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Activities in Panama City

Panama Canal & Gatun Lake Speedboat Ride

  • 77 reviews | 616 travellers
    The activity as a whole was great. We were alone the entire trip. Our guide, Lucio, was very attentive. He told us a lot about the canal and even started the tour early to avoid potential problems with rain. Perhaps the only drawback is that the activity times are very short because it takes a long time to get to the lake.
    8 Irene De
  • Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the service starts
  • Hotel pickup
  • Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the service starts

With this day trip to the Panama Canal, you'll learn why it was necessary to build a waterway connecting the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea. You'll also enjoy a speedboat ride on Gatun Lake.

With this day trip to the Panama Canal, you'll learn why it was necessary to build a waterway connecting the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea. You'll also enjoy a speedboat ride on Gatun Lake.

Activity Details

We'll pick you up from your hotel in Panama City at the time you choose and set off to the Panama Canal. First, we'll stop at the Pedro Miguel Locks to watch the boats cross these narrow canals and see how the usual procedure works.

Then, we'll stop at the Centenario Bridge to admire the large ships and learn about the average number of containers each one carries, how much fresh water is lost for every ship that passes through, and the meaning of their flags, among many other interesting facts.

After enjoying the views from the walkway, we'll arrive at the pier of Gamboa. Are you ready for a pleasant cruise? We'll embark on a 45-minute speedboat ride through Gatun Lake. We'll sail very close to colossal tuna boats, grain carriers, refrigerated ships, oil tankers, and cruise ships while learning about the differences between them and the characteristics of their crews. It'll be a truly unique experience!

After sailing along the waters next to these giant ships, we'll return to the pier and head back to Panama City. We'll arrive at your hotel after 5 hours.

Miraflores Locks

If you want to discover the interior of the Miraflores Locks, this is the option you're looking for!

In this case, we'll follow the same itinerary previously described, but instead of stopping at the Pedro Miguel Locks, we'll visit the inside of the Miraflores Locks. Did you know they're the last part of the Panama Canal before reaching the Pacific? There, ships can lower or raise their water level by up to 52 ft (16 m) to reach the ocean level. Amazing!

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More Information

Duration

8 hours.

Language

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English, although it may occasionally be done in two languages. The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English, although it may occasionally be done in two languages.

Included

Hotel pickup & drop–off

Transport by minibus

English–speaking guide

Speedboat ride

Drinks on board

Admission to the Miraflores Locks (depending on selected option)

When to book?

You can book up until 24 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability conditions

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

    A - This activity requires a minimum of 2 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Albenis Rivera Aguirre. Jeff&brian Tours Corporate name: Albenis Rivera Aguirre Registered Office: URb Floresta de Vacamonte, calle 1RA, Casa B-40, Panama City, Panama Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): 4284496 Contact information Email: jeffersonwald21@gmail.com Phone: 00 507 6922 1733

If you have any other questions please contact us.

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