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Panama Canal Cruises

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Discover the Marvels of the Panama Canal

Explore the engineering genius of the Panama Canal with Celebrity on a thrilling voyage that brings history and human achievement to life. On a Panama Canal cruise, experience the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, teeming with scarlet macaws and slow-moving sloths. Wander through the flower-filled streets of enchanting Cartagena, Colombia, bask on golden beaches along the Mexican Riviera, and swim in the aquamarine waters surrounding Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao as you discover this fascinating region with Celebrity.

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Start off a breathtaking vacation in the Caribbean and South America. Fall in love with the romantic streets and flower-strewn balconies of Cartagena. Sail down the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal and visit a sprawling rainforest preserve in Colon. Take a swim in the warm, turquoise waters of Aruba, go snorkeling at Bonaire’s vibrant Bari Reef, and view magnificent stalactites and stalagmites inside Curacao’s Hato Caves.

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Panama canal & southern caribbean.

Enjoy the best of the Panama Canal with a day to explore the locks, kayak the forested fringes of serene Gatun Lake, or admire the fine Spanish colonial architecture of Panama City’s historic Casco Viejo. There’s no shortage of beach time on these 11-night cruises, with blissful, sun-soaked days on the dazzling white sands that fringe Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, and a day to explore Grand Cayman’s glorious Seven Mile Beach.

One-Way Panama Canal Cruises

Our one-way cruises take you either east or westbound between Florida and California. See the intricate workings of the locks and the graceful Bridge of the Americas as you cross the narrow Panama isthmus. Discover the lush scenery around manmade Lake Gatun, listen to tales of pirates and conquistadors, and buy exquisite handicrafts made by Panama’s indigenous Emberá tribe. Other highlights include vibrant Cartagena, glamorous Puerto Vallarta, and thrilling Costa Rica.

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Why Cruise to the Panama Canal with Celebrity

Explore the Panama Canal with Celebrity and you’ll enjoy the best of all worlds, from cultural immersion and pristine natural landscapes to a haven of relaxation on our contemporary, design-led ships. Rejuvenate your spirit in The Spa, unwind by the pool as you cruise along emerald shorelines, and toast the end of another perfect day at the Sunset Bar in the balmy warmth of a tropical evening.

On Celebrity’s ships, you can enjoy a different restaurant at every meal, with menus designed by a Michelin-starred chef. Try anything from mouth-watering seafood to steak, flavor-packed Italian, and gourmet French cuisine. Experience The Magic Carpet, high above the ocean, with uninterrupted views. Elevate your cruise with a stay at The Retreat®, with suite accommodation, access to a tranquil lounge, and dining at the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat.

Celebrity will take you seamlessly from one adventure to the next as you explore jewel-like Caribbean islands and historic Cartagena. On a one-way voyage, combine the thrill of the canal with adrenaline-fueled adventure in Costa Rica and iced margaritas on Mexico’s golden beaches. Make the most of your time ashore with our range of imaginative excursions, from Destination Highlights to Small Group Discoveries and Private Journeys designed just for you.

From one-way voyages between the East and West Coasts, taking in the beaches of Mexico and the rainforests of Costa Rica, to shorter journeys that spend time in the sun-drenched ABC Islands, you’ll find the perfect Panama Canal cruise with Celebrity.

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Top Panama Canal FAQs

When is the best time to cruise the Panama Canal?

The Panama Canal is open to ships year-round, but the most pleasant time to cruise is in the winter season, from November to May. During these months, the climate is less humid and there is less rainfall.

How long does it take for a cruise ship to pass through the canal?

Typically, the transit of the Panama Canal takes eight to ten hours, but this depends on how much traffic there is and whether there is any congestion at the massive locks. You’ll find the transit is packed with excitement, whether your ship is squeezing into the locks, making its way along the narrow channel, or crossing the serene expanse of Gatun Lake, where there’s a great chance of spotting wildlife including monkeys, iguanas, and toucans.

What are the departure ports?

Celebrity’s Panama Canal cruises depart from Los Angeles, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami.

Which side of the ship is best for cruising through the Panama Canal?

There is no “best” side for cruising the Panama Canal. You will most likely find you want to enjoy the experience from different areas on the ship. When you’re in a lock, it’s fascinating to watch the mechanisms of these engineering masterpieces, so find the best position on deck to observe this. 

