Colón Cruises

Explore the Rich Culture and Beauty of Colón, Panama

Colón, located on the Caribbean side of Panama, is a vibrant port city known for its rich history and proximity to the Panama Canal. A visit to Colón on a cruise offers travelers an opportunity to experience a stunning blend of cultures, lush landscapes, and exciting activities. Fun fact: Colón has the largest free trade zone in the Americas, attracting shoppers from around the globe looking for bargains on electronics, perfumes, and more!

Activities and Attractions in Colón, Panama

When your cruise ship docks in Colón, you’ll have a range of activities to enjoy:

• Visit the Panama Canal: No trip to Colón is complete without a visit to this engineering marvel! Take a guided tour to witness ships traversing the canal and learn about its rich history and significance.
• Explore Fort San Lorenzo: Treat yourself to a trip back in time by visiting this historic Spanish fort, which offers stunning views of the Chagres River and surrounding landscapes. It’s a great spot for photographs and history lovers.
• Shop at Colón Free Zone: Known as a shopper’s paradise, this free trade zone offers a vast array of products. You can find everything from electronics to local handicrafts, providing an excellent opportunity to shop for souvenirs.
• Relax at Playa de la Angosta: Unwind at this beautiful beach, located a short drive from the port. Enjoy the soft sands, clear waters, and perhaps indulge in local seafood from nearby beachside vendors.
• Engage with Local Culture: Experience the vibrant local culture by interacting with the friendly locals, exploring the markets, or attending local events and festivals showcasing Panamanian music and dance.

Nearby Harbours to Enhance Your Itinerary

As you cruise around Central America, consider visiting these nearby harbours:

• Cartagena, Colombia: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cartagena is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture and stunning coastal views. Explore the city’s historic walled city and indulge in delicious Colombian cuisine.
• Puerto Limon, Costa Rica: Known for its rich biodiversity, Puerto Limon offers incredible opportunities for ecotourism. Enjoy excursions to nearby national parks or relax on the beautiful Caribbean beaches.
• Oranjestad, Aruba, Netherlands Antilles: Filled with Caribbean charm, Oranjestad features colorful architecture, beautiful beaches, and exciting water activities like snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs.
• Willemstad (Curacao), Netherlands Antilles: Renowned for its picturesque harbour and vibrant culture, Willemstad offers stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and great shopping options in its colourful streets.
• Panama Canal, Panama: A visit to Colón provides a prime opportunity to experience the Panama Canal. Whether you’re viewing the locks or taking a guided tour, this is an unforgettable highlight of any cruise itinerary.

Regions to Explore While Visiting Colón, Panama

Your cruise experience will connect you to several fascinating regions:

• Central America: A region rich in diverse culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes, Central America features countries like Costa Rica and Nicaragua, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
• Caribbean: Known for its turquoise waters and relaxing beaches, the Caribbean region includes popular destinations such as Jamaica and the Bahamas, perfect for those seeking an idyllic escape.
• South America: With breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures, South America boasts stunning countries such as Colombia and Brazil, showcasing everything from Amazon rainforests to impressive urban cities.
• USA West Coast: Known for iconic cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, the USA West Coast features breathtaking coastal views, vibrant culinary scenes, and outdoor adventures.
• Mediterranean Sea: Rich in history and vibrant culture, the Mediterranean Sea region includes stunning countries like Italy, Greece, and Spain, offering ancient ruins, beautiful landscapes, and delectable cuisine.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Colón, Panama

• Royal Caribbean: With a fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean features 3 options, including Serenade of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas, visiting Colón. Departures typically occur from Colón or Cartagena. Known for its innovative onboard experiences and variety of entertainment, Royal Caribbean ensures great family-friendly adventures.
• MSC Cruises: With 23 vessels, MSC Cruises offers 2 ships, MSC Divina and MSC Poesia, that visit Colón. Departures mostly happen from Miami or Barcelona. MSC is celebrated for its Mediterranean flair, featuring exciting activities and vibrant dining options onboard, perfect for all ages.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20, Norwegian Cruise Line offers 10 ships, including Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Jade, visiting Colón. These cruises typically depart from Miami or Tampa. Known for its flexible dining options and extensive onboard amenities, Norwegian caters to those seeking variety and choice.
• Holland America Line: A fleet of 12 includes Holland America’s Rotterdam, which visits Colón. Departures typically occur from Fort Lauderdale. Holland America is renowned for its premium dining experiences and enriching cultural activities, perfect for travelers looking for an immersive journey.
• Carnival Cruise Lines: With a fleet of 27, Carnival Cruise Lines has 6 ships, including Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle, that visit Colón. Commonly departing from Galveston or Tampa, Carnival is known for its casual atmosphere and fun onboard activities for families and adventure seekers alike.

Visiting Colón, Panama Throughout the Year

Understanding seasonal weather can enhance your visit to Colón:

• Summer (June, July, August): Expect warm temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C, perfect for enjoying beach activities and exploring the local culture. This period can be quite rainy, so be prepared for occasional showers.
• Autumn (September, October, November): With temperatures between 24°C and 29°C, autumn is also part of the rainy season. However, the lush landscapes during this time showcase the beauty of Panama’s nature.
• Winter (December, January, February): Winter temperatures hover around 24°C to 28°C, bringing drier weather and pleasant conditions, making this the most popular time for tourists to visit, enjoying the many outdoor excursions.
• Spring (March, April, May): Spring features temperatures around 25°C to 30°C, and while occasional rainfalls can happen, the season showcases blooming flora and fauna, making it visually spectacular for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions about Colón, Panama

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

Cruises to Colón generally range from $1,200 to $3,500 for a one-week itinerary, while luxury options can exceed $7,000 depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically costs between $15 and $50 for casual meals, with specialty dining options costing between $80 and $150 per person.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Colón has various dining options, from casual street food to restaurants serving local dishes. The Colón Free Zone is perfect for shopping, offering everything from electronics to handicrafts at great prices.

What are transportation options?

Colón offers various transportation options, including taxis and shuttle services. Cruise lines also typically provide guided excursions to the most popular local attractions.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), although the US Dollar is widely accepted. Credit cards are generally accepted, but it’s wise to have cash for local markets and smaller businesses.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Colón is generally safe for tourists; however, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings in crowded areas.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

Spanish is the primary language spoken, but many locals in tourist areas understand English. Learning basic phrases can enhance your experience and create friendly interactions.

Excited to uncover the beauty and culture of Colón, Panama? Book your unforgettable cruise holiday through CruiseAway and dive into the stunning landscapes and rich history that this vibrant destination has to offer!