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We cruised on Celebrity from California to Ft. Lauderdale, it was an older ship so we traveled through the old locks. Celebrity engaged an engineer, who had worked in the locks, describing the sites as we transited through the locks. The descriptions and stories were broadcasted in all public spaces. Those discussions made the trip more meaningful and complete.
Took a Panama Canal cruise in 2018 on the Coral Princess through the old locks. Did the complete transit from Ft. Lauderdale to LA. I stood at the front of the ship for the entire crossing about 12 hours. It was absolutely fantastic
@@RedRoseSeptember22 Full transit goes from East Coast to West Coast or the other way around. Partial transit means just going in canal at one coast side, then making a U-turn on lake and going back the same coast side.
I highly recommend reading The Path Between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama Canal, 1870-1914 prior to or during your trip. It's a comprehensive and interesting account of the canal.
I bought that book on someone else’s advice. I’m only about 20% through. It’s amazing how much went on before they even started digging. It’s a good book and I’m glad I bought it.
Food For Thought: One thing that we thought was so interesting, is a certified Panama Canal Navigator comes onboard and steers the ship through the locks. We talked to the Co-Captain (or whatever you call the second-in-command) and he said our Captain could definitely do it himself, but it's the law to have the P.C. official sail the ship through the locks. Thanks for the video, Ilana! Always great! 🥰
"We talked to the Co-Captain (or whatever you call the second-in-command)" In the Navy, Executive Officer, abbreviated "XO" (I was Navy, submarines 🙂). I think on Merchant ships (to include cruise ships, that's part of the merchant fleet), they call the XO "First Officer". 🙂
Just did a Panama Canal cruise on NCL. We had an aft facing balcony and spent most of the day there - we had a great view as we went through the locks - even ordered room service lunch so we didn't have to leave the cabin.
I have done the full several times as a Yacht Capt that specializes in deliveries. Don't feel like you are being ignored by the lock workers! Once in the lock, damage incurred is on them and prior to that it's on the Pilot. They are deadly serious and may seem standoffish, far from it. They are eyes wide open. Smaller guys like me get stuffed in and tied together. Ah my first time through was a MAJOR learning experience. YOU must furnish the lines you will need AND the fenders to protect those you are tied to. Crusty old TugBoat Capt helped me out
We were on Princess and did a full passage - and we booked the sanctuary which is at the front of the ship we were on. Best choice ever to go through in the sanctuary - not crowded and so relaxed. It did cost an extra fee but worth every penny.
@@BonnieStill yes but there is an extra charge for being there and it books very quickly. Front row seats are best and you need to go there right by away when you first get on the ship because front row seats fills quickly.
We are currently on our last of 10 nights panama canal cruise. Did lots of pre planning & did not get off in Cartagena. Heard the vendors were in your face. Our ship went thru the new locks but we booked an excursion that gave a bus tour, then ferry to Gatun lake and Mira Flores lake. That took us thru THREE of the OLD locks as a partial transit. It was fantastic to go thru both the new gates and the old door locks. It was hot & humid but so informative. Do your homework and read everything about your cruise months ahead. Our ship was Ruby Princess and well worth the experience 💕.
I was in high school when I first went through the canal in 1984. Our concert band was the shipboard entertainment, and honestly I didn't understand what all of the fuss was about. Naturally, with age comes wisdom and the canal is back on my bucket list so that I can truly enjoy and appreciate all that it has to offer. I prefer to do a full transit over a partial, but when I actually book it will depend on cost, and several other things. In the meantime, I will get reaquainted with it from an educational point and be more prepared then I was at 16.
We have cruised through the entire old canal 3 times on Holland America and absolutely loved it. HAL had coffee stations all over the ship so you could get a refill and not miss a thing. In the morning they had traditional Panama pastries and at lunch served soup outside. The history of building the canal was so very interesting. They loaded 3 local captains on the ship, 2 for each side of the bow and one for the back. There were more workers, linesmen I think, loaded also. I would love to go back again. Great video, thanks!
I did the partial transit on the Eurodam in 2022, a helpful book to get before the cruise was "CRUISING COAST TO COAST THROUGH THE PANAMA CANAL 2022-23: A GUIDE ON WHAT TO EXPECT" gave a good look on what to expect and what to look for. Be ready for oppressive heat and humidity even in springtime.
Did a repositioning, Vancouver to Fort Lauderdale, in October 2022 on the Nieum Amsterdam. Incredible experience! Bow was open and well used. Whole Canal experience was greatly enhanced by pre cruise reading about the incredible history and the on board talks prior to the transit. My humble recommendation is to view the many aspects of the canal from as many view points as possible all over the ship including your balcony where I was able to some great close up of the mules. Agree the older locks are more historically interesting and we were glad that the NA fit nicely. A bucket list trip for sure. If you have chance do it. Happy Cruising
Just disembarked from a 21-day reposition from Seattle to Miami on the NCL Encore, which due to size can only use the new locks. Encore is NCL's physically largest ship by Gross Tonage, but sister ship Bliss is configured with a handful more beds, although overall layout is nearly identical. It really did take the entire day. Plus, we saw Mayan Ruins in Guatemala, ziplined the rain forest in Costa Rica, and swam with dolphins in Grand Cayman--on the same trip! Great itinerary, even though we lost Acapulco--they not only compensated each passenger $100, but added Costa Rica so we didn't have three sea days in a row. I'd skip Mazatlan, however--just a slightly nicer Tijuana.
We did Miami to Seattle on NCL Sun in 21 days! The ship broke down in Columbia and we stayed there for the night. We missed Costa Rica and were so disappointed. Regardless it was a beautiful cruise.
Thanks Ilana. We are going through the old locks on Island Princess. We are adjusting expectations based on the fact it is an older ship. That said, most passengers say it it lovely and full of character. Going through the old locks was our primary goal! Super excited!
We did the island princess in 2019 partial locks. But did a day excursion through the Pedro Miguel locks it was great. I would recommend it if it’s available.
Great video! One other tip based on my experience. I took a full transit on Serenade of the Seas. On this class of ship, the bow is open 24x7, but it wasn't the best place to watch. People were packed in 5 or 6 deep. No way most of them could see. Instead, go up to deck 12. Go all of the way forward. You can watch from there, but there are 2 staircases down to an observation deck on deck 12. This was much, much, much less busy. It was also higher and gave a terrific view.
After doing this same cruise on the same ship as you, I completely agree with everything in this video. The biggest point I would stress is looking at the newer and older lock systems. I did the older locks a few months ago, and personally enjoyed that much more, and found it to be way more impressive. However, I do think that if I hadn't done the old locks before, I probably would have found the new ones amazing. The partial transits open up the canal to those who can't take too much time out of work - I found that I could do this trip with way less work holiday, as it was a shorter cruise than the full transits, which are often 14 nights!
I took the Celebrity Repositioning Panama Cruise through the old locks last March. It was terrific. I was really happy to have a balcony cabin. I did not need to fight the mass trying to see.😅 I am so happy I had the whole experience Ft Lauderdale to LA
If you're cruising for the canal experience, definitely choose the old locks and a smaller ship, but preferably a PanaMax ship. Otherwise, you're too far from not so much action. PanaMax puts you right up at the lock wall. I also did the new locks on Norwegian Bliss and it was comparatively disappointing. And it's always best to cruise _to_ Florida. ;)
I just returned from a Panama Canal Cruise on the MS Rotterdam, at the end of October, and it was so much fun to relive my experience through your video. On the day we transited the locks, we were given the greenlight to go ahead and exit the lake, almost as soon as we had entered it. Thankfully, at that time, I had a great seat in the cafe on the 12th deck. You’re right about this cruise having a very relaxed vibe. I absolutely loved it!
I'll be on this same cruise on 12/8/2024. I booked the tour to go through the locks on the Pacific side, then bused back to the Atlantic side. I hope it does not get cancelled as you get to go through the old locks. I hear it is a very long day, but this is a bucket list, once-in-a-lifetime itinerary for me. I'm so excited! And I love how detailed your videos are. Thank you!
