Panama Canal Watershed Boat Cruise & Miraflores Locks

Panama City , Panama

Panama Canal Watershed Boat Cruise & Miraflores Locks

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(2 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a seamless hotel pickup in Panama City as your adventure begins with a drive past the Pedro Miguel Locks, offering insight into the daily operations of the Panama Canal.

Continue through the lush rainforest of Soberanía National Park before boarding a covered speedboat to cruise across Gatun Lake, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world and a key part of the Panama Canal system.

While navigating its calm waters, you may find yourself alongside massive cargo ships transiting the canal, creating an unforgettable perspective of their impressive size.

On the return journey, stop for photos of the historic Titan crane and, if you’re lucky, glimpse the world’s oldest railroad connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

As the final stop before returning to your city hotel, visit the Miraflores Visitor Center to witness the canal’s impressive operations and enjoy the IMAX movie narrated by Morgan Freeman.

Available options

From City Hotel/AirBnB

City Hotel Only.: We can collect only from city hotel. Not from Dreams or Westin PB<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Round trip air-conditioned transportation

Bottled water

Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Miraflores Locks and the Panama Canal IMAX movie offer a rich and dynamic look at one of the world’s most iconic engineering achievements. From the observation terraces, visitors watch ships of all sizes rise and fall inside the towering lock chambers as tugboats guide them with remarkable precision. Inside the theater, the IMAX film enhances the experience with sweeping aerial views, detailed historical footage, and vivid explanations of the challenges faced during the canal’s construction and later expansion. Narrated with clarity and depth, the movie highlights the global impact of the canal and the vision that made it possible. Together, the real-time view of the locks and the powerful visual storytelling of the IMAX film deliver an engaging, educational experience that connects visitors to the history, science, and scale of this extraordinary waterway.

Navigate the Chagres River as it flows into Gatun Lake, where you’ll cruise alongside massive ships transiting the Panama Canal, offering a unique close-up perspective. Along the route, you’ll also see the historic Titan crane, a reminder of the canal’s early construction era. If luck is on our side, we may even spot the world’s oldest railroad connecting two oceans as we pass by, adding a fascinating historical highlight to this unforgettable journey.

What's not included

Panama Canal Entrance fees (Adult $17.22 / Kids $7.22 )

Boat Fees is $25 per person

We do not Cross any locks when in the lake

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

On this tour you will be with other people as it is a shared tour.

Please bring US dollar cash to pay the boat fee, which is $25 per person.

Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect against the sun

You will receive an email the day before with your exact pickup time and location.

Pickups may begin up to one hour before the published tour start time. We kindly ask that you are ready and attentive ahead of time.

About Panama City

Panama City, the capital and largest city of Panama, is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers meet historic colonial architecture. Situated at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, it offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and tropical charm, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Panama Canal

One of the most significant engineering feats in history, the Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Historical Half-day to full day Free to visit locks, tours vary

Casco Viejo

The historic district of Panama City, Casco Viejo is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural landmarks.

Historical Half-day to full day Free to explore, entry fees for museums

Biomuseo

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate

Ancon Hill

A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of the city and the Panama Canal.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Panama Viejo

The ruins of the original Panama City, founded in 1519, offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, entry fee for museum

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sancocho

A hearty chicken and root vegetable soup, often served with rice and corn.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Ceviche

Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.

Appetizer Contains seafood, can be made with various types of fish

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef stew with vegetables, served with rice and beans.

Main Course Contains meat

Hojaldres

Fried dough pastries, often served with cheese or jam.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Soberanía National Park Kayaking in the San Blas Islands Beach day at Playa Blanca Spa day in a luxury hotel Exploring Casco Viejo Visiting the Biomuseo Snorkeling in the San Blas Islands Boat tours through the Panama Canal

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Panamanian Balboa (PAB)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Panama City is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Tocumen International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from city center

By bus

Albrook Terminal, Panama Viejo Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned. A convenient way to travel within the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Casco Viejo El Cangrejo Bella Vista San Francisco

Day trips

San Blas Islands

300 km (186 miles) from Panama City • Full day to overnight

A group of islands known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and Guna Yala culture.

El Valle de Antón

80 km (50 miles) from Panama City • Full day

A picturesque mountain town surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls.

Soberanía National Park

30 km (19 miles) from Panama City • Half day to full day

A lush rainforest offering a variety of wildlife and hiking trails.

Festivals

Panama Carnival • February (4 days before Ash Wednesday) Panama Jazz Festival • January Festival de las Mil Polleras • July

Pro tips

Visit the Panama Canal early in the morning to see ships pass through the locks
Explore Casco Viejo on foot to discover its hidden gems and vibrant street life
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
Use the metro for efficient and affordable travel within the city
Book tours and activities in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment