From November 1, 2017 onwards we will handle the regular rates established at the moment:

From 01 May 2018 to 31 October 2018 (low season):

After the historic struggle that culminated in its recovery, and given the efficient, profitable, safe and transparent way that the Panamanian administration has managed the Canal after its turnover on December 31, 1999, today the Canal is a source of pride for all Panamanians.

Each generation made their own contribution to the Canal’s success: first, with the construction of the Panama Canal, then through the amendments to obtain fairer conditions for Panama and the signing of a treaty with the United States for the definite turnover; and finally, during the transition process and the more than five years of successful Panamanian administration. Together, all of these generations forged a history of sacrifice, passion and vision.

Today, the Panama Canal is presented with new challenges and opportunities, defined by a sustained increase in international trade and the subsequent greater demand for the Panama transit route. We have already proven, both to the international community and to ourselves that we are capable of managing the Canal with the highest standards of efficiency. But now we have to make the decisions that will optimize Canal operations and sustain its growing profitability for present and future generations.

The Panama Canal Master Plan, the proposal for the third set of locks project and the reports from studies and investigations were developed in order to present for public debate a reference material in the appropriate context, as well as an adequate basis and technical foundation for the subject in discussion. Included here are the analyses, data, and key subjects of discussion that were researched and studied during the last five years since the Canal administration became Panamanian, and support the proposal that to continue investing in the Canal is not only wise, but essential and beneficial for Panama.

Panama Canal Partial Transit Tour

Tour description (4 –5 hrs):

Southbound
Our tour starts at the Flamenco Resort and Marina. Passengers board motor coaches for a 45 minute ride to the town of Gamboa where the Panama Canal Dredging Division is located. Once in Gamboa, passengers board the Pacific Queen to start the water portion of the tour. The Panama Canal partial transit tour begins at the north end of the Gailard cut, where the Chagres River flows into the canal. The Gaillard Cut (also known as Culebra Cut because its curves resemble a snake) is one of the main points of interest for visitors because it was carved through the Continental Divide and this section of the Canal is full of history and geological value. The Pacific Queen will travel the Cut’s 13.7 kilometers on the way to Pedro Miguel Locks. As you transit the Cut you will be able to appreciate the continuous maintenance that this area requires, because it is very susceptible to landslides. In this area you will also be able to observe the work in process for the Panama Canal expansion project.

Before reaching the Pedro Miguel Locks at the southern end of the Cut, you will be able to view the new Centennial Bridge which crosses over the Canal. Next, the Pacific Queen will enter Pedro Miguel Locks, which is one of the two sets of locks on the Pacific side, and here the vessel is lowered 9 meters in one step. You will then enter Miraflores Lake, which is a small artificial body of fresh water that separates Pedro Miguel from Miraflores Locks, the latter being the final set of locks before reaching the Pacific Ocean. At Miraflores Locks the vessel is lowered 18 meters in two distinct steps.

Once in the Pacific Ocean the vessel will sail to the beautiful Flamenco Marina where passengers disembark. On the way to Flamenco, you will pass under the Bridge of the Americas, and later, you will be able to admire the Bay of Panama and Panama City’s splendorous skyline.

For departure times, please check our Schedule as it may vary if the Full Transit is operated on the same day.

Northbound

The tour starts at Flamenco Marina. You will board the Pacific Queen and set sail towards the entrance of Panama Canal on the Pacific Ocean. Take a moment to admire the Bay of Panama and Panama City’s splendorous skyline before you pass under the Bridge of the Americas.

The Panama Canal partial transit tour begins with the Pacific Queen entering the Miraflores Locks and it will be raised 18 meters above sea level in two distinct steps. You will then enter Miraflores Lake, which is a small artificial body of fresh water that separates Miraflores from Pedro Miguel Locks. Next, the Pacific Queen will enter Pedro Miguel Locks, which is the second set of locks on the Pacific side, and here the vessel is raised 9 meters in one step. After exiting the Pedro Miguel Locks, you will be able to view the new Centennial Bridge which crosses over the Canal.

You will then enter the north end of the Gailard Cut where the Chagres River flows into the Canal. The Gailard Cut (also known as Culebra Cut because its curves resemble a snake) is one of the main points of interest for visitors because it was carved through the Continental Divide and this section of the Canal is full of history and geological value. The Pacific Queen will travel the Cut’s 13.7 kilometers on the way to Gamboa Dredging Division. As you transit the Cut you will be able to appreciate the continuous maintenance that this area requires, because it is very susceptible to landslides. In this area you will also be able to observe the work in process for the Panama Canal expansion project.

You will disembark at the Gamboa Dredging Division where you will board motor coaches for a 45 minute ride back to the Flamenco Marina.

For departure times, please check our Schedule as it may vary if the Full Transit is operated on the same day.

The Panama Canal partial transit tour includes:

• Bilingual guide/narrator.
• Full lunch.
• Soft drinks and water (all you can drink).

Transportation by bus from Panama City (Flamenco Resort & Marina) to Gamboa or vice versa.

What to bring:

Comfortable clothes and shoes, hat, sun block, sunglasses, camera, umbrella or raincoat and money for souvenirs.