This Massive Cruise Ship Just Became the Biggest Ever to Cross the Panama Canal

A 168,028-ton Norwegian Cruise Line ship traveled through the Panama Canal Monday, becoming the largest-ever passenger vessel to traverse the narrow waterway.

The Norwegian Bliss traveled through the recently expanded Panama Canal on its way from Germany to Seattle. The new ship will cruise from there to Alaska through the summer, Norwegian Cruise Line said in a statement last month.

The trip through the Canal would not have been possible without the completion of a nearly decade-long expansion project that doubled its capacity for cargo ships, making locks 70 feet wider and 18 feet deeper to accommodate bigger ships. The hefty infrastructure project was completed in June 2016.

PANAMA-CANAL-CRUISE-SHIP

The 1,094-foot-long Norwegian Bliss left a shipyard in Germany in March and traveled to Miami and, now, through the Panama Canal on its way to Seattle. Manuel Benítez, the deputy administrator at the Panama Canal Authority, said in a statement that the passage marked a “distinct milestone” in the Canal’s expansion. Officials said the Canal will see a total of 248 passenger ships pass through it by the end of cruise season later this month. Twenty of those vessels are larger ships that could not have passed through the Panama Canal before its expansion.

“We are very proud to help the Panama Canal close out the season with the crossing of our highly-anticipated ship, Norwegian Bliss,” said Andy Stuart, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line, in a statement.

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Cruising the World One Port at a Time

Largest Cruise Ship to Transit the Panama Canal

By: Sherry Laskin · Updated On: February 23, 2019

Norwegian Bliss is now in the record books as the largest cruise ship to transit the Panama Canal. The newest ship for Norwegian Cruise Line, the 4,004 passenger Norwegian Bliss made its North American debut in New York City on May 4-6. From there, Norwegian Bliss cruised the eastern seaboard for another inaugural debut in Miami on May 8-10.

Built with Alaska cruising in mind, Norwegian Bliss charted a course that would take it through the Panama Canal and into the Pacific Ocean.

As scheduled, there will be yet another inaugural event in Los Angeles on May 25-27. Afterwards, the ship will head up the west coast to Seattle. When Norwegian Bliss arrives in Seattle, the official naming ceremony and more festivities are planned for May 30-June 2.

“We are very proud to showcase our newest ship and celebrate one more exciting milestone with Norwegian Bliss as the largest passenger ship to transit the new Panama Canal,” said Andy Stuart, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line.” We are excited for this sixteenth ship in our young and modern fleet to begin welcoming guests in her home port of Seattle and provide them with the outstanding service, dining, entertainment and amenities for which we are recognized.”

Not only is Norwegian Bliss the largest cruise ship to transit the Panama Canal, it is also the first cruise ship to have a the largest, 1,000-foot, open-air race track. Alex Vega ,  Miami-based celebrity car guru, delivered two fully customized electric go-karts prior to the ship’s Miami departure. One go-kart is a metallic royal blue and the other is a bright cherry red. Both go-karts sport real leather seats and stitching details to create a more “real” race car experience.

Beginning June 2, Norwegian Bliss will cruise seven-day voyages to  Alaska  from Seattle. Ports include Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Victoria, British Columbia. After an premier Alaska season, Norwegian Bliss will then cruise to the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles . For the fall/winter season, the ship will crusie the Eastern Caribbean from Miami. In 2019, Norwegian Bliss returns to New York City for seven-day cruises to the Bahamas and Florida, the Southern and Western Caribbean.

Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line

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I'm the editor and creator of CruiseMaven.com, a solo traveler cruising the world on waves and wheels, collecting recipes along the way. I hope my articles and photos entertain, advise and inspire you to travel the world without flying. Take a breath...stop for a local meal and a glass of wine along the way.

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Norwegian’s New Cruise Ship Largest to Ever Pass Through Panama Canal

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At 168,000 gross tons, Norwegian Bliss passed through the Panama Canal as the ship heads to her summer home in Seattle.  Custom built for cruises to Alaska, the cruise ship will sail seven night cruises with port stops in Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Victoria.

Before Norwegian Bliss begins sailing to Alaska, the ship will be christened in Seattle on May 30.

Norwegian Bliss will thrill and excite guests with the largest competitive race track at sea, a first for any North America-based cruise ship. The two-level electric-car race track sits at the top of deck 19, offering guests amazing views while twisting and turning at a speed of up to 30 miles per hour. After a thrilling ride, guests can then test their agility at the open-air laser tag course, or race side-by-side on the Aqua Racer waterslide at the expansive Aqua Park, with two multi-story waterslides, one of which extends over the edge of the ship and loops down to the deck below.

View Prices on Cruises on Norwegian Bliss

Aboard Norwegian Bliss, culinary enthusiasts can savor new exclusive specialty dining and bar concepts such as the debuting Texas smokehouse – Q, the cruise line’s first full-service Starbucks store at sea, and Coco’s – a chocolate and sweet treats shop. At The District Brew House, guests can enjoy a variety of craft cocktails and beers, including local Seattle favorites from Red Hook Brewery.

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Panama Canal

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Panama Canal cruise port

Region Hawaii - Mexico - Panama Canal

Local Time 2024-03-07 23:07

Port Panama Canal cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Panama Canal. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Linking the Atlantic to Pacific oceans, Panama Canal provides one of the most unforgettable ship cruising experiences. More than 10 years were needed to complete the Canal's 51 mi (82 km) in 1914, thus avoiding the lengthy and dangerous navigation around Cape Horn .

The transiting vessels (assisted at the locks by land-based locomotives) pass through artificial lakes and narrow channels blasted through rocks and dense jungle. This is a unique waterway and one of the modern civilization's most astonishing engineering and technological accomplishments.

Panama Canal is a culmination of a dream that began in 1513 with Spanish conquistador Vasco Nunez de Balboa (1475-1519) who was the first European to travel the 43 mi (70 km) wide isthmus. In 1881, the French Panama Canal Company started construction works (at the artificial valley Culebra Cut/aka Gaillard Cut) but due to financial and engineering problems in 1894 sold its rights to the new Compagnie Nouvelle du Canal de Panama, which project was based on locks. The new company also struggled and was forced to sell its rights to the USA (in 1902) for USD 40 million, with a loss of USD 240 million.

