The short answer
There is no clearly better side. In the locks the ship sits in the middle of the chamber, with lock walls on both sides, and in Gatun Lake and the Culebra Cut there are views from either side. What matters more is where on the ship you stand: high, forward and early tends to beat a particular side.
Cruise travelers sometimes debate port versus starboard before a transit, and the answer can depend on the direction of travel, the ship and which set of locks it uses. Rather than choosing a side in advance, plan to move around during the day.
Why the side matters less than the position
In the original locks, the ship fits closely in the chamber, and the electric locomotives, or “mules,” run along both sides. In the newer, larger locks, the chambers are bigger, and tugboats take the place of mules. Either way, you can see the walls, gates and lock activity from both sides of the ship.
During the lake portion, scenery such as islands, shoreline and other ships can appear on either side, depending on the channel. Ships passing in the opposite direction will be on one side, but it may be the opposite side to what you expect.
Best places on deck
- The bow (forward) decks. If open to passengers, these give you a view straight ahead into the lock and gates, and of the ship’s approach. Cruise lines sometimes restrict access, so check.
- Upper decks. Height lets you see over the lock walls and further into the surrounding landscape.
- Promenade or wraparound decks. Some ships have decks that run around the ship, which gives shade and lets you cross to the other side easily.
- Open aft decks. Good for seeing the lock gates close behind the ship.
- Observation lounges. Useful for a break from sun or rain, and for glimpses through large windows.
What you will see at each stage
- Approach and first locks. The gates, the water and the chamber walls. This is where the mules or tugs are most visible.
- Gatun Lake. Wide views of the lake and the rainforest edges. You may see other ships waiting or passing.
- Culebra Cut. A narrow channel with steep banks, a good place to see the scale of the excavation.
- Final locks. Often the best time to watch the ship lowered and to see the next ocean ahead.
For an explanation of each stage, read how cruise ships go through the Panama Canal.
Cabin choice and balconies
A balcony is a bonus but not essential (see inside vs balcony cabin). A balcony on the side facing the best views during the transit would help, but both sides get views, and the public decks are often better, with a wider sweep and commentary. If you have a balcony, you can still go on deck for the locks.
Tips for a good viewing spot
- Go early. The front and upper decks fill up quickly around the first locks.
- Stay flexible. Move between the sides and decks as the ship moves.
- Bring sun protection, water and a light rain layer. It is a long day.
- Take a hat, sunglasses and binoculars.
- Listen to the narration. Many lines provide commentary on deck and on cabin TVs.
- Take breaks. The transit lasts most of a day; see how long ships take to cross the Panama Canal.
If you only have a port day
If your cruise stops in Panama without a transit, you can still see the canal from land. Popular places include the Miraflores Locks visitor center, the Amador Causeway, the Bridge of the Americas and Ancón Hill. The canal operates around the clock, so ships can be seen at various times. If you are weighing a transit against a stop, see full vs partial Panama Canal transit.