Panama Canal Cruises

Experience the Panama Canal with CruiseAway

The **Panama Canal** is an engineering marvel that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, making it a must-visit for cruisers seeking a unique maritime adventure. Cruising through the canal not only offers breathtaking views of lush landscapes and distant mountains but also allows you to witness one of the busiest shipping routes in the world. Did you know that the Panama Canal saves ships approximately **13,000 kilometres** of travel by eliminating the need to navigate around South America? It’s a vital trade route that plays an essential role in global commerce! A cruise through the canal provides sightseers with the perfect opportunity to explore this incredible feat of engineering while enjoying onboard the comforts of a luxurious ship.

Top Harbours to Visit via the Panama Canal

While traversing the **Panama Canal**, there are several exciting harbours to visit. Here are five notable ports of call:

• Panama Canal: The main attraction itself! As your cruise passes through the canal, you will experience the amazing **Gatun Locks** and the remarkable engineering that makes this passage possible. Insider tip: Head up to the observation decks for the best viewpoints and enjoy the fascinating commentary from your onboard guide about the canal’s history and operation.
• Colón, Panama: A lively port city, Colón serves as a gateway to the famous canal. Here, you can visit the **Colon Free Zone**, the largest free trade zone in the world, or explore the unique local culture and cuisine. Don’t miss out on sampling some fantastic Caribbean-inspired dishes! Pro tip: Be sure to negotiate prices if you’re shopping in local markets—it’s part of the experience!
• Fuerte Amador, Panama: Located at the pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, this picturesque area provides stunning views of the skyline of Panama City. While you’re here, take a leisurely bike ride or stroll along the scenic causeway for fantastic ocean views. It’s also worth visiting the **Biodiversity Museum** for a look into Panama’s unique wildlife. Insider tip: Rent a bike to fully explore the area, stopping at the viewpoints along the way!
• Cartagena, Colombia: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cartagena is steeped in history and charm. Explore the walled city, featuring cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and colourful buildings. Don’t miss the chance to visit the **Castillo San Felipe de Barajas**, which offers panoramic views of the city. Pro tip: Try the local **arepas** to fuel your exploration!
• Puerto Limón, Costa Rica: This bustling port offers access to the verdant landscapes of Costa Rica. Take an excursion to the **Tortuguero National Park** for a look at its unique wildlife or visit the lovely beaches nearby. If time permits, try local fresh fruit from the markets! Insider tip: A guided excursion through the mangroves can provide an unforgettable experience observing wildlife like sloths and monkeys!

The Best Times to Cruise through the Panama Canal

When planning your trip, consider the weather and seasonality. The peak cruise season for the **Panama Canal** usually runs from **November to April**. During this time, temperatures typically range from **25°C to 30°C**, providing great weather for exploring. It’s also the dry season, meaning you’ll encounter fewer rain showers. The shoulder months of **May to October** can bring increased rainfall and humidity, with temperatures still remaining warm, hovering around **25°C to 32°C**. However, this also means fewer crowds and possibly better deals on cruise prices!

The Cost of Cruising through the Panama Canal

Curious about pricing? A one-week cruise through the **Panama Canal** typically ranges from **$1,500 to $3,200**, while a two-week cruise might set you back about **$3,200 to $5,500**. Luxury options can start around **$5,500** for one week. The best value typically comes during the off-peak season from **May to October**, while prices peak from **December to February**. Expect to spend about **$20 to $50** per meal while ashore, depending on whether you dine at a local café or a more upscale restaurant.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Panama Canal Itineraries

• Holland America Line: With a fleet consisting of **11 ships**, **eight** of them offer itineraries through the **Panama Canal**. The **Rotterdam** and **Eurodam** frequently navigate these waters. Departing mainly from **Fort Lauderdale** or **San Diego**, Holland America Line is known for its excellent service and well-planned shore excursions that highlight both the canal experience and the ports of call.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, **seven** sail through the **Panama Canal**. The **Coral Princess** and **Crown Princess** are key vessels, departing from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Los Angeles**. Princess Cruises is renowned for its diverse onboard activities and various dining options that cater to discerning palates.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Their fleet includes **20 ships**, with **seven** offering itineraries through the **Panama Canal**. The **Norwegian Jade** and **Norwegian Encore** are popular choices, departing from ports like **Miami** or **Los Angeles**. Norwegian Cruise Line is well-known for its “freestyle cruising” philosophy, offering flexible dining options and entertainment tailored to guests.
• Cunard: This prestigious cruise line features **four ships**, all of which now navigate the **Panama Canal**. Notable vessels include the **Queen Mary 2** and **Queen Anne**. They tend to depart from **Southampton** or **New York**, providing unparalleled luxury and superior service onboard, alongside a wide selection of cultural enrichment activities.
• Carnival Cruise Line: With **26 ships**, **three** sail through the **Panama Canal**, including the **Carnival Spirit** and **Carnival Miracle**. These vessels primarily depart from **San Francisco** or **Tampa**. Carnival is all about fun and affordability, catering to families with a large variety of activities and onboard entertainment to keep guests of all ages entertained.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet of **11 ships**, **five** sail through the **Panama Canal**. Notable vessels include the **Viking Mars** and **Viking Polaris**, with departures typically from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Fuerte Amador**. Viking’s focus on cultural enrichment and all-inclusive shore excursions provides guests a deeper connection to each destination.
• Silversea: Featuring **13 ships**, **four** of them serve the **Panama Canal** route. The **Silver Ray** and **Silver Shadow** are frequently seen departing from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Fuerte Amador**. Silversea prides itself on offering a highly personalised luxury experience, with a nearly one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio, exquisite dining options, and engaging enrichment programs.
• Ponant: With a fleet of **11 ships**, **two** explore the **Panama Canal**. The **Le Bellot** and **Le Champlain** often operate from **Puntarenas** or **Colón**. Ponant is recognised for its eco-sensitive sailings that take you closer to nature, creating memorable travel experiences with an emphasis on sustainability.
• Seabourn: Featuring a fleet of **six ships**, **two** serve the **Panama Canal**—the **Seabourn Sojourn** and **Seabourn Quest**. Typically departing from **Miami**, Seabourn’s cruises are known for exceptional service, luxurious all-suite accommodations, and all-inclusive offerings that take care of every detail of your journey.

Explore Alternative Regions

If you’re intrigued by the **Panama Canal** but want to consider other fantastic cruise destinations, here are some alternatives:

• Caribbean: Offers stunning white sandy beaches and vibrant culture, perfect for a tropical getaway filled with relaxation and adventure.
• Central America: Beyond the Panama Canal, this region presents lush rainforests, bustling cities, and rich Indigenous culture, providing a unique immersion experience.
• Eastern Mediterranean: Captivating with ancient history, beautiful coastlines, and historic landmarks, it’s a destination bursting with local flavour and charm.
• South America: Featuring breathtaking landscapes and a blend of unique cultures, South America offers diverse experiences—from bustling cities to serene nature excursions.
• Mexican Riviera: Renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, the cruise along the Mexican Riviera provides an engaging blend of relaxation and fun.

A cruise through the **Panama Canal** is a remarkable and unforgettable journey that immerses you in stunning scenery and rich culture. Sail with **CruiseAway**, and embark on an adventure that promises excitement, relaxation, and new experiences at every turn!