The USA officially started construction works in 1904, and the project was completed in 1914 (at a cost of USD 387 million). Currently, the USA still oversees the Canal's operations, though it signed a treaty (in 1979) to transfer the Canal back to Panama (on Dec 31, 1999).

Panamax-sized ships are the bigger vessels that can fit through the Canal's old locks, Such cruise vessels are limited to max LOA length 1050 ft (320 m) and max-width / beam 110 ft (33,5 m). Among the many cruise ship classes designed to allow Panama Canal transition are Millennium-class (Celebrity), Coral-class (Princess) and Signature-class (Holland America). However, all new cruise ships exceed the old locks' limits.

Although many cruise lines already feature Panama Canal transition itineraries ( Princess , Celebrity , Holland America , Disney among others), they are restricted to using their smaller ships. The expansion allowed for larger passenger liners to traverse the Canal's 49-mi (79-km) stretch. However, height restrictions remain because of the 1962-built "Bridge of the Americas" (clearance below 61,3 m / 201 ft at high tide) limiting vessels' size. Princess Cruises currently offers canal crossing itineraries on the Island Princess (2214-passenger) and Coral Princess (1970-passenger). The expansion allowed the company to deploy on the canal the larger Caribbean Princess (3080-passenger).

With the new locks now opened and functioning, will the world's largest cruise liners be able to fit through them? The short answer is - no. The new locks, which are in parallel with the old ones, measure 1400 x 180 ft (439x55 m) with draft 60 ft (18 m). However, the max allowed cruise ship dimensions are 1200 x 161 ft (366x49 m) and draft 50 ft (15 m). World's largest passenger ships ( RCI 's Oasis-class) are indeed within these new lock dimensions, but their height (236 ft / 72 m above waterline) doesn't clear the Bridge of the Americas (spanning over the Canal's Pacific entrance). So unless the bridge is either removed or replaced by a taller one, the Oasis-class ships can't pass through Panama Canal. Cunard 's liner RMS Queen Mary 2 (specifically designed to clear the 228 ft / 70 m height of NYC 's Verrazano-Narrows Bridge) also joins the list of large ships unable to transit the Canal. Luckily, NCL Norwegian 's Breakaway-class ships ( Breakaway , Getaway ) and the succeeding Breakaway Plus-class ( Bliss , Escape , Joy ) clear a full transit.

Panama Canal's cruising season runs from October through May. The Canal operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with 35-40 vessels passing through every day. Each transit takes about 8-10 hours.

During season 2016-2017, the number of cruise ship transits was 223.

For season 2017-2018, Panama Canal's schedule had listed a total of 248 passenger ships booked for passing through the Expanded Canal (new Panamax and Neopanamax Locks) with total number of "transiting" cruise tourists 312304. Among the most notable vessels were Caribbean Princess, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Splendor, Norwegian Bliss. The list of cruise lines with ships passing through the new locks included Princess, NCL-Norwegian, CCL-Carnival, Silversea, Viking, Lindblad.

On May 14, 2018, the Alaska-based Norwegian Bliss became the largest passenger ship ever passing through Panama Canal. The liner operated a 15-day transition cruise (itinerary May 10-25) from Miami to Los Angeles , visiting Cartagena, Puntarenas, Puerto Quetzal, Puerto Chiapas, Manzanillo, Puerto Vallarta.

For season 2018-2019 were booked 234 cruise ship transits.

Due to the Coronavirus crisis, for season 2019-2020 were booked just 29 cruise transits, mainly by larger-sized/Neopanamax vessels. Maiden transits were scheduled for Norwegian Dawn, Le Dumont D'urville (Ponant), Ventura (P&O UK), Carnival Glory, Seven Seas Splendor (RSSC-Regent), Scenic Eclipse, Flying Clipper, Hanseatic Inspiration and Hanseatic Nature (Hapag Lloyd), Greg Mortimer (Aurora Expedition).

For season 2022-2023 were booked 200+ transits, including 12 maiden/first-time by the ships Celebrity Edge, Seabourn Venture, Fridtjof Nansen (Hurtigruten), World Navigator (AOV-Atlas Ocean Voyages), World Voyager (Nicko), Evrima (Ritz-Carlton), Le Bellot (Ponant), Spirit of Adventure (Saga UK), Viking Cruises (Neptune, Octantis, Polaris), Sea Cloud Spirit.

Annually, the Panama Canal transit 0,9+ million cruise tourists. The main local attractions are the visitor centers at Miraflores Lock and Cocoli Lock, which both have exhibition halls and outdoor observation decks, and also provide guided tours.

Panama Canal alternatives for ship crossings between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans are the Strait of Magellan (between South America and Antarctica) and the Northwest Passage (in the Canadian Arctic territories).

On April 30, 2017, Disney Wonder became the world's first-ever cruise vessel that passed through Panama Canal's new set of locks.

DCL-Disney Cruise Line 's ship Wonder was on a 14-night relocation voyage (RepositionCruises.com) from Florida to California. From San Diego, the ship operated several Baja Mexico itineraries before its summer Alaskan season with departures from Vancouver BC Canada . The following table shows this unique itinerary as ports of call (dates, arrival/departure times) and ports sequence.

Cruise liners transiting Panama Canal via the old locks operate full transition voyages through all the 3 sets of old locks (Pedro Miguel, Miraflores, and Gatun/bordering Gatun Lake ). Some boats may offer an extra day in Port Fuerte Amador/Panama City .

The first Princess ship with partial transits through the new locks was Caribbean Princess - on 10-day roundtrips from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida) . The boat's first-ever transit was on October 26, 2017. The itinerary's call ports were Princess Cays Bahamas , Cartagena Colombia , Panama Canal, Colon Panama , Puerto Limon Costa Rica , and George Town Grand Cayman .

IMPORTANT : Following the waterway's 5th expansion, since June 2021, Panama Canal's new (Neopanamax) locks accommodate vessels with max LOA length 370,33 m (887 ft) and max draft 15,24 m (50 ft). This allows ~96% of the world's containership fleet to be able to transit the waterway.

