Agua Clara Locks & Kayak in the Canal to Colon

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

What you will visit:

Gatun Lake Kayak Experience

To establish the Panama Canal waterway, the Gatun Lake was created in 1913 by building Gatun Dam at the Chagres River before it reaches the Atlantic Ocean. A kayak excursion through these man-made waters is an opportunity to explore the Canal's rainforest, rich with natural resources. This natural gem hosts an incredible array of mammals, colorful birds, reptiles and amphibians. Maneuver your kayak along the canal and around the islands dotting the lake in search of indigenous wildlife, including the playful capuchin monkeys.
Agua Clara Visitor Center

This modern observation center offers the chance to take in close-up views of the passing ships and functioning of the locks from the top-floor deck of the expansive visitor center. With two covered viewing levels that directly overlook the newly expanded Panama Canal locks, visitors can watch as cruise ships, cargo ships and tankers line up in the Atlantic to enter the lock system. The new locks use huge holding tanks/ponds that conserve 60% of the lake water instead of losing it like the old locks. The surrounding area includes a jungle walking trail, a gift shop and amenities.

What you will see along the way:

The Panama Canal rainforests are some of the most accessible green zones in the world. With over 50,000 acres of pristine rainforest, this natural gem hosts an incredible 105 species of mammals, 525 species of birds and 124 species of reptiles and amphibians. The canal requires a vast rainforest watershed to feed water to its lock system, which uses millions of gallons each day.

Special Notes:

Maximum combined weight is 450 lbs. Minimum age is 9 years. Double kayaks are used. Guests traveling together may be spilt. Tour departs from Gatún Lake and ends in Colón where you will re-join the ship. You may arrive in Colón before the ship does. Suitable for adventurous and physically-fit participants. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed.

The Panama Canal Authority assigns specific time slots for the transit of a vessel through the locks. The ship will anchor in a designated area and will wait for instructions. Once clearance is transmitted to the ship, procedures begin to bring ship's tour passengers ashore. Therefore, tour departure times may vary and will be announced onboard. The return time of the ship to Colon or Cristobal may also be delayed due to transit through the locks. We recommend that you are prepared for any potential of delay in the ship's arrival to Colon or Cristobal and plan accordingly by bringing any needed medication or essential items on tour.

Depending on the voyage and itinerary guests will be dropped off in either Colon or Cristobal.