panama canal excursions

Best Panama Canal Cruise Shore Excursions

A cruise through the Panama Canal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. The canal is an engineering marvel connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans via the 50-mile long Isthmus of Panama. The original construction of this narrow waterway was completed in August 1914, but the most recent expansion project, which doubled its capacity, began operation in June 2016.

Completing the passage through these world-renowned locks is a highlight of any Panama Canal cruise , but the surrounding region and ports of call offer extraordinary opportunities for exploration and sightseeing in Central and South America.

We've compiled this list of the must-do tours when visiting the Panama Canal. Many cruise lines offer similar excursions, but depending on the itinerary, they can depart from either Colon , Gatun Lake or Panama City . You can also independently arrange for a private or group trip for some of these tours.

No matter which excursion you choose, they all afford opportunities to explore the rich biodiversity of the Panama Canal region. They also offer historical perspectives about one of the world's most incredible engineering feats.

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Embera indian village, panama canal railway, rainforest, gatun lake cruise and agua clara locks, rainforest and aerial tram, kayaking gatun lake and visiting the agua clara locks, panoramic drive and a visit to panama city.

Take a step back in time to visit the native Embera tribe. The Embera are one of seven indigenous groups in Panama. Their origins are unknown, but their traditions and customs live on today in this small Indian village just as they did before Panama was colonized by Spain.

This tour travels deep into the Panamanian rainforest and then to Chagres National Park. Here you will board a dugout canoe that transports you through the jungle along the Chagres River to meet the Embera people. Wildlife is abundant along the banks of the river, so keep an eye out for jaguar, white-tailed deer, herds of wild pigs and various species of monkeys living in the forest's canopy.

Arriving at the village, the chief will greet you, as members of the tribe perform a ceremonial dance. The Embera live in primitive huts with thatched roofs that are elevated by stilts. They also paint their bodies in colorful designs and wear some of the crafts they make and sell, including uhua (sarongs) and beautiful pieces of jewelry. Be sure to purchase one of these pieces or an intricately woven basket as a keepsake from your time in the village.

Climb aboard one of the great train rides of the world. This historic railway travels between Colon and Panama City and offers a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel with wood-paneled cars featuring carpet, soft lighting and large windows outfitted in wooden blinds. Some excursions also offer seats in the refurbished 1938 dome car with its glass roof.

The construction of the railway began in 1850 and was completed in 1855. Sit back and relax while you travel the route along the canal from coast to coast. There are also open-air viewing decks, where you can take in the sights and sounds of the more than 50,000 acres of tropical rainforest. Along the way, pass through Culebra Cut (formerly known as Gaillard Cut), see the sets of locks and then cross over Gatun Lake.

During this one-way excursion, learn the history of the railroad project, including tales of the extraordinary loss of life caused by malaria, yellow fever and other maladies. While it took its toll, the building of the rail line was vital to the construction of the Panama Canal. Before or after the railway trip and depending on your itinerary, you will travel by motor coach either from the ship or back to the ship.

This excursion is best for those who want to mix science and nature. It begins with a 1.5-hour eco-cruise on Gatun Lake. This large man-made lake was created between 1907 and 1913 as a result of building the Gatun Dam across the Chagres River.

The shoreline along the lake is surrounded by dense rainforest, which is known as one of the most accessible green zones in the world. Stop for a walk with a naturalist through the forest where wildlife is abundant. Sightings can include several species of monkeys such as the boisterous howler monkey, iguanas, sloths, exotic birds and crocodiles.

The tour ends at the Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center, where a guide explains the engineering ingenuity that went into building the canal that links two oceans. You can also view the new locks in operation. These locks are part of the expansion that now allows access to the channel by larger vessels known as Neopanamax or New Panamax.

Get a bird's-eye view of the Panamanian rainforest with an excursion to the Gamboa Rainforest Resort. The resort is located in the 55,000-acre Soberania National Park, which borders the Panama Canal and the nearby Chagres River. Once there, board the aerial tram to view local wild and plant life; the Gamboa Rainforest's ecosystem is as known as one of the richest and most intricate in the world.

The tram climbs 280 feet through the rainforest's dense vegetation to the treetops and rainforest canopy. Along the way, keep an eye out for sloths, white-faced capuchin and howler monkeys, toucans, butterflies, iguanas and frogs.

After the tram ride, take a hike to the top of the Gamboa Observation Tower for panoramic views of the Panama Canal, Chagres River and Gatun Lake. Before departing the resort for your ship, spend time exploring its aquarium, serpentarium and butterfly farm.

The active adventurer will appreciate this up-close look at the wildlife and flora and fauna that surrounds Gatun Lake.

From the Melia resort, paddle around the islands of Gatun Lake while keeping an eye out for Panama's national bird, the harpy eagle, or listening for the eerie sounds of the howler monkeys. Along the shoreline, you might even spot a crocodile or two.

After kayaking, rejoin your group to see the locks of the Panama Canal in operation. The Agua Clara Locks Lookout is located near Colon on the Atlantic side. Take in panoramic views of the Panama Canal expansion with the three-chambered Agua Clara Locks from the observation center. You can also see the original Gatun Locks.

Departing by motor coach from Colon or Gatun, this full-day tour visits the vibrant capital of Panama, Panama City.

Highlights of the excursion include a visit to the ruins of Old Panama or Panama la Vieja. The Spaniards built the city in 1519; Welsh Captain Henry Morgan sacked and destroyed it in 1671. Learn the story behind monuments like the Golden Altar. Jesuit priests painted black this significant piece of history and hid it from pirates before moving it to a new church in Casco Viejo.

Casco Viejo or the Old Town was the next capital city built in Panama and was founded in 1673 by French colonists after La Vieja was destroyed. Today it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also referred to as Casco Antiguo or the French Quarter for its French origins. The guided walking tour will take you through the cobblestone streets of this small district lined with colorful pastel-painted buildings.

Notable sites to visit and photograph in Old Town are the National Theater and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Mary. In addition to the historic sites, Casco Viejo is also an eclectic neighborhood with chic hotels, lively bars and fashionable boutiques. Be sure to pick up a Panama hat while in town. These famous woven white hats from Ecuador garnered their name after being shipped to Panama before being exported to other countries around the world.

When heading back to your ship, you'll pass today's modern Panama City. In contrast to Old Town, the glistening cosmopolitan city center is populated with skyscrapers and looks much like the city of Miami.

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Panama Canal Tours

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Panama Canal Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Home » Travel Guides » Panama » 15 Best Panama Canal Tours

15 Best Panama Canal Tours

The Panama Canal is a wonder of the engineering world and is a conduit between the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the largest engineering projects on earth, and took 33 years to complete. The Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks, located at either end of the canal, lift ships a staggering 26 metres above sea level before lowering them again on the other side.

With the fascinating locks, the man-made Gatun Lake, Gamboa rainforest, and Monkey Island, this canal and the surrounding areas are indeed worth a visit at least once in your life.

Below are the 15 best Panama Canal tours to help you make the most of your visit.

1. Panama Canal, Colón Rainforest and San Lorenzo Fort Tour

On this 7-hour guided tour, you can discover a plethora of sites in addition to the Panama Canal. You will be picked up from your hotel in Panama City and taken to the Colon Rainforest in an air-conditioned vehicle. Here, tourists get on board a ferry and enjoy the nature from a minibus. Tourists love to take pictures here, and this place is an amazing spot to discover wildlife.

After exploring Colon, tourists get to visit the historical San Lorenzo Fort and learn about its history. This guided tour then takes you to the last destination, the Panama Canal’s expansion at Agua Clara.

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off service, transportation to the sites, fresh local fruit, and a selection of drinks. It is a really good option if you enjoy the mystic scenery of nature and wildlife, and also love to visit or learn about significant historical sites.

2. Monkey Island and the Indian Village Tour

Discover Monkey Island and a real Indian village on this fascinating eco tour, whilst traveling through the waters of the Gatun Lake and the Panama Canal.

You will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the River Chagres for a 2-hour cruise in the Gatun Lake and the Panama Canal. Here, tourists love to look out for wildlife and capture pictures of themselves amongst the natural beauty and the nearby bays. Next, get an opportunity to visit the famous Monkey Island, which is home to white-faced monkeys. Here, you may encounter other species of animals as well.

You will also visit a real Indian village where you can learn about the culture, traditions, and history of the inhabitants there.

This tour is a great option for you if you wish to interact and learn about new cultures while getting to experience unique things on the way.

This tour is a 7-hour guided tour. The price includes taxes and the boat tour price and offers a pickup service as well.

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3. Private Miraflores Visitor Center Panama Canal Tour

Get to see the Panama Canal busy at work, from the Miraflores Locks at the Miraflores Visitor Center on this private guided tour.

Enjoy the view of the Panama Canal and watch the ships traveling to and fro between the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean.

This tour is a 3-hour guided tour and includes a pick-up and drop-off service, along with other transportation and water.

4. 6-Hour Panama Canal Cruising Tour

Get the most of the Panama Canal by cruising on a ship through the waters for 6 hours. This tour is guided and will let you experience the Panama Canal in a very realistic way.

This tour will take you through a section of the Panama Canal, to the world-famous Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks. Here, you get to see the engineering wonder close up, and marvel at the sight of the huge ships.

The tour further takes you to the Pacific Ocean marina at Flamenco and also lets you see the Centennial Bridge.

This tour includes drinks and lunch as well.

5. Jungle and Gatun Lake at the Panama Canal Tour

Discover the Panama Canal from a very different aspect and take a look at a plethora of sites whilst cruising in a huge ocean vessel.

Depart from Lake Gatun and get a motorboat for traveling around. Tourists here get to see fauna and flora, the expansion of the canal, and will even learn about the history of this place.

This tour then leads you past the jungle to the Monkey Island. Lastly, there is a floating house on the lake where you can enjoy traditional cuisine and then sit back to unravel the marvels of this place at your own pace.

This is a one-day guided tour.

6. Panama Canal Tour including a variety of sites

Discover the beauty of the rainforest on an old-fashioned train and see the San Lorenzo Fort and the National Park’s focal points.

Here, you can also sightsee and learn about the wildlife in the area. Tourists love to capture pictures here and look out for different kinds of animals.

This is a 7-hour guided tour and includes transportation. A pick-up and drop-off service is also offered.

7. 5-hour Panama Canal and Monkey Island Tour

Brace yourselves to set out on an exciting full-day tour at the Panama Canal. Avail yourself of the pickup service and depart from your hotel, to the Panama Canal Visitors Center. Here, tourists can learn about the Canal and how it works. You can also visit the museum here.

The tour then leads you through the Miraflores and Pedro Locks to Lake Gatun. After spending some time there, tourists are taken to Monkey Island and then back to their respective hotels.

This is a 5-hour fully guided tour.

8. Panama Canal Partial Transit Tour

This tour takes tourists on a boat through the waters along the Panama Canal to the Pacific entrance, where you are then moved to pleasure boats. From there, the boats take you to the Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks. You also get a chance to discover the Gaillard Cut, which is the narrowest section of the canal. Tourists are disembarked at Gamboa.

Amidst of all this, a commentator is available that tells you every detail about the places you visit.

The tour lasts for about 5 hours and is guided.

9. Panama Canal and City Day tour

Discover not only the Panama Canal but Panama City as well. This tour enables you to visit the Panama Canal and see the Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks.

It then leads you to the top of Ancon Hill to admire the scenery. Furthermore, tourists also get to see the Punta Culebra museum and the Casco Viejo site.

This tour lasts about for 8 hours and is guided.

10. Panama Canal Tour from the Airport

Make the best of your layover by heading to the Panama Canal right from Tocumen International Airport.