Panama Canal statistics

On August 22, 2017, the CMA CGM Theodore Roosevelt (2015-built, IMO 9780873) became the largest container vessel transiting the new locks. The boxship has TEU capacity 14855, LOA length 366 m (1200 ft), width 48 m (157 ft). The record was broken on May 15, 2019, by the 15313-TEU boxship Evergreen Triton (2016-built, IMO 9728916 / length 369 m, beam 51 m).

In FY17 (Fiscal Year 2017 / Oct 1, 2016, through Sept 30, 2017), Panama Canal broke all previous annual cargo tonnage records, reporting a traffic volume of 403,8 million tons. This was a 22,2% increase (over 2016) and directly attributed to the Expanded Canal's added capacity of Neopanamax ships. According to FY17 figures, the waterway was transited by a total of 13,548 vessels (+3,3% over FY16). The cargo volume projection for FY17 was 399 million tons. In 2017, the Canal served 29 major containership line services, including 15 Neopanamax shipping services on the trade routes between East Coast USA and Asia. The containership segment is the Canal's leading market (35,3% of all cargoes, or 143 million tons, of which 89,1 million tons were transited through the Expanded Canal). The 2nd segment are the tanker ships (including LPG and LNG carriers, with total 105 million tons. The 3rd and 4th segments are bulk carriers (79 million tons) and vehicle carriers (47 million tons).

In 2017, the main shipping routes through Panama Canal were AsiaEast Coast USA (34%), West Coast South America-East Coast USA (13%), West Coast South America-Europe (7%), West Coast Central America-East Coast USA (7%) and South America intercoastal (5%). In 2017, the Canal was used mainly by vessels leaving from USA (68,3% of the total tonnage), followed by China, Chile, Japan, Mexico and Colombia.

It was estimated, that the Canal's expansion will save around 160 million tons of CO2 emissions during its first 10-year operational period. In 2017, of all transiting vessels, 53% were boxships, 28% LPG tankers, 10% LNG carriers, and the remaining transits were made by bulk cargo and car carriers and cruise ships.

As future projects, the Canal has plans to concession a Ro-Ro terminal (for redistribution of vehicles, machinery and heavy equipment), as well as a huge logistics park (sized 1200 hectares / 12 km2) for the region's logistics services.

On April 28, 2018, the gas carrier LNG Sakura transited the canal with the first-ever LNG shipment from USA to Asia (Dominion Cove Point terminal to Japan). The vessel is owned by Kansai Electric Power (70%) and NYK Line (30%). It has LOA length 300 m and width 49 m. Currently, Panama Canal provides 7x LNG booking slots weekly (average 5,5 transits. For FY2018 was expected 50% increase in LNG shipping over FY2017 (163 to 244 transits).

On August 15, 2018, Panama Canal celebrated its 104 Anniversary (opened 1914). Currently, the artificial waterway connects 144 maritime routes and around 700 ports in 160 countries.

FY2018 was a record year with total tonnage (PCUMS) 442,1 million tons (+9,5% over FY2017's 403,8 million tons). The increase was driven by LPG and LNG carriers (130,3 million tons), boxships (159 million tons), bulk carriers (73,2 million tons), vehicle carriers (49,5 million tons). Most of the traffic was between USA, China, Japan, Mexico, Chile.

On May 14, 2019, the Q-Flex class LNG tanker Al Safliya (Qatargas-owned) became the first-ever large gas carrier to transit the waterway. The vessel has length 315 m, width 50 m and max LNG capacity 210,000 m3. Canal's previous max vessel width/beam was 49 m, now increased (since June 2018) to 51,25 m (168 ft). In 2018, Panama Canal served 340x LNG tanker transits (181 in 2017).

Next video is about the Canal's Post Panamax expansion (a program of projects).

FY2019 was another record year with total tonnage (PCUMS) 469 million tons (+6,2% over FY2018). The increase was again driven by LPG and LNG carriers (+6,9% and +37,6%, respectively), product tankers (+5,6%), vehicle carriers (+5,5%, 53,1 million tons), boxships (164,87 million tons, of which 126,2 million through Neopanamax Locks), bulk carriers (76,5 million tons), chemical tankers (44,3 million tons), LNG carriers (43 million tons), LPG carriers (37,8 million tons), crude product tankers (22,6 million tons), passenger ships (9,9 million tons). Most of the transit shipping traffic was between USA and Asia, Europe and South America, plus US intercoastal routes. The waterway's main customers were from USA, China, Japan, Chile, Mexico.

FY2021 (October 1, 2020 thru September 30, 2021) recorded 516,7 million PCUMS tons (+8,7% over FY20), with total 13342 ship transits. The stats included containerships (184,3M tons / +10,3% / 2602 transits), drybulk carriers (90M tons / +11,2% / 3043 transits), chemical carriers (65M tons / -6,1% / 2596 transits), LNG carriers (61M tons / +31,4% / 537 transits), LPG carriers (52,8M tons / +18,4% / 1523 transits), RoRo/vehicle carriers (47,5 tons / +15,6% / 782 transits). In 2021, the waterway transited a total of 13342 vessels.

Panama Canal cruise ship transition cost (fees)

Following the Panama Canal Authority Board's recommendations, on April 28, 2015, Panama officially approved the proposal to revise the Canal's toll structure.

  • By the new structure, each transiting vessel's passage is segmented in different units of measurement:
  • LNG carriers (liquefied natural gas) and LGP (gas) tankers' tolls are based on m3 (max capacity).
  • Dry bulk carriers' tolls are based on DWT (deadweight tonnage).
  • Tankers' tolls are on PC/UMS tons and metric cargo tons.
  • Container (boxships) tolls are based on TEU capacity (max containers).
  • Cruise vessels' tolls are based on passenger capacity. They are levied based on PC/UMS or pax berths.
  • A new segment was created to toll local tour ships.

Cruise ships through Panamax Canal are charged USD 138 per berth. Cruise ships passing through the Canal's new locks (post-Panamax) pay USD 148 per berth. When this decision was made, the new canal locks were 85% complete. The new toll system was implemented on April 1, 2016.

  • On May 7, 2008, the boxship MSC Fabienne paid a record highest Panamá Canal transit toll - USD 317,142. Currently, the Canal's average transit cost is USD 54,000 per vessel.