On Celebrity Beyond, guests of The Retreat can take in the view from The Retreat Sundeck. Other vantage points include the Magic Carpet, cantilevered over the side of the ship, as well as the Rooftop Terrace and the Sunset Bar.

On Celebrity Summit, guests of The Retreat can view the locks from the Retreat Sundeck on deck 12 forward. Other options include the Sky Lounge, which has panoramic forward views and is climate-controlled, or the Rooftop Terrace, aft.

On a transit from Panama City to Colon, the futuristic skyline of Panama City will be on your starboard (right) side. When you pass through the skinny Culebra Cut between Panama City and Gamboa, you’ll have the greenery of a national park on both sides, so this is a good time to look for monkeys and toucans in the trees. 

Entering Gatun Lake, it’s fun to be forward on deck as you can see the procession of ships coming towards you. You could also be aft, at the back of the ship, with a pair of binoculars to spot other ships. 

The most important thing to do is to head up on deck and absorb this spectacular experience. Every transit will have expert commentary that’s broadcast on the decks and in the lounges, so you’ll be able to gain a deeper insight into the workings of the canal and its history.

How long do cruises last?

Celebrity’s Panama Canal cruises last either 11, 14, or 15 nights.

What's the difference between a full transit and a partial transit cruise of the Panama Canal?

A full transit of the Panama Canal takes you from the Pacific to the Caribbean, or vice versa. A partial transit, on the other hand, gives you a taste of the Panama Canal on a shorter cruise from Colon, on the Caribbean side, to the Gatun Locks and back again. You’ll still enjoy the experience of going through the massive locks. 

When your ship spends the day in Colon, you can see more of Panama on a range of shore excursions. Despite the monumental achievement of engineering that the Panama Canal represents, the drive from Colon to Panama City is just under an hour, so there are plenty of options.

What are the main ports of call on a Panama Canal cruise?

Celebrity offers a variety of Panama Canal cruises, with several different ports of call. You could sail from Fort Lauderdale to the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao) and Cartagena in Colombia. A sailing from Miami to Los Angeles visits Cartagena, Puntarenas in Costa Rica, and Puerto Vallarta. Other cruises include stops in Huatulco, Mexico, and Grand Cayman.

What can I expect to see and experience during the canal transit?

During the 48-mile transit, you’ll see everything from intricate lock systems to the serene landscapes of the rainforest and Gatun Lake. Your ship will be raised up 85 feet through a system of three locks to the level of the freshwater Gatun Lake. Once you’ve crossed the lake, you will descend 85 feet back to sea level through another set of locks.

Being in the locks is a thrilling experience and gives you an insight into how extraordinary the canal is, all the more so given that it’s more than 100 years old. You’ll see everything from giant cargo ships to small yachts making the transit. Visitors in the viewing galleries at the locks will wave as you pass through.

On the stretches between the locks, you’ll be immersed in nature. The narrow Culebra Cut, an artificial channel near Panama City, is lined with greenery, while the expanse of the Gatun Lake is dotted with rainforested islands and is a great place to look for wildlife.

There are other manmade wonders to look out for, too. On the Panama City side of the canal, you’ll sail under the graceful arch of the Bridge of the Americas, which forms part of the Pan-American Highway from Alaska to Patagonia. Just beyond the bridge, as you head toward the Pacific, look out for the Biomuseu, a striking jumble of brightly colored shapes designed by famous architect Frank Gehry, housing eight galleries showcasing Panama’s biodiversity.

What excursions are available?

If you choose a cruise that includes a partial transit of the canal, you can experience Panama’s beauty during a day in Colon. Excursions from here include eco-adventures on Gatun Lake, where you can see capuchin and howler monkeys, caimans, and three-toed sloths. You could visit the locks along the canal and tour the visitor centers, stopping to watch ships pass through the narrow channels. 

Or take a trip to Panama City itself, a dramatic contrast between glassy skyscrapers and the narrow alleys and colorful facades of the atmospheric Casco Viejo, or old town, dating back to the 17th century. There are excursions to an Embera village, too, where you can learn about the traditional lifestyle of this rainforest tribe.

What is there to do on the ship?

You’ll find no shortage of things to do on board your luxurious Celebrity ship. Sunbathe by the pool, relax in a bubbling hot tub, join a class in the Fitness Center, or indulge in a treatment in the spa. 

