Cruise the Panama Canal, is that boring ?

Two of my customers just returned from a wonderful Pacific cruise. One of their future cruise goals was the Panama Canal.
Imagine their surprise when one of their new tablemates declared traversing the canal was “like watching paint dry”. I was kind of shocked. Isn’t this one of mankind’s greatest feats, a technological marvel that took years and that cost many thousands of lives?
Okay, they thought, just one person’s opinion.
Later in the week they sat with a new couple at lunch who described their trip through the canal as “very boring”.

So, they called me and asked me “what do you think”?
I’ve talked to a few fellow cruisers who thought that the Canal transit was a tad boring, but they have been in the minority. Granted, going through the Canal is not a non stop action packed thrill ride, it does happen at what sometimes appears to be a leisurely pace.

Having some sort of knowledge as to what went on a 100 years ago helps you appreciate what was accomplished. Reading A Path Between the Seas is an excellent choice, even if it is long. Not only it will give you a great deal of insight of the construction of the Canal, but it shows how Panama was destined to become a crossroads. From the Spanish discovery and their 300 years of dominance, to original Panama Railroad, the French effort and ultimately the construction of the present Canal. You will also be able to see the next chapter being written, the start of construction of the additional locks. If you can’t get that done in time, be sure to see the video hosted by David McCullough, (Path Between the Seas) A Man, A Plan, A Canal, Panama. They have always shown the video on the ship’s TV, however, the last time I looked it was still available from Amazon.

One explanation of a Canal transit failing to wow someone is that most people are impressed with it and possibly raise expectations of potential Canal travellers too high. As you pass through the locks, it is really so simple, they fill the chamber with water and you float to a higher level. When you are high enough you can sail over the Isthmus of Panama. Simple process yes, making it all come together, not so simple. Just having a small appreciation for things that were here long before us helps, whether it’s the Egyptian Pyramids, the Eifel Tower, Empire State Building, the Panama Canal or anything in between should make it something you would enjoy.

Another thing that makes a good Canal transit is the narrator that is placed aboard the ship during the transit, some are very good and some just OK. Your ship will hopefully have an enrichment lecturer on board as well. Here too, I have found that their quality can very widely. Not having the best of either of these won’t “ruin” your transit in any event but having a good ones will certainly help put the transit over the top!

What’s the worst that can happen, you can still have a great cruise even it the Canal isn’t your favorite part. You can get bragging rights, tee shirts and more stuff you don’t need!! I’ll still give it a Siskel and Ebert of two thumbs up!