are panama canal cruises worth it

Why a Panama Canal Cruise Should Be On Your Bucket List

Enjoy 50 Miles Of Slow Cruising Through the Panama Canal

Before the Panama Canal was officially opened to oceangoing traffic in the year 1914, seafaring vessels wishing to sail around the world had to go nearly to the bottom of the Earth to Cape Horn. Although that area possesses a stark beauty, wind and stormy seas were the norm, making it less than desirable for trade routes. The canal came into existence to shorten global commerce routes and to minimize the amount of time the ships spent navigating through rough waters. The French first attempted to create the canal in the late 19th century, but that project was unsuccessful. The United States took on the job in 1904, and 10 years later, a new world trade route that cut over 8,000 miles from the former option was born.

At the time that the canal was finished, however, no one realized the potential it had or cruise ship traffic. It wasn't until the year 1967 that a Princess cruise ship made the 50-mile trek down the length of the canal, and it wasn't long afterward that many others followed suit thanks to the firsthand accounts of the awed passengers on that first ship.

Why Choose a Panama Cruise?

The Panama Canal is one of the most amazing engineering feats ever constructed on Planet Earth. The region also provides an unforgettable cultural experience and abundant natural beauty. Your cruise ship will also share the waters of the canal with big commercial cargo vessels, pleasure boats, and other cruise ships from all over the world, providing a unique international flavor. The region also offers almost unprecedented biodiversity, making it a must-see for avid birdwatchers, botany enthusiasts, and those who simply love to be in nature. And then there's the thrill of simply being in the area that connects two of the world's great oceans. 

When is the Best Time of the Year to Enjoy a Panama Cruise?

The rainy season in Panama runs from March until December, so those seeking optimal weather opt to cruise from December until March. Visitors enjoy balmy weather in the 70s and 80s during these months, and precipitation is rare. A Panama cruise provides an ideal mid-winter getaway for those who need to feel the warm sun on their faces.

How Long Does a Panama Canal Cruise Take?

Panama cruises are also typically longer than many of their counterparts, with some lasting as long as 16 days. Most start from Florida or California ports, but some originate from points of departure as far north as New York City and Vancouver, BC. The shortest cruises to this area last for seven days. 

There are two types of Panama cruises. Traditional crossings involve going from ocean to ocean all the way through the canal, which takes about a day. Partial crossing cruises go as far into the canal as Gamboa or Colón, where the stop so guests can enjoy some land activities.

What Are Some Top Excursions During a Panama Cruise?

Top excursions during a Panama Canal cruise include ziplining through a verdant rainforest vista, taking a catamaran mini-cruise or kayaking trip on Gatun Lake, History buffs can step back in time with a visit to the Embera Indian Village or the Panama Canal Railway, while those who want a taste of modern Panamanian culture can visit the museums, shops, and restaurants of Panama City. 

What Are the Top Cruise Lines for Panama Canal Cruises

The majority of the major cruise lines offer cruises through Panama's iconic canal. Princess currently has two ships designated for this region,  Island Princess Coral Princess. Cruise giants Norwegian Cruise Lines, Carnival Cruise Lines, Windstar Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Regent Seven Seas, Celebrity, Crystal, and Holland America also offer trips to the Panama Canal. If smaller ships are more your style, you'll be glad to know that Lindblad Expeditions and Silver Sea Cruises also make the trek. 

What Are Some of the Best Stops on a Panama Canal Cruise Itinerary?

Besides the canal itself, highlights of Panama cruises include Puntarenas, Costa Rica, Puerto Limon, Costa Rica, the western coast of Guatemala,  Colón, Panama, and Panama City, Panama. Depending on the point of departure, Panama cruises also stop in various points in the Caribbean and in Mexico. Be sure to research cruise options thoroughly to find the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. 

Please don't hesitate to reach out to us for more information on choosing the right Panama Canal cruise itinerary. 

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The Ultimate Guide for a Perfect Panama Canal Cruise

Posted on Last updated: August 21, 2023

While many dream of visiting Central America, very few ever get the chance to experience cruising through the very spot North and South America split. Many note that a vacation to Panama is too expensive or not safe. Well, let me tell you, the best way to see the Panama Canal and possibly get off your boat at an affordable price is through a Panama Canal cruise!

If you are bit wary to cruising, you are going to absolutely fall in love with what the Panama Canal has to offer! I had the chance to experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on my Panama Canal cruise back in December 2019, and to this date, it is my favorite cruise that I have been on.

Plus, cruise ships offer an extra sense of security, as you will have a safe place to rest your head everyday. So, grab your  free cruise planner , review our top cruise essentials , and buckle up, because we are going to go through everything you may need to know about Panama Canal cruises!

When is the Season for Panama Canal Cruises?

Most cruises through the Panama Canal consistently run from October to April. This means you have a lot of flexibility for when you want to enjoy your Panama Canal cruise, whether looking for a Christmas escape, Spring Break adventure, or planning a Transpacific back-to-back cruise .

If you are planning to cruise the Panama Canal and the surrounding Caribbean countries, the optimal time is after the rainy season ends in November for the best weather, wildlife, and viewing experience . This is truly when the temperatures are the most comfortable and enjoyable with sunnier days and breathtakingly scenic Panama Canal views.

For longer, repositioning Panama Canal cruises, you should stick to the earlier or later months of this window when the cruise ships are finding a new home.

There are some  Panama cruises running year-round , which are typically shorter in length between 3-5 nights long.

How is the Weather on a Panama Canal Cruise?

Since the Panama Canal is nestled between the Caribbean and the Pacific Ocean, weather can vary greatly during Panama Canal cruises. With the varying climates of Panama and the mixing weather of two different oceans, it would be best to prepare for some rainy weather during the transit.

When I went on my Panama Canal cruise, there were plenty of clouds in the sky, however, it did not rain. That being said, make sure to bring your rain jacket as it could have just as easily gone the other way. It was also fairly humid , leading to fog during the morning hours of the Panama Canal transit.

Technically the Caribbean side of Panama Canal measures twice the amount of rain as Panama City, notable for short and unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms during the spring months.

Because of Panama’s strategic location, it is safe to assume that you will be enjoying warm temperatures during your Panama Canal cruise. The Panama Canal area has a tropical climate , meaning temperatures will range between 75 and 85 degrees on your Panama cruising adventure.

How do I plan a Panama Canal Cruise?

If you have never been on a cruise before, you may have  some questions about the logistics  and  how to plan your cruise .

First, you will want to get an idea of what your  must-see attractions are. Most Panama Canal cruises will focus on either Caribbean islands, Central America, Mexican Rivera, or a combination of those destinations. Very few Panama Canal cruises are more than 14 days long, but if you are looking for a longer Panama Canal cruise, make sure to investigate repositioning cruises.

After you determine the itinerary you would like, then you need to  focus on a specific cruise line for the best Panama Canal cruise ever. Each cruise line offers a unique experience for every type of cruiser. Then, you can select a date with that perfect cruise line and itinerary to book and mark in your calendar!

I highly recommend  booking a balcony or higher stateroom on your cruise ship as you will not regret waking up to the breathtaking Panama Canal from your own private balcony. Just imagine waking up, stepping outside, and seeing all the fascinating locks and landscape surrounding the transit.

 Also, it is important to make sure to avoid the loudest staterooms onboard to completely relax on your Panama Canal cruise.

Once booked, you will receive access to more booking options like  onboard packages, shore excursions, and stateroom upgrades . I highly suggest taking advantage of these pre-travel opportunities to have your vacation planned out before you leave on your Panama cruise!

What are the Different Panama Canal Itineraries?

There are way more Panama Canal cruises than you probably thought possible! With that, you may be wondering what the best itinerary is for your specific cruising goals. From repositioning cruises to Mexican Riviera adventures, there are positives and negatives to every itinerary option in the cruising realm in regards to Panama Canal cruises.

With that being said, all Panama Canal cruises can be categorized into three categories– Trans-Canal Crossing, Partial Crossing, and Faux Crossing.

Trans-Panama Canal Crossing

By far the most popular Panama Canal itinerary for cruises runs from Florida to the West Coast– or vice versa. The most popular departure ports are Miami and Fort Lauderdale in Florida, with Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego serving as the larger West Coast cities.

If you are lucky, you may be able to find some longer sailings departing from Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, Canada. However, if you prefer to plan a back to back cruise , I highly suggest heading out of and to one of the most popular ports, as these will typically have more options to extend your cruising vacation.

Most trans-Canal itineraries will call in many ports found in the Western Caribbean. These include Puerto Limon and Puntarenas in Costa Rica, and Cartagena, Colombia. Other Panama Canal itineraries include stops along Mexico’s west coast and in Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala.

Panama Canal Experience

With this trans-Panama Canal itinerary, you can expect to spend a full day on the canal, crossing the beautiful Panama Canal from the Caribbean to the Pacific, or vice versa.

If you have been dreaming about cruising the Panama Canal for a while, this cruise itinerary is definitely for you! Plus, you will more than likely receive an in-depth history of Panama and the lock system involved with the Canal. Therefore, if you are an engineering geek and don’t mind not getting off the ship within Panama, this itinerary is for you.

Partial Crossing

If you are wanting to get the “Panama Canal Experience” but are looking for a round-trip itinerary, I highly suggest looking into the Panama Canal Partial Crossing cruises.

This is also a great option for those who want to see a bit of the canal, but also want to get out and explore the country of Panama. Most partial crossing itineraries will stop in Colon and Gamboa, perfect towns to get a taste of Panamanian culture.

Most of the partial crossing Panama Canal cruises will depart from Florida, and therefore, you will also enjoy some of the other fabulous Caribbean ports during your adventure. These include islands in the Southern and Western Caribbean, and occasionally Cartagena, Colombia.

On partial crossings, the cruise ships do not actually cross the entire Panama Canal. Instead, the ship will typically pass through one lock, and let passengers of in a town along the canal to explore.

Passengers on their Panama Canal cruise with partial crossing will discover the town of Gamboa, taking in sights that they would not otherwise get to experience and see during the full crossing itineraries. From Gamboa, passengers can expect to enjoy a variety of shore excursions that they otherwise would not get a chance to experience.

Alternatively, for those who were hoping to see the full canal, you can book a shore excursion on a smaller boat to the Centennial Bridge, Gaillard Cut, and the Bridge of the Americas.

Faux Crossing

The last form of Panama Canal cruise is the Faux Crossing itinerary. Many cruise lines will offer all the proper shore excursions of Panama Canal cruises without actually entering the canal at all!

Instead, these cruise ships dock at Colon, Panama (the entrance to the canal), and spend a day on the Caribbean side in port. From here, passengers can see the canal however their heart desires, whether stopping for a few minutes on a city tour, or booking a longer shore excursion through a private boat tour crossing the Panama Canal.

