A Panama Canal expert is on board the ship during each crossing narrating history and interesting facts over the ship's PA system. As you travel from the Atlantic to the Pacific, you'll pass colonial towns, historic fortresses and man-made lakes that are today home to sanctuaries for hundreds of different animal and plant species. DEEPER EXPLORATION Itineraries on either side of the Panama Canal vary, but guests have opportunities to enjoy the diverse cultures of Central and South America as well as some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. For example, you might zipline through a rainforest while spotting sloths and other wildlife in Costa Rica. You can also take a dip at the base of a gushing waterfall, spy birds in sanctuaries and nature reserves or ride horseback along pristine Pacific beaches. Casco Viejo Gatun Lake