Shortest Route Between Atlantic and Pacific: The Panama Canal

The shortest maritime passage between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans is the Panama Canal.

This 82-kilometer (51-mile) artificial waterway cuts across the Isthmus of Panama, eliminating the lengthy, hazardous voyage around Cape Horn. It handles over 14,000 transits annually, serving as a critical artery for global trade.

The canal uses a lock system to raise and lower ships between sea level and Gatun Lake, completing the crossing in about 8–10 hours.