PANAMA CANAL TRANSIT

Panama Canal transits on a cruise ship start early, allowing for a full daylight transit.  As we waited our turn through the Gatun Locks, we could see numerous other ships at anchor waiting for their turn.  Ships may have to wait for several days or longer if they haven’t paid extra to reserve a specific transit date and time.  HERE is a website about waiting times for any Canal Nerds out there.

This data is from Nov 2023

Ships at anchor waiting for their turn to enter the canal

One interesting point is that the transit is north-south rather than east-west, and the Pacific Ocean exit is further east than the Atlantic Ocean entrance.

HERE is a website with plenty of details about canal transits on a cruise ship or a yacht!

Cruise and Travel Director Kimberly started her scenic commentary at 6:30 am.  The bow was opened via Deck 4.  Passengers were also allowed to access the forward observation platforms on Decks 5, 6, 7 (normally closed to guests ) and Deck 9.

Passing under the Atlantic Bridge on our way to the Gatun locks

When the bow is open, we can get a good view of our World Cruise logo painted on Deck 6

Panama Canal Rolls were served in the Crow’s Nest and on the bow.  You can find the Panama Canal rolls recipe HERE.

The Panama Canal rolls were still warm when served in the Crow’s Nest

The Carnival Pride follows us under the Atlantic Bridge

Unlike transiting the canal on a shorter cruise, none of the viewing spots were crowded, as most folks have been through the canal many times.

Waiting for the ships in front to clear before we enter our first lock

Nothing happens too quickly during transit, and everything gets repeated several times as we transit.  The ship gets raised three times from the Atlantic Ocean and lowered three times to get to the Pacific Ocean.

I always find this big arrow interesting as it directs us to the correct side of the canal.

I spent the day checking out our transit occasionally and watched several lock doors open and close.  I always find that fascinating.

Looking aft as the Carnival Pride enters, a lock behind us.

A better view of the lock doors opening and closing is available looking aft from the Seaview Pool

A view of our progress as seen on the Cruise Mapper website.  The Ruby Princess was using the new locks

We spotted the Ruby Princess as she exited the Agua Clara Locks

It’s always fun to wave at the folks watching from the Miraflores Visitors Center

BURGERS AND BEER

Once we cleared the canal, we enjoyed some Burgers and Beers by the pool.  Beer was 1/2 price, waiters took our burger order (other choices were available), and they were definitely big enough to share!

A special beer bar by the Lido pool

The Grand World Voyage Orchestra entertained the crowd while they enjoyed their burgers

Now that’s a BURGER!

PREVIOUS DAY HIGHLIGHTS

A few highlights from the prior day before we entered the canal.

Guest Chef Maria Zamora demonstrated how to make Costa Rican Ceviche and Authentic Patacones

Table 89 dined in the Pinnacle Grill and I enjoyed the Clothesline Bacon

Chef Ricky and Pinnacle Grill Manager Tina stopped by to say hi during our meal