My wife and I got married Jan 1, 2022. We went on our first ever cruise on the NCL Bliss. Full transit Panama Canal from LA to Miami. Because of Covid stuff the ship was at 22% capacity. I chose an aft facing balcony near the top, which was awesome. We went through the canal on Jan. 31st and in the canal we did a Vow Renewal on the back of the ship. It was amazing. We basically had two weddings in 2022. I joke with my wife that this way if I forget the first one on new years I have a chance to make it up on our second one on the last day of the month. The original plan was to get married in the canal, but legally we could not do it that way, so we did it this way. We watched lots of your tips prior to our cruise. And your tips along with the other bloggers we watched helped a lot.
We have been fortunate to have done six full transits. This is my favorite trip. You are correct about the older crowd. That’s basically demographics. Most of the new Ships are much larger and cannot travel through the old locks. Some of the older Holland, older Celebrity, and two Princess ships can travel through the old locks. But the Panama Canal is one I encourage for everyone.🛳
We did Holland America and it was a full transit through the old locks. Great history. The night before entering we were approached to get an opportunity to buy tickets to the crows nest bar for $100 dollars each with unlimited food and drinks and it was limited to 30 couples. We had an 180 degree view in air conditioning as it was very hot and humid. Had a great time.
This was so helpful as we're leaving in two weeks on a Panama canal cruise. I still don't know what I'll pack, but everything you mentioned helped ease some of my anxiety. Also, your family is stunning and always looks amazing! Thank you for all you do
We took a Panama Canal cruise in 2019 on the Island Princess through the old locks - partial transit. Loved it! It sounds like our itinerary was very similar to yours. We were very surprised by Cartagena - very different than we pictured. We want to go again - next time, we would like to do a full transit through the new locks.
We've done it twice, without benefit of advice, and loved it immensely. Looking forward to doing it again. You can't choose your lock size on most cruiseships, due to their narrow beam. Highly recommend full crossing, with a balcony cabin.
We have done full and partial. Full is the only way to go. So excited we were up at 6am watching all the ships waiting to go through. Sat on our balconies for the entire day, had room service, A total great experience.
Thank you for all the useful information. I am booked on a Star Clipper cruise that will do a full transit of the canal and expect it will go through the old locks. I was in Panama in 2014 when they were building the new locks. Returning after 10 years is an exciting prospect.
Thank you for all the helpful details. Didn't know much about Panama Canal cruises and wondered whether this is something my family would enjoy! Very helpful!
Thank you very much for all your videos - very helpful, even for an experienced cruiser like me. For all: Information about cruising Panama Canal. Only ships of Panamax Class - 965 ft long and 106 ft wide - can pass the original old Panama Canal locks. Ships above are called Neopanamax-Class and will go through the new locks (opened in June 2016). When going through the old locks you will get the marvellous and historic experience with the locomotives at both sides pulling the ship through the canal. I was on a full transit in January 2019 with the Norwegian Gem going through the old locks - it was simply great. So, check at booking with cruise line about old or new passage, to avoid disappointment. Or check the different ships at websites of the cruise lines, where you should find information about the actual ship size.
The old locks are 110 feet wide, and the Holland America Rotterdam is 115 feet wide, so that is why you went through the new locks. You sort of addressed this, but you were destined to go through the new locks before you left Ft. Lauderdale. My Reserarch says that if the ship will fit through the old locks, you are almost certain to go that way. The ideal situation would be to go one way through the old locks and the other way through the newer locks. Thanks for all your content. We are going to the Panama from Ft. Lauderdale round trip 14 nights on Viking in February 2024. The Viking ship is 94 feet wide, so we are anticipating the old locks.
April 2023, we did a full transit from LA to Ft. Lauderdale on the Emerald Princess (new locks). A full transit takes about 12 hours. Each individual lock is about 30-45 minutes. It is important to realize that during our transit, we sailed north through Panama over the continental divide between two oceans. We took an excursion in Panama City which took us to the old locks viewing stand. It was nice to see ships going through from the land side and then sailing through the locks, so you can see it from both angles. The transit is not a party cruise, I think because ours was 15 days long, so it is very laid back. It even lacked some of the energy found on other cruises. We also met a couple that did back to back transits because it was cheaper to sail back to Florida from LA than to fly back to Florida. And yes, they were retired. Tips: 1) pre tan if you can and still use sun screen on transit day. It is a long time on deck. 2) There is a lot of down time between locks and after you rise (or fall) in one lock, all the other locks are exactly the same except for the view. 3) Mega cruise ships cannot fit under the bridges that cross over the canal, so don't look for one of those ships to sail the canal. They would fit in the new locks but can't reach them. 4) Princess had a self-service laundry plus laundry service. Plan on using it. You need change clothes from day actives to night actives unless you are eating in the buffet everyday. We had three formal nights on that cruise and we did dress up, so that was some extra clothes. Then we won a seat at the chef's table. Had to get my suit cleaned. If you ever win a seat at the chef's table, pay whatever price they want. It is more than worth it for a once in lifetime experience.
We live near Tampa so we chose Carnival for a full transit. It began in San Pedro and ended in Tampa. Our favorite thing was watching about a 40 ft sailboat go in the opposite direction from us. In stead of it being pulse thru by a train it was pulled by 2 men holding ropes.
Went on our Panama Canal cruise in 2005, on the old Rotterdam, and partially through the old locks... it was quite enjoyable, and we didn't want to end our cruise in California... It was a great experience... but the other ports were a little disappointing, like Puerto Limon in Costa Rica...
We did a full transit, Ft. Lauderdale to LA, old locks, retirement celebration cruise on the Island Princess. I usually select an aft suite for our special celebrations and was very disappointed when the only suites available were mid-ship. Turns out mid-ship was perfect! From our spacious balcony we could see everything, looking straight down to view the inches away from the side of the canal. It was awesome! Our cruise was at least 2 weeks. You have wonderful tips. Due to the humidity I used "tons" of baby powder and was glad to have a full sized container. On our way out of the canal I ruptured a cyst in my knee and spent the remainder of the cruise in a wheelchair. 😢 Another reason mid-ship worked out well because then we were closer to everything. We still enjoyed ourselves. Princess was wonderful, helping us cancel excursions, purchase crutches and borrow a wheelchair to use onboard and in the cruise terminal. We enjoyed our time on the ship when at port, discovering places and different things that we had not seen before. We also discovered we enjoyed the longer cruises that can be enjoyed during retirement.
Panama Canal Cruise is definitely more chilled. We (and several hundred others) got on a repositioning cruise in San Diego that had just arrived from Fort Lauderdale and was continuing to Vancouver. The vibe changed to “let’s party” for the next four days. (It was also Mother’s Day when we joined and we surprised my in-laws who were on the full canal repositioning. They commented that it was very relaxing until San Diego.)
We were supposed to be on the Rotterdam the first month that was and service but it wasn't ready. So, we were on the following September, well I love a year ago for a Norwegian Fjords cruise. Beautiful.
We booked the Sanctuary for the day on Princess. They serve a nice breakfast while you watch the amazing views. It was a very relaxing day and perfect way to enjoy the transit through the locks.
This October, I'm doing a 21 day cruise that includes a full transit of the Canal (Seattle to Miami). In fact, we spend a full day in Panama City (7:00AM to 10:00PM) before we transit, the Canal, the next day. The day in Panama City, I'm taking an excursion that takes you into the locks and connecting waterways. I believe that we are passing through the New Locks, because the Encore is a pretty huge ship.
We are cruising the Panama canal in April on the Emerald Princess, full transit AND we get to see the April 8 total solar eclipse while at sea! I saw the 2017 eclipse and that was extraordinary. I've been following your trip closely and appreciate the tips!
As always this episode is super helpful! Ilana has proved to be “helpful, informative and enjoyable”! The life well cruised planner saved me from making packing and planning mistakes, well worth the minimal cost. ❤️
We did the full transit on the Eurodam on April 2023. Ft Lauderdale to San Diego. Great cruise and cruising through the old locks was very interesting.
Hi Ilana, we just got off the Rotterdam 12 day Panama Canal cruise and I agree with all your points you brought up in this video. On our cruise the excursions were once again available for the Panama Canal portion and we actually had a crocodile join us when when were going through the locks.
We enjoyed an unusual cruise which began in Vancouver, went to Alaska, then went to SF, LA, and on down through the Panama Canal to Fort Lauderdale. It was amazing. It was on the Cunard Queen Elizabeth. We went through the old locks with less than a foot on either side of the ship as we transited through. Old locks vs. new locks is all about the size of the ship. Most newer ships are too big to go through the old locks, so that’s the main factor in which one is used. In my opinion, Glacier Bay is far more fascinating and magnificent than going through the Panama Canal. However, the history of the canal is unbelievable, and we had excellent enrichment talks on Cunard. Another nice thing about our Cunard cruise is that they prepared an amazing video of the transit which made taking pictures and videos unnecessary. I definitely recommend cruising through the canal, partial or full. Enjoy!
