This year, cross the Panama Canal off your bucket list and experience this fascinating waterway from the comfort of a cruise ship.
Glide through a total of twelve locks on your eight-hour journey through the canal. With each lock, the ship is raised about 85 feet. Your ship captain is not allowed to navigate through the canal – instead, a trained canal pilot takes control of the vessel during the transit.
Every ship that passes through the canal must pay a toll. The smallest amount ever paid was 36 cents, by a man named Richard Halliburton who swam the canal in 1928. In contrast, tolls for today’s largest ships can run nearly half a million dollars for a single crossing.
Holland America Line offers travelers nine unique itineraries that include the Panama Canal. These voyages range from 10–24 days, so you’re sure to find the perfect sailing for you.
Great nearby ports include up-and-coming Cartagena, Colombia as well as charming Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Holland America also has their own private island, Half Moon Cay.
For news on the latest promotions from Holland America, call your Stellar Travel advisor today.