While a cruise ship holiday may appear to be the epitome of a relaxing getaway, there are several pitfalls that could potentially mar your experience, including some that have even tripped up veteran travellers.
Gary Bembridge, an expert in the field, shares on his Tips for Travellers podcast that voyages through the Panama Canal can be particularly problematic. He notes: "There is not just one Panama Canal to transit but two quite different routes."
The route taken by your ship is dependent on its size, a factor Gary deems a "huge issue," as one passage is significantly more enjoyable than the other.
Large, modern cruise ships, such as Cunard's Queen Mary II, Celebrity Edge Class ships, Norwegian Bliss and Prima class, or the Sun Princess, will navigate through the newer, wider Panama Canal, according to Gary.
However, it is the original canal that boasts the most breathtaking views. "In my view," Gary says, "the original 1914 canal is the canal to go through...it's the most dramatic, visually interesting and has an incredible history and story to discover," reports the Express.
He advises that if traversing the Panama Canal is a dream trip for you, research the vessel you plan to travel on to ensure you get the full experience.
Gary warns that even the cruise line may not always confirm which branch of the canal they will use, so it is essential to verify the size of the ship you are booking yourself. According to seasoned traveller Gary, ships that are Panamax size or smaller often transit the original Panama Canal, offering the extraordinary experience of sailing just a few feet from solid ground.
He recommends lines like Regent, Crystal, Silversea, Seabourn, Viking, Oceania, Azamara, and Windstar for their consistent use of the traditional route.
Gary suggests utilising Facebook groups frequented by past cruise-goers, as these platforms can yield valuable tips on which canal a ship will navigate through, along with advice on which vessels provide prime viewing and photographing opportunities in the historic canal.
Despite being an experienced cruiser, Gary reflects on missing out on optimal views during his last trip through the canal: "You want to go on a ship which has the best places to do viewings – especially those forward facing and in open air, so not behind by glass.
"My recent Regent Grandeur was not one, and even I messed up by not checking on this."
He further notes that not every passage through the Panama Canal offers the same level of excitement.
For the most comprehensive experience, Gary emphasises that one should opt for a full 14-day journey: "They tend to take place at the start and end of the Alaska season as ships move to and from the Caribbean, as part of World or Grand Voyages," he explains.
He notes that there are also shorter, "partial" canal transit voyages available: "If you want to get a taste of the Panama Canal but mostly want a Southern and West Caribbean cruise, you can do partial transit cruise out of Florida... these have a mix of Caribbean ports and head up the Gatun Locks, turn around in the Gatun Lake and come back down."
For those who prefer briefer experiences, there are mini cruises that provide a glimpse of the historic canal while concentrating on the Western Caribbean.
To fully appreciate the Panama Canal journey, Gary suggests some pre-trip education: "Getting the most out of any Panama Canal trip would involve a little reading about the history of the canal before you embark," he adds, but there's also essential practical advice to follow: "There are some key things to pack."
Those planning to spend time outside during the journey should prepare for the conditions: "You're going to be outside for a long time. It's hot, it's sticky, and you can get very sunburnt. So take a hat, ideally with a brim all the way around, sunglasses, sunscreen, and clothes suitable for a hot humid day with comfy shoes."
Gary stresses not to underestimate the importance of sunscreen, sharing his own experience where insufficient application led to a severe sunburn upon returning home.
Additionally, considering the wealth of photographic opportunities, he advises tourists to manage their phone storage by clearing space beforehand and to carry an external battery pack to avoid missing out on capturing remarkable sights because the phone is charging back in the cabin.
For avid photographers wielding dedicated cameras, he reminds them to bring along extra memory cards.
Gary highlights three essential tips for travellers. He emphasises the importance of attending the daily talk that explores the day's itinerary, which he considers crucial for planning meal times and securing the best spots for views before they become crowded.
Additionally, Gary advises against staying in one place. As the passage progresses, different areas will offer superior views of the impressive lock gates as they open and close.
Lastly, Gary suggests understanding what parts of the journey you can afford to skip is key to enjoying your holiday: "When you go through the Gatun Lake and Culebra Cut, don't really worry about being out all the time," he recommends.
"It's interesting, but less to see and so good for downtime, resting and eating."