This is a private guided tour lasting for about 3 hours. You will get a chance to marvel at the wonder of engineering and explore the Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks.

On your way back to the airport, you can enjoy the sights of Panama City from the comfort of a private car.

11. Panama Canal and the Jungle Experience Tour

Take the opportunity to escape Panama City and discover the amazing sights beyond. Visit the world-famous Panama Canal, and also see the National Park along with Monkey Island.

This tour is perfect for people who wish to visit the Panama Canal, the National Park, Gamboa Rainforest, Lake Gatun, and Monkey Island, all in one go. The tour also takes you to an Indian village where you can learn about the customs and culture of the people there.

This guided tour lasts for about 7.5 hours.

12. Panama Canal and the City Walking Tour With Your Local Guide

Visit the Panama Visitors Center at the Miraflores Lock and unravel some of the mystery of this engineering wonder. Your local guide can teach you a lot about the history and the modern day, and even help you envision the future of the Panama Canal.

After this, your local guide will take you to sites awaiting your presence in the city. From the Ancon Hill, Casca Viejo, and Punta Culebra to the Bridge of Americas, tourists will be able to enjoy everything like locals and at their own pace.

This guided tour takes about 7 hours to complete.

13. Panama City and Panama Canal Half-day tour

Experience a visit to the world-famous Panama Canal, and Panama City for a lifelong memory.

This tour first takes you towards the Panama Canal, and then to the area called Casco Antiguo. It then gives the tourists the amazing opportunity to view the canal and the city from the Amador Causeway.

This guided tour lasts for about 4 hours.

14. 5-hour Eco-Cruise in the Gatun Lake on the Panama Canal

This five-star tour enables you to visit the world-famous Panama Canal and go on a boat adventure, taking pictures of the beautiful scenery and wildlife in the rainforest and discovering the history and present of the canal at Miraflores Locks.

This tour then heads towards Gatun Lake which is also manmade, and this tour will help you learn about the ecological and scenic aspects of it. You might want to click pictures here.

This guided tour lasts about for 5 hours.

15. Panama City and Panama Canal Railway Half-day Tour

Travel from Panama City to the world famous Panama Canal on an old-fashioned train that will lead you from the Panama City to Colon along the Canal. During this half-day tour, you can enjoy the view of the mystic canal and click pictures for a keepsake.

This tour takes you through the Isthmus of Panama from the Pacific to the Atlantic. Amidst this, you can enjoy the beauty of the lush green rainforest around you. Tourists will also get a chance to unravel the mystery of the Gatun Locks and learn about the history of the place.

This tour is guided and lasts about for 5 hours.

15 Best Panama Canal Tours:

• Panama Canal, Colón Rainforest and San Lorenzo Fort Tour
• Monkey Island and the Indian Village Tour
• Private Miraflores Visitor Center Panama Canal Tour
• 6-Hour Panama Canal Cruising Tour
• Jungle and Gatun Lake at the Panama Canal Tour
• Panama Canal Tour including a variety of sites
• 5-hour Panama Canal and Monkey Island Tour
• Panama Canal Partial Transit Tour
• Panama Canal and City Day tour
• Panama Canal Tour from the Airport
• Panama Canal and the Jungle Experience Tour
• Panama Canal and the City Walking Tour With Your Local Guide
• Panama City and Panama Canal Half-day tour
• 5-hour Eco-Cruise in the Gatun Lake on the Panama Canal
• Panama City and Panama Canal Railway Half-day Tour

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Panama Canal Cruise Ports & Shore Excursions

A visit to the Panama Canal port region holds much for guests to see and do. Full of history, lush jungles to explore, and the famous Panama Canal Locks! Your cruise will also include some incredible port visits as well so make sure to explore them on one of our unique and selected Panama Canal Cruise Excursions. If your cruise begins in California, you should stop at some of the Mexican Rivera's great ports whether it's trendy Cabo San Lucas or more traditional ports of call like Chiapas. Central America gems may include lush Costa Rica or volcanic Guatemala. On the Caribbean side, no Panama canal cruise is complete without a visit to Cartagena's Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other exciting Cruise Excursions along the Panama Canal cruise itineraries. Some cruise ships travel through the canal re-positioning between Alaska and the Caribbean. All our Central America and Panama Canal Shore Excursions are operated by professional and reputable cruise excursion operators and include some of the best sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation excursions!

Puerto Limon is Costa Rica's biggest Caribbean coastal city. Columbus first anchored off the city's coast back in 1502. If you are looking for adventure and exploration types of Shore Excursions, you will enjoy visiting this port. With its tropical rainforest climate, you will be spoiled by the biodiversity and wildlife. The Gatun Locks where you can see cruise ships enter the Panama Canal are one of the main sights to see when in port. With surrounding islands such as the UNESCO site of Cocos Island where Jurassic Park was filmed, the coastal scenery is spectacular. Scuba divers will enjoy great coral reef excursions! Costa Rica's largest city on the Pacific coast is Puntarenas. The city has a down-to-earth charm. The Montverde area to the north has a biological reserve with picturesque trails, hanging bridges, and butterfly and frog exhibits. The city itself has many great attractions. Visit the historic marine museum with audiovisual presentations. Take a look at local culture in La Casa de la Cultura art gallery. The Puntarenas Marine Park itself includes an aquarium with manta rays. The green jungles offer lots to explore in both Costa Rica ports with ziplining and river boating both very popular activities. Guatemala's largest Pacific port, Quetzal handles both cargo ships and cruise ships. City streets are dotted with marimba bands and colorful ethnic buildings. In the distance, you will see breathtaking volcanic landscapes and various coffee estates. The famous city of Antigua is approximately 90 minutes from your cruise pier. It is the former capital of Guatemala and is now a Unesco Heritage site. You can visit La Merced church with its Spanish Colonial architecture. The town will charm you with its folklore and cultural traditions. Nearby you can visit the Pacaya Volcano. Take off to Kawilal Hot Springs for some relaxation. Enjoy the culture of Lake Atitlan with its Maya traditions. There are 3 volcanoes here and the locals speak over 21 Maya languages, there are plenty of cruise excursions to be explored! Lying within 13km of colonial stone walls is the old town of Cartagena, Columbia. Now a UNESCO Heritage site, explore this historic city decorated with colorful bougainvillea, churches, and cobbled alleys. The old town itself is easily accessible on foot or if you prefer, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the historic district of Las Murallas with a guide. Head to the Fuerte de San Fernando and "La Popa" famously the highest point of Cartagena with its convent and pretty flower-filled patio. Abundant with history and culture, do not miss the Castillo de San Felipe fortress. If you are looking for something off the beaten path, then discover La Boquilla fishing village where you can canoe through mangroves and observe the local wildlife. The southern Mexican port of Chiapas offers more than what at first meets the eye. Situated near the Guatemalan border enjoy the colorful and friendly ambiance. Local banana plantations and the volcano of Tacana can be seen on your route departing the main pier. From September to December, locals and cruise ship visitors enjoy the coffee-picking season. Another popular attraction is the Izapa ruins of Mayan and Olmec times. Journey on to the city of Tuxtla Chico known as the Chocolate City and the attraction of Mi Pueblito where you can observe women turn cacao beans into chocolate! Various mangrove tours to see productive ecosystems will allow you to explore local flora and fauna as well as tropical birds. Situated on Panama's Caribbean coast, Colon was founded by Americans in 1850 as a railroad outpost for the great gold rush demand. Visit the historic landmark of Christ Church by the sea, the oldest Episcopal Church in Central America in the heart of the city. There is also the Catholic Church of Columbus Cathedral to explore. Various statues to both visit and photograph near the seawall include the statue of Christopher Columbus and the Aspinwall monument. Twenty miles from Panama City on the Pacific coast is the port of Fuerte Amador, Panama. Influenced by the French, there are some fascinating sites worth visiting including Panama City itself. The city boasts an Interoceanic Canal Museum, a museum of Biodiversity, and Smithsonian tropical research institutes. The famous Miraflores Locks where you can see cruise ships enter the Panama Canal from the Pacific side is a popular attraction. For those looking for cultural sites, take a visit to Teatro Nacional, Plaza de la Cathedral and Palacio de las Garzas. Enjoy the historic city center of Casco Viejo with various museums, ruins, and churches. Take in the Parque Natural Metropolitano National Park and rainforest.  With duty-free shopping in Panama, guests will surely find bargains and souvenirs - US dollars are taken everywhere! The climate in the Panama Canal region is typically humid and especially in the rainforests, guests can expect showers. Moderate temperatures make getting out to explore very nice. Today, the canal has approximately 14,000 vessels a year in transit. In 2007, work began on a project to enlarge the canal. Plans for further expansion are already underway.

Check out our Cruise Excursions for Panama Canal cruise itineraries and enjoy your adventures and experiences on shore with Shore Excursioneer Excursions!

15 Best Panama Canal Day Tours from Panama City

Looking for the best panama canal day tours from panama city you’ve come to the right place.

An engineering marvel built as a shortcut across two oceans , the Panama Canal is a bucket list activity in Panama.

Visiting the Panama Canal and seeing the ships sail along was a highlight of my trip .

From exploring historic sites to riding the canal to tropical landscapes, each tour offers a unique way to experience this iconic waterway.

Let’s get right into the 15 best Panama Canal day tours for your trip to Panama City Panama!

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Table of Contents

My Top 3 Picks: Best Panama Canal Tours

Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal & Jungle Tour

✅ 90 min Canal Ride

✅ Plus more stops

Panama Canal Full Transit Tour

✅ 12+ hours

✅ Ride all 3 Locks

✅ Meals & hotel pickup

Panama Canal Partial Tour – Southbound

✅ Travel towards Pacific Ocean

✅ Pass 2 sets of Locks

The Panama Canal is one of the most fun activities in Panama City . Several different Panama Canal day tours from Panama City Panama include:

• Train Tours
• Helicopter tours

Each of these top Panama Canal tours from Panama City offers a unique perspective and experience.

And while getting around in Panama can be easy when you know what you are doing, all these tours organize roundtrip transportation, entrance, and other details for you. So, all you need to do is show up and enjoy.

Panama Canal Day Tours from Panama City – By Boat

1. ocean to ocean panama canal and jungle tour.

⭐ 5/5 ( 1000+ Reviews )

The Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour is an 8-hour adventure from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean on and alongside the Panama Canal.

The first stop is the Panama Canal, where you will ride along on a boat next to ships passing through the canal for 90 minutes.

From there, you will stop at Lake Gatun (the second-largest artificial lake on the continent), Agua Clara Locks Visit Center , and enjoy lunch at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fort San Lorenzo .

While you don’t get to ride a boat through the locks, this is one of the most popular tours of Panama Canal and offers a great balance of history and nature.

You can see monkeys, sloths, birds, crocodiles, and lots of other wildlife.

It is an early start, so get a good night’s sleep the night before.

“ We only had 48 hours in Panama and this was a perfect way to spend one of our days. Pick up was communicated perfectly and we were picked up promptly at the time John told us. John was very knowledgeable and full of information. The tour included a little bit of everything, including things you didn’t know you needed to see. ” – Kathleen A. ( see more reviews )

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2. Panama Canal Full Transit Tour

⭐ 4.5/5 ( 180+ Reviews )

This Full Transit Panama Canal Tour is one of the best Panama Canal one day tours. It’s got a packed itinerary, so prepare for at least 12 hours .

You will pass through and learn about all three sets of locks and view Lake Gatun and Chagres River while learning about the history and construction of the Panama Canal.

While a full-day tour may be exhausting for some, it’s well worth it if you’re interested in the history behind the Canal . You get to ride the Panama Canal all the way, and how cool is that!

The tour provides breakfast, lunch, snacks, drinks, and roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Panama City. All you have to do is wake up early and enjoy a day of hearing about a fascinating piece of history from a knowledgeable guide.