Enjoy exploring all the different dining options, from made-to-order burgers and salads by the pool to French classics and a delightful 3D cartoon animation in Le Petit Chef, and steaks and seafood in the elegant Tuscan Grille. Elevate your experience to The Retreat and you can enjoy fine dining in Luminae, as well as suite accommodation and access to an exclusive lounge.

On Edge-Series ships, the Magic Carpet, suspended over the side of the ship, gives you uninterrupted sea views and is the perfect place to sit with a coffee or cocktail, enjoying the sea air. Or spend part of your Panama Canal transit in the Sunset Bar, at the aft of the ship, for wonderful views of the ships following you.

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Panama Canal Cruises

A thrilling Panama Canal crossing is an unforgettable experience. Gain a deeper understanding of the impressive engineering behind the 48-mile-long Panama Canal connecting the Atlantic and Pacific. Then continue your Viking journey to the heart of the Caribbean & Central America.

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Discover the “Path Between the Seas” as you traverse mighty locks en route to historic Panama City or the shimmering Caribbean Sea. Beyond the Canal, discover the native Emberá tribe’s rich culture and sample Puerto Rico’s favorite dishes. On a regional ocean voyage, you can find:

• The Panama Canal’s forest-lined waterway and Gatun Lake
• Capuchin and howler monkeys gliding through mahogany trees
• Soaring pyramids and temples of Chichén Itzá
• Fascinating Mayan ruins at Belize’s Altun Ha
• Deep sea sportfishing for the catch of the day
• Colorful Caribbean marine life by snorkel, scuba or kayak
• Local aged rum from Montego Bay
• Lush, picturesque rainforests of Costa Rica
• The world’s only seaside travertine waterfalls, Dunn’s River Falls
• Key West’s old Bahamian-style homes and Spanish-influenced Victorian mansions

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Panama Canal Cruises

Set sail with princess® – the best panama canal cruise line.

We’re the number one cruise line sailing to this bucket list destination, and as awe-inspiring as it is to travel through one of Condé Nast Traveler’s 7 Cruise Wonders of the World, we’ll help you explore equally fascinating places along the way. So stretch out on a Caribbean beach, admire the pristine rainforests, stroll the cobbled streets of colonial towns and journey through the fabled Panama Canal with Princess.

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From the East Coast Roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale

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• Experience a partial transit of the Panama Canal New Locks
• Visit the pristine beaches of the Caribbean and explore the lush rainforests of Costa Rica

Ocean to Ocean Between Atlantic & Pacific Oceans

• Sail from the East Coast to the West Coast or vice versa. Cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles or San Francisco, or cruise from either of those two West Coast cities to Florida.
• Ideal itinerary for those who want to experience a full transit of the Panama Canal
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Explore destinations easily on a MedallionClass vacation. Taking in balcony or top deck views, and don’t want to move? Order drinks that find you. Want to make the most of your time away? Design each perfect day with our interactive activity planner. Hate to wait when boarding or disembarking in port? Choose your preferred arrival window and make gangway reservations. Enjoy more time to connect with the places you sail.

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Why Princess is the #1 Panama Canal Cruise Line

The Leader in the Panama Canal Cruise Ports

From ships custom built to sail the massive locks to immersive onboard programs and onshore adventures that inspire, Princess is the number one way to explore this epic phenomenon. We've sailed the Panama Canal since 1967 and we have more itinerary choices and departures of any cruise line in the region.

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Destination Immersion

We craft our Panama Canal itineraries to enrich our guests' experiences to provide the most exposure to this bucket-list destination. You'll be enchanted by Spanish and Dutch cities dating back centuries, as well as diverse tropical rainforests, white-sand beaches, dramatic volcanoes and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And Princess provides live narration from the bridge while transiting the locks, just one reason we were voted "Best Cruise Line for Enrichment" by Cruise International .

Photo: Las Bovedas in Cartagena, Colombia

Abundant Adventures Ashore

Each voyage offers a myriad of experiences and cultures. There is something for every type of explorer in this culturally diverse region. Choose from immersive excursions such as exploring the engineering mastery of the Canal, trekking through surrounding rainforests, visiting local villages and relaxing on the pristine beaches of the Caribbean.

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Photo: Old City in Cartagena, Colombia

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Add peace of mind and a sense of security to your vacation with a Cruise Plus® Hotel Package. Give yourself a few days to relax either before or after your Panama Canal cruise and take in the sights of a sensational city. Princess handles all the details – including transfers and baggage handling – with accommodations selected for their incredible locations and excellent service.