Due to historic low water levels, in January 2020 the waterway's transition fees were increased by adding an additional "Freshwater Charge" - fixed at USD 10,000 for vessels with LOA length 125+ ft (38+ m). Also new is the handling service fee - USD 5,000 (vessels with beam 91+ ft/27,7 m) and USD 1500 (vessels with LOA 125+ ft/38 m).

Panama Canal cruise terminal

A complete Panama Canal transit is comprised of navigation through 3 locksets. Gatun Locks are on the Caribbean side while Pedro Miguel and Miraflores Locks are on the Pacific side. Vessels transiting the Canal are being raised and lowered 26 m / 85 ft in this 3-lock system. Other special highlights of the Canal are the Culebra Cut and Gatun Lake . Gatun Lake is among the largest man-made lakes in the world covering 422 km2 / 163 mi2. Culebra Cut (fka Gaillard Cut) is 13 km / 8 mi long channel built through solid rock that was the most difficult excavation in the Canal's construction.

The new Panama Canal locks were officially inaugurated on June 26, 2016, following the completion of a 9-year (USD 5,25 billion) construction project. Originally scheduled for completion in October 2014, a hundred years after it first opened, the canal's expansion provided an additional lane of shipping traffic through construction of 2 new locks (each with 3 slots), this way doubling the capacity of this unique waterway.

During the new locks' opening, thousands of spectators gathered at Cocolí locks (outside Panama City) to watch the Chinese container ship "Cosco Shipping Panama" with its 9472 TEU containers becoming the ever first ship passing through the new locks.

During the canal's opening ceremony, there was a special guest section with around 3000 people, including delegations from different countries, business associates, heads of different authorities and organizations.

Following the new locks' opening, Egypt's Suez Canal (Panama’s main rival) lowered its transition tariffs to keep its shipping traffic.

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What Cruise Ships Go To Panama Canal

Published: December 19, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Clarie Johnsen

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Introduction

Welcome to the fascinating world of Panama Canal cruises. Embarking on a cruise through the Panama Canal offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience that combines the beauty of the Caribbean Sea with the engineering marvel of the canal itself. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable vacation, cruising the Panama Canal is sure to exceed your expectations.

The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, spanning the country of Panama. It was constructed in the early 20th century and remains one of the greatest engineering achievements in history. Cruising through the canal allows you to witness firsthand the intricate lock systems and marvel at the magnitude of the locks as they raise and lower ships to different sea levels.

Not only is the Panama Canal an important feat of human ingenuity, but it is also surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. As you sail through the canal, you’ll encounter lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. From the vibrant city of Panama City to the tranquil islands of the Caribbean, a Panama Canal cruise offers a diverse range of destinations and experiences.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first voyage, there are plenty of cruise ships that offer trips through the Panama Canal. From luxurious mega-ships to smaller, more intimate vessels, there are options to suit every budget and preference. Your journey can range from a short transit through the canal to a longer itinerary that explores multiple ports along the way.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the history and importance of the Panama Canal, explore the popular cruise lines that include the canal in their itineraries, highlight the must-see sights along the route, and provide tips to make your Panama Canal cruise a memorable experience. So, get ready to set sail on an unforgettable adventure through one of the world’s most remarkable engineering marvels.

History of the Panama Canal

The history of the Panama Canal dates back to the 16th century when Spanish explorers recognized the potential for a canal across the narrow isthmus of Panama. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th century that serious efforts were made to construct a canal to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

The idea of a canal gained significant traction after the successful completion of the Suez Canal in Egypt in 1869. The benefits of having a shortcut for ships sailing between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans were clear – it would greatly reduce travel times and eliminate the need for ships to navigate the treacherous Cape Horn at the southern tip of South America.

In 1880, the French began the construction of the canal under the leadership of Ferdinand de Lesseps, the man behind the Suez Canal. However, the project faced numerous challenges, including daunting terrain, disease outbreaks, and financial difficulties. After years of struggle and the loss of thousands of lives, the French abandoned the project in 1889.

It wasn’t until 1903 that the United States took over the responsibility of building the canal, following Panama’s separation from Colombia with the help of the U.S. government. Under the leadership of U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, the construction of the Panama Canal began in earnest.

The U.S. faced many of the same challenges as the French, but with improved engineering techniques, better medical knowledge, and increased funding, they were able to overcome these obstacles. One of the most significant engineering feats was the creation of a system of locks that could lift ships from sea level to the elevation of Gatun Lake, which would serve as the main body of water for the canal.

The construction of the canal was a massive undertaking that involved digging a channel through mountains, creating an artificial lake, and building a series of locks. It required the labor of thousands of workers from around the world, including many from the Caribbean islands and Europe.

Finally, on August 15, 1914, the Panama Canal was officially opened, revolutionizing global trade and maritime transportation. The completion of the canal not only provided a vital shortcut for ships but also had a profound impact on the economies of the countries that surrounded it.

Since its opening, the Panama Canal has played a crucial role in facilitating international trade and fostering global connectivity. Over the years, it has undergone several expansions and upgrades to accommodate larger vessels and increased traffic. Today, it remains one of the most impressive engineering achievements in history and a testament to human innovation and determination.

Importance of the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal holds immense significance in the world of international trade and transportation. Its strategic location at the crossroads of the Americas has made it a vital conduit for maritime commerce, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The canal’s importance can be seen in several key aspects:

Cruise Ships that Visit the Panama Canal

A variety of cruise ships offer itineraries that include a transit through the Panama Canal. Whether you prefer a large, luxurious mega-ship or a smaller, more intimate vessel, there are options to suit every style and budget. Let’s explore some of the popular cruise lines that offer Panama Canal voyages:

Popular Cruise Lines that Include the Panama Canal in their Itineraries

The Panama Canal is a bucket-list destination for many travelers, and several cruise lines offer itineraries that include transit through this engineering marvel. Here are some of the popular cruise lines that provide memorable journeys through the Panama Canal:

Ports of Call in Panama

When cruising the Panama Canal, you’ll have the opportunity to visit several vibrant ports along the way. These ports offer a diverse range of experiences, from exploring colonial architecture to discovering pristine beaches and immersing yourself in the local culture. Here are some popular ports of call in Panama:

Must-See Sights along the Panama Canal Route

As you embark on a cruise through the Panama Canal, you will be treated to breathtaking sights and memorable experiences along the route. From engineering marvels to natural wonders, here are some must-see sights that should not be missed:

Tips for Cruising the Panama Canal

Cruising through the Panama Canal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that requires a little bit of planning to make the most of your journey. Here are some tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable Panama Canal cruise:

Cruising through the Panama Canal is a remarkable journey that offers a blend of natural beauty, engineering marvels, cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments. From witnessing ships pass through the locks to exploring captivating ports of call, a Panama Canal cruise is an adventure filled with excitement and discovery.

