What to Do on a Cruise Through the Panama Canal

For your first transit of the Panama Canal, I highly recommend staying onboard to fully appreciate the experience. Listen to the guided commentary provided by the ship as you pass through the locks—it’s both informative and fascinating. Be sure to spend some time at the forward-most part of the ship as you approach the first lock for an incredible perspective.

Before my first transit, I prepared by watching The Man, the Plan, the Canal: Panama and reading extensively about the canal’s construction. The story of the Panama Canal remains one of the most captivating tales in history, blending culture, tradition, geopolitics, engineering, inequality, scientific discovery, and the triumph of human ingenuity over nature’s obstacles. Even after multiple transits, I continue to find it awe-inspiring.

For your second visit, consider taking a comprehensive tour that includes walking through parts of Panama City. Exploring this vibrant city adds depth to your understanding of the canal’s significance and the country’s rich history.

And, of course, it’s always fun to buy a Panama hat while you’re there—just remember, the iconic hat was actually invented in Ecuador! When President Theodore Roosevelt visited Panama during the canal’s construction, he famously wore a hat made in Ecuador. A widely circulated photo of him wearing it mistakenly linked the hat to Panama, creating a lasting association with the country.

Whether you’re marveling at the locks onboard or exploring the city onshore, a Panama Canal cruise is truly unforgettable.