The Panama Canal has been called many things – the Big Ditch, the “Cut”…all kinds of things.
Even after all these times through it, it’s hard to really describe it. I wouldn’t call it pretty; which is odd, because given that most of South America is so lush and green and full of life, you would expect it to be more jungle-like, but it’s really quite flat and industrial. It is, after all, 100% man-made; replacing the land bridge that was here eons ago with a man-made division of concrete and metal.
It’s also…very slow. At first you are not even aware that you’re moving down. There’s no physical sensation, no dropping of the stomach or anything, just a slow glide downwards. It was easier to see the motion by looking at the catamaran in the lock across from us.
It’s also very very warm, and rather sticky, but that’s to be expected in this part of the world.
Usually when we make the transit it’s exceptionally busy out on the bow, last cruise I was plied with questions and chatter and general conversation. This cruise? There’s only a tiny handful even as we go through the last lock; which perhaps goes to show just how unusual this particular group of guests is (honestly, wall-people!). Which makes it very peaceful somehow.
Peaceful, and…patient. Something the world needs right now.