The history and importance of the Panama Canal, along with the allure of the destinations along its route, make this a bucket-list experience for many travelers. Whether you choose a cruise on a large, luxurious ship or opt for a more intimate vessel, there are options to suit a range of preferences and budgets.

During your cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to visit vibrant cities, pristine islands, and historical sites that showcase the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of the region. From the bustling streets of Panama City to the tranquil beaches of the San Blas Islands, each destination offers its unique charm and attractions.

As you sail through the canal, make sure to take advantage of the educational programs and lectures offered onboard to deepen your understanding of the engineering feats and environmental significance of this incredible waterway. And don’t forget to have your camera ready to capture those breathtaking moments as you navigate through the locks and witness the panoramic views of Gatun Lake.

Remember to plan your itinerary in advance, stay flexible, and make the most of your time ashore. Try local cuisine, engage with the local culture, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of each destination. And above all, relax, unwind, and savor every moment of this extraordinary adventure through the Panama Canal.

No matter which cruise line you choose or which ports of call you visit, a Panama Canal cruise promises to be an experience of a lifetime. Prepare to be amazed by the engineering marvels, captivated by the natural beauty, and enriched by the cultural heritage along this remarkable waterway. So, get ready to set sail and embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and wonder through the unforgettable Panama Canal.

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12 best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip

Donna Heiderstadt

A Panama Canal transit is a rite of passage for many cruise lovers. Experiencing this marvel of early 20th-century engineering appeals to those with a wide array of interests, from history and politics to colonial architecture and wildlife spotting. Built by the U.S. government between 1903 and 1914, this 50-mile waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans revolutionized shipping by creating an expedited route for the transit of cargo and, ultimately, cruise ship passengers.

Panama Canal itineraries are offered by almost every cruise line. Thanks to a 2016 canal expansion project, a third set of locks can now accommodate larger vessels. It's possible to cruise the Panama Canal on ships of all sizes (from 148 guests to more than 3,000) on itineraries that range from a week in the sun to a six-month world cruise.

Some ships sail a full transit of the canal, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, or vice versa. These one-way journeys between Miami or Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles or San Diego, visits ports in Central America, South America, Mexico and California.

Others sail only a partial transit, entering the locks from the Atlantic and cruising into Lake Gatun before turning around and exiting again. These itineraries, sailing round-trip from Florida ports, combine the canal experience with island-hopping in the Caribbean.

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

The array of options means that a Panama Canal cruise experience is possible even if you're short on time or have a limited budget — and chances are high that your favorite cruise line offers one or more itineraries. Most sailings attract couples, typically retirees, but if the timing is right a Panama Canal cruise can also be a great multi-generational experience.

Here are a dozen of the best Panama Canal cruises to consider.

Holland America's 14- to 16-day Panama Canal cruises

largest cruise ship to go through panama canal

Holland America offers a variety of Panama Canal cruises , but the most popular itineraries span 14 to 16 days. They offer a full transit between Fort Lauderdale and San Diego, or vice versa, and are offered on multiple ships, including Zaandam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam and Volendam. These sailings call on Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Huatulco and Puerto Vallarta or Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Who should go: Holland America ships sailing a full transit are popular with retired couples who appreciate the cruise line's consistency and good value. All four ships accommodate between 1,432 and 2,106 passengers and offer signature onboard experiences that include the Greenhouse Spa and the BBC Earth in Concert multimedia performance. The larger Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam feature additional specialty dining options, such as Tamarind and Nami Sushi, as well as B.B. King's Blues Club, Lincoln Center Stage and Billboard Onboard.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 16-night Los Angeles to Miami cruise

Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, debuts in November 2023 and its first two Panama Canal itineraries in early 2024 are already waitlisted. For those planning ahead, the 16-night Miami to Los Angeles (Dec. 13-29, 2024) and 16-night Los Angeles to Miami (Jan. 8-23, 2025) transits offer luxurious all-inclusive pampering, plus port calls in Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; Panama City, Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

Who should go: This itinerary can be a wonderful splurge for a couple seeking to celebrate a milestone anniversary or birthday in a memorable way on a luxurious new ship. Prices start at a hefty $10,399 per person for a spacious balcony suite, but they also include airfare, transfers, gratuities, dining and beverages, Wi-Fi and shore excursions — meaning you'll hardly have any other vacation expenses.

Related: The 8 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Celebrity Cruises' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean cruise

largest cruise ship to go through panama canal

For a Panama Canal experience that begins and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Celebrity Cruises ' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean itinerary is a great option. There's plenty of time to plan ahead for the Dec. 2, 2024 cruise or the half-dozen almost identical sailings that follow through March 2025. All sailings are aboard the new 3,260-guest Celebrity Beyond and visit Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendjik, Bonaire; and George Town, Grand Cayman (Willemstad, Curacao replaces Grand Cayman on some 2025 sailings).

Who should go: Celebrity Beyond and its Edge-series sister ships appeal to Millennials, Gen Xers and young-at-heart Boomers who appreciate innovative design, entertainment and dining options. The ships are geared toward couples or groups of friends, but families with older teens might also enjoy the onboard vibe. There are no splash pools or waterslides for younger kids, although calls on three Caribbean islands offer aquatic fun.

Windstar Cruises' 7-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise

To explore the Panama Canal region in a relaxed manner aboard an intimate motorized sailing yacht, check out Windstar Cruises' 7-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal itinerary aboard the 148-guest Wind Star. Bookable on more than two dozen dates in 2023, 2024 and 2025, the itinerary takes guests from Colon, Panama to Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica (or vice versa). The ship will transit the canal and visit Panama City and Isla Parida in Panama, plus Golfo Dolce and Quepos (for Manuel Antonio National Park) in Costa Rica.

