Disney Cruise Line made history on April 29 when the newly reimagined Disney Wonder became the first passenger vessel to transit the Panama Canal’s new locks.
The recent canal expansion added Neopanamax locks that accommodate larger ships than the original Panamax chambers. After a remodel that lengthened the Wonder to 984 feet, the ship now exceeds the dimensions of the older locks. To reposition from the Caribbean to Alaska, the 2,713-guest vessel required use of the new, larger locks.
“The original Panama Canal has been a cruise destination for many years,” said Manuel Benitez, deputy administrator of the Panama Canal. “Today’s historic transit marks the beginning of cruise lines being able to include the new locks as part of their itineraries, opening up additional transit options and allowing cruise passengers to witness first-hand this feat of modern engineering.”
Along with structural changes like an added ducktail, the Wonder’s recent refurbishment introduced a range of guest enhancements. Family and youth spaces received updates, including expanded areas inspired by the Marvel Universe and Frozen. Dining options were refreshed as well, with a Princess and the Frog–inspired restaurant and an English pub that incorporates Disney cinema touches.
This canal passage forms part of the Wonder’s current 14-night repositioning cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida, to San Diego, California. The ship will operate shorter sailings to Baja, Mexico, before continuing north for its summer Alaska season from Vancouver.
Other major operators expected to use the new Panama Canal locks include Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises, further broadening itinerary options and routing flexibility for larger modern cruise ships.