Waiting to transit the canal hundreds of other ships sit. Surrounded by hundreds of birds feeding. 52 million gallons of fresh water pour out of the canal. The shock on the oceans saltwater fish, makes them an easy meal for the opportunist birds. This fluid escalator of water steps boats from the sea level to the fresh water of Lake Gatun 26 meters above.

Driven by economics, thousands fell dead digging dirt. The dream that built this manmade “wonder of the world” provided a short cut from Europe to the west coast of America and Asia beyond. It brought out engineering expertise and industrial ingenuity. Operations that continue around the clock, herding ships through the crossing. A passage for cargo and travelers massive metal gates welcome those who venture through.