The Canal in Pictures 4: Gatun Locks

Sea Venture rafts with La Rochelle.

The poor folk on La Rochelle got such a late start that they had to anchor in Gatun Lake overnight. Now they get ready to go in tandem with Sea Venture. This time, we’ll be in front of a ship.

The delivery captains on La Rochelle are very good at their job, but also very intense. Some harsh words, lots of hand-waving and pointing, and too much frantic energy went into the rafting. Fortunately, I’d warned Enrique about the impatience levels, so he spoke softly, took deep breaths, and got it done. He told us later that he was just about to cast them off and tell them they could wait another day to go through! Michael, Mama, and I just sat out of the line of fire.

La Rochelle’s helmsman did an excellent job. They insisted on being the go-to boat, which worked because Michael sat at our helm and compensated with a little power when their engine couldn’t quite manage the heft.

Pretty (brand new) boat, isn’t she?

Here’s the lady we awaited.

When you go rafted-up, the outside line handlers from each boat receive the monkey fists and manage the lines. We on Sea Venture were very, very, very grateful for our professional handlers.

Did I mention grateful?

Here she comes.

Enrique’s keeping an eye on things. Yea, Enrique.

The locomotives at work.

Wonder what he’s saying?

Down we go!

This puts it into perspective.

Things have quieted next door.

The city of Colon, Panama, up ahead.

The big ship’s in a hurry now. She will keep on going, straight out to sea. A lot of others anchor and wait.

By the time the pilot boat collected Enrique, La Rochelle had started the trek to Shelter Bay Marina and the sun had slipped below the horizon. Michael and I tried to see our way through the ships to the harbor entrance, vainly attempting to call the marina for our slip number.

Entrance into the only free slip lacked grace, but we made it in the semi-dark without mishap. The above is a picture taken the morning after.

We planned to leave after a day of rest and head toward the San Blas Islands, but 3-4 meter seas kept us marina-bound. These didn’t let up until a few days ago, so Michael awaits crew from his slip there.

Home, James, Mama and I said — sadly waving good-bye until Sea Venture arrives in US waters.