How Long Does Cruise Ship Take to Go Through Panama Canal?

By Michael Ferguson

Cruise ships crossing through Panama Canal is an increasingly popular way to travel and explore the world. At the same time, it is important to understand how long it takes for a cruise ship to go through the canal. This article will provide a detailed explanation of this process and what you need to know.

The Panama Canal, completed in 1914, is an impressive engineering feat that connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The canal is a series of locks that lift and lower ships, allowing them to travel between oceans without having to sail around South America. It takes an average of 8-10 hours for a ship to travel from one end of the canal to the other.

The exact time it takes for a cruise ship to pass through Panama Canal will depend on several factors such as the size of the vessel, weather conditions, and traffic in the canal. Smaller vessels can usually make it through in about 8 hours, while larger vessels may take up to 10 hours or more. Additionally, if there are other ships in front or behind your ship in line for passage, this could add additional time.

In order to pass through Panama Canal, cruise ships must be able to fit within certain length and width restrictions. Cruises that don’t meet these requirements won’t be allowed passage and will have to take an alternate route around South America — adding days or weeks more onto their journey.

Conclusion

Overall, it typically takes 8-10 hours for a cruise ship to go through Panama Canal depending on its size and other factors such as weather conditions and traffic in the canal. Cruise ships must also meet certain length and width restrictions in order to pass through — otherwise they will have no choice but take an alternate route around South America.