Wow! What a trip! I love Glacier Bay. Looking forward to the canal just as much … just days away now. It will be my first cruise into the Caribbean Sea
We are going on the Ruby Princess in just 10 days!! Getting very excited!!❤🎉❤ Thanks so much for all your info! Our friends are on the Ruby right now and had excellent things to say. ❤
We did partial on Carib Princess. Did Panama Railway excursion. Love trains. Included trip to lock hdqts. Loved Cartagena old town and fortress. Rode train and canal boat in Limon, CR. Ship excursions
Husband and I sailed on 12 day Panama Canal cruise (Caribbean Princess) Dec. 2019 right before the world shut down for Covid. I read and watched videos extensively to make sure we used our time to the most advantage. We had a balcony on Caribe deck (10) as they are larger. The first thing we did when we got onboard was to go to the Sanctuary and reserve a spot for the Canal day. Everything I had read said to do this immediately, but as it turned out we would have been fine doing it a little later. It was $60 per person for the day and well worth it especially since it drizzled most of the morning. The views were spectacular. Going through the Canal was an experience like no other. The sides of the canal looked as though you could reach out and touch them. Watching the locks work, the gates opening and closing, filling the lock, lifting the ship higher each time to the next level you appreciate the engineering and the labor required to build it. Yes, it was warm. You are near the equator. The cold towels and drinks brought to us at the Sanctuary kept us cool and made us feel extremely pampered. Contrary to popular belief Cartagena is “dangerous” and vendors “very persistent “ it turned out to be my favorite port and would go back in a heartbeat. We did book an excursion through the cruise line and by luck of the draw we had a marvelous tour guide. Didn’t rush us, explaining everything and made us feel comfortable as we went to various points of interest. In our experience vendors would back off and keep their distance if you indicated no interest. I was more anxious in Jamaica than in Cartagena which I certainly didn’t expect. BTW we were 69 years old at the time. And Illana, thank you for all you do. I have been watching long before you had 100,000 followers and watched your outreach justifiably to over 200,000. If you weren’t doing it right you wouldn’t be where you are. PS: I didn’t think you were underdressed. Haters are gonna be haters and trolls are going to be trolls.
We have done 3 full transits. One through the old locks and two through the new ones. I think it would be very anticlimactic to get to Gatun Lake and then turn around. It was a thrill going under the Bridge of the Americas knowing that just past it was the Pacific Ocean. We very much preferred the old locks. Loved the sea days going up western coast of Central America and Mexico.
I was on the Disney Magic doing a full transit just 3 weeks ago. First time on a cruise and loved it. I agree with overpacking. I did laundry twice. It was only 6 doors from my cabin. Looking to cruise Alaska next. Thanks for all the information.
I'm on the Carnival Glory right now...our partial transit is Tuesday. I have the " Captains Suite" room...it is on the bridge wing...so I have a view over the bow, the port side of the ship, and a rear view. Going to spend the crossing in the room...
We will be doing the repositioning cruise on the Norwegian Encore in April. Our first time through the locks and to all the ports we’ll see. Thanks for the tips and info.
I have been on four Panama Canal cruises starting back in 1980s when you could still go to the island where the Kuna Indians live I have had wonderful experiences on all four of my canal cruises but next year I am going to do my first transit, I love all of your videos you give such wonderful information
Hi Ilana, This will be my first comment to you even though I've been subscribed to your channel for over a year! You are a pleasure to learn from. Thank you for all your hard work! We just returned from the very same 12 day cruise on the Rotterdam that your video describes. Back in August we cruised on HAL to Iceland and Holland reached out and offered us a free cabin and this Panama cruise was one of the choices. Though I am not a warm weather gal, this itinerary called out to me because all the ports of call would be new to me. We lucked out because the two previous cruises had to cancel the shore excursions of Panama due to civil unrest and fear of possible traffic delays and road closures. Having that information, I decided not to book a shore excursion for Panama just in case they might have been cancelled. The day the Rotterdam went through the canal was one of the warmest of the trip so I didn't do outside viewing at all but watching from the crow's nest and even from the Lido deck (where you could see great side views) was perfect for me. The morning trek to Lake Gaston was fully narrated by our cruise director so thoroughly that he even pointed out to everyone the crocodiles that were swimming alongside and even one that was inside the first lock that day. We were given advance notice that the ship would not be going to Key West but instead to Jamaica. I was disappointed to not go to Key West (never have visited) but Jamaica was going to be new too, so "Ya Man!"
Just finished a 14 day journey Panama Canal cruise in December 2023 on Carnival Glory. Loved it. Did the same ports as you for the most part but it included Bonaire…we were warned about the aggressive vendors in Cartagena and the area you showed on your video is where we also got off the bus to explore. Overall, the vendors were ok-I just said no and continued walking and they did not bother me. I would do the same cruise again. I would like to go through the canal to the Pacific so that will be a future cruise.
We were on the Fantasy for a partial and we were the cruise that was lowered before the ship was squared up and the serenity area was partially destroyed against the wall.
I thought the lake was drying up and less traffic was allowed through the Panama Canal. Transiting through the old locks to the West Coast or vice versa is on my bucket list. 😎
Our ship tour guide (a Panama Canal expert guide comes on board and does commentary through the entire day - he was excellent!) we went in September 2023. Our guide told us at that the number of shops passing through was reduced because of drought. I read a report yesterday and it said that it is down to 14 passages daily rather than 42. The Panama tour guide also said that ships reserve the passage date and time in cash (just short of 500,000 USD for our passage) over a year in advance, which gives them a secured entry time.
We did the full transit last October on Eurodam (HAL). It was during the rainy season, so very humid. We started in San Diego and ended in Ft. Lauderdale. Old locks. Fully worth it. And yes its a full long day. Started at 6am. But so great. As soon as we got to the Atlantic it was not so humid anymore. And we stopped in Aruba instead of Cartegena.
We've done a partial and a full on different cruise lines. I found that the ship that does the full twice a year (once each direction) made a much bigger deal about it than the one that does partials every 12 days. That could be a difference between lines or because one was routine and the other really special.....For example, the former head of the canal's visitor center came on board to give several lectures, at least one of which was geared toward tweens and teens.
For sunburns vinegar is much better than aloe vera , aloe vera tends to dry out the skin which then makes it itchy . Just get a little vinegar from the kitchen. Don’t tell why. We found a few told them why they would say they can’t give it to you that you need to go see the doctor. So we just asked a kitchen help that was walking by our table and they brought us one in a to go cup just a little vinegar water on the wash rag and put it on as so soothing it keeps you from peeling. It’s much better than any commercial product and it’s free, the ship!
We are going on our first Panama Canal full transit cruise this January 2024. Looking forward to it but especially Costa Rica. Thank you for this video, very helpful.
We did this trip on the Eurodam in March. The bow was extremely crowded in the morning, but it wasn't at all crowded on the return to the Caribbean in the afternoon with the same view.
Hello! I love your content, you do such a great job! I started planning a cruise trip after finishing college and your videos are so useful! I marathon your content everyday! Love from Brazil ❤
My wife and I have done two Panama cruises. one a total transit one partial. We felt we were lucky to have what we felt had the best cabin location you can have. we had aft cabins!!
You're so right about being a bucket list cruise. We will be sailing Celebrity Beyond in March for Panama Canal. It's also a to and from Fort Lauderdale. We cannot wait to be on Beyond. 🤗😃
Thanks Illanna. This was so helpful and sane. I’m going through the new locks for the first time next week. Full transit. I consciously chose new over old based on wanting a mid sized ship for our 15days. It’s an older ship, but larger than the old Panamax standards that can fit the old canal. We’re Canadians and loved the old lock tech of the Ottawa Canal - which significantly predates the Panama. We lived in Ottawa, and visited the locks also at Sault St Marie… which were used as models for the Americans at Panama. Of course the scale is immense for Panama. I’m not a tech geek, so I’d rather have the ship and timing of my choice. Great tips. Thanks again for this.
