Port CTB-Panama Canal
The CTB-Panama Canal in Panama plays a vital role in the cruise ship industry. Its significance lies in its strategic location, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, which allows cruise ships to navigate between the East and West without the long and perilous journey around Cape Horn. This has made the canal a popular route for cruise lines, attracting hundreds of thousands of cruise passengers every year.
Apart from being a major global shipping route, the CTB-Panama Canal also offers various activities for passengers on cruise ships. They get to experience the engineering marvel of the canal, with locks raising and lowering the ships to pass through different water levels. Many cruises offer onboard lectures and guides to provide passengers with in-depth knowledge about the canal's history and operation. Additionally, the surrounding lush tropical landscapes and exotic wildlife of Panama offer a unique experience to the cruisers.
History
The CTB-Panama Canal, also known as the Container Terminal of Balboa, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. It was initially constructed as a part of the Panama Canal, which was opened in 1914. The port was initially used for the transshipment of coal and other goods, but over time it evolved into a container terminal.
During the 1990s, the Government of Panama decided to privatize the port. Hutchison Whampoa, a Hong Kong-based conglomerate, won the bid and took over the operations. They invested heavily in upgrading the port facilities, making it one of the most modern and efficient ports in the world. The CTB-Panama Canal plays a crucial role in global trade, handling millions of TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) every year.