“ This is a long day, but, for me, I thought a brilliant and unique trip. The staff were all extremely helpful and polite and the guide gives a great deal of interesting information. I am happy to recommend this trip to anyone who has a voyage through the Panama Canal on their bucket list. ” – Russel W. ( see more reviews )

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3. Panama Canal Partial Tour – Southbound Direction

⭐ 4.5/5 ( 200+ Reviews )

If you don’t want to commit to a full day on the Panama Canal, consider a partial transit tour . This Panama Canal Partial Tour – Southbound Direction toward the Pacific Ocean is a great starting point.

This 6-hour, small group tour takes you southbound along the Panama Canal , where you will see the Miraflores Locks and Pedro Miguel Locks up close.

The tour provides transportation and lunch on board. While you won’t see the entire canal, you will catch the most essential parts .

“ It was a delightful experience going through the locks and participating with another boat journeying through the Canal locks. Our guide, Jose, was extraordinary! He was fun, engaging and shared lots of history. It was also impressive that the tour was conducted in Spanish and English, and he did not miss a beat. ” – Crystal B. ( see more reviews )

4. Panama Canal Partial Tour – Northbound Direction

⭐ 4.5/5 ( 85+ Reviews )

The Panama Canal Partial Tour – Northbound Direction is a similar 6-hour tour , but this time heading north along the canal toward the Atlantic Ocean.

You will still stop at all the major points of interest along the Panama Canal, including Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks. Your guide will explain the engineering marvels, the canal’s construction, and constant maintenance .

The tour also provides continental breakfast and lunch, roundtrip transfers from selected hotels, and soft beverages. If you’re looking for fun six-hour tours of the Panama Canal with everything provided , this is a great, affordable option.

“ I’m glad we did this tour and actually travelled through the locks as opposed to just watching from the visitor’s center. If you’re going to see the canal, this is the way to go. ” – Ouillma D. ( see more reviews )

5. 5hr Combo-Panama Canal Boat Safari & Jungle Walk w/ Local Brunch

⭐ 5/5 ( 445+ Reviews )

This 5-hour Combo-Panama Canal Boat Safari & Jungle Walk tour is one of the most popular tours through Panama Canal. It includes a partial tour of the Panama Canal, with a heavy emphasis on the wildlife and jungle in the region.

First, the tour drives you halfway up the Panama Canal to Gamboa. From here, you hop on a covered boat to begin the eco-cruise to Gatun Lake, Monkey Island, Soberania National Park with a Panamanian breakfast, and Centennial Bridge.

At Soberania National Park, go on a nature walk , where you will learn more about the animals and plants in the region.

Although this tour isn’t as focused on the Panama Canal as the engineering behind it, it’s a unique experience filled with memorable moments .

“ The transportation was on time and very comfortable. The tour guide was superb, with extensive knowledge, and spoke fluent English and Spanish. The boat driver was good at placement for the best experience, and the monkeys actually came on board. Being in the Canal with the ships was a great experience. ” – Paul C. ( see more reviews )

6. Boat Tour and Wildlife in the Panama Canal

⭐ 4.5/5 ( 105+ Reviews )

This Boat Tour and Wildlife in the Panama Canal is a 3-hour tour along the Panama Canal and to Lake Gatun.

You will enter the Panama Canal at Chagres River and ride along the canal to Gatun Lake . You’ll spend about 45 minutes on the channel, passing by ships and learning a little about the history from your guide.

Because this is a short tour, it’s great for those that don’t have much time . You can pair this with a visit to the Panama Canal Visitor Center to learn more about the region.

It’s important to note that you won’t learn much about the Panama Canal here , aside from the brief boat ride through.

“ Fernando was a great guide. We saw a few different types of monkeys, various birds, gators, lizards. Some monkeys got close and personal, and to actually have them eat out of your palm was surreal. The Panama Canal is something to marvel at – a historic engineering of progressive transportation! ” – Ivanna K. ( see more reviews )

7. Panama Canal Partial Transit Tour

⭐ 4/5 ( 380+ Reviews )

The Panama Canal Partial Transit Tour is a 7-hour tour that takes you halfway across the Panama Canal . It’s much shorter than the Panama Canal full transit day tour, but still informative.

The tour includes the Miraflores Visitor’s Center and the Pedro Miguel Locks, where you will cross a total of three levels of locks . You’ll also see the beginning of Gatun Lake.

“Going through the locks was a fascinating experience. The guide was knowledgeable and interesting. The crew were friendly and attentive. We really enjoyed the catering, but the biggest impact was the scale of the engineering and the achievement that is the canal. We had a thoroughly enjoyable trip.” – David G. ( see more reviews )

8. The Panama Canal: Kingfisher Experience Tour

⭐ 5/5 ( 6+ Reviews )

The Panama Canal: Kingfisher Experience Tour is perfect for fishing enthusiasts or those who want something different .

Get a partial-day rundown of the Panama Canal and its history, followed by an 8-hour fishing experience right on the Panama Canal . 

On the way to your designated spots, you will pass massive ships going through the Canal and learn more about the canal.

You will be catching Oscar Bass, Snook, Tilapia, Peacock Bass, and Tarpon, all while observing wildlife. You can choose to catch-and-release or take your catch home for dinner.

This may not be for everyone, but for those who love fishing or want to say, “I’ve caught a fish in the Panama Canal,” this tour is for you.

“ John was an amazing guide. Best snacks and took us around so many places for fishing. He has a ton of wildlife knowledge!! Would recommend!!! ” – Tara S. ( see more reviews )

Panama Canal Day Tours from Panama City – By Train

9. Historic Portobelo and Panama Canal Sightseeing Tour with Train Ride

⭐ 5/5 ( 10+ Reviews )

The Panama Canal Railway stretches 76.6 km (47.6 mi) between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, from Colón to Balboa.

This Historic Portobelo and Panama Canal Sightseeing Tour with Train Ride is a 10-hour tour that takes you to some of the most important sites along the canal and a few museums.

The tour includes a drive through Portobelo National Park , a visit to the Museo de La Real Aduana de Portobelo , a one-hour ride on the Panama Canal Railway, and the Aguas Clara Locks Visitor Center , and a few other brief stops.

If you want an all-out train experience , this is one of the best Panama Canal tours that includes a train ride.

“ Great tour. A large amount of Historical information shared by our tour guide. He was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Did not rush. Explained things thoroughly. Tour was lengthy, so come prepared for a long day but was well worth the effort. ” – Lawrence O. ( see more reviews )

10. Panama Canal Train, Agua Clara Canal Lock Center & Colon Fort

⭐ 4/5 ( 7+ Reviews )

This Panama Cana Train, Agua Clara Canal Lock Center & Colon Fort is another exciting way to visit and learn from one of the best Panama City canal tours.

The 8-hour tour begins with a trip on the Panama Canal Railway, where you can admire the beautiful fauna and wildlife from the comforts of a high-end train with air-conditioning .

After the hour-long train ride, you’ll visit Agua Clara Locks, Fort San Lorenzo, and Port Colon 2000 for lunch.

The tour guides are incredible and take care to make sure things go smoothly, and you leave with much more information than you arrived with.

“ Aqua Clara Canal system is absolutely amazing. We observed 2 ships pass through the locks. Truly breathtaking. ” – Prakash P. ( see more reviews )

Panama Canal Day Tours from Panama City – By Car

11. Half Day City and Panama Canal Tour

⭐ 5/5 ( 910+ Reviews )

This Half Day City and Panama Canal Tour blends the best nearby activities in Panama City .

The 5-hour tour begins with a stop at the Miraflores Visitor Center, which is a great place to learn about the history and construction of the Panama Channel.

You can head up to the observation deck to watch boats come through . I loved watching the ships pass by.

After the Panama Canal portion, you will make brief stops at Amador Causeway , Casco Viejo, Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient, Arco Chato, and Plaza Carlos V. You will also pass by several other points of interest. I really enjoyed seeing all these places in Panama City.

The tour only lasts about one hour in Casco Viejo , so you can also look into another Casco Viejo tour to learn more about this historic neighbourhood.

This is one of the best Panama Canal day tours from Panama City for those who want a more general experience .

“ This was a small group of 4, and our tour guide was Juan Carlos who was extremely knowledgeable of all the topics about the city, and the Panama Canal. We had a great time learning and having fun on the way. He also speaks perfect English and had the answers for all our questions. I would recommend for everybody visiting Panama City to take this tour. ” – Dusha P. ( see more reviews )

12. Layover (Stopover) City Tour and Panama Canal Visit

⭐ 5/5 ( 38+ Reviews )

The Layover (Stopover) City Tour and Panama Canal Visit is a great tour for anyone with a 6+ hour layover in Panama City looking for some day trips.

Dedicated tours to Panama Canal are a must-do for all travellers and adventurers, but if you only have a few hours in the city, make the most of it with a layover tour.

The tour is 4.5 hours, so you need at least a six-hour layover . But if you have the time, it’s a great Panama Canal day trip from the airport.

You’ll be picked up from Tocumen International Airport (PTY) and taken to the Panama Canal, Casco Viejo (Old Town), Amador Causeway, Panama Canal Administration Building, and Panama City sign.

“ I had a six hour layover in Panama City and decided to book this tour, especially since the reviews were great. I arrived in Panama at about 6:00 a.m., and Miguel picked me up at the airport. To keep it short. This tour is well worth its price, and Miguel is an excellent tour guide. The tour significantly added to my journey and allowed me to explore some of what Panama offers. It makes me want to come back. ” – Awab H. ( see more reviews )

13. Tour of Panama City and the Panama Canal

⭐ 5/5 ( 50+ Reviews )

This Tour of Panama City and the Panama Canal is a Panama Canal half-day tour around the city that includes all the important highlights. It’s one of the best tours Panama has to offer.

The 4.5-hour Panama Canal tours from Panama City take you to the Panama Canal, Miraflores Locks, Amador Causeway, Casco Viejo, and Plaza de la Catedral.

One of the best things about this tour is the incredible guides , who go out of their way to accommodate all guests and Panama Canal tourism. Transportation is organized, and you will get a complete history run-down on Panama while exploring.

“ Roberto gave us a very interesting and informative tour of Panama City and the Panama Canal Miraflores Locks and Visitors Center. ” – Clifford D. ( see more reviews )

Panama Canal Helicopter Tours

14. Private 30 Minute Panama Canal and Panama City Helicopter Tour

⭐ 5/5 ( 43+ Reviews )

If you want the most unique and thrilling experience of the Panama Canal, consider this Private 30-minute Panama Canal and Panama City Helicopter Tour .

Before the ride, you will get a brief history of the Panama Canal from the captain and everything you can expect to see. The captain is excellent at maneuvering the helicopter and knowledgeable about the Panama Canal.

You can upgrade to a 60-minute helicopter ride with a 30-minute tour of the Panama Canal and a 30-minute “jungle” cruise that takes you on a flight above the rainforest.

Keep your eyes open for Cerro Ancon which is the highest point in Panama City and is a great spot to go hiking.

“ I’ve done quite a few helicopter tours all over the USA, and this was by far the greatest tour of them all. Fernando starts with a history lesson of Panama and the Canal; you can tell he is genuinely passionate about his country. Great facts and background. The ride itself is smooth, and he is very knowledgeable of the various kinds of ships that go through the canal… ” – Marco M. ( see more reviews )

15. Canal of Panama by Helicopter

This Canal of Panama by Helicopter is another excellent choice for thrill-seekers who want a birds-eye view of the Panama Canal.

The tour includes 30 minutes of air time , where you will get some of the most beautiful views of the canal and Lake Gatun . The pilots and guides are all professional and go out of their way to ensure you leave happy and satisfied with the trip.

