This full transit tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience one of the greatest engineering achievements in human history. From stunning landscapes to intricate lock systems, the Panama Canal Full Transit Tour is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and adventurers alike.

The Pacific Queen is a large, 250-passenger cruise ship. It has two enclosed decks equipped with air conditioning, as well as a third open-air deck. There is a speaker system that allows the tour guide to narrate throughout the length of the cruise. Additionally, there are six restrooms, a souvenir shop, and a lounge/bar area where food and drinks are served.

The full transit runs the entire length of the canal—from the point of entry on the Pacific Ocean to the exit on the Caribbean coast. This is the best way to get a comprehensive look at the Panama Canal. This tour lasts 11 to 12 hours.

The ship departs from the Flamenco Marina in Panama City. While here you’ll enjoy views of the Bay of Panama and the city skyline before passing under the Bridge of the Americas. The ship will then transit the first set of locks, the Miraflores Locks, where it will rise 60 feet (18 m) in two distinct steps. The ship then enters Miraflores Lake, a small artificial body of fresh water that separates the Pedro Miguel and Miraflores locks. The Pacific Queen will continue on to transit the Pedro Miguel lock, ascending 30 feet (9 m) in one step.

After exiting these locks, the Pacific Queen will pass through the Gaillard Cut, which carves through the Continental Divide. As you transit the Gaillard Cut you’ll be able to observe the canal expansion project. Your trip will continue on through Gatún Lake and pass by the Smithsonian Research Station at Barro Colorado. You’ll also experience the Gatún Locks, which are the only locks along the Atlantic side of the Panama Canal. Here the ship will be lowered 85 feet (26 m) in three steps.

Upon arriving at Colon, you will disembark at Shelter Bay, where transportation back to Panama City will be provided.

Comfortable clothes and shoes, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent camera, umbrella or raincoat and money for souvenirs

Bilingual guide, continental breakfast, buffet lunch, snacks in the afternoon, sodas and water