The Panama Canal is a bucket list experience for cruise enthusiasts. The engineering marvel, that connects two oceans, celebrated its centennial jubilee in 2014 and still remains one of the greatest man-made transport achievements. The canal elevates each vessel 85 feet (26 m) up, so it can pass swiftly from the Atlantic to the Pacific or in the opposite direction. In addition to passing the canal itself, Panama Canal cruises allow their guests to experience beautiful beaches, lush tropical rainforests, and unique destinations, such as Soberania National Park.
When is the best time for a Panama Canal cruise
The cruise season in Panama Canal generally coincides with the dry season and lasts from October to April. October is still considered to be a rainy month, but you can also count on bargains during this time. January and February are considered to be the best months to travel through the Panama Canal, as the weather is not so hot and humid during this time in the tropical countries of Central America. This is the best time for hiking, wildlife watching, or kayaking. March and April offer higher temperatures, which best suit those who are looking for a beach experience.
Panama Canal Cruise routes
The classic Panama Canal cruise experience features a 14-day itinerary from Florida to California or vice versa. Cruise ships usually depart from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco, making stops in the Caribbean, Colombia, or Mexico. Longer cruises start in Seattle or Vancouver. The 40-mile Panama Canal crossing usually takes a full day.
Another popular option is Partial Crossing cruise, when the vessel goes through just one lock of the canal and then lets the passengers out in Gamboa or Colon to enjoy the day on the shore. Both partial transit and full transit cruises cruises stop at the islands of Western Caribbean.
Popular ports also include Limon on the Atlantic coast of Costa Rica and Puntarenas on the Pacific Coast. Passengers can visit Costa Rica's renowned rain forests and La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Puerto Quetzal, on the Western Coast of Guatemala, boasts excursions to UNESCO-listed Antigua, famous for its architecture and ruins, the active Pacaya Volcano and Lake Atitlan.
Panama Canal cruises are usually priced between $1,000 and $3,500, depending on the length. Such a cruise is an epic tropical adventure that will surely leave plenty of memories!
Practical info
What is the best time of year to take a Panama Canal cruise?
The dry season, best experienced from October to April, is ideal for Panama Canal cruises. Travelers generally recommend visiting during January and February. These months have lower humidity levels and suitable temperatures for hiking and wildlife watching. Travelers preferring a beach experience should plan their visit during March and April. Deals can be found during October, which is still considered a rainy and less popular month. Show more
What are the popular departure cities for Panama Canal cruises?
When travelling on a Panama Canal cruise, popular departure cities usually include Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco. For longer cruises, Seattle or Vancouver may be the starting point. On these voyages, travelers can visit the Caribbean, Colombia, Mexico, Costa Rica, or Guatemala. Show more
What are the options for Panama Canal cruise routes?
When going on a classic Panama Canal cruise, guests can choose between full or partial transit through the canal. The usual length of the journey is 14 days, with the starting points being either Florida or California. Cruises on a full transit pass through the whole 40-mile long canal. While partial transit cruises are perfect for exploring the region for a day or two. When on route, passengers often stop at Limon, Puntarenas, and Puerto Quetzal. These stops are perfect for exploring nearby national parks, waterfalls, volcanoes, UNESCO sites, or tropical beaches. Show more
Which ports are typically included in a Panama Canal cruise itinerary?
Panama Canal cruise itineraries usually include ports such as Limon and Puntarenas from the Costa Rican coast and Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala. These stops grant travelers access to impressive waterfalls, tropical rainforests, majestic volcanoes, and sites with deep historical and cultural roots in Central America. Natural reserves such as Corcovado National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park are some of the most visited parks, while UNESCO-listed Antigua and Lake Atitlan offer stunning scenic views. Show more
Can passengers book excursions to visit national parks or UNESCO sites during a Panama Canal cruise?
Yes, passengers can experience the natural beauty of Central America by booking excursions to explore popular national parks, rainforests, and waterfalls along Panama Canal cruises. Guests often visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens and National Park and the Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica, as well as the UNESCO-listed Antigua and the active Pacaya Volcano in Guatemala. Along the way, they can enjoy cultural immersion in charming villages and cities and relax at the exotic beaches. Show more
