12-Day World Cruise: Panama Canal To Callao

Everyone should sail through the Panama Canal at least once. It is a remarkable experience and a moving one when you know the mixture of tragedy and triumph, French farce and financial meltdown which went into its building. The French spent 20 fruitless years trying to build a canal - Suez-style - straight through the land. Then the Americans tried a lock-based canal and, between 1903 and 1914, completed the waterway that stands today. Look out for memorial plaques to the thousands who died in its creation, mainly of diseases rife in the forests and swamps through which the canal was forged. It is 50 miles long and, from the Caribbean side, your ship will be lifted 85ft by the Gatun Locks into Gatun Lake. She then negotiates the narrow Gaillard Cut to the Pedro Miguel and Miraflores locks which lower her back down to the level of the Pacific, which you first see stretching out on the other side of the towering Bridge of the Americas.

If you are a “pollywog,” who has never crossed the line at sea, you will be expected to undergo a mock trial by King Neptune and his court for the entertainment of the “shellbacks” who have already done so. Mild but hilarious indignities will be conjured, and in the end a good time will be had by most, if not all.

Guayaquil, Ecuador’s vibrant port city, hums with energy along the Guayas River. Spend your day strolling the colourful Malecón 2000, exploring the art-filled Las Peñas district, or spotting wildlife in the city’s tropical parks. From riverfront views to colonial charm, Guayaquil offers a lively taste of coastal Ecuador.

Surrounded by lush farmland, Machala is known as the banana capital of the world. Explore the vibrant city centre, visit the ornate cathedral and the unique Nuestra Señora de Chilla church, or venture further to the nearby Puyango Petrified Forest, home to some of the world’s largest fossilised trees.

Callao is a bustling port city near Lima, known for its rich maritime history and vibrant culture. Visit the historic Callao Fortress, explore the colorful streets of the historic district, or relax at the nearby beaches. With its lively atmosphere, rich heritage, and proximity to Lima, Callao offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s coastal life.

Callao is a bustling port city near Lima, known for its rich maritime history and vibrant culture. Visit the historic Callao Fortress, explore the colorful streets of the historic district, or relax at the nearby beaches. With its lively atmosphere, rich heritage, and proximity to Lima, Callao offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s coastal life.