How to Ferry Down the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal opened in 1914 to provide passage between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through Central America; before the canal was built, one would have to sail around the southern tip of South America to go from ocean to ocean. The 50-mile long canal has since become a tourist attraction, with travelers spending a day or partial day ferrying through the locks. Ferry riders will pass through three sets of locks, getting an up-close look at this feat of engineering.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Cab or bus fare
- Passport or identification
- Reservation confirmation
- Panama City hotel address
Instructions
-
-
1
Contact a local tour company like Almiza Tours, Canal and Bay Tours or Panama Jones to investigate their options for full-day or half-day tours of the canal. You must book a trip with a tour company, as there is no local public ferry service nor are personal boats allowed on the canal. Almiza regularly offers full-day trips. Panama Jones offers a multi-day "Panama at a Glance" package with hotel stays along the canal. Canal and Bay Tours offers both full-day trips and the more popular half-day trips.
-
2
Make a reservation for your ferry trip by paying the appropriate tour company directly.
-
-
3
Check your reservations to see if they include free transport to the departure point. If you need to arrange your own transportation, ask your hotel desk to call a cab to take you to Flamenco Marina. Be sure to allow enough time to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the ferry's departure.
-
4
Be sure to bring all necessary supplies for the length of your journey---some full-day itineraries can be up to 12 hours long. In addition to a camera, remember to bring any medication you may need plus snacks (if your ticket doesn't include refreshments).
-
5
Board the ferry and find a comfortable seat (seats are not assigned). Ask about available translations for the tour narration to ensure you will hear directions and tour information in a language you understand.
-
6
When you get to a stopping point, disembark and explore, but be sure to take your personal belongings with you. Also be sure to confirm the next departure time so you can re-board well in advance. Choose a new seat for a different view of the canal.
-
7
When the tour finishes, hail a cab and present your hotel's address to the driver. If you're unsure of the city's layout---or your Spanish-language skills---ask your hotel's concierge to write down the address in Spanish.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Read about the construction and locks of the Panama Canal passage in advance to map your trip along the canal.
Remember the temperature may change over a long ferry trip, so wear layers of clothes or bring a light jacket depending on your season of travel.