“ Great trip and overall experience seeing the canal and Lake Gatun! The pilot was experienced, and I had a relaxed and competent feel about him. His English was very good. ” – George R. ( see more reviews )

FAQs about Panama Canal Tours

Can you do a day trip through the panama canal.

Yes, you can do a day trip through the Panama Canal . Several tour operators offer the chance to transit through the canal’s locks, either in partial or full transit, providing a unique perspective on this engineering marvel. A day tour is a great way to experience the Panama Canal if you have limited time in Panama.

What is the Best Way to Tour the Panama Canal?

The best way to tour the Panama Canal depends on your interests and time availability . If you’re seeking a unique and exciting perspective, a helicopter tour gives an impressive bird’s-eye view of the canal or for those who prefer to experience the canal more directly, day tours that transit through the canal’s locks are highly recommended.

Can Tourists Take a Boat Ride Through the Panama Canal?

Yes, tourists can take a boat ride through the Panama Canal. Boat tours are among the best Panama Canal day tours from Panama City, offering a first-hand experience of the canal’s impressive lock system and a chance to sail along the same route that has been frequented by countless commercial and passenger vessels over the years.

Can You Tour the Panama Canal On Your Own?

Yes, you can tour the Panama Canal on your own. However, a self-tour involves visiting the canal’s visitor centers: Miraflores Visitor Center and Agua Clara Visitor Center. They offer observation decks from where you can watch ships transit through the canal’s locks. While this is more economical, you won’t get the same hands-on experience as you would with a boat ride. 

A tour also makes sure you end up in the right place. On my second trip to Panama, I met some people at my hotel who tried to take an Uber to the Locks and ended up going to the shipyard (which was far away) and not seeing the canal. 

How Long is a Boat Ride Through Panama Canal?

A boat ride through the Panama Canal lasts between 4 to 8 hours for a partial transit and up to 12 hours for a full transit. It depends on the type of tour you opt for. The partial transit takes you through some of the locks, whereas a full transit, often considered among the best Panama Canal one day tours, navigates the entire length of the canal.

What is the Best Month to Go Through the Panama Canal?

The best time to go through the Panama Canal is the dry season, from mid-December to mid-April . During these months, you’ll experience less rainfall, making your boat tour more pleasant. Keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so it’s advisable to book your tour ahead of time to secure a spot on one of the best Panama Canal tours.

Enjoy the Panama Canal, a Boat Safari, and a Jungle Walk on this tour !

Final Thoughts: Best Panama Canal One Day Tours

Touring the Panama Canal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience .

The Ocean To Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour is one of the best boat tours of the Panama Canal.

The Half Day City and Panama Canal Tour is great for those who are short on time and who want to see the canal but not ride a boat.

Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-filled helicopter ride , an in-depth historical overview, or a serene cruise through the lush rainforest, there’s a tour for you.

Seeing the Panama Canal is just one of many must-do activities when planning your Panama itinerary !

Travelling to Panama? Read more:

• 7 Day Panama Itinerary
• Adventurous Things to Do in Panama
• Fun Things to Do in Panama City Panama
• Best Panama Canal Day Tours from Panama City
• Getting Around Panama
• Best Places to Visit in Panama
• Best Casco Viejo Walking Tours
• Hiking Ancon Hill in Panama City
• Hiking Cerro Cara Iguana
• Volcan Baru Jeep Tour
• Boquete Coffee Tour Review
• Scuba Diving in Bocas del Toro
• Casa Acuario Hotel Review
• La Selva Nomad Treehouse Review
• Best Bocas del Toro Hotels Over Water
• Fun Things to Do in Bocas del Toro
• How to Get to Bocas Del Toro
• How to Visit Nivida Bat Cave, Bocas del Toro
• Costa Rica vs Panama

Melissa is the founder of My Beautiful Passport. A Canadian who has explored 15+ countries on 4 continents, she enjoys combining adventure and affordable luxury. Through sharing her own experiences, travel tips, and destination itineraries, she helps others plan their unique adventures whether it be at the beach, in the city, or in the mountains.

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12 best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip

A Panama Canal transit is a rite of passage for many cruise lovers. Experiencing this marvel of early 20th-century engineering appeals to those with a wide array of interests, from history and politics to colonial architecture and wildlife spotting. Built by the U.S. government between 1903 and 1914, this 50-mile waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans revolutionized shipping by creating an expedited route for the transit of cargo and, ultimately, cruise ship passengers.

Panama Canal itineraries are offered by almost every cruise line. Thanks to a 2016 canal expansion project, a third set of locks can now accommodate larger vessels. It's possible to cruise the Panama Canal on ships of all sizes (from 148 guests to more than 3,000) on itineraries that range from a week in the sun to a six-month world cruise.

Some ships sail a full transit of the canal, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, or vice versa. These one-way journeys between Miami or Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles or San Diego, visits ports in Central America, South America, Mexico and California.

Others sail only a partial transit, entering the locks from the Atlantic and cruising into Lake Gatun before turning around and exiting again. These itineraries, sailing round-trip from Florida ports, combine the canal experience with island-hopping in the Caribbean.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The array of options means that a Panama Canal cruise experience is possible even if you're short on time or have a limited budget — and chances are high that your favorite cruise line offers one or more itineraries. Most sailings attract couples, typically retirees, but if the timing is right a Panama Canal cruise can also be a great multi-generational experience.

Here are a dozen of the best Panama Canal cruises to consider.

Holland America's 14- to 16-day Panama Canal cruises

Holland America offers a variety of Panama Canal cruises , but the most popular itineraries span 14 to 16 days. They offer a full transit between Fort Lauderdale and San Diego, or vice versa, and are offered on multiple ships, including Zaandam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam and Volendam. These sailings call on Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Huatulco and Puerto Vallarta or Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Who should go: Holland America ships sailing a full transit are popular with retired couples who appreciate the cruise line's consistency and good value. All four ships accommodate between 1,432 and 2,106 passengers and offer signature onboard experiences that include the Greenhouse Spa and the BBC Earth in Concert multimedia performance. The larger Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam feature additional specialty dining options, such as Tamarind and Nami Sushi, as well as B.B. King's Blues Club, Lincoln Center Stage and Billboard Onboard.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 16-night Los Angeles to Miami cruise

Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, debuts in November 2023 and its first two Panama Canal itineraries in early 2024 are already waitlisted. For those planning ahead, the 16-night Miami to Los Angeles (Dec. 13-29, 2024) and 16-night Los Angeles to Miami (Jan. 8-23, 2025) transits offer luxurious all-inclusive pampering, plus port calls in Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; Panama City, Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

Who should go: This itinerary can be a wonderful splurge for a couple seeking to celebrate a milestone anniversary or birthday in a memorable way on a luxurious new ship. Prices start at a hefty $10,399 per person for a spacious balcony suite, but they also include airfare, transfers, gratuities, dining and beverages, Wi-Fi and shore excursions — meaning you'll hardly have any other vacation expenses.

Related: The 8 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Celebrity Cruises' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean cruise

For a Panama Canal experience that begins and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Celebrity Cruises ' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean itinerary is a great option. There's plenty of time to plan ahead for the Dec. 2, 2024 cruise or the half-dozen almost identical sailings that follow through March 2025. All sailings are aboard the new 3,260-guest Celebrity Beyond and visit Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendjik, Bonaire; and George Town, Grand Cayman (Willemstad, Curacao replaces Grand Cayman on some 2025 sailings).

Who should go: Celebrity Beyond and its Edge-series sister ships appeal to Millennials, Gen Xers and young-at-heart Boomers who appreciate innovative design, entertainment and dining options. The ships are geared toward couples or groups of friends, but families with older teens might also enjoy the onboard vibe. There are no splash pools or waterslides for younger kids, although calls on three Caribbean islands offer aquatic fun.

Windstar Cruises' 7-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise

To explore the Panama Canal region in a relaxed manner aboard an intimate motorized sailing yacht, check out Windstar Cruises' 7-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal itinerary aboard the 148-guest Wind Star. Bookable on more than two dozen dates in 2023, 2024 and 2025, the itinerary takes guests from Colon, Panama to Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica (or vice versa). The ship will transit the canal and visit Panama City and Isla Parida in Panama, plus Golfo Dolce and Quepos (for Manuel Antonio National Park) in Costa Rica.

Who should go: Fans of small-ship cruising who enjoy a casual onboard ambiance, are interested in nature and wildlife and wish to sample the regional flavors of Central America should consider a Windstar cruise . All accommodations are in snug yet well-designed staterooms with windows, but no balconies. Wind Star is a cozy and social four-deck ship featuring a pool and pool bar, a lounge and two restaurants.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

Silversea's 31-day New York to Lima cruise

Silversea Cruises ' indulgent 31-day New York to Lima sailing aboard its newest ship, 728-guest Silver Nova features a Panama Canal transit in the middle of the trip. The one-way itinerary departs New York City in November and visits Bermuda and multiple sunny Caribbean islands — Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. Barth's, St. Kitts, Antigua, Martinique, St. Lucia, Barbados, Bequia, Grenada, Curacao and Aruba — and Cartagena, Colombia before transiting the canal to call on ports in Ecuador (Manta) and Peru (Salaverry and Lima).

Who should go: Silversea's clientele is mostly mature couples with a luxury mindset and an appreciation for elevated dining with a strong regional focus. They also appreciate the cruise line's all-inclusive ease. A month-long itinerary such as this is likely to attract retirees seeking an extended warm-weather escape.

Related: The 10 best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Carnival Cruise Line's 8-day Panama Canal cruise from Tampa

Experiencing the Panama Canal doesn't have to be time-consuming or budget-busting. Carnival Cruise Line 's 8-day Panama Canal from Tampa itinerary offers a round-trip, partial-transit sailing aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride with port calls in Limon, Costa Rica and George Town, Grand Cayman—beginning at under $900 per person.

With four pools (including an adults-only aft Serenity Pool), a WaterWorks aqua park, Camp Ocean kids club and seven restaurants, the ship offers enough diversions for sea-day fun, even at half the size of Carnival's newest megaships.

Who should go: Carnival's action-packed ships and affordable cruise fares appeal to families, friends and couples of all ages who enjoy a lively onboard ambiance and casual complimentary dining options (including a Guy Fieri burger venue).

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Seabourn's 21-day Caribbean & Panama Canal Passage

For a one-way Panama Canal transit that visits six countries (Aruba, Curacao, Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico) and offers six relaxing and luxurious days at sea, consider Seabourn 's 21-day Caribbean & Panama Canal Passage . The 450-guest Seabourn Sojourn will sail from Miami to Los Angeles in December.

Calls on Golfito and Puntarenas in Costa Rica offer access to eco-adventure. Visits to Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala and Puerto Chiapas and Huatulco in Mexico feature excursions focused on pre-Spanish-colonial culture, coffee cultivation and more, while a call on Cabo San Lucas offers whale-watching, deep-sea fishing or tequila tasting opportunities.

Who should go: Work-from-anywhere entrepreneurs and retirees who enjoy the luxury and refinement of small-ship cruising will enjoy this three-week Panama Canal transit. Seabourn Sojourn pampers its guests with attentive service, elevated cuisine and all-ocean-facing suites featuring walk-in closets and spacious marble bathrooms. Seabourn's all-inclusive cruise fares also cover gratuities and complimentary wines and spirits.

Princess Cruises' 10-day Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruise

While Princess Cruises does offer several longer ocean-to-ocean Panama Canal itineraries — including two in 2023 that transit via the historic locks — its popular 10-day Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruises conveniently sail roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale on more than a dozen dates in 2023 and 2024.