Who should go: Fans of small-ship cruising who enjoy a casual onboard ambiance, are interested in nature and wildlife and wish to sample the regional flavors of Central America should consider a Windstar cruise . All accommodations are in snug yet well-designed staterooms with windows, but no balconies. Wind Star is a cozy and social four-deck ship featuring a pool and pool bar, a lounge and two restaurants.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

Silversea's 31-day New York to Lima cruise

largest cruise ship to go through panama canal

Silversea Cruises ' indulgent 31-day New York to Lima sailing aboard its newest ship, 728-guest Silver Nova features a Panama Canal transit in the middle of the trip. The one-way itinerary departs New York City in November and visits Bermuda and multiple sunny Caribbean islands — Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. Barth's, St. Kitts, Antigua, Martinique, St. Lucia, Barbados, Bequia, Grenada, Curacao and Aruba — and Cartagena, Colombia before transiting the canal to call on ports in Ecuador (Manta) and Peru (Salaverry and Lima).

Who should go: Silversea's clientele is mostly mature couples with a luxury mindset and an appreciation for elevated dining with a strong regional focus. They also appreciate the cruise line's all-inclusive ease. A month-long itinerary such as this is likely to attract retirees seeking an extended warm-weather escape.

Related: The 10 best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Carnival Cruise Line's 8-day Panama Canal cruise from Tampa

Experiencing the Panama Canal doesn't have to be time-consuming or budget-busting. Carnival Cruise Line 's 8-day Panama Canal from Tampa itinerary offers a round-trip, partial-transit sailing aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride with port calls in Limon, Costa Rica and George Town, Grand Cayman—beginning at under $900 per person.

With four pools (including an adults-only aft Serenity Pool), a WaterWorks aqua park, Camp Ocean kids club and seven restaurants, the ship offers enough diversions for sea-day fun, even at half the size of Carnival's newest megaships.

Who should go: Carnival's action-packed ships and affordable cruise fares appeal to families, friends and couples of all ages who enjoy a lively onboard ambiance and casual complimentary dining options (including a Guy Fieri burger venue).

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Seabourn's 21-day Caribbean & Panama Canal Passage

largest cruise ship to go through panama canal

For a one-way Panama Canal transit that visits six countries (Aruba, Curacao, Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico) and offers six relaxing and luxurious days at sea, consider Seabourn 's 21-day Caribbean & Panama Canal Passage . The 450-guest Seabourn Sojourn will sail from Miami to Los Angeles in December.

Calls on Golfito and Puntarenas in Costa Rica offer access to eco-adventure. Visits to Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala and Puerto Chiapas and Huatulco in Mexico feature excursions focused on pre-Spanish-colonial culture, coffee cultivation and more, while a call on Cabo San Lucas offers whale-watching, deep-sea fishing or tequila tasting opportunities.

Who should go: Work-from-anywhere entrepreneurs and retirees who enjoy the luxury and refinement of small-ship cruising will enjoy this three-week Panama Canal transit. Seabourn Sojourn pampers its guests with attentive service, elevated cuisine and all-ocean-facing suites featuring walk-in closets and spacious marble bathrooms. Seabourn's all-inclusive cruise fares also cover gratuities and complimentary wines and spirits.

Princess Cruises' 10-day Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruise

While Princess Cruises does offer several longer ocean-to-ocean Panama Canal itineraries — including two in 2023 that transit via the historic locks — its popular 10-day Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruises conveniently sail roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale on more than a dozen dates in 2023 and 2024.

What's more, you can choose from among three ships: 3,140-guest Caribbean Princess or 3,080-guest Ruby Princess and Emerald Princess. In addition to the partial transit, these sailings call on Jamaica and Grand Cayman in the Caribbean, as well as Cartagena, Columbia; Limon, Costa Rica; and Colon, Panama.

Who should go: Couples who enjoy a ship with a more traditional vibe and families with kids who are content to participate in interactive learning activities and nature-based adventure (vs waterslides) will enjoy this cruise. Princess ships are known for their Movies Under the Stars screenings, multiple pools, specialty dining options such as Sabatini's Italian Trattoria and The Salty Dog Gastropub, and Crooners piano bar.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Norwegian Cruise Line's 17-day South America: Peru, Colombia & Chile cruise

largest cruise ship to go through panama canal

There's no "Panama Canal" in this itinerary's name, but Norwegian Cruise Line 's 17-day South America: Peru, Colombia & Chile cruise in January 2024 does a full canal transit (and spends a day in Panama City) as it sails from Miami to Santiago, Chile. The 1,936-guest Norwegian Sun sails to historic Santa Marta and Cartagena in Colombia; Manta, Ecuador; Trujillo, Lima and Pisco in Peru; and Arica and Coquimbo in Chile, before disembarkation in Santiago.

Who should go: Couples and friends interested in experiencing not just a Panama Canal transit but some of the top coastal experiences along the Pacific Coast of South America should choose this itinerary. Norwegian Sun is an older, smaller vessel that was refurbished in 2018 and features a top deck more conducive to sunning than thrill rides. The ship also has a surprising number of restaurants for its size: two main dining rooms, a buffet restaurant, a sports bar and an outdoor grill on a complimentary basis, plus eight specialty dining venues (including Mexican, Italian, French, Japanese and a steakhouse) for an added fee.

Oceania's 16-day Miami to Los Angeles cruise

Following its May debut, Oceania Cruises ' 1,200-guest Vista — the first new-build ship in Oceania's fleet in more than a decade — will offer back-to-back 16-day Miami to Los Angeles and Los Angeles to Miami itineraries in October and November. Both sailings visit six countries with port calls that include George Town, Grand Cayman; Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Corinto, Nicaragua; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. (The second sailing visits San Diego instead of Ensenada.)