The best way to find this type of Panama Canal cruise is through searching for Caribbean and Central American itineraries that stop in Colon. From there, look into the shore excursions carefully to fully plan your Panama Canal adventure.

Types of Panama Canal Cruise Lines

No matter what type of Panama cruising experience you are looking for, I guarantee you will find it through one of these main and not-so-main-stream cruise lines.

From 3-day weekend trips to 180-day world cruises, these Panama Canal cruises are worth every penny. There are plenty of Panama cruise deals available for eager cruisers booking through a travel agent or directly with the cruise line.

Make sure to research diligently to find the best Panama Canal cruise for you!

Mainstream Cruise Lines for Panama Canal Cruises

Just about all the main cruise lines offer sailings to and through the Panama Canal:

• R oyal Caribbean International — Royal Caribbean offers spectacular itineraries up through the Panama Canal and to the Caribbean’s most popular cruise ports at extraordinarily low prices. With this cruise line offering countless amenities for all types of cruisers, Royal Caribbean offers dozens of Panama Canal cruises every year.
• Norwegian Cruise Line  — Norwegian (NCL) offers plenty of unique itineraries visiting the Panama Canal, boasting new discoveries around every turn. NCL prides themselves on offering exhilarating wildlife and cultural shore excursions during their NCL Panama Canal cruises. (NOTE: this is the cruise line I sailed with through the Panama Canal)
• Celebrity Cruises — Celebrity Cruises offer their passengers a slightly more luxurious experience tailored to each guests’ dream Panama Canal cruise. This cruise line is popular for it’s over-the-top vacation experience traveling to the diverse Caribbean and Central American cruise ports!
• Holland America — Holland America offers cruises through the Panama Canal during the Southern Caribbean cruising season. Whether cruising around the Caribbean first or exploring the western coast of Mexico, you are guaranteed to enjoy their luxurious experience on your Panama Canal cruise!

Smaller Lines Cruising through the Panama Canal

Active travelers may be looking for expedition-style voyages or cruises on a smaller ship to enjoy more time exploring the Panama Canal.

• Silversea — Silversea offers stylish and intimate Panama Canal cruises. Their smaller ships visit plenty of the cruise spots in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean on their journey. They pride themselves on their crew to guest ratio of almost 1:1 creating a personalized Panama Canal trip for every passenger.
• Seabourn — Seabourn offers a couple of Panama Canal sailings every Southern Caribbean cruising season. Their stunning cruise ships bring passengers to the sweeping landscapes of Panama. They also bring intelligent historians onboard to explain the history and importance of the Panama Canal.
• Regent Seven Seas — Regent Seven Seas explores the Panama Canal through immersive experiences on their Panama Canal cruises. This cruise line balances cultural, active, and foodie activities as they navigate through the warm climate of the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and Panama.
• Oceania — This small and luxurious cruise line offers a variety of intimate Panama Canal expeditions on their cruise ships. Their ships visit plenty of other Caribbean and Pacific Ocean destinations on their Panama Canal sailings. That, paired with the personalized cruising experience curated by Oceania, offers some of the best experiences at sea.

Popular Ports for Panama Canal Cruises

No matter which cruise line and itinerary you ultimately decide on, you will likely visit a mix of these fantastic Panama, Caribbean, and Central American cruise ports. 

Many cruises through the Panama Canal offer trips to these popular ports of call that are consistent with most itineraries. Like mainstream Caribbean cruise ports, these ports cater to the tropical   cruise market . If you are looking for more than touristy attractions and activities, make sure to get out of the main port area and explore.

Colón, Panama

The city of Colón is most frequently referred to as the gateway to the Caribbean for the country of Panama. Therefore, if you are cruising through the Panama Canal, there is a high chance this port will be on your cruise itinerary.

If you are looking to learn about the history of the Panama Canal before you embark on your transit, make sure to spend two to three hours at the Agua Clara Visitor Center . Here, you will learn about one of the world’s greatest engineering feats; the Panama Canal. For more history of Panama, check out Fort San Lorenzo ; another must-do attraction in Colón. This fort is a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers no official tours, but you can walk around the area with a handy map.

If you prefer to hit up the Panamanian shopping scene on your Panama cruise, check out Avenida Central — a six-block-long pedestrian mall that is filled with tasty, local restaurants with boutique shops and unique finds alike.

Fuerte Amador (Balboa), Panama

Another popular Panama port found on the Caribbean coast near the canal is Fuerte Amador. The main marina found at the tender pier for Panama Canal cruises offers numerous tasty restaurants and souvenir shops.

The top attraction to explore during your time in Fuerte Amador is the Biomuseum . This modern, brightly-colored building is found just across the causeway and illustrates the story of the Panama isthmus formation. Another popular excursion is Casco Viejo , the older area of the city famous for its narrow streets surrounded by flower-lined balconies. Here, you can explore historic cathedrals and sites while browsing the local shops for souvenirs.

If you prefer to learn more about the locks you will see on your Panama Canal cruise, check out the Miraflores Locks Museum and Visitor Center .

Gamboa, Panama

If you get the opportunity to stop part-way through the Panama Canal, you are more than likely going to stop at the Gamboa cruise port on your Panama Canal cruise.

By far the most popular and worthwhile attraction in the Gamboa cruise port is the Gamboa Rainforest . One area that offers a unique experience is the Sloth Sanctuary . There is also a aerial tram that will bring you through the vast rainforest and the surrounding landscape. Another nice Gamboa shore excursion is a boat trip on the Chagres River to Gatun Lake .

Another exciting outdoor adventure spot is the Soberania National Park . This has been noted as one of the best places in the world to observe flora and fauna.

Cartagena, Colombia

Another popular Panama Canal cruise port is Cartagena, Colombia. This beautiful South American city is filled with colorful buildings, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits– all of which will leave you wanting more!

The easiest excursion to enjoy in Cartagena is a free walking tour. This is the best way to see the Old City area on your Panama Canal cruise as you can easily spend hours meandering the streets boasting loads of fascinating Colombian history. To dive deeper into Cartagena’s history, head over to San Felipe Castle — the most famous landmark in Cartagena, built back in 1657. 

Before you head back to your Panama Canal cruise, make sure to grab some fruit from the local palenqueras — groups of women balancing bowls of fruit on their heads dressed in vibrant colors.

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Puntarenas is most popular as the biggest beach town near Costa Rica’s capital city. As a simple and laidback town, Puntarenas used to be to the largest fishing port in the country.

That being said, the top thing to do in Puntarenas on your Panama Canal cruise is heading over to the main beach– Playa Puntarenas . If you prefer to get out of the port area, take the Puntarenas ferry to either Paquera or Naranjo . These are the best spots to experience the local Costa Rican life on your adventure.

If you can’t decide what to do during your time in the Puntarenas cruise port, many shore excursions offer numerous stops at the city’s top attractions during their tours. These typically stop at the nearby rainforest and Tarcoles Town .

Puerto Limón, Costa Rica

The more popular and larger Costa Rican cruise port is Puerto Limón. There are plenty of outdoor and historic activities to enjoy during your Panama Canal cruise stopping in Costa Rica.

The best outdoor area to explore is the nearby Veragua Rainforest Park. Here you will find hundreds of frogs, butterflies, and reptiles, in addition to monkeys, sloths, and birds up above. Just a few miles from Puerto Limón is the breathtaking Playa Bonita , the perfect tropical beach offering crystal-clear waters and soft sand. If you are an adrenalin-junkie, check out the rafting opportunities on the Reventazon River .

Finally, book a tour to the nearby banana plantations . During this enlightening tour you will come to understand how bananas grow, are cleaned, and ultimately selected.

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Another popular port for cruises through the Panama Canal is San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. This cruise port is not as common as other Central American cruise ports, so make sure to watch out for this unique city on your itinerary!

San Juan del Sur is home to one of the world’s largest Jesus statues. In fact, hiking to the Jesus statue sitting atop a hill overlooking San Juan del Sur is the top thing to do when in this fabulous city. If you are looking for the best beaches during your Panama Canal cruise, you may want to venture a little out of town to the beautiful beaches Playa Maderas and Playa Hermosa . One of the most special things to do in this city is horseback riding on the beach , so make sure to ask your cruise line if there are any shore excursions like this on your Panama Canal cruise.

Finally, if you prefer to get back on the water, take a catamaran ride around the area. These tours will typically offer all you can drink and delicious snacks with your fare, stopping at beautiful private beaches for you to explore and enjoy.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

While Cabo San Lucas is most popular as a college Spring Break destination, there are also plenty of enjoyable attractions for cruisers of all ages during your Panama Canal cruise.

The most notable and photograph site in Cabo is Land’s End . Most travelers will travel to this area for its breathtaking views– strategically located right where Playa del Amor and Playa del Divorcio join. If you would like to explore some of the traditional Mexican culture, head over to San Jose del Cabo . This area is the official “Old Town” of Cabo San Lucas, offering plenty of tasty local eateries and artisanal shops. Later, tour the Church of Saint Luke , one of Cabo San Lucas’ top historical landmarks.

If you prefer to head back onto the beautiful ocean, sign up for one of Cabo’s deep-sea fishing adventures on the Sea of Cortez.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is another one of Mexico’s beautiful gems frequently visited on Panama Canal cruises. As a destination that has welcomed travelers from around the world for many years, there are plenty of fascinating activities and Puerto Vallarta shore excursions for every age.

If you are looking for one of the top beaches, head over to Las Caletas . This beautiful beach is one of the top private beaches in the world where you can find crystal-clear waters brushing up against the jungle-mountain backdrop. To learn about Puerto Vallarta’s history, head over to San Sebastian Del Oeste . This Puerto Vallarta attraction dates all the way back to 1605 as one of Mexico’s most well-preserved towns. Other historic towns include Talpa and Mascota , both colonial mining villages.

If you prefer to explore Puerto Vallarta’s vast natural beauty, check out Islas Marietas , one of the area’s protected state parks offering exotic marine wildlife and lush scenery.

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Everything You Want to Know About a Panama Canal Cruise

If you asked me at the start of 2019 what my travel plans were, I would have told you nothing. After a busy 4 th  quarter in 2018, I was planning on spending a few months at home catching up on work, getting new clients, and saving money for upcoming adventures. But, as is usual, things never quite work out as planned. Halfway through January my friend Nicki reached out to me with an opportunity to join her on a Panama Canal cruise: 14 days from LA to Miami with stops in Central and South America.

Clearly, I said yes.

The opportunity presented me with a lot of firsts. Despite the fact that I have been travelling for 7.5 years, I hadn’t yet been to Central or South America. I’d also never done an Ocean cruise, only a European River Cruise with Viking , a short Halong Bay Cruise in Vietnam , and a 5 day Nile River cruise in Egypt . While I loved all of these experiences, they were very different from the huge, oceanic cruise ship I would be sailing on for this Panama Canal cruise and, while I was definitely excited about the opportunity, I was also a bit nervous. Would I like this style of cruising?

