We are fortunate to be one of the only vessels that overnights in the Panama Canal. This gives us a chance to explore the canal and see some of the fascinating wildlife and experience what it’s truly like to be in the canal. Our ship divided into three groups this morning. One group visited Borro Colorado Island where the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute is located to learn about some of the incredible research that is underway in the canal zone. Another group enjoyed a Zodiac cruise around the island, while a third group, my group, visited the Canal Discovery Center to look for wildlife.
10/26/2024
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National Geographic Quest
Barro Colorado Island and the Panama Canal
The last day of our expedition began with a gentle rain. We spent the night anchored next to Barro Colorado Island after completing our transit through the Gatun Locks the night before. A troop of howler monkeys woke us up with their strong and noisy howl. For our morning activity, some of our guests explored a trail on Barro Colorado Island. Their local guide from the Smithsonian Tropical Institute explained to them the different projects that are currently underway on the island. The wildlife was plentiful, unphased by our presence. Another group explored part of Soberania National Park, located at the midpoint of the Panama Canal in Gamboa. The local guides pointed out the wildlife that is constantly found in the area. Several species of birds showed up and delighted our guests. In the afternoon as we awaited our pilot, we continued to explore different coves of Gatun Lake, and more wildlife was sighted by our naturalists. It was a mesmerizing afternoon. Once the pilot of the Panama Canal came on board, we continued south to complete our marvelous transit through the Panama Canal.