Just completed transit on Windstar Star Pride. Many people had swimming/diving sleaves and neck protection. Supposedly very breathable and quickly dry. If you just want protection from the sun when walking around town it's a lot easier than sunscreen multiple times a day.
We did a full transit in late September, in the old locks. It was an absolute wonderful experience. I downloaded a map which we used during the day. Very helpful. I woke up about 6am, turned on the bow webcam and saw where we were. It was a early day. We saw the many Locks from every point of view we could think of. Bow, Stern, side, from our balcony, and from the lower main level. Our next I would like the newer locks, so will need to find a ship that won't fit in the old ones.
I was on the Rotterdam also. I watched from the Crow's Nest. Good view with air conditioning. I also very much enjoyed the Panama Canal talk in the theatre. Of course, I was disappointed not to be able to disembark and go on a shore excursion due to the civil unrest. Sigh. There was no self service laundry on the Rotterdam, but I used the $25/bag laundry service. I rolled the clothes and was able to get quite a lot into the bag. (3 pair of capris, 7 t-shirts and 3 pair of socks). I will have to consider a full transit for another time.
We did a Florida to Florida Panama canal cruise in August on Princess. Our ship only went into a lake on the Atlantic side of the canal. We took tour boat through the old locks and all the way to the pacific, where we took a bus ride back to the cruise ship. It was a long excursion, but a fun and informative one. While we were in the old locks we could reach out and touch the sides. And by being in a tour boat instead of a cruise ship we were really low in the locks, way below ground level. And when the water was low in the locks we got a very good look at the lock doors. Sure, we didn't have our cabin, or the endless food that our ship offered, but there was a buffet lunch and endless supply of hard and soft drinks. I agree with you about the 'rougher' treatment in the ports. More begging, more pickpockets. We especially enjoyed the excursion in Costa Rica, we got to visit a sloth sanctuary and go on a canoe through Howlermonkeyville. Our cruise also stopped in Grand Cayman, where we got to swim with sting rays. Gorgeous day. One tip to pass on to your viewers - if your cell phone is rated for "SCUBA" don't believe it. Get a waterproof pouch of some kind before your cruise, or a new cell phone after you cruise. Thank you for making such an informative Panama Canal cruise video.
We did the SAN-TMP Panama on the NCL Pearl through the old locks several years back. We had to miss out on Cabo due to a hurricane. Looking forward to returning in 2024 on the NCL Encore MIA-SEA. When you are in Cartagena, pick up some Juan Valdez instant coffee and a frozen coffee while you are in the port park. The crew will beeline to the shop, so get there early or they will be out. (The instant coffee is wonderful. Nearly as good as fresh brewed.) I take advantage of the fixed rate laundry on Wednesdays, I would take the flat rate laundry if they offered it. Everything else I either would hand wash or spot clean during the trip. I choose clothing that is quick to dry and fairly stain resistant. Don't forget the Tide Stick!
I have done multiple full transits of the Panama Canal. I have done both the old and the new locks both directions. For me a full transit is the best way to go and for me I prefer the old locks however I am glad I have done the new locks. I do plan on doing the locks again.
We’ve did the full transit while the new locks were under construction, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. The second transit was a partial transit from San Pedro, CA, also in the historic locks. That partial really appealed to me because there was no flying involved, but mostly because it was a 19 day voyage and overnighted in Gatun Lake. Sadly, I missed that most important part as I did not feel well the morning we started to go through the first lock, went to the doctor, had the flu and was quarantined for three days! It was still a wonderful trip! Lois
Another very helpful video Ilana! We did the Panama Canal last November on the Celebrity Edge. You are correct about it being an early morning. We stayed on our balcony for the first part of the transit. I loved watching the tugs move it into position for the first lock. The tug captains fare amazing talented. There was an excursion to go to the old locks and other areas though rhe people who did or actually never experienced or saw the ship go through the Canal. For me staying on the ship was the perfect option. For transit back out we were were at the Retreat on the Edge which faces the bow. The view and experience was amazing. Have some great pictures from that high up perch on the ship. Sadly covid canceled two full transit cruises we had booked so we decided half a loaf is better than no loaf. Happy cruising Ilana!!
When I was a kid I remember going to Panama. A friend of the family took us to see the Panama Canal. I remember seeing a freight ship going by and thought that was so interesting. Now as an older person I want to see and see what I think about it. December 2024 we’ll be there God willing.
We are planning to go on this same sailing in November so thank you for the information. We were on the Rotterdam's first sailing in the Caribbean in 2021 and are looking forward to sailing on her again. We have also picked the Have-it-all and Club Orange as you did so the information provided is very much appreciated. I believe they now have another specialty restaurant (Iron Chef Morimoto) for sea food that has taken up space from the Tamarind so am looking forward to that. Next time you travel on HAL, and you like seafood, you may want to give it a try and let everyone know what you think. That's all for now. Thank you again for the info.
went through the old locks well worth it! the wall was close enough to the ship you could reach across and touch them .... except for the guard they put out to stop that very thing . the classes were great learn why and what for of it
Just did a Viking full transit through old locks. If you are interested in really experiencing the canal it’s wonderful (if Viking is for you). They have 10 day full transits that go from Fort Lauderdale to Panama City. Then easy flight back to where you came from.
We met you and your husband on the Pearl this past Fall. What a lovely trip that was. We are looking at the canal journey this year. Thank you for the video!
First, thank you Ilana for all the help, advice and encouragement you give in your videos, you were my Go-To for planning this trip. My sister and I just came back from a thru transit from LA to MIA on the Norwegian Bliss. We went thru the new locks, and a crew member suggested viewing part of the transit from the aft of the ship to see the lock gates closing and the water level changing, with fewer crowds. I saw the PC pilot being brought to our ship to “advise” our captain on the transit - I was told the captain never yields command of the ship, the pilot is only there to advise 🤷🏼♀Unfortunately, our transit started around midnight; I hung in until 3 am, missed all of Gatun Lake but caught our passage thru the last lock the next morning. It really is important to learn some of the history of the construction and operation of the Canal to appreciate what is going on during transit.Due to health issues we didn’t do too many excursions, but boy is the Bliss a beautiful ship 🥰😍❤. I bought a Scrubba bag less than a week before departure; I could have taken less than half the clothes if I had known what a nifty gadget that is.
![Our Panama Canal Cruise Wasn't What We Expected. Here's Why [Holland America Rotterdam review]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/OMLODQPsDpc/mqdefault.jpg)
![Our Panama Canal Cruise Wasn't What We Expected. Here's Why [Holland America Rotterdam review]](/img/tr.png)
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We cruised on Celebrity from California to Ft. Lauderdale, it was an older ship so we traveled through the old locks. Celebrity engaged an engineer, who had worked in the locks, describing the sites as we transited through the locks. The descriptions and stories were broadcasted in all public spaces. Those discussions made the trip more meaningful and complete.
Took a Panama Canal cruise in 2018 on the Coral Princess through the old locks. Did the complete transit from Ft. Lauderdale to LA. I stood at the front of the ship for the entire crossing about 12 hours. It was absolutely fantastic
Wow!! Thanks for sharing
@@RedRoseSeptember22 Full transit goes from East Coast to West Coast or the other way around. Partial transit means just going in canal at one coast side, then making a U-turn on lake and going back the same coast side.
I did the same last spring!
We are going on Island Princess (coral class) Apr 25- May 9. I am trying to figure out how hot and humid it will be this time of year
I highly recommend reading The Path Between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama Canal, 1870-1914 prior to or during your trip. It's a comprehensive and interesting account of the canal.
I bought that book on someone else’s advice. I’m only about 20% through. It’s amazing how much went on before they even started digging. It’s a good book and I’m glad I bought it.
Food For Thought: One thing that we thought was so interesting, is a certified Panama Canal Navigator comes onboard and steers the ship through the locks. We talked to the Co-Captain (or whatever you call the second-in-command) and he said our Captain could definitely do it himself, but it's the law to have the P.C. official sail the ship through the locks. Thanks for the video, Ilana! Always great! 🥰
"We talked to the Co-Captain (or whatever you call the second-in-command)"
In the Navy, Executive Officer, abbreviated "XO" (I was Navy, submarines 🙂).