Who should go: Oceania's newest ship offers a great compromise between a small and medium-size vessel and is ideal for those seeking a premium cruise experience with casual sophistication. Older couples especially will appreciate the ship's elegant stateroom decor in soft hues of wheat and seagrass, mix of grand and intimate spaces and wide array of dining options (including two new venues, Ember for inventive American cuisine and Aquamar Kitchen for wellness-focused breakfast, lunch and dinner). A more immersive mixology program features curated cocktail menus, indulgent pairing experiences and specialty beverage carts.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on an Oceania Cruises ship

Cunard's 29-day Alaska & Panama Canal cruise

largest cruise ship to go through panama canal

Talk about packing for all kinds of weather! Cunard's 29-day Alaska & Panama Canal sailing aboard 2,081-passenger Queen Elizabeth begins in Vancouver on Aug. 7 and explores Alaska for more than a week (visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Hubbard Glacier, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park and Sitka). Then the ship heads back south along the U.S. Pacific Coast (stopping in Victoria, Vancouver, San Francisco and Los Angeles) before heading to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Only then will it transit the Panama Canal. The ship makes one Atlantic stop in Aruba before passengers disembark in Fort Lauderdale.

Who should go: British cruise line Cunard appeals mainly to older travelers who savor the line's formal traditions. This cruise is for you if you enjoy afternoon tea, dressing up for dinner, gala evenings and dancing to big-band orchestras. The particular itinerary appeals to retirees who wish to visit a variety of cruise regions in one singular itinerary.

Viking's 180-day World Voyage

For the ultimate cruise indulgence, Viking's 180-day World Voyage I includes a Panama Canal transit (on Christmas Day, no less) as 930-passenger Viking Sky cruises from Fort Lauderdale to New York City (Dec. 19, 2024–June 17, 2025). This round-the-world cruise will visit 37 countries as guests enjoy Viking Sky's modern Scandinavian interior decor, soothing LivNordic Spa, two pools (including one with a retractable roof) and six onboard restaurants. Pricing includes airfare, gratuities and complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner.

Who should go: With cruise fares that start at $79,995 per person, this six-month adventure at sea requires a luxury budget. Viking 's base clientele is mostly retired or close-to-retirement-age professionals who enjoy the cruise line's focus on educational enrichment (via onboard lectures) and serene ambiance (there's no casino and the nighttime vibe is on the quiet side).

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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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

View cruises 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

View cruises Ocean to Ocean Between Atlantic and 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

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.

Learn more about Princess MedallionClass | Learn more about MedallionNet® Internet  

Why Princess is the #1 Panama Canal Cruise Line

Man leaning over the railing of a ship, holding his camera, viewing the locks of the Panama Canal

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

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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

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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

Watch Video

2023-2024 Panama Canal Cruises

Sail through a man-made marvel. Discover Panama Canal with Princess Cruises.

largest cruise ship to go through panama canal

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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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CRUISE PORT GUIDES

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Panama Canal – Panama

Cruise ship in Panama Canal Gatun locks

Panama canal transit by cruise ship

A transit through the canal typically takes around 10 hrs. Hours may vary because the speed of your cruise ship will be determined by the canal authorities and pilots. In the early morning 3 pilots will board te vessel the get your cruise ship through the canal. Usually a speaker of the Panama Canal will also board te vessel to give scenic commentary as you go through the canal.

There are several locks, lakes and canals that your ship will pass through when transiting through the Panama Canal. From the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific these would be:

A. Entering the Panama canal at Christobal and leaving the Caribbean sea. This is where you pick up the local pilots and narrator. B. Pass through the Gatun locks. This is where the cruise ship will be elevated 26 meters / 85 feet above sea level. If your cruise ship passes through the new canal your ship will use the locks parallel to the old locks. C. Sail over the Gatun lakes which is a large fresh water lake through the Panamanian rain forest. Keep your eyes open for pelicans and crocodiles. D. Gamboa is the half way point and headquarters of the Panama Canal dredging division. E. Sail through the famous Culebra Cut, also known as Gaillard Cut. This is where you will pass gold hill and sail under the Centennial Bridge. F. Pass through the Pedro Miguel Locks and Miraflores locks. If your cruise ship passes through the new canal you will just go through 1 set of new locks which runs parallel to the 2 older locks. G. You will sail under the bridge of the Americas and have a beautifull view over the skyline of the Panama city. H. Exiting the canal at Balboa at the Pacific ocean.

If you are doing the transit from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea you can obviously start at letter G and work up to A.

You can share your experience in the canal with friends and family back home. They can watch your cruise ship go through the locks via the live Panama Canal webcam. Click here to be forwarded to the webcam page.

Most asked questions about the Panama Canal:

Transit cost

How much does it cost to go through? Tolls vary and are never public. It is know however that the most a cruise ship every paid to go through was 500.000 US dollar. Usually cruise ships state the price is between 100.000 and 300.000 US dollars, depending on the size of the ships and the number of beds on board. Reservation and transit fees must be paid in advance.

Two way traffic

Is there two way traffic in the canal?  Yes, there is. However, ships usually go in convoy (Northbound and Southbound convoys) Each convoy starts at their end of the canal between 5 and 7 am. They pass each other half way on Gatun lakes and Culebra Cut.

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Panama Canal Cruise Entry

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.

Ensenada Mexico Cactus Valley Baja California

Journey Between Worlds

From Cartagena to Cabo San Lucas, cruise the Panama Canal

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Aerial View of Casco Viejo in Panama

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. 

Old Forts in Panama

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.

Los Arcos in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

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.

Rainforest Bridge in Costa Rica

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.

Old Town in Panama

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. 

Traditional Home with an Oxen in Costa Rica

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.

Fruit Stand in Cartagena Colombia

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.

Church La Merced in Antigua

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.

Aerial View of the Panama Canal

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 .

Puerto Limon, Costa Rica Manzanillo Wild Beach

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 .

Beach Walking Entrance, Miami, Florida

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.

Spectrum of the Seas Flowrider, Skypad, and Ripcord Activities

Finding the Right Ship for You

Shuri Castle in Okinawa

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.

Grilled Fish with Tortillas from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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.