Turns out that I did. It also turns out that that a lot of people are interested in this cruise and had plenty of questions (well, at least those that follow me on Instagram   and Facebook   did when they watched my stories and saw my photos). So, with that in mind I’m sharing all the important things you need to know about a Panama Canal cruise so you can determine if it deserves a spot on your travel bucket-list.

Keep in mind this is based on my personal Panama Canal cruise experience which was the 14-day option with Norwegian Cruise Lines (our ship was the Star). Panama Canal cruises are offered by different cruises as well so the routes/costs/ship experiences will be different.

What’s the Panama Canal Cruise Route?

Our route went from Los Angeles to Miami (though Norwegian also offers the route in reverse). The Panama Canal cruise was a total of 14 days and we visited six different ports: Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco in Mexico, Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala, San Juan del Sur in Nicaragua, Puntarenas in Costa Rica, and Cartagena in Colombia. Of course, we also sailed through the Panama Canal but there is no port stop- just scenic sailing.

What Are the Ports and Excursions Like?

This was my first time cruising so I was under the impression that if I wanted to get off and sight-see, I had to do an excursion. For anyone else who thought the same- this is not the case. You can get off at any port and explore on your own, even hire a local driver or tour company to show you around, as long as you get back to the boat on time.

Of course, arranging your own tours is cheaper than the tours that the cruise offers, however if something should go wrong- the ship will not wait for you. They will only wait if you are on an excursion or tour offered by the ship. For this reason, it’s recommended that you spend the extra money and use the ship’s tour providers. After all, it’s cheaper to spend an extra $40 on a tour than a couple hundred dollars to fly to the next port of call to get back on board.

The cheapest excursion I saw offered was $30USD- a transfer from the ship port to the Old Town Cartagena by boat. There were some pretty expensive ones too costing a few hundred dollars for more luxury activities like helicopter rides or sailing tours.

The tours I did ranged from $65USD-$129USD, though most of them were 5 hours+. The shortest one we did was the Party Bus in Cartagena- which lasted 3.5 hours. If you’re wondering why it was so pricey for such a short amount of time, well we had plenty of rum, coke, and beer supplied to us along the route. It was definitely a party and, yes, I felt very good after.

Of course, as mentioned earlier, you don’t have to take a tour if you don’t want to. You can get off and explore the port on your own. All the ports we went to had a couple of bars and restaurants nearby, places for shopping, and a few spots even had some nice beaches. They are very touristic- clearly catering to cruisers, but if you don’t see an excursion that you love but you still want to explore a little, then it’s a good and cheaper alternative. However, in Guatemala, we had to use the shipping port rather than the cruise port because the cruise port was damaged. Which meant instead of cute bars and shops, we were surrounded by shipping containers. Not exactly the most ideal situation but I believe that a couple people were able to get local taxis to take them to the cruise port area to do a little exploring.

I’m not going to lie; I did find the excursions a bit limiting in that I wish we had more time in each port. That being said, being able to see a little bit of so many places in what was new part of the world for me was a good way to figure out where I liked and want to go back to.

What About Sea Days?

We had a total of six sea days plus the scenic cruising through the Panama Canal. I was never bored on the sea days, but instead looked at them as providing a nice little break between the ports. Since I suffer from FOMO (Fear or Missing Out) and ran around like a maniac in the ports and on excursions, I appreciated the down time.

Our sea days on the Pacific side were my favourite. I spent most of them sitting on the balcony with a book or with my laptop doing a bit of work (when internet cooperated with me). Another one of my favourite spots was the spa area with the pools and the saunas and relaxation room. We had the day passes to the spa included in our cruise package (normally it’s $20/day) but it was the perfect place to go relax and escape the crowds.

There were plenty of things to do on board as well including a casino and an outdoor pool and patio area with plenty of beach chairs. Each day also had a number of different events from bingo to lectures to demonstrations and more (some paid, some free). There was also a walking track on the top level, gym, and the spa. Plus, every night there was a show (at two different times in the evening) and activities in the lounge. So, whether you were looking to relax, be active, or be social, there were plenty of things to keep you busy and entertained on the sea days.

Was the Water Rough?

One of the questions I was asked the most about is how was the water- and was it rough sailing. Yes, and no. The Pacific side was a dream. It was so smooth and as I sat on the balcony I saw dozens of dolphins, turtles, whales, and even a marlin playing in the wake of the ship. However, as soon as we passed through the Panama Canal over to the Caribbean side, the conditions really changed. It was very rough with a big swell and heavy winds. The top deck of the ship was actually closed off on one of our sea days back to Miami, and I woke up one morning to discover puke bags had been distributed around the ship by the stairs and elevators.

Thankfully, I don’t get sea sick but I did have a hard time walking straight and ended up stumbling quite a bit. I never felt nauseous, but the constant lack of balance did leave me feeling a little drunk which made sleeping difficult as well. Of course, the water conditions can always change but I was told by a couple staff members that the Caribbean side of the Panama Canal is always a little dicey.

How Was the Food on Board?

One of the things I was asked about the most was: how was the food. I get it, food is pretty important and if you’re spending a bunch of money on a trip, you want to make sure you are well fed.

For the most part, our food experience was good. The free options include the dining rooms (there were 2), the Irish pub, the buffet, and an Asian fusion restaurant called Ginza. The buffet was great for breakfast and ok for lunch, but neither Nicki or I loved it for dinner. The dining room was a much better option food wise although the buffet was better for convenience.

The Irish pub was good- it had a small, set menu that didn’t change, but the food was good. Same goes for Ginza. Ginza, however, was quite small and always seemed to have a very long wait time. We once waited an hour to be seated.

There are also several paid dining options on board: a steak house, a Japanese Teppanyaki restaurant, a French Restaurant, an Italian Restaurant, and a Brazilian style steak restaurant. We got to try them all and I’d say the Italian was my favourite with the Teppanyaki coming in a close second.

What’s the Panama Canal Cruising Demographic?

The Panama Canal cruise route is one of the longer and more expensive ones, so no matter what cruise line you take, expect it to be an older group. At 29, I was very clearly one of the babies on board and was asked a dozen times how it felt to be part of the ‘geriatric cruise’. If you are young and looking to party, then maybe not the best route for you. I’d say the main age for this cruise was probably around 65+. I did meet a few people who were in their 50s and even they joked that they felt pretty young compared to most on board.

The benefit to this was few yelling and screaming children (I think there were a total of 8 children on our cruise under the age of 18) and no crazy drunk 20 year olds which, as someone who is normally a backpacker, was actually a pretty nice and relaxing change.

How Much Did the Panama Canal Cruise Cost?

So now, the question I know you’ve all been waiting for. How much does a Panama Canal cruise cost? Well, since I was a guest of Nicki’s who had partnered with Norwegian for work (if you have no idea what I mean by partnering with companies as a blogger, read this post ) our room cost was covered. I did, however, have to pay for flights, excursions, tipping, and any on board costs. Here’s a breakdown:

Tipping:  Tipping is mandatory and charged daily to your account. With Norwegian cruise lines it was $14.50 USD per person per day.

Excursions: As mentioned earlier, I did do an excursion at every port. The cheapest excursion I did was $65 USD while the most expensive was $129. I ended up spending a total of $441 USD on excursions.

Internet:  Wifi is not offered on board. Which surprised me a bit because I kind of assumed it would be (it was for the Viking River Cruise I did). Since I didn’t inform my editors that I wouldn’t be available, I did have to pay for an internet package. It was $349.86 USD for the length of the trip. Which hurt, especially because it was pretty bad. Nicki had the top of the line plan that was supposed to let you stream everything- it didn’t. It worked the same as my mid-line plan so take that into consideration.

Extra Costs:  While the expenses listed above were my main costs, there are additional paid-for services. We didn’t have a drink plan so any alcohol or pop (soda, for my American friends) was an additional charge. There were also specialty restaurants that you could dine at for either a fixed price or a-la-carte pricing.

Additionally, there’s an on-board spa (I treated myself to a facial thanks to a special Valentine’s Day promo) and some paid activities like wine and chocolate pairings etc.

So, despite the fact that the actual cruise cost was covered, I still ended up paying $1298.14 USD ($1733.32 CAD for me) while on board. Clearly not the cheapest type of travel, however I think a Panama Canal cruise is a unique experience and a once in a lifetime type of opportunity so, in my opinion, I think it’s worth it.

Final Word on My Panama Canal Cruise

So what did I think of the Panama Canal cruise? I really enjoyed it. Having the sea days, tours taken care of, and meals all done for me really made if feel like a proper stress-free vacation which, for someone like me who is so used to independent travel, was actually really nice. I do wish I had known a bit more about the excursions before-hand as I was disappointed with a couple that I paid for, but lesson learned for next time.

At the end of the day I enjoyed my time and think that the Panama Canal cruise was an incredible experience to have. While I’m not going to turn into a cruising-addict, I would definitely try an oceanic cruise again one day.

PS: wondering what to pack for your cruise? Here’s my packing list.

For more on this specific cruise check out this post from Nicki which gives a thorough run down about the Norwegian Star experience. 

A Note on Travel Insurance 

Please, do NOT travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to rely on mine multiple times. While the cost may seem annoying and better spent elsewhere, trust me when I say you’ll be sorry if you don’t have it. For just a couple bucks a day, you can save yourself a whole lot of stress and money. I like to recommend SafetyWing for travel medical insurance as they are one of the most affordable options I’ve found, plus, they are who I use and I have had great experiences with them. Learn more about the importance of travel insurance here.

[…] I went on my Panama Canal cruise, one of the things I stressed about was what to pack. To start with, I wanted to travel carryon: it […]

[…] Colombian city for myself, I only had a single day due to the fact that I was visiting as part of a Panama Canal cruise. One day in Cartagena wasn’t exactly what I imagined, but it was better than nothing and I was […]

[…] with Antigua the moment I jumped off the bus. I was only in town for a day as an excursion on a Panama Canal cruise. Guatemala was one of the few ports that had independent travel options and, as much fun as I was […]

[…] worst place for cat-calling for me was Italy. I got a bit in Central and South America too on the Panama Canal cruise but overall, as annoying as it is I’ve gotten pretty good at just ignoring it. After all, most of […]

My wife and I did this trip on NCL Jade in November 2018. We did a 11 day western Caribbean cruise. We only went in through first set of locks. We took a tender to shore, hopped on bus took use to Pacific Ocean. We did a two oceans by rail shore excursion. Followed by a tour of the new Panama locks. This was my favorite excursion. We also toured two different Inca ruins. Close second favorite. We always get two packages with our room. (Always a balcony or better) Lately we have getting all five for free. The three we used the most are 4 special dinners, drink packages, and $50 off shore excursions. The food and shows were top notch. I prefer to eat breakfast at same place I have dinner. Sit down and they bring the food to me. Plus it is better food. I am 65 and cruise ships are he only way we travel now. We always get the Cruise Next promotion. Were you book a cruise put a deposit up to $250 and they match up to $250. We are going to Iceland in May, 2020 on NCL Spirit and Hawaii November, 2020 on NCL Pride of America. Thanks for sharing your trip!!!