I think on Merchant ships (to include cruise ships, that's part of the merchant fleet), they call the XO "First Officer". 🙂
Just did a Panama Canal cruise on NCL. We had an aft facing balcony and spent most of the day there - we had a great view as we went through the locks - even ordered room service lunch so we didn't have to leave the cabin.
Sounds perfect!
I have done the full several times as a Yacht Capt that specializes in deliveries. Don't feel like you are being ignored by the lock workers! Once in the lock, damage incurred is on them and prior to that it's on the Pilot. They are deadly serious and may seem standoffish, far from it. They are eyes wide open. Smaller guys like me get stuffed in and tied together. Ah my first time through was a MAJOR learning experience. YOU must furnish the lines you will need AND the fenders to protect those you are tied to. Crusty old TugBoat Capt helped me out
We were on Princess and did a full passage - and we booked the sanctuary which is at the front of the ship we were on. Best choice ever to go through in the sanctuary - not crowded and so relaxed. It did cost an extra fee but worth every penny.
Great idea!
Were you able to stay the entire time going thru the locks?
@@BonnieStill yes but there is an extra charge for being there and it books very quickly. Front row seats are best and you need to go there right by away when you first get on the ship because front row seats fills quickly.
We are currently on our last of 10 nights panama canal cruise. Did lots of pre planning & did not get off in Cartagena. Heard the vendors were in your face. Our ship went thru the new locks but we booked an excursion that gave a bus tour, then ferry to Gatun lake and Mira Flores lake. That took us thru THREE of the OLD locks as a partial transit. It was fantastic to go thru both the new gates and the old door locks. It was hot & humid but so informative. Do your homework and read everything about your cruise months ahead. Our ship was Ruby Princess and well worth the experience 💕.
That’s awesome! So glad to hear you were able to get off for that excursion
@@LifeWellCruised the unrest & protestors in Panama lasted for 37 days & we got there 2 days after it ended. Very lucky...
Yes cartagena is awful. Wise choice to stay onboard.
@@tduck828 I disagree! I went twice, once for a wedding and again on vacation.
If vendors are a challenge for you then don't go to Mexico or Rio, Brazil. I never had any issues with vendors in Cartagena.
I was in high school when I first went through the canal in 1984. Our concert band was the shipboard entertainment, and honestly I didn't understand what all of the fuss was about. Naturally, with age comes wisdom and the canal is back on my bucket list so that I can truly enjoy and appreciate all that it has to offer. I prefer to do a full transit over a partial, but when I actually book it will depend on cost, and several other things. In the meantime, I will get reaquainted with it from an educational point and be more prepared then I was at 16.
We have cruised through the entire old canal 3 times on Holland America and absolutely loved it. HAL had coffee stations all over the ship so you could get a refill and not miss a thing. In the morning they had traditional Panama pastries and at lunch served soup outside. The history of building the canal was so very interesting. They loaded 3 local captains on the ship, 2 for each side of the bow and one for the back. There were more workers, linesmen I think, loaded also. I would love to go back again. Great video, thanks!
I did the partial transit on the Eurodam in 2022, a helpful book to get before the cruise was "CRUISING COAST TO COAST THROUGH THE PANAMA CANAL 2022-23: A GUIDE ON WHAT TO EXPECT" gave a good look on what to expect and what to look for. Be ready for oppressive heat and humidity even in springtime.
Did a repositioning, Vancouver to Fort Lauderdale, in October 2022 on the Nieum Amsterdam. Incredible experience! Bow was open and well used. Whole Canal experience was greatly enhanced by pre cruise reading about the incredible history and the on board talks prior to the transit. My humble recommendation is to view the many aspects of the canal from as many view points as possible all over the ship including your balcony where I was able to some great close up of the mules. Agree the older locks are more historically interesting and we were glad that the NA fit nicely. A bucket list trip for sure. If you have chance do it. Happy Cruising
Just disembarked from a 21-day reposition from Seattle to Miami on the NCL Encore, which due to size can only use the new locks. Encore is NCL's physically largest ship by Gross Tonage, but sister ship Bliss is configured with a handful more beds, although overall layout is nearly identical. It really did take the entire day. Plus, we saw Mayan Ruins in Guatemala, ziplined the rain forest in Costa Rica, and swam with dolphins in Grand Cayman--on the same trip! Great itinerary, even though we lost Acapulco--they not only compensated each passenger $100, but added Costa Rica so we didn't have three sea days in a row. I'd skip Mazatlan, however--just a slightly nicer Tijuana.
We did Miami to Seattle on NCL Sun in 21 days! The ship broke down in Columbia and we stayed there for the night. We missed Costa Rica and were so disappointed. Regardless it was a beautiful cruise.
What company did you use for Costa Rica ziplining? The one I'm booked for is 30 minutes from Port Limon, called Jungle Breeze.
Thanks Ilana. We are going through the old locks on Island Princess. We are adjusting expectations based on the fact it is an older ship. That said, most passengers say it it lovely and full of character. Going through the old locks was our primary goal! Super excited!
We did the island princess in 2019 partial locks. But did a day excursion through the Pedro Miguel locks it was great. I would recommend it if it’s available.
We are going on Island Princess on Jan 4 from FLL to San Pedro CA. Can't wait!!!!
Great video! One other tip based on my experience. I took a full transit on Serenade of the Seas. On this class of ship, the bow is open 24x7, but it wasn't the best place to watch. People were packed in 5 or 6 deep. No way most of them could see.
Instead, go up to deck 12. Go all of the way forward. You can watch from there, but there are 2 staircases down to an observation deck on deck 12. This was much, much, much less busy. It was also higher and gave a terrific view.
Had my first cruise on Serenade of the Seas to Alaska. loved that ship.
After doing this same cruise on the same ship as you, I completely agree with everything in this video. The biggest point I would stress is looking at the newer and older lock systems. I did the older locks a few months ago, and personally enjoyed that much more, and found it to be way more impressive. However, I do think that if I hadn't done the old locks before, I probably would have found the new ones amazing.
The partial transits open up the canal to those who can't take too much time out of work - I found that I could do this trip with way less work holiday, as it was a shorter cruise than the full transits, which are often 14 nights!
I took the Celebrity Repositioning Panama Cruise through the old locks last March. It was terrific. I was really happy to have a balcony cabin. I did not need to fight the mass trying to see.😅 I am so happy I had the whole experience Ft Lauderdale to LA
If you're cruising for the canal experience, definitely choose the old locks and a smaller ship, but preferably a PanaMax ship. Otherwise, you're too far from not so much action. PanaMax puts you right up at the lock wall.
I also did the new locks on Norwegian Bliss and it was comparatively disappointing.
And it's always best to cruise _to_ Florida. ;)
I just returned from a Panama Canal Cruise on the MS Rotterdam, at the end of October, and it was so much fun to relive my experience through your video. On the day we transited the locks, we were given the greenlight to go ahead and exit the lake, almost as soon as we had entered it. Thankfully, at that time, I had a great seat in the cafe on the 12th deck. You’re right about this cruise having a very relaxed vibe. I absolutely loved it!
I'll be on this same cruise on 12/8/2024. I booked the tour to go through the locks on the Pacific side, then bused back to the Atlantic side. I hope it does not get cancelled as you get to go through the old locks. I hear it is a very long day, but this is a bucket list, once-in-a-lifetime itinerary for me. I'm so excited! And I love how detailed your videos are. Thank you!
My wife and I got married Jan 1, 2022. We went on our first ever cruise on the NCL Bliss. Full transit Panama Canal from LA to Miami. Because of Covid stuff the ship was at 22% capacity. I chose an aft facing balcony near the top, which was awesome. We went through the canal on Jan. 31st and in the canal we did a Vow Renewal on the back of the ship. It was amazing. We basically had two weddings in 2022. I joke with my wife that this way if I forget the first one on new years I have a chance to make it up on our second one on the last day of the month. The original plan was to get married in the canal, but legally we could not do it that way, so we did it this way. We watched lots of your tips prior to our cruise. And your tips along with the other bloggers we watched helped a lot.
We have been fortunate to have done six full transits. This is my favorite trip. You are correct about the older crowd. That’s basically demographics. Most of the new Ships are much larger and cannot travel through the old locks. Some of the older Holland, older Celebrity, and two Princess ships can travel through the old locks. But the Panama Canal is one I encourage for everyone.🛳
We did Holland America and it was a full transit through the old locks. Great history. The night before entering we were approached to get an opportunity to buy tickets to the crows nest bar for $100 dollars each with unlimited food and drinks and it was limited to 30 couples. We had an 180 degree view in air conditioning as it was very hot and humid. Had a great time.