What's more, you can choose from among three ships: 3,140-guest Caribbean Princess or 3,080-guest Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess. In addition to the partial transit, these sailings call on Jamaica and Grand Cayman in the Caribbean, as well as Cartagena, Columbia; Limon, Costa Rica; and Colon, Panama.

Who should go: Couples who enjoy a ship with a more traditional vibe and families with kids who are content to participate in interactive learning activities and nature-based adventure (vs waterslides) will enjoy this cruise. Princess ships are known for their Movies Under the Stars screenings, multiple pools, specialty dining options such as Sabatini's Italian Trattoria and The Salty Dog Gastropub, and Crooners piano bar.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Norwegian Cruise Line's 17-day South America: Peru, Colombia & Chile cruise

There's no "Panama Canal" in this itinerary's name, but Norwegian Cruise Line 's 17-day South America: Peru, Colombia & Chile cruise in January 2024 does a full canal transit (and spends a day in Panama City) as it sails from Miami to Santiago, Chile. The 1,936-guest Norwegian Sun sails to historic Santa Marta and Cartagena in Colombia; Manta, Ecuador; Trujillo, Lima and Pisco in Peru; and Arica and Coquimbo in Chile, before disembarkation in Santiago.

Who should go: Couples and friends interested in experiencing not just a Panama Canal transit but some of the top coastal experiences along the Pacific Coast of South America should choose this itinerary. Norwegian Sun is an older, smaller vessel that was refurbished in 2018 and features a top deck more conducive to sunning than thrill rides. The ship also has a surprising number of restaurants for its size: two main dining rooms, a buffet restaurant, a sports bar and an outdoor grill on a complimentary basis, plus eight specialty dining venues (including Mexican, Italian, French, Japanese and a steakhouse) for an added fee.

Oceania's 16-day Miami to Los Angeles cruise

Following its May debut, Oceania Cruises ' 1,200-guest Vista — the first new-build ship in Oceania's fleet in more than a decade — will offer back-to-back 16-day Miami to Los Angeles and Los Angeles to Miami itineraries in October and November. Both sailings visit six countries with port calls that include George Town, Grand Cayman; Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Corinto, Nicaragua; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. (The second sailing visits San Diego instead of Ensenada.)

Who should go: Oceania's newest ship offers a great compromise between a small and medium-size vessel and is ideal for those seeking a premium cruise experience with casual sophistication. Older couples especially will appreciate the ship's elegant stateroom decor in soft hues of wheat and seagrass, mix of grand and intimate spaces and wide array of dining options (including two new venues, Ember for inventive American cuisine and Aquamar Kitchen for wellness-focused breakfast, lunch and dinner). A more immersive mixology program features curated cocktail menus, indulgent pairing experiences and specialty beverage carts.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on an Oceania Cruises ship

Cunard's 29-day Alaska & Panama Canal cruise

Talk about packing for all kinds of weather! Cunard's 29-day Alaska & Panama Canal sailing aboard 2,081-passenger Queen Elizabeth begins in Vancouver on Aug. 7 and explores Alaska for more than a week (visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Hubbard Glacier, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park and Sitka). Then the ship heads back south along the U.S. Pacific Coast (stopping in Victoria, Vancouver, San Francisco and Los Angeles) before heading to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Only then will it transit the Panama Canal. The ship makes one Atlantic stop in Aruba before passengers disembark in Fort Lauderdale.

Who should go: British cruise line Cunard appeals mainly to older travelers who savor the line's formal traditions. This cruise is for you if you enjoy afternoon tea, dressing up for dinner, gala evenings and dancing to big-band orchestras. The particular itinerary appeals to retirees who wish to visit a variety of cruise regions in one singular itinerary.

Viking's 180-day World Voyage

For the ultimate cruise indulgence, Viking's 180-day World Voyage I includes a Panama Canal transit (on Christmas Day, no less) as 930-passenger Viking Sky cruises from Fort Lauderdale to New York City (Dec. 19, 2024–June 17, 2025). This round-the-world cruise will visit 37 countries as guests enjoy Viking Sky's modern Scandinavian interior decor, soothing LivNordic Spa, two pools (including one with a retractable roof) and six onboard restaurants. Pricing includes airfare, gratuities and complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner.

Who should go: With cruise fares that start at $79,995 per person, this six-month adventure at sea requires a luxury budget. Viking 's base clientele is mostly retired or close-to-retirement-age professionals who enjoy the cruise line's focus on educational enrichment (via onboard lectures) and serene ambiance (there's no casino and the nighttime vibe is on the quiet side).

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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• Top 5 Panama City Tours

Land Tours and Activities

Panama city bike tours.

• ** All Panama City Bike Tours

Amador Causeway Bike Tour

Casco Viejo City Bike Tour

Panama Mountain Biking Tours

• ** All Panama Mountain Biking Tours
• Cocoa Plantation Mountain Bike Tour

Panama Canal Tours

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• Monkey Island + Sloth Sanctuary Panama

Panama City & Canal Tour

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Miraflores Locks Express Tour

• Fort Sherman, San Lorenzo, and Canal Historical Tour
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Nature & Eco Tours

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Monkey Island Tour

Monkey Island & Indian Village Combo Tour

• Metro Park & Punta Culebra Discovery Eco-Tour

Hiking Metropolitan Natural Park Nature Trails

Bird Watching Metropolitan Natural Park

• El Valle de Anton Explorer
• Kayaking Lake Gatun, Panama Canal & Monkey Island

Shore Excursions

Public panama shore excursions departing panama city.

• ** All Public Panama Shore Excursions Departing Panama City

Hop On Hop Off Panama City Sightseeing Tour

Taboga Island One Day Tour

Express Panama Shore Excursions For Limited Times in Port

• ** All Express Panama Shore Excursions For Limited Times in Port

Casco Viejo Panama Express Tour

Panama City Past to Present Combo Tour

• Indian Village Tour

Private Guided Shore Excursions - Panama City

Private Guided Shore Excursions - Colon

Private Boat Charters in Panama City

• ** All Private Boat Charters in Panama City

Panama City Boat Rentals - 27' Proline

Sightseeing Tours

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• San Blas Islands One Day Explorer
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Water Tours and Activities

Taboga island & pearl island boat tours.

• ** All Taboga Island & Pearl Island Boat Tours
• Panama Catamaran Tour to Taboga Island
• Sonny Island Resort Day Pass in the Pearl Islands
• Pearl Islands Sunday Funday Catamaran Cruise & Beach Break

Panama Canal & Lake Gatun Boat Tours

• ** All Panama Canal & Lake Gatun Boat Tours
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Boat Trips to the San Blas Islands

• ** All Boat Trips to the San Blas Islands
• San Blas Islands Overnight Tour

Private Boat Rentals in Panama

• ** All Private Boat Rentals in Panama
• Pagot 56´ Private Catamaran Charter

Pearl Islands

Taboga & pearl islands beach hopping tours.

• ** All Taboga & Pearl Islands Beach Hopping Tours

Pearl Islands Whale Watching Tours

• ** All Pearl Islands Whale Watching Tours
• Whale Watching Pearl Islands & Isla Bolaños Beach Break
• Pearl Islands Whale Watching & Chapera Island Beach Break

Private Taboga & Pearl Island Excursions

• ** All Private Taboga & Pearl Island Excursions

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Tours

• ** All Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Tours
• Snorkel and Zip-line Caribbean Adventure
• Caribbean Snorkel & Private Island
• Caribbean Scuba & Private Island
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• Discover Scuba Resort Course

Whale Watching Tours

• ** All Whale Watching Tours
• Pearl Islands Whale Watching & Contadora Beach Break
• Whale Watching Tour from Contadora Island
• Panama Whale Watching Private Charters

Airport Transportion

Coming soon, ground transportation, domestic flights.

• Bocas del Toro to San Jose Costa Rica Shuttle
• Bocas del Toro to Puerto Viejo Costa Rica Shuttle

Panama City Shore Excursions, Panama

Let us help you plan your trip. you're just a click away, (panama shore excursions departing fuerte amador & balboa cruise ship ports).

Lush jungle & wildlife, indigenous cultures, historical sightseeing, the Panama Canal… the variety of Panama shore excursions offer something for everyone in your family regardless of what they are interested in. At the Real Deal Tours we have over 10 years of experience of successfully handling cruise ship guests and ensuring they get the most out of their shore excursions. Public Panama Shore Excursions Departing Panama City

If you are fortunate enough to be coming into Fuerte Amador or Balboa cruise ship terminals, there are several public shore excursions in Panama City you can hop on....literally. The most economical shore excursion in Panama is the Hop On Hop Off bus tour . In fact, the bus stops in Fuerte Amador right where your ship tenders! If you prefer a more in-depth sightseeing tour, our Panama City & Panama Canal tour is better value. For those a bit more adventurous, Panama bike tours on the Amador Causeway or in Casco Viejo are a great alternative. Panama has some of the best biking trails and paths. If you want to explore a bit off the beaten path, our Monkey Island & Indian Village combo is one of our top selling shore excursions in Panama. Nature & culture in one amazing experience in the Panama Canal watershed.

Limited time in port? Not able to fit in all the sites you want to see? We got you covered. We have put together some "Express" tours that hit just a few of our most popular destinations in Panama City. If your ship does not pass through the Panama Canal, you might want to hit up the Miraflores Locks museum . If you want to get to the heart of Panama, then a visit to the charming Casco Viejo is a must. And if you have time, a journey from past to present takes you to both the ruins of the original site of Panama City, Panama La Vieja & Casco Viejo . If you prefer to escape the city, we have some shortened of our best selling combo. Choose either Monkey Island or a visit to the Embera Wounaan indigenous village and make it back in time. If nature is your thing, we have excellent naturalist guides that can take you birding or hiking in Metropolitan Natural Park.

Private Shore Excursions From Panama City & Colon Cruise Ports

If you have only one day to see all the best of Panama, we highly recommend booking one of our private shore excursions. We can customize your own private tour departing from either Colon or Panama City . You design your own tour, or let our professional guides suggest the best itinerary for you based on your interests and time in port. With private tours, the choice is yours!

Why book your Panama Shore Excursions with The Real Deal Tours You Ask?

• Quality!! We have hand-selected our tour providers based on our personal experience and trust that they are going to provide our clients with the best possible Panama shore excursion experience
• Discounts!! We know many of you are on a budget, so we discount our tours rather than raise the pricing like the cruise ships do. The same great Panama shore excursions at a lower price are hard to beat!
• Worry Free Booking!! We offer a 'No Port No Pay' policy just like the cruise ships so you do not have to be concerned if your ship does not arrive into port with our money back guarantee.
• Intimate Personal Experience. Unlike most tours booked directly through your ships Shore Excursions counter, we offer small group tours for a more personal intimate experience to get the most out of your Panama experience.
• Dedicated Customer Service. Before your cruise departure, during your cruise itinerary, and once you have returned home, our knowledgeable customer service staff is available by phone or email 365 days a year to ensure everything involving your Panama cruise excursion is smooth sailing!

Servicing the Pacific Ports of Panama City (Fuerte Amador & Balboa) as well as the Atlantic ports of Colon (Colon 2000 & Cristobal), we are sure to have a shore excursion that is perfect for you. So what are you waiting for? Check out some of the amazing activities that are available from your cruise port!

Avoid over crowded bus tours and experience all the best highlights the city has to offer! Length:  8 hours. Includes:  Transportation, Guide, Full Entrance Fees to Miraflores Locks, Punta Culebra, Ancon Hill, Casco Viejo.

Retail: $99.00

Real Deal: $89.00

Real Deal: $75.00

The Panama City & Panama Canal Tour deposit is $10.00 per person. (The balance of $79.00 per Adult and $65.00 per Child (2-11) in cash per person must be paid the day of the tour.) This tour departs at 8:00am.

