natural harbour of the Caribbean Sea, in Panama at the north end of the Panama Canal. Approximately 4 1/2 mi (7 km) long and 2 1/2 mi wide, it is protected from storms by breakwaters at its entrance. The bay serves as a waiting area for ships about to enter the canal. On its eastern shore are the twin cities of Cristóbal and Colón, the Atlantic terminus of the canal.
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