BillB48

I haven't tried to take an excursion on most of the times I was on a B2B and the one time I did sign up for an excursion it was cancelled because of not enough participation. YMMV As Biker yes, the exact process may differ. I have usually had some sort of identification indicating you were "In Transit" paper that would get you around some of the congestion. Pre Covid often times, a special lunch in the MDR was held for the B2B people.

With stop in Ft. Amador after the transit will allow to choose from a full range of shore excursions. Usually these excursions include visits to both the old and new locks, possibly a partial transit of the original Pacific side Locks along with a passage through Gaillard Cut, visits to the Embera Indians and tours of Panama City.

Yes, that is a complete transit using the new locks. Enjoy!!

As a practical option for transportation across the Isthmus, the railroad is not really an option. The only passenger service offered is M-F, 7AM Panama to Colon and a return trip to Panama City a little after 5PM. Just one round trip a day. I have been gone too long to knowledgeably comment on bus travel, but I can assure you unless you are well versed in third world travel, that is not a real good option either.

CWH, Just off the May 14 sailing of the Allure and they announced they had a new captain on board and was still in quarantine so the staff captain would be doing the visible passenger events. Never got the name but he sounded as if it were Capt. Shawn. Seems like a short rotation for Capt. Holmes???

You will experience the reverse process of going through Gatun Locks and the short trip to Colon. While it is interesting and pleasant, particularly the prime viewing spots are more accessible with less passengers on the ship. Even if your prime interest is not the Canal, Panama has a lot of history and is not a typical day of sun, sand and surf that is the mainstay attraction at many other Caribbean ports of call.

What you will "miss" is the return trip through Gatun Locks and the short sail to the dock in Colon. Most of this is ground you will have already covered earlier that morning on your way through Gatun Locks to Gatun Lake. If it is doubtful you will get a chance to do the Canal again I think it may be a good idea to take the ferry for the Pacific Locks excursion. Great chance to see some of the countryside, the two Pacific Locks and Gaillard Cut. You will also be treated to some great views of Panama City's skyline. Staying on the ship provides you with an opportunity to see about 8 miles of a 50 mile Canal, twice! See as much of it as you can!!