Destinations North America and The Caribbean
Once in a lifetime
You’re in a very fortunate position. Not only could you be setting off on a world voyage - a once in a lifetime experience in itself - but there’ll be countless one-off experiences along the way too. And North America and the Caribbean have more than their fair share of these unforgettable moments.
Opened in 1914, a transit of the 28-mile long Panama Canal - whether it be from Atlantic to Pacific or vice versa - is one of those experiences that people passionate about travel long to undertake. An average 14,000 ships embark on the 9-hour passage annually, each negotiating six separate locks which elevate them 26 metres above sea level.
Everyone who’s been there before will try to portray the majesty of the gates, to describe the miniscule gap between your ship and the lock walls and explain how it’s almost possible to reach out and touch the treetops. It’s not until you’re there though that you’ll fully understand what they meant.
Turtles. The focus of attention for many a documentary maker. But imagine being able to see these beautiful creatures eyeball to eyeball. Even better, imagine being able to swim with them in their natural habitat. Barbados. That’s where you need to be. There’s catamaran cruises, snorkelling trips and glass bottom boats all offering a once in a lifetime swim with this elegant, endangered species.
Mother Nature is a skilled lady indeed, but when you think about it, man is pretty handy too. We’ve already had a taste of what can be achieved with the Panama Canal, but there’s more to come – in the shape of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Forward of the ship is where you’ll find everyone, cameras at the ready. To be honest though, it’s difficult to take a bad picture – from every angle the bridge looks resplendent, painted orange vermilion or ‘International Orange’ to blend with its natural setting. Approximately 40 million drive over this landmark annually, but considerably less sail under.
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