Take one of our most popular wildlife excursions and sprinkle in some history and culture and you have one of the best one day nature tours in Panama. Start the day exloring the Panama Canal on the way to Monkey Island. Mingle with the monkeys, then mingle with the indigenous Embera Wounaan in their village on the shores of Gatun & Chagres River. Culture & nature combine for one amazing day in Panama.

Retail: $120.00

Real Deal: $114.00

Children (5-10):

One of the best deals on shore excursions in Panama, the Panama City Hop On Hop Off bus tour departs every hour from Amador and is a great way to see the top tourist attractions in Panama. Visit the highlights of Panama such as the Miraflores Locks, the former US military zone and the historical disctrict of Casco Viejo and all at your own leisurely pace.

Retail: $33.00

Real Deal: $33.00

Retail: $35.00

Real Deal: $35.00

Sorry, this tour is temporarily unavailable. Please contact us and we are happy to help you find something else to do in Panama City.

Hop On Hop Off Panama City Sightseeing Tour deposit is $10.00 per Adult for 24 hours, $11.00 per Adult for 48 Hours and $6.00 per Child. (The balance of $23.00 in cash per Adult for 24 hours, $25.00 in cash per Adult for 48 hours and $14.00 in cash per child must be paid the day of the tour) This tour runs daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, buses depart hourly from each stop.

Hop aboard a Panama Fast Ferry and enjoy a scenic boat tour of Panama Bay and the entrance of the Panama Canalon your way to spend the day in Panama's favorite weekend getaway spot, Taboga Island. Our Taboga Island One Day Tour includes the boat ride from Panama City, loungers and umbrellas on the beach, a guided tour of the island, and a delicious lunch. And with flexible departure and return times, you have as little or as much time to explore Taboga Island all on your own.

Retail: $75.00

Child (4-11):

Retail: $60.00

Real Deal: $60.00

Taboga Island One Day Tour deposit is $10.00 per Adult and $5.00 per Child. (The balance of $65.00 per Adult and $55.00 per Child in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM

Avoid the crowded cruise ship excursions and explore Panama's UNESCO World Heritage Sites by bicycle with the guidance of our bilingual guides on our Casco Viejo Bike Tour in Panama City. All ages and skill levels welcome!

Retail: $65.00

TEMPORARILY NOT AVAILABLE

Note: The price applies with a minimum of 4 people, if in your group are less than 4, please contact us .

The Casco Viejo City Bike Tour deposit is $15.00 per person. (The balance of $45.00 per person paid in cash on the day of the tour) This tour departs at 8:00am.

Please let us know the Height of each rider in the notes section upon checkout so we can have your bikes all ready to go.

Panama City sightseeing from the vantage point of your own bicycle. The Amador Causeway Bike Tour is the perfect way to escape the crowds and cruise your way around one of Panama’s important historical sites.

The Amador Causeway Bike Tour deposit is $15.00 per person. (The balance of $45.00 per person paid in cash on the day of the tour) This tour departs at 8:00am.

Skip right to the most important man-made marvel in the Americas, the Panama Canal Locks at Miraflores. Length:  3 hours. Includes:  Transportation, Fees, Museum, Exhibits, & Short Historical Film.

Adult/Children:

Retail: $70.00

Real Deal: $65.00

Miraflores Locks Express deposit is $5.00 per person. (The balance of $60.00 in cash or $65.00 in credit card per person must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at 7:30 AM.

Get to the heart of Panama City and avoid the crowds and let our local guide take you back in time along cobblestone streets to the eclectic cornerstone of the city found at the UNESCO World Heritage site Casco Viejo. Length:  2 hours. Includes:  Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bi-lingual Guide.

Retail: $62.00

Real Deal: $55.00

Save time and save money, make this a combo and visit 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites in a few hours with Panama City Past To Present Combo Tour

Casco Viejo Panama Express deposit is $15.00 per person. (The balance of $40.00 in cash or $46.00 in credit card per person must be paid the day of the tour) Departs 9:00 AM & 1:00 PM from Panama City Hotels and Panama City Cruise Terminal Daily.

Metro Park & Punta Culebra Discovery Eco-Tour

From wildlife to marine life, the whole family will enjoy this hands-on nature eco- adventure. Length:  4 hours. Includes:  Transportation, Fees, Guided Hike, Naturalist Guide at Punta Culebra Smithsonian Research Institute.

Retail: $185.00

Real Deal: $166.00

Metro Park & Punta Culebra Discovery Eco-Tour deposit is $46.00 per person. (The balance of $120.00 in cash or $138.00 in credit card must be paid the day of the tour) Departs 7:00 AM from Panama City Hotels.

Combine the histories of Panama La Vieja & Casco Viejo and you have the keystone that created the present day Panama City leading to the eventual construction of the Panama Canal. A great starting point to your vacation. Length:  4 hours. Includes:  Transportation, Entrance Fees, Bi-lingual Guide.

Retail: $108.00

Real Deal: $97.00

Panama City Past To Present Combo Tour deposit is $27.00 per person. (The balance of $70.00 in cash or $81.00 in credit card per person must be paid the day of the tour) Departs 9:00 AM & 1:00 PM from Panama City Hotels and Panama City Cruise Terminal Daily,

If you love nature and wildlife, a trip to Monkey Island should top your bucket list in Panama. In just 4 hours we will pass through the Soberania National Park, take a boat out of Lake Gatun, and traverse the Panama Canal and its smaller chanels seeking out wildlife on our way to Monkey Island where you will find both white-faced capuchin & howler monkeys as well as sloths, crocodiles, lizards and a variety of tropical water fowl.

Retail: $79.00

Real Deal: $73.00

Retail: $40.00

Real Deal: $37.00

Monkey Island deposit is $10.00 per Adult and $5.00 per Child. (The balance of $63.00 per Adult and $32.00 per Child must be paid in cash the day of the tour) Tuesdays through Sundays at 7:30 AM from most Panama City hotels.

Embera Indian Village Tour

If you are looking for the ultimate cultural exchange on your Panam Vacation, you really must visit with one of the indigenous communities in Panama. Our Embera Village Tour will take you back in time from Panama City to the meet with the Tusipono Embera Indigenous in just 6 hours. Travel by dugout canoe up the Chagres River, swim in a beautiful waterfall, and meet with Panama's prestigious indigenous at the Tusipono Embera Indigenous Village.

Retail: $90.00

Real Deal: $85.00

Retail: $45.00

Real Deal: $41.00

Embera Indian Village Tour deposit is $10.00 per Adult and $11.00 per Child. (The balance of $75.00 in cash per Adult and $30.00 per Child must be paid the day of the tour) Departs Tuesdays through Sundays at 8:30 am.

Over 250 species of birds, reptiles & amphibians are waiting for you and your binoculars with the help of our expert Birdwatching guides. Length:  3 hours. Includes:  Transportation, Park Fees, Expert Birding Guide.

Contact us for a quote.

Bird Watching Metropolitan Natural Park deposit is $44.00 per person. (The balance of $115.00 in cash or $133.00 in credit card per person must be paid the day of the tour) --> Departs 6:00 AM from Panama City Hotels and Panama City Cruise Terminal Daily (Schedule can be altered for cruise passengers, however best viewing times are early in the morning).

Come and explore the jungle and its abundance of wildlife all within Panama City limits. Length:  3 hours. Includes:  Transportation, Fees, Guide.

Retail: $177.00

Hiking Metropolitan Natural Park Nature Trails deposit is $44.00 per person. (The balance of $115.00 in cash or $133.00 in credit card per person must be paid the day of the tour) --> Departs 7:00 AM from Panama City Hotels and Panama City Cruise Terminal Daily.

Coming Soon! Please contact us if you are interested in this tour and we are happy to help you.

Please contact us , prices varies depending on itinerary.

Retail: $0.00

Real Deal: $0.00

So you have seen the canal from the deck of your cruise ship, but how would you like to see Panama Bay and the entrance of the Cocoli Locks from your own private yacht charter in Panama? Choose from a 4 hour sightseeing cruise, or throw out a couple of fishing lines and head over to Taboga with a 6 hour charter. This is the perfect private shore excursion in Panama for boat lovers. And this 27´Proline holds you and up to 8 of your friends too!

Retail: $450.00

Real Deal: $425.00

Retail: $650.00

Real Deal: $600.00

Retail: $900.00

Real Deal: $850.00

Panama Bay Morning or Sunset Panama City Boat Rental 2 Hours deposit is $65.00. (The balance of $360.00 in cash must be paid the day of the tour) Panama Bay Morning or Sunset Panama City Boat Rental 4 Hours deposit is $80.00. (The balance of $520.00 in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs on your schedule.

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Panama Canal Cruises

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

Best Cruise Line Itineraries

13-Time Winner Recommend Magazine

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.

Roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale

From the East Coast

• Roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale
• Experience a partial transit of the Panama Canal
• Visit the pristine beaches of the Caribbean and explore the lush rainforests of Costa Rica
• Uncover two or three of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao) and enjoy their vibrant culture and marine life

Between Atlantic & Pacific Oceans

Ocean to Ocean

• 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
• Transit all three sets of locks

Why Princess is the #1 Panama Canal Cruise Line

Meaningful travel to a bucket-list destination

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

The leader in the Panama Canal

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.

Photo: View of locks from the ship

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.

Photo: Old City in Cartagena, Colombia

Panama Canal Cruise Articles and Videos

Find fascinating articles with Panama Canal cruise tips for experiencing unforgettable attractions, regional cuisine, and more on both sides of this epic man-made wonder.

2024-2025 Panama Canal Cruises

Sail through a man-made marvel. Discover Panama Canal with Princess Cruises.

San Juan del Sur Excursions: A Volcanic Adventure in Nicaragua

Have a volcanic adventure during San Juan del Sur excursions from Princess Cruises. Nicaragua excursions show you dynamic landscapes and exotic wildlife.

Top Five Panama Canal Shore Excursions and Attractions

From walking the ruins of Old Panama to a tram ride through Soberania National Park, you'll come back enriched and enlightened from your Panama Canal cruise.

Try These 6 Panamanian Foods on Your Panama Canal Cruise

Taste your way through the diverse culinary culture of Panama on your Panama Canal cruise with Princess.

Costa Rica Excursions: Something for Everyone

Partake in a Costa Rica excursion for a Caribbean adventure with Princess Cruises. There's something for everyone on Costa Rica shore excursions.

Panama Cruises Trivia: 5 Facts You Should Know About The Panama Canal

Test your knowledge of facts about the Panama Canal with Princess Cruises.

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Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

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Panama Canal Tours & Excursions

panama canal cruises panama canal tours and excursions

Updated for the 2023/24 cruise ship season with new pictures and excursions including Monkey Island, Gamboa Resort's Aerial Tram, and the Rainforest Discovery Center, which resides along Panama's famous Pipeline Road.

The Panama Canal is Central America's premier cruise ship destination, and during their passage, hundreds of thousands of passengers disembark to partake in excursions.

The newly built Amador Cruise Terminal on Perico Island, north of and adjacent to Flamenco Island on Panama City's Amador Causeway, is spread over 21 acres and is Panama's first and only dedicated cruise port on the Pacific coast. The cruise terminal cost over $165 million to build and consists of two berths capable of simultaneously docking two full-size cruise ships. Cruise ship passengers no longer need to be ferried to and from Flamenco Island aboard tenders.

With ports on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, Panama has enhanced its image as a primary cruise ship destination and will surely capitalize on the industry's ongoing growth.