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Zoom your map way out and Panama looks like a small sliver of land, so a trip through its famous canal is a quickie, right? But not so fast — traversing the canal actually takes at least 20 hours! Cruise the Panama Canal and enjoy a zoomed-in real-life look at perhaps last century’s greatest engineering achievement… along with its surrounding lush, verdant lands. This testament to human audacity joins the Pacific and Caribbean in the most direct way possible, and is worth making a leisurely part of your vacation. Even better, Panama Canal cruises call at Central American ports along the canal like Limón and Cartagena… plus at Caribbean island hotspots along the way. You’ll get to explore the local beaches and culture while heading to or from one of the greatest man-made marvels in the world. Cruises through the Panama Canal promise one legendary trip.

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The best time to cruise the Panama Canal

Transiting the Panama Canal from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for many travelers, especially for history and engineering buffs. If you're considering this bucket-list sailing, you'll want to find the best time to cruise the Panama Canal, whether that be to find better weather, lower pricing or fewer crowds.

The Panama Canal cruise season peaks between October and April, outside of the rainy season that can start as early as mid-March and extend into the fall. With a tropical climate, this region is home to rainforests, incredible biodiversity, lush landscapes, abundant wildlife and beautiful beaches, but the weather can be wet at certain times of the year.

Panama Canal itineraries come in several flavors. One-way cruises sail between Florida and California, Washington or Canada; these complete a full transit of the canal. Partial-transit itineraries sail round-trip from Florida ports and only go through the locks on the Caribbean side. Some ships depart from or end in Panama or Costa Rica and feature itineraries that focus on the Pacific Coast of Central America or the Caribbean.

In addition to visiting Panama, many itineraries include ports of call in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Colombia or Mexico, which can be the highlight of the trip, especially for outdoor enthusiasts.

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It used to be that only smaller Panamax ships could squeeze through the locks of the Panama Canal. However, with the opening of a new set of locks in 2016, larger New-Panamax-sized ships can transit, as well. That means you take a Panama Canal cruise on a small-masted Windstar ship or luxury Silversea cruise or can sail on a megaship as large as the 1,094-foot-long and 136-foot-wide Norwegian Bliss.

Here, we look at Panama's peak cruise season month by month, so you can consider the weather, pricing and crowds to determine the best time to cruise through the Panama Canal.

Pros: October is one of the best months for cooler temperatures, lower fares and fewer crowds.

Cons: October is still the rainy season, and it's humid. It's also hurricane season in the Caribbean.

Ships: Princess, Holland America, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Oceania, Hurtigruten Expeditions, Lindblad and luxury lines Scenic and Silversea offer sailings during the month.

October is a rainy month, but it's also one of the coolest months of the year, with high temperatures in the low to mid-80s. The average year-round temperature in Panama is about 86 degrees, so it doesn't vary much during the year, but it's more humid in October with the wet weather. It's also possible to have hurricanes this time of year if you're cruising in the Caribbean.

For outdoor adventure seekers, it's too wet for hiking in the rainforests, but other activities benefit from the rainy season, including whitewater rafting. In Quepos, Costa Rica, Windstar Cruises offers rafting trips to the town of Santo Domingo, where you can take a float trip on the Savegre River. Experienced surfers can also check out the big swells on both coasts of the country.

If you have an extended stay in Panama City, consider a trip to the Archipelago de las Perlas (Pearl Islands) in southeastern Panama to view the humpback whales. It's a short flight to the islands, or you can travel by ferry to see the whales that are still in the waters around the archipelago after coming to breed in August and September. If traveling earlier in the month, you may also see nesting loggerheads and green turtles southeast of Panama City in Isla Canas (Cane Island) or Bocas del Toro.

Related: Best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip

Pros: November is one of the best months for lower cruise fares.

Cons: November is still the rainy season and the end of hurricane season. You can also expect some crowds in port with the national holidays.

Ships: Windstar, Star Clippers and Seabourn will also have vessels transiting the Panama Canal in November.

November can be rainy — and even the rainiest month of the wet season — with temperatures starting to warm closer to December. The month brings a mix of low-priced early-season fares but also several public holidays that bring crowds of both tourists and residents to attractions in places like Panama City and Boquete.

For a rainy-day excursion, ride the Panama Canal Railway, one of the world's great train rides. If you're in Panama City, plan an indoor excursion with a visit to the world's first museum dedicated to biodiversity, the Frank Gehry-designed Biomuseo.

