Line Handling Panama Canal

[Orchidius]

Hi there,

Just recently i heard about the possibility of handling lines on the lock passages in the Panama canal. It seems like an amazing opportunity, but there's not a whole lot of info around, certainly not on the financial aspect (it would be a nice thing to experience once or twice, but if there is substantial financial gain, one might consider doing it for a few weeks).

Has anybody here done it or has anybody had any experiences with the line handlers? Does it pay or is it volunteering only? And if so, what can one expect to make in a day?

Thanks!

[StuM]

Quite a bit of info on these two sites:

Line Handling on the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal Through The Eyes of a Line-Handler | TakesTwo2Travel

[boatman61]

Originally Posted by Orchidius

Hi there,

Just recently i heard about the possibility of handling lines on the lock passages in the Panama canal. It seems like an amazing opportunity, but there's not a whole lot of info around, certainly not on the financial aspect (it would be a nice thing to experience once or twice, but if there is substantial financial gain, one might consider doing it for a few weeks).

Has anybody here done it or has anybody had any experiences with the line handlers? Does it pay or is it volunteering only? And if so, what can one expect to make in a day?

Thanks!

Its usually an overnight trip so you get food and board... when I went through last year folk were getting between $50-$75 for the trip... not enough boats/time to manage more than 2-3 a week though...

[northwestsailor]

We went through last year and paid our line handlers nothing. Nor did they expect anything. They were well fed, had lots to drink and we went through in about 8 hours when they all caught the train back to Colon. One young man did spend the night on the boat with us since he had business in Panama City the next day.
All in all it had a fun, party but serious atmosphere. We had the best time possible.

[boatman61]

Should clarify.. a lot of folk going through the canal volunteer at least once to find out what to expect when their turn comes.. others more than once as it beats sitting around getting bored... and spending to much at the bar..
The paid handlers usually offered their services to the Agents that quite a few hire to clear the boats through and supply lines, fenders, and handlers... that's the route I used.. we had 4 Panamanian lads who thought it was a great part time job..
Good lads... eat like horses...

[Paul L]

I've line handled 1/2 a dozen times through the Canal. You get good food and drink, and I ask for a cab ride back to the other side. Some only offer a bus ride back. Do it for the fun and experience, not for the money -- you'd make more working at McDonalds.

[chouliha]

There is a fairly recent website for both skippers looking for line handlers and crew wanting to line handle.

http://panlinehandler.com

Good luck

Chuck
Jacaranda
Panama