Sounds like you had a great time! Enjoy your upcoming cruises!

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Albom Adventures

Capturing the essence of travel through photography

Inspiring travel through photography

Panama Canal Cruise Review: Fascinating Passage on Princess

As we ticked off another item on our bucket list, we share our Panama Canal cruise review for those who wonder what it’s really like to cross the Panama Canal.

This engineering wonder is worth all the hype. Our transit took us from the Atlantic to the Pacific Oceans through one of the world’s most impressive engineering feats. Below, we also include a bit of history, our ports, and life onboard the Island Princess.

Crossing on a cruise ship is easier than had we tried to sail ourselves on a private vessel, mostly because all the work is done for us. Therefore, all we had to do is observe, take photos, and learn from the commentary.

Our day was long, starting at dawn and ending about 10 hours later. During that time, we learned heaps, observed locks from on the water, and created lifelong memories.

The current canal uses a three-level lock system that raises ships 26.5 meters (87 ft) prior to transiting through manmade lakes and a cut through the continental divide. The ships then arrive at the other side of Panama to lower down 26.5 meters through three final locks that lead out to sea.

Engineering commentary available on all outdoor decks and on the closed circuit TV in our cabin outlined an impressive history and pointed out fascinating landmarks as we passed.

Crossing the Panama Canal was one of many highlights of our 18-nights on the Island Princess. Read on for the details of our Panama Canal cruise review.

Key landmarks on our crossing

The canal was built through the narrowest portion of the Isthmus of Panama, where it is only 80 km (50 miles) between the two oceans. Even on the big ship, this process takes all day, between 8 and 10 hours in total.

Here’s our basic route.

• Gatun Locks
• Continental Divide
• Centennial Bridge

Pedro Miguel Locks

• Miraflores Locks

Bridge of the Americas

Be inspired…

Limon Bay and Gatun Locks

We approached the Panama Canal from the Caribbean Sea (Atlantic side), starting our adventure just before 6 am as we sailed through Limon Bay.

The hazy day lent an air of mystery to the early morning that seemed to enhance our excitement.

As we continued our approach to the first set of locks, several pilot boats came out to greet us. One of the four pilots that boarded the Island Princess will guide our passage through the canal.

Expertly guided, our purpose-built ship slid into the first lock like a glove. The Island Princess and her sister ship, the Coral Princess were carefully built to Panamax spec, hence the largest size able to cross the canal (prior to 2016 when the larger canal channels opened).

The ship was secured, and for the next two hours, the locks took our ship from sea level to the artificial Gatun Lake at 26.5 m (87 ft) above sea level.

It’s a three-step process, each lock progressing after the one before like a staircase. You can find a more detailed explanation of locks here .

By elevating the passage, less initial excavation was required.

I would be delinquent in this Panama Canal cruise review if I didn’t mention that although entering the first of the Gatun locks was the peak of my excitement, by the time we exited, I realized that this was going to be a long, slow, and sometimes boring day.

Sailing across Gatun Lake

Surrounded by small jungle-like islands, huge tankers, and personal yachts, we spent the next four or so hours sailing along the man-made Gatun Lake. Like all of the canal, it is fed by the freshwater Chagres River.

Wildlife and interesting flora seemed to surround us.

Culebra Cut, Continental Divide, and Centennial Bridge

At the far end of the lake, we enter the more narrow Culebra Cut. It was one of the more complex areas to excavate as it passes through what was once a solid rock formation marking the Continental Divide.

Fascinating commentary pointed out interesting sites all day. Three that really caught my attention in this section were:

• El Renacer Prison with its layers of razor wire fencing. This is a former ‘home’ of Manuel Noriega from 2011 until his death in 2017.
• Titan Crane – a floating crane that was captured from the Nazis in WWII.
• Centennial Bridge is one of only three places where vehicles can cross the canal.

Next, the Island Princess headed into the Pedro Miguel Locks. Here, a single channel lowers us 9 meters (30 feet) in a bit less than an hour.

The ship provided Albom Adventures with the digital copy of the second image, allowing us permission to share it here. This was one of several photos of our ship’s passage through the Pedro Miguel Locks available for sale from Princess.

From here, it’s a short sail across the small Miraflores Lake to the next set of locks.

Miraflores locks and visitor’s center

The Miraflores Locks took just over an hour to complete. Here we are lowered the final 18 meters (60 feet) in two sets of locks that return us to sea level on the Pacific side.

But what made this set most interesting were people crowding the outdoor decks of Miraflores Visitor’s Center . This 4-story museum is a land-based opportunity to view and learn about the Panama Canal.

Through the Panama Canal

At some point here, the pilots exited, and the captain took command. Our environment had changed dramatically from the dense jungle we saw all day to a buzzing metropolis.

The skyline was as close as we got to Panama City as we continued forward.

Finally, we pass under the Bridge of the Americas and instantly leave North America while entering South America.

And just like that, the ship slowly picks up speed, and we have completed our Panama Canal crossing.

A bit of Panama Canal history

The French were the first to attempt the construction of a modern Panama Canal crossing after their successful building of the Suez Canal in 1869, a flat crossing excavated through the sand.

In contrast, the Panama Canal required excavation through the 110-meter mountainous spine of Central America consisting of rock. In addition, the Chagres River crosses the canal and flows strongly in the rainy season, making navigation difficult.

Add tropical mosquito-borne diseases, and the French attempt failed, although it did leave a significant amount of completed excavation and dredging.

The Americans came in during the early 1900s under George Washington Goethals engineering direction to complete the task.

Panama Canal cruise review: life onboard the Island Princess

Lively or relaxing … cruising with Princess is what you want it to be.

Be prepared for an all-inclusive floating resort with culinary excellence, plenty of exercise or relaxation options, exciting ports, and opportunities to learn something new.

Between the seemingly endless options for eating, crafts, games, swimming, dancing, lectures, gambling, entertainment, and even stargazing or movies at night, we found ourselves spoilt for choice.

Typical Panama Canal cruise itineraries are 14 nights, but ours was longer as it was a repositioning cruise , an end-of-the-season cruise that moves the ship to a new home port for the next season. As a result, we had more sea days than normal.

Therefore, the friendly and helpful staff and an extensive list of daily options for activities or quiet became even more important, and Princess, as always, rose to the occasion. Find deals on Princess Cruises

Panama Canal cruise review: the ports along the way

Different cruise lines may use other ports. Check Panama cruise transit options here .

• Fort Lauderdale , USA We spent our pre-cruise Florida time in nearby Delray Beach , home to one of the top beaches in Florida (and my mother-in-law).
• Aruba , Caribbean Gentle waves and white sandy beaches define this tropical paradise in the southern Caribbean. With only 5 hours in port, we opted for a day of sun, fun, and plenty of photos. Discover Aruba through our camera here .
• Cartagena , Colombia Rich in history, this colourful and vibrant city hooked me. We toured the largest Spanish fort built in the new world, explored the old town, visited an impressive monastery, and drank coffee (of course). Check out our Cartagena adventure here .
• Puntarenas , Costa Rica Puntarenas was our first stop after the crossing. It offers amazing options, from coffee plantations to rainforest or volcano explorations.
• San Juan del Sur , Nicaragua Bad weather prevented us from docking here, so we just moved on.
• Cabo San Lucas , Mexico Cabo is fun, exciting, colourful, and another place for water play. A bonus of arriving via cruise ship was we could see the famous Arch as we sailed in. See our Cabo San Lucas highlights here .
• Los Angeles , USA This was the port of disembarkation for about ⅓ of the passengers, while the rest stayed onboard until Vancouver. There is plenty to do in Los Angeles, and we opted for a bit of tourist fun in Hollywood .
• Vancouver , Canada Our port of disembarkation, we stayed here for a while and really enjoyed all there is to do in Vancouver.

Panama Canal cruise review: tips and facts

• What’s called a “Panama Canal Cruise” can be either a full transit (what we describe above), partial transit (Gatun locks and lake, then return), or even just approaching the first locks without ever entering.
• Get an early start if you want to be up at a rail when you reach the Gatun Locks.
• Don’t forget your sunscreen and sun hat, it will be a long day in the tropical Panama sun.
• The ship booked their crossing over 18 months in advance at a cost in excess of $250,000 for the Island Princess, which is reflected in the cost of the cruise.
• Personal craft can make the transit and can book within 96 hours of arrival. Everything you would want to know about the transit procedure is found here .
• The inaugural sailing of the new over-five-billion-dollar expansion of the Panama Canal was on June 26, 2016.

Other ways to experience the canal

Independent tours from Panama are another way to discover the canal and basically fall into three categories:

• City tour and Panama Canal viewing The most popular tour spends time at the Miraflores Visitor’s Center, learns about the canal’s history, and observes the canal in action as huge boats pass through the locks. Then a city tour of Panama City, with a walk through the Old Town and a visit to Cathedral Basilica Santa Maria la Antigua. Reserve your half-day city and canal tour here
• Panama Canal viewing and cruise on Gatun Lake After learning about and watching the locks from the visitor center, you will take a bus to Gamboa, where you will board a boat and sail on Gatun Lake. The outstanding reviews on this tour let you know it is special. Reserve your viewing and cruise tour here .
• Partial transit through the locks and return If you want to experience the locks first-hand and are not transiting, this highly-rated tour is for you. A bus will bring you to Gamboa, where you will board a boat and sail along the Culebra Cut that passes through the Continental Divide and then through both the Pedro Miguel and Miraflores Locks. Importantly, this tour does not run every day, so check the schedule and reserve your partial transit tour here .

Is a Panama Canal cruise worth it?

The Panama Canal crossing is a once-in-a-lifetime, not to be missed experience.

It’s a long hot day with an early start. And while some aspects seem to move at a snail’s pace, there is something so magical about the day that I was never bored.

The live commentary provided by Princess Cruises kept it fascinating. It is a day we will not soon forget, and one which we would recommend.

Check Panama Canal options and reserve your transit here.

Save on your trip and cruise with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we cruise. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too. 

• Cruise : We find great deals at Cruise Direct .
• Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), VRBO (self-contained), or Hostelworld (budget).
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Set up private guides at the ports : Looking to maximize our limited time at a port, we often hire private guides from Tours by Locals .
• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Don’t miss our best cruise tips .

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

Have you been through the Panama Canal?