You can celebrate Panama's Separation Day on Nov. 3 or Flag Day on Nov. 4. These holidays, along with a few others in November, feature parades, parties and other displays of national pride, so you can expect it to be busy in towns across the country.

Related: The best time to go on a cruise

Pros: December is the beginning of the dry season, so the weather will be drier and less humid.

Cons: The month is one of the busiest times for tourism, so you can expect to pay higher fares and have more crowds in port.

Ships: A few additional cruise lines offer Panama Canal crossings during December, including Celebrity, Carnival, Crystal and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

With drier weather and high temperatures hovering around 88 degrees, it's less humid in the region in December. However, it's the holiday season, so cruise fares and other costs, like hotels for pre- and post-cruise stays, will be more expensive if you travel this month. December is one of the peak tourism months in Panama, with Panamanians traveling for the holidays and visitors from North America and Europe escaping the cold weather at home.

December is the best month to plan excursions to places like Panama's rainforest and Chagres National Park to meet the indigenous Embrera people. You can also take an eco-cruise on Gatun Lake, which concludes with a visit to the Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center, where you'll learn about this engineering feat that connects two oceans. If you're comfortable exploring on your own, rent a car or hire a local guide to visit places like Soberania National Park.

Related: Tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

Pros: January is regarded as one of the best months to visit Panama with the drier weather and high temperatures around the mid-80s. It's also less bustling with tourists than it is in December.

Cons: It's peak season on land and at sea, so hotel and cruise prices are high. Panama City will also be busy with the jazz festival mid-month.

Ships: Cunard, Azamara, Emerald Cruises and Tauck Tours (with a chartered Ponant yacht) enter the market in January.

January's dry weather makes the month the perfect time to explore Central America's national parks, jungles and tropical rainforests, including Costa Rica's Manuel Antonio National Park and Curú Wildlife Refuge and Panama's Darien National Park. During your visit, be sure to look for monkeys, sloths, iguanas, blue-footed boobies, capybaras, crocodiles and even manatees on a jungle boat tour along the canal and into Gatun Lake.

If you're a jazz buff, the Panama Jazz Festival is held in Panama City in mid-January, January 16-21. The six-day event features hundreds of renowned jazz musicians from around the world with live performances, a gala evening and concerts. If you're embarking in Colon, Panama, you can fly into Panama City a few days early for the festivities. The distance between the two cities is less than 50 miles. Alternatively, linger in Panama after your cruise to attend the festival, or look for sailings with full-day stops in Panama City during the jazz festival.

Related: When is the best time to book a cruise?

Pros: February is the second-best month to cruise the Panama Canal, with optimal weather during the dry season.

Cons: It's still peak season with higher cruise fares and prices ashore — but there are fewer cruise lines in the region. Snowbirds are still avoiding the cold weather and snowstorms at home, so you can expect many tourists, especially in Panama City. Carnival typically occurs across the country in February, depending on when Easter falls that year, bringing crowds.

Ships: Ponant is the only new addition in the region, offering one sailing early in the month. The other cruise lines sailing the Panama Canal in February are Holland America, Oceania, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Carnival, Lindblad, Tauck, Emerald and Windstar.

Take advantage of the final weeks of the dry season to book active outdoor adventure excursions like hiking, kayaking and zip lining. Another option is the Rainforest and Aerial Tram tour to the Gamboa Rainforest Resort in the 55,000-acre Soberania National Park. The tram climbs 280 feet through the dense jungle vegetation to reach the tree canopy above. During the ride to the top, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including white-faced capuchin and howler monkeys, sloths, butterflies, iguanas, toucans and frogs.

Carnival is a festival in mid-January in Panama City and other towns around the country. It's one of the biggest celebrations in Central America — even bigger than the Christmas holidays for most families, so you can expect crowds during that time.

Pros: March is the last month of the dry season, although the rains can start by midmonth during some years. You can expect pleasant weather, although it's quite warm, with temperatures reaching as high as the low 90s. You can also find late-season low fares on some of the larger ships.

Cons: It's still one of the busiest months for travel with the moderate weather.

Ships: New luxury line Explora Journeys joins the vessels in the region in March with an extended sailing that includes transiting the Panama Canal.

With the warmer temperatures, March is an ideal month to head to the beaches on one of the San Blas Islands, an archipelago of about 365 islands and cays off the Caribbean coast of Eastern Panama. Some cruise lines that visit the archipelago are Windstar, Star Clippers, Hapag-Lloyd and Ponant.

