Is A Late Transit Of Panama Canal Feasible?

Created by doina. Last modified on 2004-11-12 10:27:06
Contributors:
Countries: Panama

Question

Is it ok to go through the Panama Canal around the start of April or May? My research does not seem to show any disadvantage to a late start other than less time spent in Polynesia - which we are ok with as our main goal is to get to New Zealand.

Answer

The Panama Canal can be transited any time of the year, and in fact an April or May transit has the advantage that there will be less boats waiting in Colon, and also less boats further down the line - in Galapagos. The weather in May is still OK, so nothing to worry about on that score either. As you say, the only price to pay is to have less time in the S. Pacific but you should be able to make it up as you have until late October/early November to sail to New Zealand.