You might also like…

• 21 Picturesque Cruise Ship Ports Around the World
• Reflections of an 18-Night Princess Cruise – Is It for You?
• 10 Things to Try on Your Caribbean Islands Boating Adventure
• How I Easily Avoid Cruise Weight Gain While Enjoying Eating Onboard

Disclaimer: In addition to VIP treatment onboard the Island Princess, we were provided with many complimentary extras. The opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

About Rhonda Albom

Capturing the essence of travel through photography, Rhonda Albom is the primary author and photographer at Albom Adventures. She is an American expat based in New Zealand. She travels the world with her husband.

Reader Interactions

Richard Morgan

September 13, 2022 at 11:21 am

Your piece on transiting the Panama Canal is excellent. As a retired Canal executive and cruise ship lecturer for 20 years, I appreciate how you captured the interest and fascination most people experience on this bucket list trip, while getting the details exactly right. Few have done that. Good job!

August 31, 2022 at 12:55 am

That would be a fascinating trip!

Caroline Rita Muller

August 29, 2022 at 9:16 pm

That sounds like one hell of a cruise! It sure looks like it was a snug fit to get through the canal lock. It also looks like this specific line could be a lot of fun!

August 29, 2022 at 7:59 am

Wow! I love this unique trip of crossing the Panama canal by a cruise ship. It must have been an amazing experience of going through three-level lock system for raising and lowering the ship. Great pictures. Enjoyed reading your blog post. 🙂

August 29, 2022 at 5:15 am

I can see why this was on your bucket list. Such a unique thing to do, and something everyone hears so much about but it’s really good you got to experience it. I haven’t been on a cruise yet but I like that on this one that give you the history of the canal for those who are interested

Lisa | Waves and Cobblestones

August 29, 2022 at 2:09 am

Taking a cruise that goes through the Panama Canal is one of our bucket-list travel ideas! Usually those cruises are a bit longer though, so that one will have to wait a bit..

August 28, 2022 at 10:43 pm

I sailed through the Panama Canal on a P&O Cruise – just loved it. Your post brought back many memories.

August 28, 2022 at 8:38 pm

I didn’t know you could do a cruise there! So cool! Thanks for sharing.

August 28, 2022 at 1:34 pm

Absolutely loved how thorough this guide is, I’ve always wanted to do the Panama Canal, this is so useful. And the food looks gorgeous

Paul F. Pietrangelo

May 29, 2016 at 1:14 am

Thank you for this travel log. Some day I hope to do just what you are doing, going through the Panama Canal.

Cruisin Paul

Teresa Kindred

May 25, 2016 at 2:00 am

Love boats, water and the history of the Panama Canal!

May 23, 2016 at 10:56 am

My mouth is hanging open! I thought the reason for the locks was the fact that the Pacific was a different level than the Atlantic. And it cost the Island Princess WHAT?? $250,000 is huge! Just for passing through a canal? Well, considering the Panama Canal Authority’s location, it’s not like they have to worry about competition. Thanks loads for the great pics! 🙂

Ellen @ The Cynical Sailor

May 23, 2016 at 5:00 am

Those aerial views are amazing! Funnily enough, I just picked up a chart of the southwest Caribbean Sea which shows the Panama Canal and have been thinking about how much fun it would be to go through it. I thought it was expensive to take a sailboat through, but it sure is expensive to transit a big ship like the one you were on.

Comedy Plus

May 23, 2016 at 3:59 am

Have never been through panama canal. I’m pretty sure we never will as both of us hate the cruise ships. It would be interesting to experience though.

Have a fabulous day and we’ll see you this evening. 🙂

May 22, 2016 at 9:32 pm

Hi Rhonda – brilliant photos and enough information to keep me happy … absolutely fascinating; I’d love to visit and see and learn more … but here you provided plenty to whet my appetite … cheers Hilary

May 22, 2016 at 6:05 pm

This is something that paul would love to do!! Seeing the pictures, there wasn’t much space left for the cruise. Amazing work to fit the cruise in the locks

Rhonda Albom

May 22, 2016 at 7:39 pm

Seems that the ships were built to size for this purpose.Based on the ship and canal dimensions, Jeff says there is .65m clearance on each of the two sides.

Alex J. Cavanaugh

May 22, 2016 at 12:08 pm

Thanks for the visual guide through the canal. Everyone knows about it, but few get to really see it.

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How to Choose a Panama Canal Cruise

A Panama Canal cruise had been on my bucket list for a long time. Not only would it be transportation for me to get from the Atlantic to the Pacific and onto Alaska, the canal itself was a huge curiosity for me.

After 35 years of grueling construction in horrible conditions, the Panama Canal was completed in 1914. All the canal-building stories I learned about in school stoked my imagination. It was an adventure I had wanted to do for years. 

But when I started to look at possible cruise itineraries, it was a bit confusing. While there aren’t a zillion cruise ships heading to the canal, the ones that offer a Panama Canal cruise have a variety of itineraries. 

There are basically three itinerary choices to decide on for a Panama Canal cruise. It all depends on how much time you have for the trip and of course, how much you would like to spend.

What if you really want to see the Panama Canal but time and/or money are a concern? Here are the choices to help you decide which amazing experience to do along this 48-mile man-made wonder. 

When I found Crystal Serenity had a less-expensive repositioning coast-to-coast Panama Canal cruise, the decision was easy. Luckily, I had the time to spend 20 days from Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles. But not everyone has the time or budget for 20 days. Then, what are your choices?

How to Choose the Best Panama Canal Cruise For You

There are three ways to “do” a Panama Canal cruise. All three types of Panama Canal cruises are offered by a handful of mainstream, premium and luxury cruise lines.

Not all cruises offer the same ports of call, either. So it’s important to study itineraries and not just price-shop. 

Princess does several Panama Canal cruises throughout the year as does Norwegian. Also, when repositioning to or from Alaska, Australia or on a world cruise, you’ll find Carnival, Cunard, Holland America and others (including my Crystal cruise) sail the full 48-mile, coast-to-coast canal transit.

Panama Canal Cruise Options

1. PARTIAL TRANSIT FOR THOSE WITH LESS TIME OR BUDGET

On a partial transit of the Panama Canal, you cruise through the first set of locks followed by a day spent on Gatun Lake. You can purchase a ship shore excursion and there are always several options to choose.

If you’re on a shore excursion from your partial transit, you might have to re-board your ship in Colon, Panama rather than be onboard for the 180 degree turnaround in Gatun Lake to exit the canal.

2. FULL PANAMA CANAL TRANSIT

The second option is a full transit of the Panama Canal, from the Atlantic to the Pacific or vice versa. These cruises tend to be seasonal and are at least 14 days in length. Generally, they will be even longer when the ship is continuing north along the California coast.

Arrival and departure ports on the west coast include either Seattle, Los Angeles or San Diego. Departures on the east coast usually begin from Ft. Lauderdale or Miami in Florida, sometimes in New York City.

If you love sea days, this could be your dream cruise. You can even include a cross-country Amtrak train from your cruise port after the cruise to return home. 

Ports you might visit on the Atlantic side include Key West , Cartagena, Colombia, Aruba or St. Thomas in the U.S.V.I.

On the Pacific side, you might visit one or two ports in Costa Rica and Central America. Three ports in Mexico seem to be the standard and might include Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas. Then it’s north to San Diego and onto Los Angeles or Seattle.

3. FULL TRANSIT BUT REQUIRES A FLIGHT OUT

Your third choice is also a full transit but it’s shorter in length. These usually start or end in Costa Rica or Colon, Panama. Air arrangements can be a little more involved but it’s easily set up. This is one time where booking cruise line air might be the least stressful option, especially for newbie cruisers.

READ MORE: What to do in Cartagena, Colombia on a Panama Canal cruise

Planning a Panama Canal Cruise

I think a Panama Canal cruise is similar to an Alaska cruise for several reasons. 

•  It’s a bucket list cruise for many
•  Splurge and reserve a balcony stateroom
•  Do a little research before the cruise
•  Go to the enrichment presentations

If your ship makes a port call in Cartegena, Colombia and Panama City, Panama, you’re in luck. These were my two favorite ports on my Panama Canal cruise. Why? Cartegena is emerging as a world-class vacation destination with great restaurants, historical sights and fabulous shopping. 

Panama City seems to rise out of the sea with unexpected ultra-modern skyscrapers that extend along the shoreline. Panama City is very modern urban city, and was a total surprise for me. 

Despite a Panama Canal cruise being a bucket list vacation, I would go again without hesitation. Especially because now I know what to do in some of the ports of call that I missed doing the first time.

READ NEXT:  My Panama Canal Cruise Review with Crystal Cruises

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Hi Wayne, Thank you for your note and for reading my article. Sorry about the delayed reply. For smaller ships along the lines of Oceania, there’s also Viking Ocean with 900 passengers, Seabourn, Silversea and Regent all have smaller, upscale ships. There’s also Windstar with sailing ships and over-sized yachts. While I still need to cruise aboard the mega-ships for work, I also am leaning more towards smaller ships of the sizes you mentioned. Also, remember there are river cruises in the US with only a few hundred passengers or less. Happy cruising! And thank you again.

Exciting! WE are in our 60’s and prefer smaller ships … along the lines of Oceania. 600-1000 passengers.. Which cruiselines should we be focusing on? Thanks!

Hi Jeffrey, Thank you for reading my article. That’s a very interesting question and one to which I don’t have an answer. My only guess would be that as long as you’re aboard one of the Panamax ships (the older ships) and not Post-Panamax like Royal Caribbean’s newer ships. The ships also cannot be taller than 201-feet to fit under the Bridge of the Americas. You could probably send an email to the Panama Canal Authority with any questions and they may even have a list of ships slated to use the original canal locks for 2022-23. Basically, the smaller the ship, the more likely it will transit through the old locks. Last but not least, whatever cruise line you choose, you might be able to reach someone that is knowledgable on which locks a specific ship will use.

Have a wonderful cruise! It’s an amazing experience, for sure. Thank you again for your question.

hi, as a retired engineer making a transit via the old canal locks is a must. Please advise how i can be assured the ship i choose will in fact be using the old canal?

thanks …

Thank you for your wonderful email! It made my day. I will be posting more about my Panama Canal cruise when I’m back on land. Onboard Wifi is good…but still spotty at times. I am not familiar with David McCullough’s book, but it sounds interesting and I’ll look for it on Amazon. Thanks again for listening to Cruise Radio! If you have time, I’m the new host of River Cruise Radio so please listen in!

Hi Sherry. We will be following you on your journey of the Panama Canal as we plan on booking for 2020 when the dates for fall are released. We are reading David McCullough’s book, Path Between the Seas, to prepare ourselves for this epic adventure.

I feel like you and I are old friends. I have been listening to you for a few years now on Doug Parker’s Radio show. You sure provide a great summary of all cruise news be it positive or negative. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and enjoy your trip along the canal.