This website intends to serve as a pre-planning guide and travel companion for those cruising to Panama. It contains a wealth of information, including full-color photographs, illustrations, and links pointing to external websites relating to the Panama Canal and cruise ship excursions, e.g., Google Maps, museums, visitor centers, etc. The information is collected and updated continuously, so you can be sure it is accurate.

The excursions are listed alphabetically and separately, except for Forts San Lorenzo and Portobelo. I've grouped the latter because they are both forts on Panama's Atlantic (Caribbean) side and share many characteristics.

Any opinions and recommendations expressed are based solely on first-hand, personal experiences. In some cases, I participated in an organized tour. Other times, I traveled independently. I am not an employee of a cruise line, own a tour agency, or work as a guide. Therefore, I have no vested interest in which tours you elect. Instead, I aim to deliver helpful, relevant content so you can better plan your visit to Panama and take advantage of its unique offerings. Despite its small size, there's a lot to see and do.

If you have any questions, please ask using the contact form . I will respond to your inquiry as quickly as possible.

Panama Canal Excursions

©2023 Images, illustrations , and text by Mark G. Carr. All Rights Reserved.

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MAN-MADE MARVEL

Panama canal cruises.

From Cartagena to Cabo San Lucas, cruise the Panama Canal.

The Panama Canal is one of the most astonishing human-made wonders, a sliver of ingenuity that allows ships to move from one ocean to another. Cruise from the Pacific to the Atlantic, or vice versa, and take in the scenery as you move through this engineering marvel built in 1914. Along with the tropical views and modern design of the canal, there's also great opportunity for adventures on land and by the shore, where you can get in touch with the indigenous culture at the Museum of Oaxacan Art in Huatulco, Mexico, or go kayaking in Nicoya Bay at Puntarenas, Costa Rica.

Journey Between Worlds

From Cartagena to Cabo San Lucas, cruise the Panama Canal

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DIVERSE DESTINATIONS

Descend on some of the most exciting travel destinations in Central America during a Panama Canal cruise. Stops in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; and Colón, Panama, means appreciating countless natural landscapes on top of traversing through the famous shortcut itself. 

HOME OF THE CANAL

A stop in Colón, Panama, lets you lay on the sand at serene Maria Chiquita beach or hike your way through Portobelo National Park to reach the 17th-century San Lorenzo Fort. And if you're in the mood for the city life, head to Panama City, the Caribbean's most urban cluster that's only an hour away by car.

ROCK THE BOAT

Accessible only by water taxi, El Arco at Land's End in Cabo San Lucas is a natural rock arch that frames a powdery beach. It's the perfect backdroparagraphCopy for a jaw-dropping photograph — just watch out for the sea lions that like to photobomb while sunbathing on the rocks.

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS

Cross foggy suspended bridges or zip-line along the treetops at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve near Puntarenas, Costa Rica, where local travel guides take you deep within the forest as you learn about its precious ecosystems.

CROSS-CANAL CULTURE

Along with crossing the impressive Panama Canal during your vacation, you can also get in touch with the local cultures of different countries, where indigenous peoples still live and where heritage and history are treasured and preserved. 

COLORS OF FOLKLORE

About a 90-minute drive from Puntarenas, the artisan village of Sarchi, Costa Rica, is known for the quality of its arts and crafts, especially the beautiful construction of the colorful oxcarts, the folkloric carriages that are a symbol of Costa Rican culture.

EAT LIKE A LOCAL

Mercado de Bazurto in Cartagena, Colombia, is home to stand after stand of local fruits like mamey, a sweet tropical fruit with a creamy texture, as well as cooked-food kiosks serving generous plates of seafood like crab, rice and veggies, for just a few dollars.

HISTORIC HUES

Step into the past as you stroll down the Spanish Colonial lanes of Antigua in Guatemala, a picturesque town with pastel buildings and balconies filled with pink flowers. A short trip from the port at Puerto Quetzal, the city is home to museums like Casa de los Sueños, where the history of this town is depicted through art.

CRISS CROSS TO A NEW WORLD ON THE PANAMA CANAL

A cruise to the Panama Canal is filled with country-hopping adventures that take you to Mexico's Mayan ruins, white beaches in  Cabo San Lucas  or Colonial treasures in  Colombia .

ONE TRIP, MANY ADVENTURES

As part of your grand crossing of the Panama Canal, you can also laze on beaches and trek lush mountains in places like Mexico,  Costa Rica , Colombia and Grand Cayman .

MAN-MADE FOR YOU

Cruise from Los Angeles  or  Miami  and pick the trips that make your favorite stops. Prefer more of Mexico? There's a cruise with stops in Manzanillo,  Puerto Vallarta  and Cabo San Lucas. Want to include some Caribbean islands? Finish your cruise in Puerto Rico or stop in Grand Cayman.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Plan-ama Canal

Panama enjoys a gentle tropical weather almost every day of the year. This translates into the easy planning of a crossing anytime is convenient for you.

Moving around in the different ports is simple, just choose the authorized taxi services or hop on the local public buses. You can also rent a car and be your own guide.

The best time to go on a Panama Canal cruise is anytime. The canal never stops working and you will traverse along with other ships and boats and witness the swift movement of these vessels.

Finding the Right Ship for You

7 Unexpected Places You Can Go on a Cruise

Once you're crossing the canal, head to the front of the ship for the best view.

You'll get to see other ships as they cross, too, giving you a different vantage point and a new way of learning how the canal works.

The thrill is not over after you go through the canal locks, there's more to see as you travel through the canal, with tropical flora and fauna adorning the way.

LOCAL CUISINE A WORLD OF FLAVORS  

Stopping at different cruise ports during a Panama Canal crossing makes it easy to savor the varied flavors of these countries, each with its own signature spice and tang.

TASTES OF JALISCO

Jalisco, the state where Puerto Vallarta is found, is the definitive influence on this destination's cuisine. Go for the famous lemon-marinated grilled fish known as pescado embarazado, and ask for huichol sauce, a blend of chili peppers, cumin and vinegar.

SAVOR GUATEMALA

Enjoy a mouth-watering empanada in Antigua, Guatemala — these savory pastries are stuffed with potato and meat and topped with guacamole, cilantro and onions.

TAMALES AND THEN SOME

Famous for its tamales fajados (chicken tamales) and tamales guemes (pork, raisin and olive tamales), Cabo San Lucas also boasts a seafood stew known as comida de pobres, served with rice and beans and flour tortillas.

Related Ports

A cruise to the Panama Canal is a chance to land on amazing destinations during the same trip. Get in some beach time Oranjestad, Aruba. See traditional tapestry-making in Huatulco, Mexico. Or go snorkeling along the coral reef off the coast of Grand Cayman.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Cartagena, Colombia

Colón, Panama

Huatulco, Mexico

Panama Canal (Cruising), Panama

Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Puerto Limon, Costa Rica

Manzanillo, Mexico

Panama City (Fuerte Amador), Panama

Related Destinations

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Panama Canal Cruises

Experience one of the wonders of the modern world on Holland America Line’s Panama Canal cruises. Our Panama cruise itineraries depart from both east and west coasts for loads of convenient options. A cruise to the Panama Canal is an incredible experience, worthy of any bucket list as you travel between oceans. The shipping channel—which took 33 years to complete and cost more than 25,000 workers their lives—is arguably the greatest engineering achievement of all time. As you cruise the canal, you will pass through the two-chambered Miraflores Locks, the one-chambered Pedro Miguel Lock, and three-chambered Gatun Locks. Along the way you’ll find Gatun Lake, once the largest manmade lake in the world, which has proved a boon for the species that thrive here, undisturbed by the passing ships.

The Panama Canal Cruise Experience

Feel your ship rise 85 feet as water fills the locks on the Panama Canal. Listen as a historian shares tales of this incredible engineering feat that divided two continents. Explore the intriguing landscapes, culture and people of this amazing region. From engineering marvels to exotic wildlife, there's so much to discover while on your Panama Canal cruise.

See A Modern Marvel On Panama Canal Cruises

Panama Canal Cruises Have Diverse Ports Of Call

Perfectly Sized Ships For Panama Canal Cruises

Exceptional Cuisine & Entertainment

Extraordinary Panama Canal Cruise Tours

Relax through the holidays on a panama canal cruise.

Something to Celebrate

Featured panama canal cruise ports.

Fuerte Amador, Panama

Cartagena, Colombia

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Puerto Caldera (Puntarenas), Costa Rica

Puerto Chiapas, Mexico

San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua

SEE ALL PANAMA CANAL PORTS

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Panama canal travel articles.

The ultimate journey between two continents and two mighty oceans, a Panama Canal cruise encompasses Spanish colonial architecture, verdant rainforest and an engineering marvel. Learn more about our ports in the region with articles on  Cartagena’s  graceful Old City and  Costa Rica’s  exotic Pura Vida Gardens;  Antigua, Guatemala , including La Merced, the city’s 250-year-old cathedral; and the storied past of  Panama Viejo , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And be sure to explore the complex and fascinating history of the  Panama Canal .

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Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Mon, Mar 17, 2025

Departs: 4:00PM

At Sea - Cruising

Tue, Mar 18, 2025

Wed, Mar 19, 2025

Cartagena, Colombia

Thu, Mar 20, 2025

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Fri, Mar 21, 2025

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Docked: 5:00PM to 9:00PM

Sat, Mar 22, 2025

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What to pack for a Panama Canal cruise

P acking for a cruise that travels through the Panama Canal isn't all that different from packing for an itinerary for other tropical destinations. However, since the trip brings with it the bucket list experience of the all-day canal crossing, which can last 10 hours or more, you'll want to make sure to bring things to stay comfortable outside on deck and items to capture and truly enjoy this unique journey.

You'll also want to pack for the other destinations on your itinerary, whether they're Caribbean islands, other Central American ports or both.

Follow this Panama Canal cruise packing list to make sure you don't forget anything on your Central America cruise of a lifetime.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Panama has a hot and humid, tropical climate, with temperatures that stay pretty constant throughout the year, in the mid- to high-80s Fahrenheit during the day and the mid-70s at night.

The rainy season generally lasts from May to December, bringing anywhere from 10 to 30 inches of rain, while the shorter dry season runs from January to May. As is typical in tropical destinations, showers can be brief, passing quickly before the sun comes back out.

Considering you're going to be outside for a long time watching your ship pass through 12 locks and travel across Gatún Lake, you'll want to pack to protect yourself rain or shine.

Related: 12 best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip

Sun protection

It will take your ship at least 10 hours to traverse the entire Panama Canal, and since this crossing is such a unique experience, you'll want to be on deck for much of that time. This means you'll need ample protection from the already intense Panama sun, made more so as it reflects off the water.

Pack sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30; spray is convenient, but it doesn't provide as much coverage as lotion and is better for touch-ups. If you're not checking your luggage, purchase a set of small silicone squeeze bottles that meet TSA carry-on liquid requirements and fill them with sunscreen lotion.

If you're planning any snorkeling expeditions during the rest of the cruise, buy reef-safe sunscreen, which uses a physical barrier like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide rather than a chemical one. Don't forget lip balm with an SPF, too.

Bring sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection and a hat with a wide or floppy brim to shield your face from the sun. Choose one with a chin strap, so it doesn't blow off on the windy deck. A rashguard, swimshirt, quick-drying board shorts (or another quick-drying bathing suit) and a cover-up are useful if you want to take a quick dip the day of the crossing but don't want to miss anything by going back to your cabin to change.

Related: Packing for a cruise? These items aren't allowed on board

All of these items will also come in handy for any tropical beach ports on the itinerary before or after the Panama Canal crossing.

Comfortable clothing and shoes

Your Panama Canal cruise packing list should be full of cool and comfortable clothing to help you weather the Panamanian heat. Natural fabrics like cotton and linen are a better choice than synthetic ones like polyester. Shorts and T-shirts are safe bets, as are cotton skirts or sundresses.