You can also look for excursions through the cruise line — or make independent arrangements — to go on an adventurous hike under the canopy of the rainforest, take a boat tour to explore the diverse flora and fauna along the canal or go windsurfing or sailboarding on Costa Rica's Lake Arenal with the Arenal Volcano as the backdrop. March is also the last month for surfing enthusiasts to hit the big waves on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

Should Semana Santa (Holy Week, from Palm Sunday through Holy Saturday) fall in March, there will be more crowds nationwide in Panama with religious processions and reenactments, parades and other special events. Many venues and attractions may be closed on some days during the festivities.

Pros: April is one of the best months to look for lower late-season fares on the larger ships.

Cons: The weather may not be ideal. The high temperatures in Panama hit just below 90 degrees on most days of the month. Mid-April is also when the wet season typically begins, so you can expect high humidity and rain. It's also still a busy time with tourists, so the prices are high ashore. If Easter falls in April, you may have to contend with the crowds celebrating Holy Week during the festivities.

Ships: If you're interested in a sailing on a luxury cruise ship, Silversea is the only luxury line still in the region in April. For a cruise on a large ship, choose among itineraries on Norwegian, Holland America, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Princess.

With the high temperatures and humidity — and the threat of rain — you might want to take tours where you can easily escape from the heat and the showers. If you're in Panama City, visit the vibrant neighborhood of Casco Antiguo in the city's historic district.

Dating back to 1673, the UNESCO World Heritage Site features landmarks like the Panama National Theater and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Mary. You'll also find some of the city's best restaurants, beautiful squares and plazas and top-rated museums. If you've booked a pre- or post-cruise hotel in town, be sure to catch a sunset from one of the city's many rooftop bars.

Bottom line: The best time to cruise the Panama Canal

When to cruise the Panama Canal will depend on what's most important to you.

If having the best weather is your top priority, January, February and early March offer the best weather during the dry season with low humidity — but it's also the most expensive time to travel to the region. You can expect crowds, especially with the festivals during that time.

If you want the best pricing and fewer crowds, October and November are the rainy season, so the pricing will be lower — and you'll avoid the holiday crowds and high fares in December.

Late March and April also offer lower fares as it's the beginning of the rainy season, but you can expect crowds during the Holy Week festivities in the country.

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Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

These expansive staterooms include include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage showerheads.

Signature Suite

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These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

Neptune Suite

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• Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Your Ship: Oosterdam

Oosterdam, our second Vista Class ship, brings high style to the high seas with thoughtful upgrades and stunning artwork. Guests will have plenty to do on board when not taking in expansive views or stretching out in spacious staterooms. Begin with an exquisite breakfast in the Dining Room. Unwind with a massage at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon®, indulge in pre-dinner craft cocktails at Ocean Bar, followed by delectable Italian fare at Canaletto. Top off the night with chart-topping hits at Billboard Onboard.

• 1964 Guests
• 936 ft. Length
• 105.8 ft. Width

Dining & Onboard Activities

Each day on board offers delicious dining options, world-class entertainment and enriching activities.

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Explorations Cafe

Our relaxing café with panoramic views is your home for handcrafted espresso drinks during the day and refreshing cocktails in the evening.

At Explorations Café, sink into plush chairs and sofas in a comfortable environment. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book or browse the web. 

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Crow's Nest

BARS AND LOUNGES

Enjoy cocktails and sunsets in this lounge, featuring panoramic views.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges onboard. The panoramic view takes center stage in The Crow's Nest at the top of the ship, where you can relax just about any time of day and enjoy your favorite drink.

Explorer's Lounge

Elegant and refined, stop by for a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail.

The Explorer’s Lounge is an elegant and refined space to enjoy a glass of wine, a cocktail, or your favorite liqueur.

Enjoy cocktails and ocean views while listening to live music.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges. This popular bar is at the top of the atrium and is the perfect locale for cocktails and dancing.

Gallery Bar

In this art-themed bar, order your favorite cocktail or try one from our signature cocktail menu.

This sophisticated venue is adorned with an eclectic and whimsical mix of artwork including portraits, landscapes, still life and abstract pieces. Order your favorite cocktail or try one from our signature cocktail menu.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Rolling Stone Lounge

Our 7-piece band brings you the best in rock, pop, country and more.

Dance to your favorite songs with one of the best bands at sea. From rock and pop to country and beyond, we provide the perfect playlist live, each and every cruise.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Unleash your competitive spirit in our new family game room.

