Panama Canal Transit Port Reviews

Panama Canal Transit: what the cruise is all about. We heard doors start slamming about 6:00AM so decide to get up. We were waiting with several other vessels to enter the locks. While we hadn’t started the transit yet we could see a lot from our balcony. Humberto was live on the TV and we were able to follow our progress. We went under the Bridge of the Americas then enter the Miraflores about 10:45AM, then the Pedro Miguel a half hour later. We transited the Gillard Cut and went through Gatun Lake. We finally enter the Gatun Locks about 4:00 PM and watched from deck 5 in the coffee shop. This was a wonderful spot as we started with window at the top of the lock and went down so the wall filled the window (kind of spooky). We were finally through about 5:30PM. While we did not go through the new locks we watched a ship enter and we could see it as we did the transit. This experience should definitely be on your “cruise to do list”.

Visited: Dec 05, 2016

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The ship had a guide on the bridge who gave explanation and history of the Canal. It was a terrific experience and if you've never made the passage, worth the time

Visited: Jan 02, 2019

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We got up very early and went to the front of deck 11 for a good view. We enjoyed the running commentary given on the PA system. It was so fun!

Visited: Feb 08, 2011

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This was just amazing! We stayed top side for most of the day. There was an expert on board who explained every step of it while it was happening, which was very informative. Also, the same man gave a presentation in the theatre the day before on what to expect. Get up early to get your favorite spot on the ship to view, it is crowded on that day.

Visited: Apr 09, 2019

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We can cross this off our bucket list. the onboard lecturer was excellent.

Visited: Mar 13, 2019

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Although I have transited the canal many times, the transit is always exciting.

Visited: Jan 04, 2018

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This was one of the most impressive experiences. The engineering that went into construction and operation of the canal locks is mind-blowing. Highly recommended!

I have transited the Panama Canal twice. Both times going from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea. First time the bow of the ship was already full by 5am! The second time, not at all.

Highlight of the trip!! Well-narrated on ship- this was the Emerald-s first time going through the P.C. - we found it fascinating and really enjoyed the full transit which took all day! AWESOME!

Visited: Apr 18, 2019

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Hard to watch from bow - crowds formed early. But views from side were good, and watching ship in next lane showed all of the locks, trains and activity that was happening to our ship as well.

Visited: Feb 05, 2017

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