This was so helpful as we're leaving in two weeks on a Panama canal cruise. I still don't know what I'll pack, but everything you mentioned helped ease some of my anxiety. Also, your family is stunning and always looks amazing! Thank you for all you do
We took a Panama Canal cruise in 2019 on the Island Princess through the old locks - partial transit. Loved it! It sounds like our itinerary was very similar to yours. We were very surprised by Cartagena - very different than we pictured. We want to go again - next time, we would like to do a full transit through the new locks.
One of the few things that I didn't get to do while in the Navy. However I did cross the Equator twice.
We've done it twice, without benefit of advice, and loved it immensely. Looking forward to doing it again. You can't choose your lock size on most cruiseships, due to their narrow beam. Highly recommend full crossing, with a balcony cabin.
We have done full and partial. Full is the only way to go. So excited we were up at 6am watching all the ships waiting to go through. Sat on our balconies for the entire day, had room service, A total great experience.
Thank you for all the useful information. I am booked on a Star Clipper cruise that will do a full transit of the canal and expect it will go through the old locks. I was in Panama in 2014 when they were building the new locks. Returning after 10 years is an exciting prospect.
Thank you for all the helpful details. Didn't know much about Panama Canal cruises and wondered whether this is something my family would enjoy! Very helpful!
Thank you very much for all your videos - very helpful, even for an experienced cruiser like me.
For all:
Information about cruising Panama Canal.
Only ships of Panamax Class - 965 ft long and 106 ft wide - can pass the original old Panama Canal locks. Ships above are called Neopanamax-Class and will go through the new locks (opened in June 2016). When going through the old locks you will get the marvellous and historic experience with the locomotives at both sides pulling the ship through the canal.
I was on a full transit in January 2019 with the Norwegian Gem going through the old locks - it was simply great.
So, check at booking with cruise line about old or new passage, to avoid disappointment. Or check the different ships at websites of the cruise lines, where you should find information about the actual ship size.
The old locks are 110 feet wide, and the Holland America Rotterdam is 115 feet wide, so that is why you went through the new locks. You sort of addressed this, but you were destined to go through the new locks before you left Ft. Lauderdale. My Reserarch says that if the ship will fit through the old locks, you are almost certain to go that way. The ideal situation would be to go one way through the old locks and the other way through the newer locks. Thanks for all your content. We are going to the Panama from Ft. Lauderdale round trip 14 nights on Viking in February 2024. The Viking ship is 94 feet wide, so we are anticipating the old locks.
April 2023, we did a full transit from LA to Ft. Lauderdale on the Emerald Princess (new locks). A full transit takes about 12 hours. Each individual lock is about 30-45 minutes. It is important to realize that during our transit, we sailed north through Panama over the continental divide between two oceans. We took an excursion in Panama City which took us to the old locks viewing stand. It was nice to see ships going through from the land side and then sailing through the locks, so you can see it from both angles. The transit is not a party cruise, I think because ours was 15 days long, so it is very laid back. It even lacked some of the energy found on other cruises. We also met a couple that did back to back transits because it was cheaper to sail back to Florida from LA than to fly back to Florida. And yes, they were retired.
Tips: 1) pre tan if you can and still use sun screen on transit day. It is a long time on deck. 2) There is a lot of down time between locks and after you rise (or fall) in one lock, all the other locks are exactly the same except for the view. 3) Mega cruise ships cannot fit under the bridges that cross over the canal, so don't look for one of those ships to sail the canal. They would fit in the new locks but can't reach them. 4) Princess had a self-service laundry plus laundry service. Plan on using it. You need change clothes from day actives to night actives unless you are eating in the buffet everyday.
We had three formal nights on that cruise and we did dress up, so that was some extra clothes. Then we won a seat at the chef's table. Had to get my suit cleaned. If you ever win a seat at the chef's table, pay whatever price they want. It is more than worth it for a once in lifetime experience.
We live near Tampa so we chose Carnival for a full transit. It began in San Pedro and ended in Tampa. Our favorite thing was watching about a 40 ft sailboat go in the opposite direction from us. In stead of it being pulse thru by a train it was pulled by 2 men holding ropes.
Went on our Panama Canal cruise in 2005, on the old Rotterdam, and partially through the old locks... it was quite enjoyable, and we didn't want to end our cruise in California... It was a great experience... but the other ports were a little disappointing, like Puerto Limon in Costa Rica...
Thank you so much , last December we did 14 night Panama Canal with an overnight in Panama City, beautiful
Merry Christmas
We did a full transit, Ft. Lauderdale to LA, old locks, retirement celebration cruise on the Island Princess. I usually select an aft suite for our special celebrations and was very disappointed when the only suites available were mid-ship. Turns out mid-ship was perfect! From our spacious balcony we could see everything, looking straight down to view the inches away from the side of the canal. It was awesome!
Our cruise was at least 2 weeks.
You have wonderful tips. Due to the humidity I used "tons" of baby powder and was glad to have a full sized container.
On our way out of the canal I ruptured a cyst in my knee and spent the remainder of the cruise in a wheelchair. 😢 Another reason mid-ship worked out well because then we were closer to everything. We still enjoyed ourselves. Princess was wonderful, helping us cancel excursions, purchase crutches and borrow a wheelchair to use onboard and in the cruise terminal.
We enjoyed our time on the ship when at port, discovering places and different things that we had not seen before.
We also discovered we enjoyed the longer cruises that can be enjoyed during retirement.
Panama Canal Cruise is definitely more chilled. We (and several hundred others) got on a repositioning cruise in San Diego that had just arrived from Fort Lauderdale and was continuing to Vancouver. The vibe changed to “let’s party” for the next four days. (It was also Mother’s Day when we joined and we surprised my in-laws who were on the full canal repositioning. They commented that it was very relaxing until San Diego.)
Totally agree with your observations about new locks vs newer ships….
Done 5 Panama Canal full cruise, still one of my favorite cruises.
We were supposed to be on the Rotterdam the first month that was and service but it wasn't ready. So, we were on the following September, well I love a year ago for a Norwegian Fjords cruise. Beautiful.
We booked the Sanctuary for the day on Princess. They serve a nice breakfast while you watch the amazing views. It was a very relaxing day and perfect way to enjoy the transit through the locks.
This October, I'm doing a 21 day cruise that includes a full transit of the Canal (Seattle to Miami). In fact, we spend a full day in Panama City (7:00AM to 10:00PM) before we transit, the Canal, the next day. The day in Panama City, I'm taking an excursion that takes you into the locks and connecting waterways. I believe that we are passing through the New Locks, because the Encore is a pretty huge ship.
We are cruising the Panama canal in April on the Emerald Princess, full transit AND we get to see the April 8 total solar eclipse while at sea! I saw the 2017 eclipse and that was extraordinary. I've been following your trip closely and appreciate the tips!
As always this episode is super helpful! Ilana has proved to be “helpful, informative and enjoyable”! The life well cruised planner saved me from making packing and planning mistakes, well worth the minimal cost. ❤️
We did the full transit on the Eurodam on April 2023. Ft Lauderdale to San Diego. Great cruise and cruising through the old locks was very interesting.
Hi Ilana, we just got off the Rotterdam 12 day Panama Canal cruise and I agree with all your points you brought up in this video. On our cruise the excursions were once again available for the Panama Canal portion and we actually had a crocodile join us when when were going through the locks.
So glad to hear! Thanks for sharing
Thanks for the tips Illana. I've never done a Panama Canal transit, but I have looked at a couple of itineraries that do.
We enjoyed an unusual cruise which began in Vancouver, went to Alaska, then went to SF, LA, and on down through the Panama Canal to Fort Lauderdale. It was amazing. It was on the Cunard Queen Elizabeth. We went through the old locks with less than a foot on either side of the ship as we transited through. Old locks vs. new locks is all about the size of the ship. Most newer ships are too big to go through the old locks, so that’s the main factor in which one is used. In my opinion, Glacier Bay is far more fascinating and magnificent than going through the Panama Canal. However, the history of the canal is unbelievable, and we had excellent enrichment talks on Cunard.
