Richard Detrich’s Boquete, Panama Weblog

As I wing my way home to Panama, I’d like to share with you a neat picture that Ron Hagedorn sent me, taken on the VOLENDAM early in the morning as we entered the Panama Canal.   Thanks Ron, and thanks to all of you who had good things to say in person, on your onboard comment cards and on CruiseCritic.com about the Exploration Lectures Captain Sarah Terry and I presented on the VOLENDAM.   It was great fun!

For those of who who weren’t with us on the VOLENDAM, a word about the shirt.  I usually wear my Barack/Wolf Blitzer black suit when I lecture, but the day before the Canal I show up to lecture in this wild orange and blue shirt.  I explain that Panama is the end of the line for clothing that does not sell in the US, and that no Panamanian macho man would ever be caught dead in a flowered shirt, making these shirts a good deal for old gringos like me.  This particular shirt, Nautica with the Nordstrom price tag still on it, cost me $1.50!  I wear it on Canal day so people can easily spot me on deck and ask all their questions about the Canal.  I have been offered as much as $4.75 for it!  The folks from Park West Art Auctions have tried to steal it to auction it off at the Art Auctions, but I have successfully fended off their efforts.

Anyhow, it makes for a fun day in the Canal and lots of interaction with cruise guests!   Early morning as the sun comes up and we make our way into the first set of locks is always a very special time on board ship.

See you in Panama!