Transiting the Panama Canal

We spent December 24 transiting the Panama Canal from the Caribbean/Atlantic side to the Pacific Ocean.  We passed through 3 sets of locks during the 48 mile trek:  Gatun, Piedro Miguel and Miraflores. The PC was built in 1913 by the U.S., but given to the country of Panama in 2000. The revenue from ship transport on the canal now accounts for 10% of the GDP of Panama.  We exited near Panama City and are now on our way to the western side of Costa Rica. A few photos of our passage through the canal.

Entering the first lock on the Panama Canal

Electric "mule" that attaches to the ship by thick cables and keeps the ship in place while in the lock

Entering the last lock (Miraflores)

A view of modern Panama City as we exit the Panama Canal

Rick sitting in the captain's chair on the bridge