Going Through the Panama Canal.

Going through the Panama Canal from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean was reasonably uneventful.  The Prinsendam had to anchor in Gatun Lake for a while so that larger ships passing west to east could get through a narrow part in the canal, the 'Gaillard' or 'Culebra' Cut.  The rest of the canal was, as they say, plain sailing.

At Miraflores Locks there were crowds of visitors at the locks viewpoint.  Little did they know that they were saying goodbye to a bit of history....  This is the last time that the Prinsendam sails through the Panama Canal.😢  She has been sold to another company but there is hope that she will still sail through the canal even if it be under a different name and flag.

As we neared Panama City we lowered the anchor off Fuerte Amador for a scheduled overnight stay.

PHOTOGRAPHS

Gatun Lake

Going through the Gaillard Cut

Little did these visitors know that they were seeing the Prinsendam for
the last time.

The lock control tower for the new, wider canal in the distance.

Anchored, San Blas Islands, Panama.

The Prinsendam anchored off the San Blas Islands today and a tender service ran to one of the more densely populated islands (inhabited by the Guna people) for visitors to have a wander around.  It was quite an eye opening sight to see the reality of how these people lived.  While we were there, children tried to sell us tiny newborn kittens and puppies which were in a pitiful state.  I felt helpless.  Unfortunately I am not allowed a pet on board unless it is a therapy animal.  So I can't have a cat .... even if we give it the title of "Chief Mouser" or "Specialist Pest Eradicator" ☹️.  Something to do with health and safety.

The Guna people fled to the Panama Archipelago islands during the Spanish invasion.  Many Guna are fishermen.

Other islands are idyllic - a bit like paradise; good for ecotourism.  We we didn't visit any of the other islands.  But thinking about it,  visiting the island the populated island - might help the village economy a bit with guests buying hand made trinkets and items.

The reality of life was brought home to me yet again.  And to never take things for granted.

PHOTOGRAPHS

Santa Marta, Columbia. Excursion: Tyrona Park Adventure.

After a nice scenic drive we reached Tayrona National Park which is situated in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range. 

We had a guided walk through forest to beach with boulders for a few photographs.  Unfortunately we couldn't swim there because of strong currents.  I was quite glad the walk was mainly through forest because it was a hot day.

Next we walked up to the cliff top for a view of the coastline and beach below.  The walk continued along the cliff edge, through the forest up to another viewpoint (hut style) with fantastic views of the coastline and the forest of the park inland. 

We made our way to a restaurant for lunch in the park where we had a nice buffet lunch – salads, chicken, fish and beef with plantain patties and rice. 

Afterwards we had time to have a swim at the nearby beach or relax.  I managed to squeeze in a dip and felt quite refreshed.  With 5 minutes to go before meeting back at the restaurant to get the bus back to the port - I dashed back into the water again to cool off and then got dressed in double quick time. 

It was good to eventually get back home to cool off properly in the cabin shower.

PHOTOGRAPHS

 

Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Over the last few days we have been at sea.  We were due to anchor at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas on 3rd January but unfortunately the port was cancelled because of strong winds. It is something that the captain doesn't take lightly - putting lives at risk in order not to disappoint vs putting safety first.

Miami is a turn around port today, before heading out for the South American Grand Voyage.  I got off the ship for a few hours and went by bus into town for a wander.  Unfortunately I have never taken a sailor's mission bus so I was particularly nervous as to where to get dropped off, etc; and so was initially very reluctant to go.  Fortunately the chief engineer's wife was also going into town on the bus so I went with her; and on the way back I teamed up with the HR Manageress.  It was easier than I thought.

I spent a few good hours, having a wander around.  But no - I was good.  I didn't spend much - just picked up 2 packets of M&Ms (next best thing to smarties) and 2 packets of crisps.  Er .. and a bikini because my current one is just about to fall apart!

The Prinsendam is fully loaded and we are now setting off on the South American Grand Voyage - an 80 day cruise.