After that, you'll traverse the Chagres River, then sail 8 miles through the Culebra Cut. The initial descent starts at the single-stage Pedro Miguel Lock, which lowers the ship 31 feet. After passing a mile through Miraflores Lake, you'll reach the two-stage Miraflores Locks, which will descend the ship the last 54 feet back to sea level. The final step is sailing 8 miles to go under the Bridge of the Americas and finally reach the Pacific Ocean. But since a Panama Canal cruise is unique, you'll encounter some logistical considerations that you won't on other itineraries — including the fact that your debarkation and embarkation ports might be different.
Panama Canal Cruise Destinations
Visit some unique ports-of-call before the ever-popular trip through the canal’s locks. You may find yourself parasailing joyously in the warm air in Cabo San Lucas, or touring and exploring the oldest city in Central America – Granada. But even the most jaded travelers will be inspired by the breathtaking view and experience of the trip through the locks. In addition, you can head to the shore for a jungle excursion or cultural immersion with the intriguing natives. Try something new and exciting with a Panama Canal cruise along with Princess Cruises.
Panama Canal (Cruising) Shore Excursions
After experiencing the many things that make Panama travel unique, you're guaranteed to come back enriched. On the day of the transit, prime viewing locations on the bow and near windows go quickly. Most cruise lines do their best to give everyone a decent seat -- sometimes opening up "crew only" areas -- but competition can still get fierce. So set your alarm; the sooner you can pull yourself out of bed, the better the spot you'll snag.
Hotels
Sailing through the artificial lake formed by the dam lasts around four hours. This is a good time to grab lunch, take a dip in the pool or just relax for a bit. Apart from length of sailing, the biggest decision you'll need to make on a Panama Canal cruise is whether to opt for a traditional trans-canal experience or take a partial crossing. Whether you choose a full or partial transit Panama Canal cruise, the opportunity of crossing this wonder is one of those experiences you'll remember for the rest of your life.
Ships and passengers spend much time waiting, and 40 ships pass through the canal each day. Since they all line up in Limon Bay to wait their turn, you may be docked there the entire night and start the crossing early morning; you might even be lined up ready to go and still need to wait part of the day. A full transit allows you to experience the entire canal and all the locks. On a full-transit Panama Canal cruise, the ship enters the first set of locks (usually from the Atlantic Ocean side, as most cruises originate from there or the Caribbean). It then travels through Gatun Lake and the other sets of locks to exit the canal on the Pacific side.
Most of the major lines and some smaller ones offer at least a few Panama Canal sailings each season. We have the answers so your first time will be nothing but smooth sailing. Marvel at the awesome history of the Panama Canal and be transported back in time on a Panama Canal cruise with Princess.
Ocean to Ocean Between Atlantic & Pacific Oceans
On a voyage spanning more than 100 days, and travelling over 33,000 nautical miles, you’ll visit more than 40 destinations in over two dozen countries. In 2025, Island Princess will sail an 116-day World Cruise – our longest ever. Lauderdale, or choose 2026 options from Sydney, Australia, you’ll have the opportunity to visit 48 dream destinations, from Singapore to Egypt, throughout Europe and Iceland, to North, South and Central America and beyond. From mariachis to margaritas, the Mexican Riviera is where it all began with our first cruise in 1965. More than 50 years later, we still visit the best ports like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and less-traveled jewels like Loreto and Manzanillo.
Full vs. Partial Transit Panama Canal Cruise: Ports of Call
It wasn’t until the early 20th century, with a strong push from President Theodore Roosevelt, that the United States took over construction of the canal from the French, an epic job that took a decade to complete. At the end of it all, in 1904, construction of the canal could finally take place; after 10 years, it was complete. Read about spotting sloths and toucans on hiking trails in the Veragua Rain Forest, riding on horseback through Jamaica’s cool waters and witnessing cliff diving in Acapulco. Take in the incredible art scene of New York City, expand your cultural horizons in the city’s diverse neighborhoods and marvel at the architectural wonders.
Sailing through the Panama Canal makes for a cruise itinerary like none other. For one thing, passengers on board get to witness the mechanics and science of an engineering marvel that's been deemed one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. And by the end of the day, they'll have crossed from one ocean to another — truly an amazing feat.
There are many forests throughout the area and professionals who provide tours of the natural surroundings, in addition to the wide array of exotic birds that live in the area. Even if you aren't experienced in bird watching, experts can help you recognize and spot some of these beautiful winged creatures. Once you arrive in the Panama Canal, there will be plenty to see and explore. Even if you've been to the canal before, there's always something new to see when you return. One activity you might want to consider while you're in the area is snorkeling or diving.
Princess Cruises' 2025-26 Americas season will be largest ever - Seatrade Cruise News
Princess Cruises' 2025-26 Americas season will be largest ever.
Posted: Tue, 12 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Plus, enjoy a More Ashore late-night stay in Honolulu on most sailings. Princess is celebrating its 40th anniversary of Mediterranean sailing by featuring two of its newest and largest ships – Star Princess® and Sun Princess®. Explore the best of Europe in 2025, from the British Isles to Scandinavia, the Mediterranean and beyond with itineraries from five to 33 days as you visit famous landmarks, including many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. On Panama Canal cruises, you can explore this historic waterway and the stunning surrounding areas, taking in sights and trying new things that will make your journey meaningful. Use this guide to plan your Panama Canal shore excursions to get closer to the region than ever before.
It's often slow, refreshing only every five or 10 seconds, but it can still be fun to text or call friends and family and have them look for you. The guide will have downtime during certain parts of the day, so feel free to ask questions then. After the Isthmus of Panama was discovered by Europeans in 1513, Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, ordered a 1534 survey to determine if a canal was possible.
Hop on your cruise from one of the most exciting cities in North America, such as Vancouver, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Tranquil aquamarine waters, a rich history and breathtaking landscapes make the captivating Caribbean a treasured paradise. View hundreds of exotic butterflies flying freely within large meshed enclosures in Aruba.
Holland America Line Opens West Coast-Based Hawaii and Panama Canal Cruises for 2025-26 - TravelAge West
Holland America Line Opens West Coast-Based Hawaii and Panama Canal Cruises for 2025-26.
Posted: Thu, 07 Mar 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Tortuguero National Park offers close encounters with the green tortoise, crocodiles, monkeys and exotic birds, all seen at water level on the canals. Carnival Cruises has a range of Panama Canal cruises leaving from different ports in the US, including Tampa, New Orleans and Galveston. Read about immersing yourself in Central American culture, booking your cruise and the top ways to experience every port. Uncover colonial history through Cartagena excursions from Princess Cruises. With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation. From finding the right destination to choosing the best departure date, we're here to help.
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