Escape to the Warmth and Beauty of the Panama Canal
 

If you’re one who likes to plan ahead, it’s never too early to start thinking about shaking away next winter’s blues. While a seven-day Caribbean cruise offers quick relief from the winter doldrums, why not consider a longer sailing through the Panama Canal for next year’s escape from old man winter?

Although some lines operate Central American/Panama Canal cruises throughout the year, the dry season from September through April is the most popular time for these itineraries. The warm region between Mexico and South America has a lot going for it—exotic cultures, unforgettable scenery, abundant wildlife, and of course, the Canal. Often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, the Panama Canal is located in the narrowest part of Central America on the Isthmus of Panama.  Constructed by the U.S. and opened in 1914, it is still regarded as one of the world's most outstanding engineering achievements.

The Panama Canal is an engineering masterpiece, and cruises that transit the canal should be on every traveler’s list of itineraries not to be missed. The actual ship transit through the Canal is fascinating – and the Panama Canal itineraries are equally as compelling.

It takes approximately 8 to 10 hours to transit the two-lane canal and pass through the sets of locks that raise and lower ships as they make their passage: the Gatun Locks on the Atlantic side, and the Miraflores and Pedro Miguel locks on the Pacific side. Most ships have commentators on board describing the operation of the canal as the ship passes through the locks. We highly suggest booking a cabin with a balcony so you can enjoy the passage from the comfort of your own private perch.

Depending on your itinerary, once you’ve transited the Canal your journey is just beginning as you visit exotic ports of call in Central America and the Caribbean. Although some of today’s larger cruise ships can’t pass through the locks of the Canal, many major cruise lines offer sailings that include passage through the Panama Canal.

If you are a fan of rich tropical environments featuring exotic plants and wildlife, a Panama Canal cruise is the way to go. Cruise Holidays can help you get there.