Panama Canal - I am back (Faina)
 

A quick note for those who's planning: we did ocean to ocean, and to go west to east was the best decision.

Do get up early enough to see the grand sailing into the canal! I mean start watching when it's still dark - you'll get the sunrise time from the TV channel with the map of where the ship is.

And all the way to Gatun lake it's just spectacular. Once in the lake, you've seen it all, no need to stay on the ship longer, you can take tours.

Which ship are you on Faina?

We are going next mo. and its west to east too. Are you going to post a review?

Vision of the Seas, Royal Caribbean, it was a repositioning cruise.

Report- yes, of course, but most likely next week. Still unpacking and going over (e-)mail ;)

Looking forward to your report as we are taking this cruise in April. Really interested in what shore excursions you took.

Looking forward to the TR. ((*))

Welcome home, Faina. Didn't you just love the Panama Canal? I sailed on The Serenade Oct. 2007 from San Diego to San Juan. DH and I were out on the helipad by 5:15A and watched sunrise over Panama City. I can't wait to relive it through your review.

Oh, going west to east is always smoother sailing. Cruising north from Cabo is where two major ocean currents meet. The ship is sailing against the current along the coast of Baja California (also CA) thus making a rougher ride.

For several reasons, we took only 2 tours, the rest on our own. Coastal tour in Puntarenas - not much to see, not recommended. Jamaica wonders - this one was great!