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The 3 Types of Panama Canal Cruises

Linda Garrison / Getty Images 

The 40-mile Panama Canal is a common route for cruise ships due to its lush scenery and gentle waters. The canal cuts through a part of protected rainforest—Soberania National Park—that would otherwise be tough for tourists to see. Along the route, you're likely to get a glimpse of the resident monkeys, crocodiles, manatees, and more.

Panama Canal cruises also highlight the marvel of the manmade canal, itself. This big ditch was made in the early 20th century and has fascinated travelers for decades. There are three types of cruise ships you can take to see the wonder up close.

Full Transits 

Passenger ships carrying anywhere between 20 and 2,800 guests pass through the Panama Canal regularly. A 2016 expansion now allows for larger ships (as wide as 160 feet as opposed to the original limitation of 106 feet). Ships like the  Norwegian Pearl , Island Princess, Queen Elizabeth, and Disney Wonder fit into these restrictions.

Full transits between the Caribbean and the Pacific are available during most of the year on ships of nearly all sizes, but many people opt for a repositioning cruise on one of the ships that is either on its way to Alaska during late spring or returning from Alaska during fall. These cruises usually travel between Florida and California, stopping in the Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico along the way. These same cruise itineraries are popular from October through April.

Full transits are also available as part of longer voyages like world cruises, circumnavigations of South America, or other extended-length journeys. They offer longer itineraries than partial cruises for those who have the time (and money) to spare.

Partial Transits

Most of the full-transit cruises through the Panama Canal take 11 days or more, but not all travelers have the time to take such a lengthy vacation. For that reason, some cruise ships offer partial transits of the Panama Canal, usually as part of a larger cruise of the western or southern Caribbean. These ships pass through the Gatun Locks, enter Gatun Lake, and then exit the same way.

Although these cruises don't actually cross the entire Panama Canal, they do provide a taste of its spectacular rainforest scenery and offer a glimpse into Panama, itself, via a stopover at Colon as well. Even partial transits allow passengers to learn about the fascinating operation of the canal firsthand.

Small Ship Cruise Tours

Those who can't stand the hustle and bustle of a big cruise ship like the Norwegian Pearl may rather travel the canal on a smaller vessel—say, one that has only 60 guests as opposed to 2,000-some. Some companies, like Grand Circle Travel , offer full-transit land-and-cruise tours for these smaller groups of people. The combination tours—which can last between one and two weeks—provide a more intimate experience and they actually allow travelers to see more of the country than they would aboard a mega-ship. The bigger vessels don't stop at places like Panama City like small ships do.

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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.

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Featured panama canal cruise ports.

Fuerte Amador, Panama

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San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua

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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 .

An Insider Guide to Choosing your Panama Canal Cruise

The Panama Canal lends the perfect opportunity for cruisers to experience one of the most extraordinary feats of engineering in human history, all from the decks of a ship. There are multiple ways to transit the canal, but each offers different benefits and trade-offs. Don’t wait to figure it out on your own. Read along for our tips on what to expect from the three types of Panama Canal itineraries.

Repositioning Cruise

These are the longest itineraries to feature a Panama Canal transit. Depending on which cruise line our route, these cruises cross regions by design. They will often start in Seatle, include stops along the Pacific coasts of California, Mexico, and Costa Rica, and then make port at popular Caribbean islands on the way to Miami. They can be over 17 nights long. They can also be part of a Grand Voyage or World Cruise, making its normal progression between regions.

This option gets you the most stops but requires lots of free time, which is less than ideal for some who can’t commit the time.

Another thing to consider is the size of the ship. To sail through the historic canal, you must be on a smaller ship. A larger ship will almost certainly transit via the modern canal. While still an incredible feat of engineering. If you are going down to Panama for a historical experience, it feels more powerful sailing through the swinging lock gates and seeing the original mechanical tractors as they pull the ship through the original channel.

Partial Transit

If you are strapped for time, the best way to experience the canal is to take a “touch the Canal” itinerary. These are usually around ten days long and will follow a route through the Southern Caribbean before entering the Panama Canal. Instead of passing through to the Pacific side, the ship will enter the man-made Gatun Lake before exiting the canal the way it came. 

Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Lines are good options for this style of a canal cruise. The trip to Gatun Lake offers the chance to experience a complete waterway transit on a shore excursion via boat or narrow-gauge train.

Panama Canal from Florida

These are the most commonly booked itineraries to transit the Panama Canal. The route is most often from a South Florida port like Miami or Fort Lauderdale through the southern Caribbean and South America before passing through the canal to visit the pacific coast of Mexico and Costa Rica before disembarking in San Diego, California. Most cruise lines offer a similar itinerary in each direction.

If your goal is to see the original canal in all of its glory, remember that the ship’s size matters here too.  Make sure to confirm with your agent .  This itinerary is often a “mini-graduation” for cruisers who have done all major Caribbean routes.  

If you are unfamiliar with the history of the Panama Canal before your cruise, I highly recommend doing some research on the geopolitical and engineering history of the canal. There are many exceptional books available on the topic. The context garnered from your research will guide you when choosing the correct itinerary for your interests.

No matter your goals for choosing to sail through the Panama Canal, there is an itinerary for you. The popularity of the trip and the necessity of transit through the canal to move ships means that every cruise line has an option. Luxury Cruise Connections works with every brand, and our knowledgeable team is expert at matching guests to the best products. Keep reading our blog for great content, and remember to follow us on social media.

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12 Panama Canal Cruise Mistakes, Do’s and Don’ts

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If you’re going on a Panama Canal cruise for the first time, these are some potential mistakes to avoid, as they can impact your cruise.

We recently came back from our first Panama Canal cruise, and there were definitely some things that I wish I would have known before I sailed. While I did a lot of research before my cruise, there were still some things I would have done differently.

In this post I share information that you’ll want to know about the Panama Canal cruise itinerary, cruise ships and what not to forget to pack for your cruise vacation.

These Panama Canal cruise tips will help you to be better prepared and avoid potential pitfalls and common mistakes.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Panama Canal Cruises: What Cruise Passengers Need to Know

1. Will Your Cruise Ship Be Transiting the New or Old Locks

Before we went on our Panama Canal cruise, I never looked into whether we’d be sailing through the new locks, built in 2016, or the original. I found out that this is a potential mistake.

Navigating the Panama Canal presents a choice that can significantly shape the experience: the new or old locks. The modern Agua Clara locks showcase cutting-edge engineering, while the historic Miraflores, Pedro Miguel and Gatun locks embody the canal’s rich past.

Each route offers a distinct perspective. However, most cruise travelers agree that the old locks present the most interesting experience. As the ship glides through the narrow passage, you’re practically touching the walls.

Our cruise ship sailed through the newer locks. However, for those that are interested in getting up close to the historic locks, there are shore excursions available.

2. Partial vs Full Transit

While there’s no right or wrong answer, there are pros and cons of doing either the full or partial transit of the Panama Canal.

A partial Panama Canal cruise usually involves a round trip, departing from and returning to the same embarkation port, providing passengers with a condensed canal experience. On a partial transit, which is what we did, you’ll navigate through the iconic locks of the Panama Canal and into Gatun Lake. After several hours, your ship will return through the locks.

On the other hand, a full transit Panama Canal itinerary is a crossing from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean or vice versa. It encompasses the entire canal, offering a deeper exploration of the locks, channels, and the diverse landscapes encountered along the way.

While a partial round trip cruise is a shorter time commitment, a full transit provides a more extensive and awe-inspiring journey through this iconic waterway.

Related: What to Pack for Your First Cruise (Packing List & Tips)

3. Not Being Prepared for the Day in the Panama Canal

Make sure that you’re prepared for an early start on the day you cross the Panama Canal. Your cruise ship will likely have an approximate schedule or itinerary so that you can plan and follow along.

Plan your viewing spot, whether at the bow, from your balcony, or on upper decks. The bow is generally the best spot to view the cruise ship enter the locks, both early in the morning and when returning through in the later afternoon (on partial transits).

Be forewarned, these spots get busy, so plan to arrive early.

On our Panama Canal cruise, I mistakenly was under the impression that our day would be similar to an Alaska cruise glacier viewing day. Instead, there are distinct times of the day that you’ll want to be more actively viewing.

Something nice is that there is a slower pace to the day and you can take advantage of the downtime.

4. Not Learning About the Panama Canal

I admit I was guilty of not learning as much as I could about the history of the Panama Canal. Thankfully there are educational cruise talks and guest lecturers who will be onboard most cruise ships. It’s a mistake not to attend some of these talks to be better prepared and enhance your experience.

A book you may wish to read ahead of time is “The Path Between the Seas,” by historian David McCullough .

Recommended: Panama Canal book (check price & reviews on amazon here)

5. Cruise Port Mistakes

When it comes to shore excursion planning , be sure to research the ports of call. Be cautious about wandering off on your own and consider booking cruise line excursions or reputable tours.

Even if you’ve been on Caribbean cruises before, you may find the port areas in Central America have a less developed infrastructure and local vendors can try and take advantage of cruise travelers.

Be cautious when it comes to travel scams and tourist traps, that you can encounter in ports of call including Old Town, Cartagena.

That said, you’ll also meet many lovely local people and be able to see and experience the natural beauty, as well as wildlife, of the destinations. Don’t forget to try some of the local food when in port.

6. Forgetting to Pack these Panama Canal Cruise Essentials

Panama Canal cruises tend to be hot and humid, so it’s essential to bring the following items. On our cruise, there were many cruisers who didn’t consider the weather or the mosquitos!

Don’t forget to pack:

• Aloe Vera Gel (for sunburns)
• I nsect repellant
• Afterbite (or a similar product)
• Poncho or light rainjacket
• Sunhat – men or women

Related: 50+ Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon

7. Expecting a Caribbean Cruise Atmosphere

When talking with some fellow passengers, some people were surprised to find that a Panama Canal cruise had a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere than a typical 7 day Caribbean cruise .

Longer cruises tend to be a bit slower paced and attract a somewhat older passenger demographic. We also find that on longer cruises, people don’t stay out late every single night.

We really enjoyed the relaxed pace and chill vibe during our 12 day cruise. However, I could see how it could a surprise to those who are expecting a more party like atmosphere.

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8. Not Using the Cruise Ship’s Laundry Services

It can be hard to avoid overpacking for longer cruises . However, planning what to wear and using the cruise line’s laundry services can really help.

While some cruise ships have a self serve laundrette for passenger use, this isn’t the case on all cruises. Many cruise lines offer convenient laundry packages. This includes a laundry bag special which can be used once or twice during the cruise, or an unlimited laundry package.

Be sure to check out your cruise line’s laundry options so that you’re prepared before you go.

Panama Canal Frequently Asked Questions

9. why do cruise ships go into gatun lake on a panama canal cruise.

