Ahoy, ahoy,

Could anyone provide any insights, advice or experience on crossing the
Panama canal. I am planning to do so in early March and would
appreciate any information, contacts or tips anyone can provide.

Among the many questions I'd like to resolve a

1) What is the correct government source for information? (is there a
website or office one contacts for specific information regarding the canal)

2) What is the approximate cost for a 45' catamaran?

3) How is the scheduling handled, how well can one predetermine their
transit time?

4) What is the average "delay" from the promised date to the actual transit?

5) Are there any hidden costs to be aware of?

6) Are catamarans handled differently than monohulls in any appreciable
manner?

7) What airports are readily available from either side? (I'm presuming
that some portion of the "crew" will want to fly in, do the canal and
then fly out - are there airports within a reasonable distance on both
sides)


Thank you for any information you might be able to offer.