal Cruise highlights.
Panama Canal History
The Panama Canal is a manmade waterway 82 km or 51 miles long, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. As the name says, it goes through the isthmus of Panama, connecting Central and South America. The canal finally opened in 1914, owned and managed by the U.S. However, in 1977, U.S. President Jimmy Carter and the Panamanian leader signed a treaty, turning the canal over to Panama by the end of the 20th century.
To truly appreciate the engineering marvel that the canal is, it’s important to understand the challenges faced more than a century ago in constructing it. Firstly, France began the project in 1881, attempting to recreate the engineering plans of the successful Suez Canal, with no locks. However, in Panama, they ran into new obstacles, for example, varied elevations, torrential rains, mudslides and tragically more than 5,600 deaths from the mosquito-spread Yellow Fever and Malaria. The United States took over the project in 1904 and completed it a decade later.
For the best history of the Panama Canal, I recommend reading The Path between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama Canal, 1870-1914 by David McCollough.
Related: Ten Photos that will Inspire You to take a Suez Canal Cruise
Panama Canal Landmarks
The Panama Canal goes through a series of landmarks, for example, 12 locks, 2 artificial Lake a river and Continental Divide. Overall, it transit time is about 11.5 hours through the canal. In contrast to a journey around South America, this is a dramatic improvement. Furthermore, I later elaborate on the canal landmarks with photos.
Also, in the lock canals, Mules or Tow Trains steer large ships through the canal. This prevents the ships from damaging the canals.
Panama Canal Cruise Highlights
There are 3 cruise options through the Panama Canal. Firstly, cruises go from the Caribbean side through the canal, halfway through locks to Gantun Lake and back to the Caribbean. Secondly, cruises go the entire canal from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. And thirdly, cruises go the entire canal from the Pacific to Atlantic Ocean. My favorite route is the second route, going the entire canal, from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean. This route includes the grand finale of Panama City, which I find the best part of the whole canal journey. Also, I saw several yachts and smaller boats going through the locks of the canal.
Outline of Canal Landmarks, from Atlantic to Pacific Ocean
Firstly, one enters Limon Bay, a natural harbor for 5.5 mi (8.4 km).Channel 2 mi (3.2 km) to the Locks
Gatun Locks – A 3 staged flight of locks lift ships to the Gatun Lake, at 87 ft (27 m) above sea level
Gatun Lake – An artificial lake, taking the journey across 15 mi (24 km)
Chagres River – This runs about 5¼ mi (8.5 km).
Culebra Cut – goes nearly 8 miles (12.5 km) through the mountain ridge, crossing the Continental Divide and passes under the Centennial Bridge. (Below Photo)
Pedro Miguel Lock – Almost a mile (1.5 km) single lock beginning the descent.
Miraflores Lake – Another artificial lake taking another stretch about a mile (1.5 km) to 54 ft above sea level.
Miraflores Locks – Two-staged Locks with a descent of 54 ft (16 m).
Balboa Harbor
Channel of approx. 8 mi (13 km) by Panama City and Gulf of Panama (Below Photo)
Pass under the Bridge of Americas to Pacific Ocean
Related: Top Panama City Attractions – Canal, Culture & Biodiversity
What I love most about cruising the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is fascinating on so many levels for its history and engineering breakthroughs. However, my favorite experiences in the canal are seeing the workers on the ships and wild life. Because while going through locks, you get up close and personal to colossal ships with their crew. Often we all wave at each other, sending our smiles and navigational cheer. It’s great fun sharing this iconic experience with strangers. Also, I saw many forms of wildlife, such as, crocodiles, white herons and numerous other birdlife in this biodiversity hotspot.
Overall, Panama Canal Cruise Highlights
I met countless people who make this journey to tick off their Bucket List. It is a monumental site to see and experience. Overall, my biggest advice before going is to do some homework first, so you can appreciate the history and all that has gone into One of the 7 Modern Wonders of the World.
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