Cruise ships enter Gatun Lake during a Panama Canal transit, utilizing the Gatun Locks to reach the lake’s elevation. This artificial body of water facilitates the canal crossing, aiding ships in traversing the continental divide and transitioning between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Gatun Lake’s inclusion enhances the scenic experience for passengers, showcasing the engineering brilliance of the Panama Canal.

10. When Is the Best Time to Go on a Panama Canal Cruise?

The best time to go on a Panama Canal cruise is during the dry season, which typically spans from mid-December to mid-April. During these months, the weather is more stable, with reduced chances of rainfall, providing the best conditions for a pleasant cruise and travel experience.

11. Which Side of the Cruise Ship is Best for Panama Canal Cruises?

Choosing the best side of the cruise ship for a Panama Canal cruise depends on the direction of the journey. For transiting from the Atlantic to the Pacific (or vice versa), the starboard side (right side when facing forward) is often preferred by cruise passengers.

This allows passengers to have prime views of the canal’s intricate locks and operations. However, for round-trip itineraries or partial transits, either side can offer great views.

Keep in mind that you can watch from your balcony or window, but you’ll likely want to view the Panama Canal crossing from the ship’s bow or stern as well.

How Long Is a Panama Canal Cruise?

The duration of a typical Panama Canal cruise can vary, but it generally ranges from about 10 to 16 days. Shorter cruises might focus on specific regions, such as the Caribbean or Central America, while longer ones could encompass a more extensive itinerary, including both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

The actual time spent transiting the canal itself is usually a day or two, depending on whether it’s a partial or full transit.

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Final Thoughts

A Panama Canal cruise is one that should be on every avid cruiser’s bucket list. Whether you do a partial or full transit, go through the older or newer locks, cruise solo or with friends, you’re sure to come back with amazing memories!

Happy Cruising!

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The best time to cruise the Panama Canal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best time to go on a cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bottom line: The best time to cruise the Panama Canal

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

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

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

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

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Why should a Panama Canal Cruise be on your Travel Bucket List?

• December 12, 2018
• wellsgraytours

Cruising the Panama Canal is on most cruise-lovers’ bucket lists. And for good reason!  As one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century, it’s something every traveller should experience at least once.

Before joining Wells Gray Tours, I worked for an international consulting company that was the Program Manager for the most recent expansion of the Panama Canal. This expansion, which was completed in 2016, doubled the capacity of the canal and allowed much larger ships to pass—approximately one and a half times the previous size. During a training course, I was lucky enough to be partnered with another employee who was working on the project. I was fascinated to learn about the remarkable history of the canal and the complexities involved in operating it. I gained a new appreciation for this incredible feat of human ingenuity and added it to my own travel bucket list.

Here are just a few reasons I think a Panama Canal Cruise is worth a spot on your bucket list too:

View a modern marvel of engineering up close

If you’re at all interested in engineering or maritime technology, I’m confident you will be wowed by the operations of the Panama Canal. The canal consists of artificial lakes, several improved and artificial channels, and three sets of locks. It takes between eight and ten hours to transit the 82 km canal and during this time a system of locks raises and lowers vessels an incredible 26 metres. The American Society of Civil Engineers has even ranked the Panama Canal as one of the seven wonders of the modern world. Most cruise ships offer experts on board to provide information before and during the transit, so you won’t miss a single detail of what’s happening.

If you want to learn more, the Panama Canal Authority has its own YouTube channel with videos on a number of topics. Here are a couple to get you started:

How Does the Panama Canal Work?

Watch a NeoPanamax Ship (the largest size possible) transit the Panama Canal

Learn about the history of the largest construction project ever completed

The history of the Panama Canal is just as fascinating as the technology. Since its inception by the Spanish in the 1500s, the story of the canal has involved nine countries, 80,000 workers, and 30,000 lives lost. Dreamed up by the Spanish, the canal was debated by the English, Americans, French, Scottish, and Colombians, before the French began construction in 1881. The challenges posed by the dense jungle, debilitating climate, rampant tropical diseases, and venomous animals eventually proved too great and the money ran out in 1889. In 1904, following the independence of Panama, the United States took over the project and spent almost $500 million to complete it (this is roughly equivalent to $9 billion today). The canal was formally opened on August 15, 1914. Since then Panama has been given control over the canal and numerous expansions have taken place.

If you want to learn more about the history of the Panama Canal, check out a book we recommended in a previous blog post:  The Path Between the Seas – The Creation of the Panama Canal, 1870-1914,  by David McCullough

Visit some amazing destinations

A full-transit Panama Canal cruise travels from one side of the continent to the other, allowing you to visit destinations on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts that aren’t typically included in the same tour. This includes ports on both the Western and Eastern coasts of the United States and Canada, Mexico’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts, Central America, and the Caribbean. View stunning colonial architecture in Colombia, explore the jungles and beaches of Costa Rica, climb volcanoes in Nicaragua, and shop at the bustling textile markets in the mountains of Guatemala. Then visit ancient Mayan ruins in Mexico, experience surf culture in California, and enjoy high tea at the Empress Hotel in Victoria—all in the same trip!

Take a warm winter getaway with more

If you want to escape the snow this winter, you’re in luck. The winter months offer the warmest, driest weather in Central America, making it the best time to take a Panama Canal cruise. So, if you’re looking for a sunny holiday with the relaxation and luxury of an all-inclusive resort, but with more history, activities, and some exciting destinations, a Panama Canal cruise might be for you!

Want to experience it for yourself?

If a Panama Canal cruise sounds like your perfect adventure this winter, join Wells Gray tours as we cruise for 21 days from Fort Lauderdale to Vancouver with Holland America aboard the ms Oosterdam. In addition to a full transit of the Panama Canal, where an expert is on board to explain its history and technical operations as your ship passes through the locks, we will visit 11 ports in Columbia, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico, California, and British Columbia. Five shore excursions are also included with locally guided tours and activities ranging from coffee tasting to boat tours.

For more information about this tour, use the links below:

Itinerary from Interior BC

Itinerary from Victoria

Itinerary from Greater Vancouver

What do you think—is a Panama Canal cruise on your bucket list yet? Have you been on one before? We’d love to hear from you. Let us know in the comment section!

Written by Pam Jensen

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Panama Canal Cruises

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

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

Watch Panama Canal cruise video: Panama Canal video

From the East Coast Roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale

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

Ocean to Ocean Between Atlantic & Pacific Oceans

• Sail from the East Coast to the West Coast or vice versa. Cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles or San Francisco, or cruise from either of those two West Coast cities to Florida.
• Ideal itinerary for those who want to experience a full transit of the Panama Canal
• Transit all three sets of locks

Princess® MedallionClass®

Explore destinations easily on a MedallionClass vacation. Taking in balcony or top deck views, and don’t want to move? Order drinks that find you. Want to make the most of your time away? Design each perfect day with our interactive activity planner. Hate to wait when boarding or disembarking in port? Choose your preferred arrival window and make gangway reservations. Enjoy more time to connect with the places you sail.

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Why Princess is the #1 Panama Canal Cruise Line

The Leader in the Panama Canal Cruise Ports

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

Learn more about Panama Canal cruise ports

Photo: View of locks from the ship

Destination Immersion

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

Photo: Las Bovedas in Cartagena, Colombia

Abundant Adventures Ashore

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

Learn more about Panama Canal cruise excursions

Photo: Old City in Cartagena, Colombia

Panama Canal Cruise Articles and Videos

2023-2024 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.

See all Panama Canal cruise articles and videos

Let Princess Get You There

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

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

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Panama Canal Partial Transit vs. Full Transit

You're ready to take that dream cruise through the Panama Canal but when you start researching, you find a bit more choice than you expected. While some cruise ships sail through the entire Panama Canal, others only go halfway.

Full-transit cruises sail from the Caribbean to the Pacific (or vice versa), traversing the entire length of the Panama Canal with you onboard. Partial transits are one-way cruises from Florida that sail into the Panama Canal as far as Gatun Lake, then turn around and head back to Colon on the Caribbean side, before continuing on.

How do you know which option is best for you? Here we take a look at a Panama Canal partial transit vs. a full transit, so you can understand the benefits and drawbacks of both types of sailing.

Panama Canal Full Transit: Pros and Cons

For engineering geeks and bucket list travelers, a full transit of the Panama Canal is the only way to go. Most ships take a full day to cross the canal during daylight hours, often getting a very early morning start. Your ship will pass through all six locks (three on each side), and you'll sail through Gatun Lake and the Culebra Cut.

Travelers have lots of choice of cruise lines, from mainstream to luxury, when it comes to full transits. Some lines offer regular crossings, with back-to-back Panama Canal cruises, while others offer full transits only as repositioning cruises, often at the beginning and end of the Alaska cruise season. Some luxury lines might include a Panama Canal crossing as part of a world cruise segment. Windstar and Lindblad Expeditions also offer regular Costa Rica and Panama Canal transits with full crossings.

Panama Canal cruises are offered from late August to May, though be prepared for intense heat if not traveling in the winter (when it's still hot, just not as searing). With the exception of Windstar's and Lindblad's seven-night voyages to Costa Rica and Panama, most full crossings are 14 days or longer, often with lots of sea days. You'll need to be able to take lots of time off and should enjoy a more relaxed pace cruise if you plan on choosing this option.

One potential drawback of a full crossing is airfare. Cruises that transit the entire Panama Canal typically sail between Florida (Miami or Fort Lauderdale) and California (San Diego, Los Angeles or San Francisco). Even longer sailings might continue up either coast to New York or Vancouver. You'll be booking airfare into and out of different cities, which could increase costs. And if you live on the coast, you'll have at least one cross-country flight to endure.

Another thing to note is that while most Panama Canal cruises visit ports in the Caribbean , Central America and Mexico , both on the Caribbean and Pacific sides, most do not stop in Panama itself. Your only experience of the Canal will be onboard the ship without the opportunity to do a tour to the visitor center or other Panamanian destinations from either Colon on the Caribbean side or Fuerte Amador on the Pacific. So if you're looking for more cultural options and aren't as impressed by engineering, a cruise that does a partial transit may suit better.

Panama Canal Partial Transit: Pros and Cons

Partial transits, tend to be shorter than full transits at 10 or 11 nights in length. Because they are round trip cruises, you can book round trip airfare to the Florida gateways (or drive if you're local) and still travel to exotic destinations.

Most partial transits combine the stop in Panama with visits to Caribbean islands, Central American destinations and/or South American cruise ports . Passengers who purchase ship-sold shore excursions can be dropped off at Gatun Lake after passing through the first three locks to continue touring on land, meeting up with the ship back in Colon.

This can be a pro or a con depending on your viewpoint. On the plus side, you get to combine sailing through the locks with a land tour to Panama City, a ride on the Panama Canal Railway or even a boat cruise through the Miraflores Locks. On the negative side, you must book a ship's excursion to disembark, and if you do so, you won't be sailing onboard the cruise ship back through the locks (if that's important to you).