Unleash your competitive spirit at High Score!, our new family game room. By day, it’s a secret hideaway for kids and teens, where they can engage in a fast-paced flurry of four-person air hockey or contend for bragging rights in the video arcade. At night, the entire family is welcome to bond over board games, skee-ball, a tilting labyrinth and family activities.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

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Panama Canal from Miami April 2025

During your Panama Canal trip from Miami in April 2025 , you will have the opportunity to go snorkeling, walk along beaches with pearly pink sand, and swim through crystal-clear blue waters. Here is a summary of the weather in the Panama Canal to help you efficiently plan your trip from Miami. The weather in Panama is guaranteed to always remain the same, which is one thing that can be relied upon with absolute certainty. This is especially true when you consider the temperature, as the climate is extremely consistent throughout the entire year in terms of this particular aspect. Even the temperature differential between the day's high and low points rarely shifts by more than a few degrees; therefore, the daily averages hardly ever shift at all. It is for this reason that the climate of Panama is typically evaluated not in terms of typical seasons such as summer and winter but rather in terms of the dry season and the wet season. The one variable that will vary significantly from one season to the next in terms of its value is the amount of rain that falls. In stark contrast to the hot and dry months that make up the rest of the year, the wet season is characterized by the possibility of massive storms. Unfortunately, only the months of January through April are included in the dry season, making it the shortest period of the year. The amount of precipitation that falls outside of these months can easily be three to four times what falls during this time of year. Departing from Miami, Panama Canal cruise ports welcome ships and visitors from the world’s most popular cruise lines, including Azamara Club Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line , Oceania Cruises , Regent Seven Seas Cruises , offering a large number of Panama Canal voyages in April 2025.

Find your next Panama Canal cruise out of Miami in April 2025

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Panama Canal Weather in April, Panama

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Looking to journey to Panama Canal in April? Prepare for a hot and dry holiday, as this month marks the last hurrah of the dry season.  99mm of rain  will fall during this month, taking up around 7 days to do so. This is nothing compared to later on in the year, when the levels can be as much as four times as high! If you are wondering whether to come now or in  October , there's a simple question to ask yourself: do you want to get rained on, or not?

The whole country of  Panama  is known for steady weather that is hot all year round, but the peak of temperatures comes this month, with daily averages of 29°C. The weather can be changeable, however, ranging from 24°C up to 33°C on a daily basis. The highs and lows can be quite far apart from one another, so this is something to be cautious about. Just because it is not too hot when you leave the hotel, does not mean the apex of the sun's path across the sky will not bring much higher temperatures!

Something else to watch out for is that there are 7 hours of sun a day. This still results in average  sea temperatures  of 28°C, but it means a bit less time in the daylight than you would find elsewhere in the world. If you are used to longer days, be aware. The good news is that day trips should not take you by surprise, as temperatures can be the same across large areas: even in  Colon , which is further down the coast and sheltered in a bay, you will see the same 29°C at the same time as here. Do check the forecast before you leave on an excursion just to be sure, however.

In April, you should certainly consider staying at the  Las Clementinas Hotel . This restored apartment building has a long history, and has been featured in plenty of travel magazines after the new owners put a lot of work into bringing it back to its former glory. Each suite is actually an apartment unto itself, and the gardens contain part of the old city wall.

Los Cuatro Tulipanes  is a B&B with long term rentals available. They offer Old World stylings and aim to create as authentic a feel as possible for visitors to the city. There is maid service and high speed internet available, so it is perfect for a longer stay.

The  Hospedaje Casco Viejo  is a welcoming colonial home which has been converted into a hostel. You can save a lot of money by staying here, and you will find bunk beds or double beds in a safe location. The facilities are basic, but you will be able to use this as a base for exploration around the city.

The beach is beckoning with average sea temperatures of 28°C, and it does not want to be ignored! Coronado is an interesting beach to visit as it was actually developed carefully within a gated community. You will have to go through the main gates before you get to the beach, passing by condos and a golf course very close to Panama City. You will also find this is a great place for shopping: there are three grocery stores here and a lot of fast food restaurants for your convenience.

You could easily spend the whole day out here, coming off the sands only to eat lunch and dinner and then returning to your hotel at night. With the temperatures this hot, you may find you don't want to do anything else!

