Linking the Atlantic to the Pacific, the Panama Canal provides one of cruising's most unforgettable experiences. Over 10 years were needed to complete the canal's 51 miles in 1914 - so avoiding the lengthy and often dangerous voyage around Cape Horn. 'The Big Ditch' lifts your vessel by a fascinating feat of mechanics aided by on-shore 'mule' locomotives through three great locks, traversing man-made lakes, channels blasted through rock, and the dense jungle. The narrow waterway has become an avenue between the oceans for seabirds such as pelicans and cormorants, as well as ships. The lush rainforest protects crested guan, sungrebe, rufescent tiger heron, chestnut mandibled toucan, howler and capuchin monkeys, American crocodile, green iguana, and the splendid blue morpho butterfly.