If you plan on being up on deck in the early morning hours as your vessel enters the first set of locks, you might want to bring a lightweight sweatshirt, cotton sweater or casual button-down shirt that you can remove as the sun and heat become more intense.

A lightweight rain jacket or poncho will keep you dry during those brief tropical showers that can leave as quickly as they came. You'll definitely need wet-weather gear if you're cruising during the rainy season.

Since you might be standing for much of the day, pack comfortable shoes — whatever that means for you. Some people prefer sneakers or tennis shoes, while others like boat shoes or sandals.

Even if you love wearing flip-flops, pack a pair of sneakers or close-toed shoes if you've signed up for excursions during the rest of the cruise, such as a Panama City walking tour, visit to a coffee plantation or a hike through a rainforest.

Eveningwear

While you'll want to be comfortable and casual during the crossing and any excursions, you might need to pack dressier attire for the evenings.

Depending on the cruise line and onboard restaurants you select, dinners can be casual, dressy or semi-formal. Plus, cruises often have themed nights where passengers are invited to wear a certain color or costume. Check the cruise line's website for the most relevant information about what to pack for evening soirees.

Related: Bow ties and ballgowns: 5 reasons I always dress up on cruise ship formal nights

If you don't have room to pack a multitude of dressy outfits, stick with neutral colors that you can dress up with accessories, like a basic black dress with a few scarves or different jewelry, or a tan suit with a few ties and pocket squares.

Items to help you capture the Panama Canal crossing

If you're a serious photographer, pack a point-and-shoot or digital SLR camera with a decent zoom lens to capture the Panama Canal crossing and the scenery and wildlife you view along the journey. A tripod that wraps around the ship's railing, like ones made by GorillaPod, will come in handy for hands-free shooting and time-lapse photos and video.

Depending on the make and model of your cell phone, your camera might be sufficient to take high-quality pictures and videos — especially if you just want to capture memories for social media or a photo book when you come home. If your cell phone tends to lose battery power quickly, bring an external charging block, so you can stay juiced up all day and don't have to be tied to an outlet.

A waterproof phone case will be helpful in case it's raining on the day of the crossing. Plus, you can use it for beach, boating and snorkeling excursions the rest of the cruise.

If your phone doesn't already have a time-lapse feature, download an app designed for this purpose; going through each lock is a time-consuming process of entering the lock and having it filled or emptied to raise or lower the ship. Time-lapse videos that capture this process are very cool. You'll want a tripod that attaches to your phone for the best results.

Binoculars are useful for spotting wildlife on the banks of Gatún Lake. You might also want a small notebook to jot down notes, thoughts and cool things you see, as well as factoids from the onboard local guide providing commentary during the Panama Canal crossing.

Books about the Panama Canal and the surrounding region

If you're a reader who wants to glean all you can about this engineering marvel, pack a book that tells about the history and construction of the canal or download one onto your Kindle.

"The Path Between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama Canal, 1870-1914," by David McCullough does an excellent job of capturing the tragedy and triumph involved in building the canal.

If you're traveling with kids, "What is the Panama Canal?" by Janet B. Pascal breaks it down in an accessible way designed for those aged 8 to 12.

"Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal" by Margarita Engle talks about the human toll that was needed, and "Erased: The Untold Story of the Panama Canal" by Marixa Lasso recounts the history from the Panamian point of view.

Related: The best time to cruise the Panama Canal

If you want something that encompasses more about the region, especially if you'll be exploring Caribbean islands on your cruise, James Michener's classic "Caribbean: A Novel" takes you through 700 years of conquests, pirates, revolution and romance.

While not necessary, a few optional items can make your trip more pleasant.

You'll be thankful for a portable fan charged via USB when you're standing on the deck during your crossing, embarking on a walking tour or waiting in line.

A wet bag to keep your phone and valuables dry is helpful for snorkeling trips, sunset cruises and jet skiing, and a lightweight nylon backpack that folds into itself will be great to hold what you need during city jaunts and day trips away from the ship.

Insect repellent will keep those pesky mosquitos, which can be brutal in Central America, especially after it rains, at bay.

Panama Canal cruise packing list

Here is a list of some essential items, as well as nice-to-haves, for your Panama Canal cruise adventure:

• Comfortable warm weather clothing (shorts, skorts, skirts, T-shirts, tank tops, cotton or linen casual button-down shirts for layering)
• Swimwear, including a rashguard, swim shirt, board shorts and/or beach coverup
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Comfortable shoes
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Evening attire for nicer dinners and events on the ship
• Wide-brimmed or floppy sun hat, ideally with a chin strap
• Toiletries and medications
• Sunscreen (minimum 30 SPF and ideally reef-safe) and lip balm with sun protection
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Insect repellent
• Charging block
• Waterproof phone case
• Point-and-shoot or digital SLR camera (optional)
• Tripod with wraparound stand
• Small backpack (ideally a nylon one that folds into itself)
• Books about the Panama Canal

Related: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Bottom line

Packing for a Panama Canal cruise is similar to other Caribbean sailings, but you'll want a few extra things that will help you enjoy — and mark — the most memorable day in your bucket list itinerary.

Photos and videos are fitting souvenirs of this event, so make sure you're prepared on the tech side. But since you'll also want to be in the moment and take in all the sights and sounds, dress comfortably and protect yourself from the elements. In that way, you can better enjoy the 48-mile ride without distraction.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Why the Panama Canal Didn’t Lose Money When Ship Crossings Fell

A water shortage forced officials to reduce traffic, but higher fees increased revenue.

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By Peter Eavis

Low water levels have forced officials to slash the number of ships that are allowed through the Panama Canal, disrupting global supply chains and pushing up transportation costs.

But, remarkably, the big drop in ship traffic has not — at least so far — led to a financial crunch for the canal, which passes on much of its toll revenue to Panama’s government.

That’s because the canal authority introduced hefty increases in tolls before the water crisis started. In addition, shipping companies have been willing to pay large sums in special auctions to secure one of the reduced number of crossings.

In the 12 months through September, the canal’s revenue rose 15 percent, to nearly $5 billion, even though the tonnage shipped through the canal fell 1.5 percent.

The Panama Canal Authority declined to say how much money it earned from auctions. At a maritime conference last week in Stamford, Conn., Ilya Espino de Marotta, the canal’s deputy administrator, said the auction fees, which reached as much as $4 million per passage last year, “helped a little bit.”

But even now, during a quieter season for global shipping, auction fees can double the cost of using the canal. This month, Avance Gas, which ships liquefied petroleum gas, paid a $401,000 auction fee and $400,000 for the regular toll, said Oystein Kalleklev, the company’s chief executive. Auction fees are ultimately borne by the company whose goods are being shipped.

The canal’s financial stability in the face of a dire water shortage shows how the people who manage crucial links in global supply chains are adapting as climate change disrupts operations. It also helps that there are no viable alternatives in Latin America to the canal, an engineering marvel that opened in 1914 and handles an estimated 5 percent of seaborne trade.

If delays continue and the cost keeps rising, however, shipping companies may find ways to avoid the canal. Last year, as the canal became backed up, ships that wanted to travel from Asia to the East Coast of the United States began going through the Suez Canal, a far longer voyage that uses much more fuel.

Many vessels are still using a western route from Asia even after the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea forced shipping companies to avoid the Suez Canal and go around Africa. Mr. Kalleklev said that, after his vessels had delivered their cargo and were empty, they now typically returned to the United States via the Cape of Good Hope.

Though Panama is one of the world’s wettest countries, a sharp drop in rainfall last year deprived the canal of the water it needs for locks that raise and lower vessels into and out of the 40-mile passage between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Climate experts say such water shortages may become more common.

The weather pattern known as El Niño initially causes hotter and drier conditions in Panama, and scientists say climate change may be prolonging dry spells. Last year, there was 1.85 meters (six feet) of rainfall in the Panama Canal’s watershed, well below the historical annual average of 2.6 meters, according to the canal authority. Rainfall in the watershed was below average in six of the last 10 years, including years that were the second, third, sixth and seventh driest since 1950, the authority added.

To conserve water, the authority gradually reduced passages from a normal range of 36 to 38 vessels a day to 22 by December . But higher-than-expected rainfall and the canal’s water conservation measures enabled it to since raise crossings to 27 a day.

Though the number of passages is still below normal, the canal is in decent financial shape, analysts said.

Verónica Améndola, an analyst for S&P Global Ratings, expects that the canal’s revenue in the 12 months through next September will be roughly the same as a year earlier, primarily because of the toll increases. S&P Global estimates that the cost of shipping through the canal will rise to $10 a ton from $6 a ton.

This is good news for Panama’s government, which relies heavily on payments from the canal and is facing skepticism about its deficit from investors in the international bond market. The canal authority expects to pay the government $2.47 billion this year, down modestly from the record $2.54 billion that it paid last year.

Canal tolls and dividends were 24 percent of government revenue in 2023, said Todd Martinez, a co-head for the Americas at Fitch Ratings who analyzes Panama’s government finances.

“The good news is that the drought doesn’t have a terrible near-term impact on Panama’s public finances, because the canal has a lot of pricing power,” Mr. Martinez said. “But the bigger problem is the government can no longer keep relying on the canal to solve all of its other fiscal problems.”

Faced with the prospect of permanently lower rainfall, the canal authority plans to create a big new reservoir that would supply enough extra water to handle an additional 12 to 15 passages a day. Lawmakers still need to approve the project, which the authority estimates will take four to six years to complete. Panama has elections in May, but Ms. Marotta, the deputy administrator, said last week that all the presidential candidates had told the authority that they supported the reservoir.

“There’s a great understanding in Panama that life without the canal would be very difficult to deal with,” said Sebastian Briozzo, an analyst for S&P Global Ratings.

Peter Eavis reports on business, financial markets, the economy and companies across different sectors. More about Peter Eavis

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Koblenz is a traditional German city, founded more than 2,000 years ago. This former trading settlement rests on a massif of the Middle Rhine Highlands. Its cobblestone streets, wood-beamed houses adorned with flowers, ancient market square and medieval churches recall the fairy-tale Germany of old. At the “German Corner,” a massive equestrian statue of Prince William I observes the lovely riverside scene. The famed Teutonic Knights set up their first base here in 1216. The Romanesque Basilica of St. Castor, Koblenz’s oldest building, dates to 836.

Scenic Sailing: Middle Rhine

The Rhine River flows through one of Germany’s most scenic regions. As you sail its most picturesque stretch, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Middle Rhine, you will pass vineyard-blanketed hills whose steep slopes require vintners to pick grapes by hand, keeping a centuries-old tradition alive. Splendid castles line the banks, all of which have stories to share, and the Lorelei Rock presides at a dramatic curve in the river. This infamous river maiden mesmerized sailors with her song and lured them to their demise at her feet.

Shore Excursions

Marksburg Castle

Visit the only castle in the Rhine Valley to have never been destroyed.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress

Ascend to Ehrenbreitstein, set high on a hill with magnificent views of Koblenz and the Eifel Hills.

Romantic Middle Rhine

Experience the majestic stretch of the Rhine River known affectionately as the “Romantic Middle Rhine.” Winding past quaint villages and medieval castles, this idyllic waterway offers a window into the past and unmatched vistas.

Koblenz Jewish Cemetery

Join Karine for the moving story of the Koblenz Jewish Cemetery, a sanctuary of reflection and a window into the history of a community and culture that were once nearly lost.

Iconic Marksburg Castle

Painstakingly chiseled into the slate bedrock of a mountain peak, Marksburg has long stood as one of Germany’s most formidable castles. Step back into the Middle Ages with Karine as she explores the heart of this legendary stronghold.

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