Another potential drawback is that far fewer cruise lines offer partial transits. The main players here are Princess and Norwegian , who regularly offer these round trip sailings. If you're looking for a more luxury experience, you'll need to choose a full transit.

It's difficult to compare prices between full and partial transits. Because of their longer length, full transits will cost more as a vacation in total, making partial transits the cheaper option. When it comes to value -- the cost per cruise day, as opposed to the total cost -- the prices are much closer, however.

When we checked Norwegian and Princess (lines that offer both), the daily rates for full transits were generally a bit higher, but prices did overlap. We did find full transits on Princess with lower total fares than partial transits on Norwegian, so you can luck into some deals depending on how fast a sailing is selling out, the date of departure and any cruise line promotions at time of booking.

Bottom Line: Full vs. Partial Transit

Choose a full transit of the Panama Canal if crossing the entire canal is on your bucket list, you want a luxury experience or a broad choice of cruise lines, you don't mind a 14-night or longer sailing with plenty of sea days, you can handle the more complicated travel arrangements and you don't need to spend time exploring Panama by land.

Choose a partial Panama Canal transit if you want a shorter cruise, want easy air or drive-to access to embark/debark ports, are content with a limited selection of ships and want to do some exploring in Panama.

Panama Canal/Central America Cruises

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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

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• Holland America Line

Panama canal excursions-are they worth it?

By Flamingolovertoo , October 10, 2011 in Holland America Line

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Flamingolovertoo

We are traveling on the Zuiderdam in a few weeks. I've been looking at the tours in the Canal. Which tours are worth while? Is the $199 domed train really worth the $? Or is it better to just stay on board and watch from our balcony? This is probably going to be my only chance to see the Canal. So I don't want to miss a worthwhile excursion but neither do I want to waste money. Thanks

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CruiserBruce

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"Worth it" is a decision only you can make.

I assume you are on a partial transit. Perhaps you might enjoy seeing some of the Canal that you won't being seeing from the ship. So that excursion might be "worth it".

Personally, we would (and have) stay on the ship.

I think it is a full transit; i am on the Westerdam which I think is the following day. I booked the canal boat excursion. You go through two locks. I have never been on the Panama Railroad but I drove about halfway from Panama City to Colon when I was there several years ago and I suspect the attraction is the foliage that makes it worth having a domed car. That was my train of thought anyway!

I've never seen those types of excursions offered on a full transit and I've been to the canal 6 times. If the OP is doing a partial I would be tempted to do the excursion.

Full transits usually don't have shore excursions in the Canal. Plus I believe the Zuiderdam is doing partials.

The Westerdam is stopping at Fuente Amador for about 20 hours before transiting the Canal.

The OP stated they are on the Zuiderdam:confused:.

Last year, we took the Miraflores Locks tour from Fuerte Amador while awaiting transit. The tour was fascinating and very educational. It gives one a closer perspective and reflection while going through the locks. Additionally, the small museum was educational. Cost was around $78 per person, as I recall.

We found this tour (taken on our Royal Caribbean partial transit) excellent:

The Canal Experience to Colon

Approximately 6 Hours

The journey begins when we board the buses for a ride to either Gamboa Dredging Division Pier or Cucaracha Pier inside the Panama Canal where you will take the ferry boat that will transport you through The Panama Canal. The ferry will have sufficient space for everyone. The navigation starts through Gaylard Cut that was the most important and difficult part of the Panama Canal construction, here is where the continental divide is located. After crossing Gaylard Cut we will enter Pedro Miguel Locks on our way into Miraflores Lake. After crossing Miraflores Lake we will enter Miraflores Locks on our way to the Pacific Ocean. Centennial and America’s bridge will be seen during the adventure. Finally you will arrive at Pacific Port that is the entrance of the Panama Canal at the Pacific Ocean. Here you will take the buses back to the ship. (hide details)

You get to go through the other set of locks and can view the transit from an entirely different perspective than from on board the cruise ship. You are close to the water and often share each lock with another ship or two.

You are right, that ship is doing partial transits. However, the dome tour is an shore excursion offered on my sailing, so it may be offered on his.

Yes, that is what I hoped, although my excursion will be from the Pacific to Pedro Miguel Locks, and bus back from there.

ctcruisedream

I cruised on the Zuiderdam in March '11 with the partial Panama Canal transit. I debated about taking the Embera Village trip but, in the end it sounded like too long of a day. I decided to stay on the ship. As I am not always an early riser, I became concerned I would miss the approach and all else I read that you need to be up early on the bow of the ship to see. Hence, if I slept through the ingoing to Gatun Lake, I would witness the outgoing. In the end, I experienced the in and out and was very content with my decision to stay aboard.

Krazy Kruizers

OP said that they will be on the Zuiderdam in a few weeks -- sounds like that cruise is the partial Panama Canal -- and yes tours there are worth it. We did the dome train car several years ago and loved it.

Westerdam does a full transit as she heads to Ft Lauderdale and will spend time in Fuerte Amador -- we have done this -- and chose to do a tour of Panama City.

Once you start through the Panama Canal the next morning -- there aren't any tours -- just the experience of going through the locks and watching the mules. Also seeing the work being done on the new locks.

Any of the excursions are worthwhile. The canal is a once in a lifetime experience. Personally, we did the train, however, not the domed car as it was sold out.

We took the Monkey Island boat tour out of the Gamboa resort. It started with a bus ride and tour of the old zona canal from the pier in Amador. It was well worth it. Saw two kinds of monkeys (and they come right down to the boat) cayman, crocs, birds, butterflys etc.

I have never done one but those who have have spoken very well of them.

Loved it. Don't miss this one. You will be sorry!!!!!

We found this tour (taken on our Royal Caribbean partial transit) excellent: The Canal Experience to Colon     Approximately 6 Hours $$$   The journey begins when we board the buses for a ride to either Gamboa Dredging Division Pier or Cucaracha Pier inside the Panama Canal where you will take the ferry boat that will transport you through The Panama Canal. The ferry will have sufficient space for everyone. The navigation starts through Gaylard Cut that was the most important and difficult part of the Panama Canal construction, here is where the continental divide is located. After crossing Gaylard Cut we will enter Pedro Miguel Locks on our way into Miraflores Lake. After crossing Miraflores Lake we will enter Miraflores Locks on our way to the Pacific Ocean. Centennial and America’s bridge will be seen during the adventure. Finally you will arrive at Pacific Port that is the entrance of the Panama Canal at the Pacific Ocean. Here you will take the buses back to the ship. (hide details)     You get to go through the other set of locks and can view the transit from an entirely different perspective than from on board the cruise ship. You are close to the water and often share each lock with another ship or two.

We did a partial canal on the zaandam in 2006 and did the ferry boat ride thru the remaining locks to the Pacific side. Very neat to see the locks in action and to see the large cargo ships too.

Doing this cruise again next January and I think we will spend the $150 pp to do this excursion again.

Won't it be neat to say that you sailed through the panama canal?

I did the Canal Experience tour in April when I was on Zuiderdam. It was an excellent tour. I thought it was the perfect way to see the Canal. I got to see the workings from above when we went through the first three locks on the ship then got to see everything up close from the ferry. AMAZING!

We took the Panama Canal Railway tour to Panama City in January while on the Zuiderdam and loved the tour. The train is beautifully restored with a lot of wood. The hostesses were wonderful on the train ride both back and forth.

Since this cruise is a partial transit cruise and this may be your best chance to see the Canal, I would really recommend the tour that takes you through the Pacific Locks and Gaillard Cut on the ferry. Early in the morning of your transit day, the Z'dam will arrive at the Atlantic entrance to the Canal and proceed to Gatun Locks. You will lock through Gatun Locks arriving at the Gatun Lake anchorage around 9ish. This is when you tender off the and meet your tour and bussed to the Pacific side to board the ferry. The tour description may say that you will be taken to Gamboa to board the ferry, however the tour can and often times will run in the opposite direction. Just as rewarding either way. IMO the Pacific Locks and Gaillard Cut offer the lion's share of things to see. As an added bonus, you will see some of the construction that is underway for the new set of locks. Here as well there is more to see on the Pacific side and the ferry will get you pretty close. Your morning lockage at Gatun on your huge Panamax ship coupled with your lockages at the Pacific Locks on the ferry will give you two completely different perspectives of the Canal operation. A great A/B comparison.

I would recommend the train for anyone who is a railroad buff, if you are wishing to see more of the Canal, the train is not the best choice. The route of the train skirts the Canal except in a couple of areas. You can sometimes see a ship in the distance, but most of the time you are not that close to the Canal proper. The dome car is great but I really would prefer the observation area at the end of each passenger car, you are not looking at the scenery whip by from the air conditioned side of a glass window... just me:D. You can go in and out from the passenger area to the observation area as you please.

That is what I thought. THis is my fifth cruise, I have taken a grand total of one shore excursion (crowded bus, we had almost no time, don't ask) and am more inclined to do stuff on my own, hiring a driver for a few hours is usually not expensive so long as you don't do it through the cruise line.

One of the problems with taking your own Panama excursion from Zuiderdam is the only passengers allowed to disembark in Gatun Lake are those who have purchased shore excursions from HAL. All other passengers have to stay onboard the ship until it returns back through the locks to the Atlantic side.

I'm not entirely sure what time Zuiderdam docks in Colon/Cristobal after returning from the locks. I would guess around 12-1 PM so you could potentially have 5-6 hours to do a tour. My cruise was originally supposed to dock in Colon but was moved to Cristobal. We had about 30 minutes after our excursion to look around the Cristobal pier area before we had to reboard. Personally, I wouldn't venture far from it on my own. I'm not sure about Colon.

All cruise ships now dock in Colon as opposed to Cristobal, since pier 6 in Cristobal has been converted to container handling only. The time needed to get to the pier in Colon is a bit longer since the ships must now exit the breakwater at the Atlantic entrance, then re-enter the breakwater at another point to reach the Colon pier. The stop at Colon is not long enough to take any tours but there is time to do a little shopping at the mall adjacent to the pier. As it is now, it is doubtful that you will be at the Colon pier before 4PM. The mall by the pier is safe... the rest of Colon, not a place for individual exploration, no problem with a tour though.

As kyriecat mentioned, the tender stop in Gatun Lake is for cruise line tours only, no private excursion at all here. Probably a moot point particularly in the case of the ferry as they normally dedicate all of their assets to the cruise line. At this stop the 'dam ship has a corner on the market;).

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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.

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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:

• 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
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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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The Rise and Fall of the Panama Canal

B.A. Parker

Christina Cala

Leah Donnella

Lori Lizarraga

Xavier Lopez

Veralyn Williams

Dalia Mortada

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

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

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

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