The Panama Canal Transit - Beyond All Expectations Part 1

The creation of the Panama Canal was far more than a vast, unprecedented feat of engineering. It was a profoundly important historic event and a sweeping human drama not unlike that of war. Apart from wars, it represented the largest, most costly single effort ever before mounted anywhere on earth. It held the world’s attention over a span of forty years. It affected the lives of tens of thousands of people at every level of society and of virtually every race and nationality. Great reputations were made and destroyed . For numbers of men and women it was the adventure of a lifetime.” David Mc Cullough “The Path Between The Seas”.

(More Canal history at the end)

At 15:45, on Monday, 14th February 2022, Valentine’s Day, Irene IV, with a crew of 8 started her Canal Transit expedition. She will transit through 6 locks, 3 on the Atlantic side, Gatun locks, and 3 on the Pacific side, Pedro Miguel and Miraflores locks. These 6 locks have functioned flawlessly, 24/7, for 100 years. We are very excited!

Welcome aboard Scottish Steve, and long time friend, John Egan

The crew looks very well dressed in red uniform shirts

Louis and Kevin

John Egan

Sabine

John Hunter Holmes

John and Kevin having too much fun!

Louis in his element.

Photographers everywhere!

Major General Andrew Cumming (retired) joined us for the transit. He is a crew member aboard Akoya, another OWR participant.