Another nice thing about our Cunard cruise is that they prepared an amazing video of the transit which made taking pictures and videos unnecessary. I definitely recommend cruising through the canal, partial or full. Enjoy!
Wow! What a trip!
I love Glacier Bay. Looking forward to the canal just as much … just days away now. It will be my first cruise into the Caribbean Sea
Wow! Your cruise would be quite the packing challenge! Sounds amazing, though.
Excellent information. We are on a Panama canal cruise early 2024 and this is just what we need to know. Thanks.
We are going on the Ruby Princess in just 10 days!! Getting very excited!!❤🎉❤ Thanks so much for all your info! Our friends are on the Ruby right now and had excellent things to say. ❤
We are doing the Ruby Princess for 10 days to Panama Canal on January 9, 2024
@@cynthiadecker1424So are we
We did partial on Carib Princess. Did Panama Railway excursion. Love trains. Included trip to lock hdqts. Loved Cartagena old town and fortress. Rode train and canal boat in Limon, CR. Ship excursions
Husband and I sailed on 12 day Panama Canal cruise (Caribbean Princess) Dec. 2019 right before the world shut down for Covid. I read and watched videos extensively to make sure we used our time to the most advantage. We had a balcony on Caribe deck (10) as they are larger. The first thing we did when we got onboard was to go to the Sanctuary and reserve a spot for the Canal day. Everything I had read said to do this immediately, but as it turned out we would have been fine doing it a little later. It was $60 per person for the day and well worth it especially since it drizzled most of the morning. The views were spectacular. Going through the Canal was an experience like no other. The sides of the canal looked as though you could reach out and touch them. Watching the locks work, the gates opening and closing, filling the lock, lifting the ship higher each time to the next level you appreciate the engineering and the labor required to build it. Yes, it was warm. You are near the equator. The cold towels and drinks brought to us at the Sanctuary kept us cool and made us feel extremely pampered.
Contrary to popular belief Cartagena is “dangerous” and vendors “very persistent “ it turned out to be my favorite port and would go back in a heartbeat. We did book an excursion through the cruise line and by luck of the draw we had a marvelous tour guide. Didn’t rush us, explaining everything and made us feel comfortable as we went to various points of interest. In our experience vendors would back off and keep their distance if you indicated no interest. I was more anxious in Jamaica than in Cartagena which I certainly didn’t expect. BTW we were 69 years old at the time.
And Illana, thank you for all you do. I have been watching long before you had 100,000 followers and watched your outreach justifiably to over 200,000. If you weren’t doing it right you wouldn’t be where you are.
PS: I didn’t think you were underdressed. Haters are gonna be haters and trolls are going to be trolls.
We have done 3 full transits. One through the old locks and two through the new ones. I think it would be very anticlimactic to get to Gatun Lake and then turn around. It was a thrill going under the Bridge of the Americas knowing that just past it was the Pacific Ocean. We very much preferred the old locks. Loved the sea days going up western coast of Central America and Mexico.
Ilana, I am doing this same cruise/ship as you in March 2025. Can you please do a video soon about the excursions that would be really helpful!!!
I was on the Disney Magic doing a full transit just 3 weeks ago. First time on a cruise and loved it. I agree with overpacking. I did laundry twice. It was only 6 doors from my cabin. Looking to cruise Alaska next. Thanks for all the information.
I'm on the Carnival Glory right now...our partial transit is Tuesday. I have the " Captains Suite" room...it is on the bridge wing...so I have a view over the bow, the port side of the ship, and a rear view. Going to spend the crossing in the room...
We will be doing the repositioning cruise on the Norwegian Encore in April. Our first time through the locks and to all the ports we’ll see. Thanks for the tips and info.
I have been on four Panama Canal cruises starting back in 1980s when you could still go to the island where the Kuna Indians live I have had wonderful experiences on all four of my canal cruises but next year I am going to do my first transit, I love all of your videos you give such wonderful information
We leave in one week for our Panama Canal cruise on Viking, so your video was quite timely! Thank you for your quality videos and information.
Hi Ilana, This will be my first comment to you even though I've been subscribed to your channel for over a year! You are a pleasure to learn from. Thank you for all your hard work!
We just returned from the very same 12 day cruise on the Rotterdam that your video describes. Back in August we cruised on HAL to Iceland and Holland reached out and offered us a free cabin and this Panama cruise was one of the choices. Though I am not a warm weather gal, this itinerary called out to me because all the ports of call would be new to me. We lucked out because the two previous cruises had to cancel the shore excursions of Panama due to civil unrest and fear of possible traffic delays and road closures. Having that information, I decided not to book a shore excursion for Panama just in case they might have been cancelled.
The day the Rotterdam went through the canal was one of the warmest of the trip so I didn't do outside viewing at all but watching from the crow's nest and even from the Lido deck (where you could see great side views) was perfect for me. The morning trek to Lake Gaston was fully narrated by our cruise director so thoroughly that he even pointed out to everyone the crocodiles that were swimming alongside and even one that was inside the first lock that day.
We were given advance notice that the ship would not be going to Key West but instead to Jamaica. I was disappointed to not go to Key West (never have visited) but Jamaica was going to be new too, so "Ya Man!"
Just finished a 14 day journey Panama Canal cruise in December 2023 on Carnival Glory. Loved it. Did the same ports as you for the most part but it included Bonaire…we were warned about the aggressive vendors in Cartagena and the area you showed on your video is where we also got off the bus to explore. Overall, the vendors were ok-I just said no and continued walking and they did not bother me. I would do the same cruise again. I would like to go through the canal to the Pacific so that will be a future cruise.
"Let's get started". 👍🏼
We did the partial transit 2017 on holland America Zuiderdam,had a wonderful trip.
Can’t wait to do the Panama Canal! Thanks for the review!
Hope you enjoy it! I’ll have a detailed review of our ship ect soon
We were on the Fantasy for a partial and we were the cruise that was lowered before the ship was squared up and the serenity area was partially destroyed against the wall.
I thought the lake was drying up and less traffic was allowed through the Panama Canal. Transiting through the old locks to the West Coast or vice versa is on my bucket list. 😎
There were both cruise ships and shipping/freight ships during our time, however I believe there are limits and the reservations are managed
Our ship tour guide (a Panama Canal expert guide comes on board and does commentary through the entire day - he was excellent!) we went in September 2023. Our guide told us at that the number of shops passing through was reduced because of drought. I read a report yesterday and it said that it is down to 14 passages daily rather than 42. The Panama tour guide also said that ships reserve the passage date and time in cash (just short of 500,000 USD for our passage) over a year in advance, which gives them a secured entry time.
We did the full transit last October on Eurodam (HAL). It was during the rainy season, so very humid. We started in San Diego and ended in Ft. Lauderdale. Old locks. Fully worth it. And yes its a full long day. Started at 6am. But so great. As soon as we got to the Atlantic it was not so humid anymore. And we stopped in Aruba instead of Cartegena.
We've done a partial and a full on different cruise lines. I found that the ship that does the full twice a year (once each direction) made a much bigger deal about it than the one that does partials every 12 days. That could be a difference between lines or because one was routine and the other really special.....For example, the former head of the canal's visitor center came on board to give several lectures, at least one of which was geared toward tweens and teens.
For sunburns vinegar is much better than aloe vera , aloe vera tends to dry out the skin which then makes it itchy . Just get a little vinegar from the kitchen. Don’t tell why. We found a few told them why they would say they can’t give it to you that you need to go see the doctor. So we just asked a kitchen help that was walking by our table and they brought us one in a to go cup just a little vinegar water on the wash rag and put it on as so soothing it keeps you from peeling. It’s much better than any commercial product and it’s free, the ship!
We just got back from a Full Transit Panamal Canal cruise with NCL. We went through the old locks. It was an amazing "bucket list" kind of trip.
We are going on our first Panama Canal full transit cruise this January 2024. Looking forward to it but especially Costa Rica. Thank you for this video, very helpful.
Thank you for the information, we are cruising the Panama Canal April 2024. We are very excited!!!
We did this trip on the Eurodam in March. The bow was extremely crowded in the morning, but it wasn't at all crowded on the return to the Caribbean in the afternoon with the same view.
Planning one now!! Great info as always! So grateful I found your channel. Husband & I are retired and live cruising. ❤❤❤
Hello!
I love your content, you do such a great job! I started planning a cruise trip after finishing college and your videos are so useful! I marathon your content everyday!