When you visit  Rene Café , prepare for a treat you can see everything being cooked right in front of you! They serve Spanish style food, and have menus which are suitable both for lunch and dinner. Families and larger groups will be accommodated, as their menu is varied with plenty of different styles to try.

The  Capital Bistro Panama  is a more expensive option, serving Greek food to a very high standard. This is a good option for those who want to celebrate a special occasion, or just love to eat good food served right. They pay special attention to the presentation and balanced flavours of their dishes.

Enotria  is a wine bar serving Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. They often feature live music in the evenings, allowing you to enjoy a civilised meal with friends or a drink in a great atmosphere. This is best suited to couples or groups rather than families.

If you want to see the most of Panama Canal, then April is a great time to take a  Panama Canal Tour  thanks to the great weather and the lower risk of rain. The tours take place on luxury boats, allowing you to go ahead and enjoy the local environment and landmarks on each side of the canal. You can spend either a full day or a half day on board, enjoying the facilities whilst learning all about the area.

Before or after your tour, or if you are not a fan of boats, you can head to the  Miraflores Visitor Center . This is another view on the canal where you can learn all about how it works. The centre is located on the east side of the Miraflores locks, which are central to the proper functioning of the canal. You can learn about the history of this region and why the canal was so important.

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This posh cruise sails from Vancouver to the Caribbean Islands for a steal

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A cruise from Vancouver takes passengers on a bucket-list journey through the Panama Canal before making several stops in the Caribbean Islands. 

The cruise departs from Canada Place on Sunday, Sept. 29 and spends a couple of days at sea before stopping in San Francisco on Wednesday, Oct. 2. It spends one more day at sea before stopping in Mexico in Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. 

Guests enjoy a day at sea before making two more stops in Mexico in Huatulco and Puerto Chiapas on Oct 10 and 11. The cruise visits Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala the following day before spending one more day at sea. 

On Oct. 13, the cruise will make a stop in Puntarenas, Guatemala. On Oct. 15, it will move through the awe-inspiring Panama Canal before spending several days at sea with a day in breathtaking Aruba sandwiched in between. 

The Panama Canal is considered a marvel of engineering and a favourite voyage of cruise enthusiasts. 

After stopping in Florida's Fort Lauderdale on Oct. 20, the cruise makes stops in Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos Islands, St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas.

The cruise disembarks back in Fort Lauderdale on Sunday, Oct. 27. 

Vancouver cruise with Holland America Line through the Panama Canal 

Holland America Line is known for its mid-size vessels that can navigate this trim terrain. Fans of the cruise line typically enjoy sailing on ships they can become well acquainted with during the voyage and relish opportunities to speak with the captain and cruise director. 

The ship is the five-star Nieuw Amsterdam, which offers 11 bars and lounges, three swimming pools, a basketball court, a tennis court, hot tubs, a movie theatre, renowned spa treatments, a showroom, a jogging track, and much more. 

The total cost for the lead-in cabin category, an interior stateroom, is US$6,097.36 which converts to C$8,362.68 or C$4181.34 per person. This total breaks down to a per-diem, per-person amount of C$149.33 (see slide three).

One-way flights from Fort Lauderdale to Vancouver start for just over C$200 in October but typically involve two stops at that price. For an itinerary with only one stopover, prices typically start around C$250 (see slide four for details). 

Travellers should spend at least one night in Florida post-cruise before flying in case there are delays; it also gives them a chance to enjoy the sun-drenched state before returning to Raincouver.

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The Rise and Fall of the Panama Canal

B.A. Parker

Christina Cala

Leah Donnella

Lori Lizarraga

Xavier Lopez

Veralyn Williams

Dalia Mortada

Author Cristina Henriquez next to the cover of her new novel, The Great Divide. Brian McConkey/Ecco hide caption

Author Cristina Henriquez next to the cover of her new novel, The Great Divide.

The Panama Canal has been dubbed the greatest engineering feat in human history. It's also (perhaps less favorably) been called the greatest liberty mankind has ever taken with Mother Nature. Both of those descriptors are at odds today; due to climate change, the Canal is drying up and fewer than half of the ships that used to pass through are now able to do so. So how did we get here? Today on the show, we're talking to Cristina Henriquez, the author of a new novel that explores the making of the Canal. It took 50,000 people from 90 different countries to carve the land in two — and the consequences of that extraordinary, nature-defying act are still echoing through our present.

This episode was hosted by Gene Demby and B.A. Parker, produced by Christina Cala, and edited by Leah Donnella.