Board a dedicated transit vessel and sail the entire 80km Panama Canal — through Miraflores, Pedro Miguel, and the new Agua Clara Locks — rising 26 metres into Gatun Lake and descending to the Atlantic. The ultimate engineering marvel, experienced from water level.
What to expect
You embark on the Pacific side and spend the full day navigating all three lock complexes, with expert commentary on the canal's century of history. The slow, deliberate rise through each chamber — watching 26 million litres of water lift you skyward — is genuinely jaw-dropping. Lunch is served as you glide across the glassy expanse of Gatun Lake, surrounded by primary rainforest. By late afternoon you emerge into the Caribbean, having crossed a continent.
Good to know
Departs early morning from Panama City; the return transfer back across the isthmus by coach is included so you are back well before all-aboard. Pre-book well in advance — this tour sells out months ahead. Confirm your ship's docking schedule to ensure the full-day timeline clears port curfew.