Panama - May 4, 2024

[Note: time-lapse, no sound]

The crew of the CGC Thetis recently navigated the legendary Panama Canal during an 8-hour transit as part of their journey to the Eastern Pacific on a counter narcotics patrol.

The passage through the Panama Canal presented a unique opportunity for crew members to witness the intricate workings of this engineering marvel. As the Thetis navigated through the locks, she joined a diverse array of vessels from around the globe in this iconic maritime journey.

Completed in 1914, the Panama Canal remains a testament to human innovation. Spanning approximately 50 miles, it serves as a vital link between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Utilizing a system of locks, the canal raises and lowers ships over the Continental Divide, allowing them to traverse between different sea levels in a series of steps.

This strategic shortcut significantly reduces travel time for maritime traffic, bypassing the lengthy and perilous route around the southern tip of South America via the Strait of Magellan.