Love from Brazil ❤
So glad to hear that you’re watching from Brazil! What itinerary are you considering?
@@LifeWellCruised I'm thinking about Greece with MSC Cruises, but I'm not sure yet.
My wife and I have done two Panama cruises. one a total transit one partial. We felt we were lucky to have what we felt had the best cabin location you can have. we had aft cabins!!
The canal is spectacular and I am glad I got to experience it.
You're so right about being a bucket list cruise. We will be sailing Celebrity Beyond in March for Panama Canal. It's also a to and from Fort Lauderdale. We cannot wait to be on Beyond. 🤗😃
March 11-22 for me! Love Beyond!
Thanks Illanna. This was so helpful and sane.
I’m going through the new locks for the first time next week. Full transit. I consciously chose new over old based on wanting a mid sized ship for our 15days. It’s an older ship, but larger than the old Panamax standards that can fit the old canal.
We’re Canadians and loved the old lock tech of the Ottawa Canal - which significantly predates the Panama. We lived in Ottawa, and visited the locks also at Sault St Marie… which were used as models for the Americans at Panama. Of course the scale is immense for Panama. I’m not a tech geek, so I’d rather have the ship and timing of my choice.
Great tips. Thanks again for this.
Have a wonderful cruise!!
We went from LA to Fort Lauderdale on Princess.Had an amazing time!
Just completed transit on Windstar Star Pride. Many people had swimming/diving sleaves and neck protection. Supposedly very breathable and quickly dry. If you just want protection from the sun when walking around town it's a lot easier than sunscreen multiple times a day.
We did a full transit in late September, in the old locks. It was an absolute wonderful experience. I downloaded a map which we used during the day. Very helpful.
I woke up about 6am, turned on the bow webcam and saw where we were. It was a early day.
We saw the many Locks from every point of view we could think of. Bow, Stern, side, from our balcony, and from the lower main level.
Our next I would like the newer locks, so will need to find a ship that won't fit in the old ones.
Thanks for sharing! I’d love to do the old locks full transit.
I was on the Rotterdam also. I watched from the Crow's Nest. Good view with air conditioning. I also very much enjoyed the Panama Canal talk in the theatre. Of course, I was disappointed not to be able to disembark and go on a shore excursion due to the civil unrest. Sigh. There was no self service laundry on the Rotterdam, but I used the $25/bag laundry service. I rolled the clothes and was able to get quite a lot into the bag. (3 pair of capris, 7 t-shirts and 3 pair of socks). I will have to consider a full transit for another time.
We did a Florida to Florida Panama canal cruise in August on Princess. Our ship only went into a lake on the Atlantic side of the canal. We took tour boat through the old locks and all the way to the pacific, where we took a bus ride back to the cruise ship. It was a long excursion, but a fun and informative one. While we were in the old locks we could reach out and touch the sides. And by being in a tour boat instead of a cruise ship we were really low in the locks, way below ground level. And when the water was low in the locks we got a very good look at the lock doors. Sure, we didn't have our cabin, or the endless food that our ship offered, but there was a buffet lunch and endless supply of hard and soft drinks.
I agree with you about the 'rougher' treatment in the ports. More begging, more pickpockets.
We especially enjoyed the excursion in Costa Rica, we got to visit a sloth sanctuary and go on a canoe through Howlermonkeyville.
Our cruise also stopped in Grand Cayman, where we got to swim with sting rays. Gorgeous day.
One tip to pass on to your viewers - if your cell phone is rated for "SCUBA" don't believe it. Get a waterproof pouch of some kind before your cruise, or a new cell phone after you cruise.
Thank you for making such an informative Panama Canal cruise video.
We did the SAN-TMP Panama on the NCL Pearl through the old locks several years back. We had to miss out on Cabo due to a hurricane.
Looking forward to returning in 2024 on the NCL Encore MIA-SEA.
When you are in Cartagena, pick up some Juan Valdez instant coffee and a frozen coffee while you are in the port park. The crew will beeline to the shop, so get there early or they will be out. (The instant coffee is wonderful. Nearly as good as fresh brewed.)
I take advantage of the fixed rate laundry on Wednesdays, I would take the flat rate laundry if they offered it. Everything else I either would hand wash or spot clean during the trip. I choose clothing that is quick to dry and fairly stain resistant. Don't forget the Tide Stick!
The information that you deliver is always informative and interesting. Thank You for another great video.
Wow! A lot of good information. I did not know there were new locks! Thank you for sharing🤗
I have done multiple full transits of the Panama Canal. I have done both the old and the new locks both directions. For me a full transit is the best way to go and for me I prefer the old locks however I am glad I have done the new locks. I do plan on doing the locks again.
We’ve did the full transit while the new locks were under construction, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. The second transit was a partial transit from San Pedro, CA, also in the historic locks. That partial really appealed to me because there was no flying involved, but mostly because it was a 19 day voyage and overnighted in Gatun Lake. Sadly, I missed that most important part as I did not feel well the morning we started to go through the first lock, went to the doctor, had the flu and was quarantined for three days! It was still a wonderful trip! Lois
Sorry for the grammar! I didn’t read the post! “We did…” Lois🎂
@@montyboswell6509if you touch the 3 dots to the upper right of your post, it gives you the option to edit your post.
Another very helpful video Ilana! We did the Panama Canal last November on the Celebrity Edge. You are correct about it being an early morning. We stayed on our balcony for the first part of the transit. I loved watching the tugs move it into position for the first lock. The tug captains fare amazing talented. There was an excursion to go to the old locks and other areas though rhe people who did or actually never experienced or saw the ship go through the Canal. For me staying on the ship was the perfect option. For transit back out we were were at the Retreat on the Edge which faces the bow. The view and experience was amazing. Have some great pictures from that high up perch on the ship.
Sadly covid canceled two full transit cruises we had booked so we decided half a loaf is better than no loaf.
Happy cruising Ilana!!
When I was a kid I remember going to Panama. A friend of the family took us to see the Panama Canal. I remember seeing a freight ship going by and thought that was so interesting. Now as an older person I want to see and see what I think about it. December 2024 we’ll be there God willing.
We are planning to go on this same sailing in November so thank you for the information. We were on the Rotterdam's first sailing in the Caribbean in 2021 and are looking forward to sailing on her again.
We have also picked the Have-it-all and Club Orange as you did so the information provided is very much appreciated. I believe they now have another specialty restaurant (Iron Chef Morimoto) for sea food that has taken up space from the Tamarind so am looking forward to that. Next time you travel on HAL, and you like seafood, you may want to give it a try and let everyone know what you think. That's all for now. Thank you again for the info.
Never taken a Panama Canal cruise but sounds interesting!!! Thanks for sharing 🛳️🛳️
went through the old locks well worth it! the wall was close enough to the ship you could reach across and touch them .... except for the guard they put out to stop that very thing . the classes were great learn why and what for of it
In April , we are doing full transit on HAL Niew Amsterdam. We are excited! Thanks for all your info.
Just did a Viking full transit through old locks. If you are interested in really experiencing the canal it’s wonderful (if Viking is for you). They have 10 day full transits that go from Fort Lauderdale to Panama City. Then easy flight back to where you came from.
I think that’s a half transit (or partial transit) because it does doesn’t go through to the Pacific Ocean, and instead ends in the middle
We met you and your husband on the Pearl this past Fall. What a lovely trip that was. We are looking at the canal journey this year. Thank you for the video!
First, thank you Ilana for all the help, advice and encouragement you give in your videos, you were my Go-To for planning this trip. My sister and I just came back from a thru transit from LA to MIA on the Norwegian Bliss. We went thru the new locks, and a crew member suggested viewing part of the transit from the aft of the ship to see the lock gates closing and the water level changing, with fewer crowds. I saw the PC pilot being brought to our ship to “advise” our captain on the transit - I was told the captain never yields command of the ship, the pilot is only there to advise 🤷🏼♀Unfortunately, our transit started around midnight; I hung in until 3 am, missed all of Gatun Lake but caught our passage thru the last lock the next morning. It really is important to learn some of the history of the construction and operation of the Canal to appreciate what is going on during transit.Due to health issues we didn’t do too many excursions, but boy is the Bliss a beautiful ship 🥰😍❤. I bought a Scrubba bag less than a week before departure; I could have taken less than half the clothes if I had known what a nifty gadget that is.