Typical Empanadas from Guatemala

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 from Cabo San Lucas

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, Lovers Beach

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

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Cartagena, Colombia

Colon, Panama Fortifications

Colón, Panama

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Huatulco, Mexico

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Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala

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Puerto Limon, Costa Rica Manzanillo Wild Beach

Puerto Limon, Costa Rica

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Manzanillo, Mexico

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Zoom your map way out and Panama looks like a small sliver of land, so a trip through its famous canal is a quickie, right? But not so fast — traversing the canal actually takes at least 20 hours! Cruise the Panama Canal and enjoy a zoomed-in real-life look at perhaps last century’s greatest engineering achievement… along with its surrounding lush, verdant lands. This testament to human audacity joins the Pacific and Caribbean in the most direct way possible, and is worth making a leisurely part of your vacation. Even better, Panama Canal cruises call at Central American ports along the canal like Limón and Cartagena… plus at Caribbean island hotspots along the way. You’ll get to explore the local beaches and culture while heading to or from one of the greatest man-made marvels in the world. Cruises through the Panama Canal promise one legendary trip.

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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.

Aerial view of a Holland America Cruise Line ship on a Panama Canal cruise

See A Modern Marvel On Panama Canal Cruises

A picture of an orange frog on a leaf on one of many Panama Canal cruises

Panama Canal Cruises Have Diverse Ports Of Call

A picture of a Holland America Cruise Line ship on one of many award-winning Panama Canal Cruises. Logo reads, Holland America Line awarded Cruiser's Choice for Panama Canal and Central America regions.

Perfectly Sized Ships For Panama Canal Cruises

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Exceptional Cuisine & Entertainment

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Extraordinary Panama Canal Cruise Tours

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Something to Celebrate

Featured panama canal cruise ports.

An aerial view of a boats docked in Fuerte Amador, Panama while on a Panama Canal cruise

Fuerte Amador, Panama

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Cartagena, Colombia

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Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

A picture of people enjoying the beach in Puerto Caldera (Puntarenas), Costa Rica on a Panama Canal cruise excursion

Puerto Caldera (Puntarenas), Costa Rica

A picture of a historic building in Puerto Chiapas, Mexico while on a Panama Canal cruise excursion

Puerto Chiapas, Mexico

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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 .

What Cruise Ships Go Through The Panama Canal

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Carnival Legend Grand Cayman

Guests scheduled to sail on January 9th on Carnival Legend received a letter the day before informing them that the company wanted to provide them with an update regarding their itinerary.

Given the rapidly evolving COVID-related circumstances around the world, the letter explains, and in an abundance of caution, it will be necessary to modify the itinerary of your cruise. The voyage will now operate as a 10-day cruise returning to Baltimore 4 days early on Wednesday, January 19, 2022.

Unfortunately, this also means we will not be able to operate the Panama Canal itinerary you were expecting.

Panama Canal And Central America Cruise Highlights

The Panama Canal LocksPanama Canal Cruises are available in a variety of itineraries. Partial transit itineraries are offered for those seeking the convenience of departing from and returning to the same port. Full transit Panama Canal cruises are also offered for those who prefer to sail coast to coast and can often be combined with back to back cruises to create a longer and more diverse cruise experience.

A Variety of ItinerariesPanama Canal Cruises are available in a variety of itineraries. Partial transit itineraries are offered for those seeking the convenience of departing from and returning to the same port. Full transit canal cruises are also offered for those who prefer to sail coast to coast. Full transit Panama Canal cruises can often be combined with back to back cruises to create a longer and more diverse cruise experience.

A Variety of Excursion OpportunitiesA variety of excursion opportunities are offered in the different ports on a Panama Canal cruise. In the Caribbean there are beautiful beaches and a variety of watersports and shopping. In Central and South America guests on a Panama Canal cruise can explore local markets, colonial towns and exotic surroundings.

Diverse PortsIn addition to the time spent transiting the canal, the itineraries include diverse ports throughout the region including beautiful Caribbean ports, Central America ports as well as stops in South America and Mexico.

Special Cruise Offers

Best for a deep dive into the canal.

While many Panama cruises bring only a day of canal-related sightseeing, the seven-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal sailings that Windstar Cruises offers on its 212-passenger Star Pride promise a much deeper exploration. In addition to a day spent transiting the canal, the itinerary includes a day at Colón, Panama, on the Atlantic side of the waterway, where passengers can arrange tours to the giant new Agua Clara Locks a few miles away . The ship also docks for a night and day at Balboa, Panama, on the canals Pacific side, for tours to the nearby Miraflores Locks and related exhibit halls . The trips are rounded out by a beach day at Panamas pristine Isla Parida and two outdoorsy stops in Costa Rica where passengers have the opportunity to bird-watch and hike in rain forests or kayak through mangroves. Fares from $1,999 per person windstarcruises.com .

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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.

More About The Panama Canal & Central America

A Disney Cruise Ship Just Squeaked Through the New Panama ...

What is the best time to cruise to the Panama Canal & Central America?

Panama Canal and Central America cruise season is from October through April. The rainy season doesnt end until November, so cruises here are more popular from December onward. For more: Best Month to Cruise to the Panama Canal

Which cruise lines go to the Panama Canal & Central America?

Most major cruise lines, including Princess and Holland America, feature at least a few Panama Canal sailings in addition to expedition lines like Tauck and Lindblad. Cruisers can choose from a partial or full transit of the canal . Cruises that specifically explore countries like Costa Rica are on offer, from small-ship lines like Windstar Cruises.

What are some things to do in the Panama Canal & Central America?

In addition to either a full or partial crossing of the Panama Canal, most cruises in this region include stops in popular ports throughout Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean. That means you can do anything from lounge on the beach to explore ancient ruins or enjoy some duty-free shopping. If you can, trek Arenal Volcano from Puerto Limon, Costa Rica.

Do you need a passport to take a cruise to the Panama Canal & Central America?

Yes, a passport is required for travel throughout Central America, including Panama.

What should I pack for a cruise to the Panama Canal & Central America?

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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!

Largest Cruise Ship To Transit The Panama Canal

Norwegian Bliss is now in the record books as the largest cruise ship to transit the Panama Canal. The newest ship for Norwegian Cruise Line, the 4,004 passenger Norwegian Bliss made its North American debut in New York City on May 4-6. From there, Norwegian Bliss cruised the eastern seaboard for another inaugural debut in Miami on May 8-10.

Built with Alaska cruising in mind, Norwegian Bliss charted a course that would take it through the Panama Canal and into the Pacific Ocean.

As scheduled, there will be yet another inaugural event in Los Angeles on May 25-27. Afterwards, the ship will head up the west coast to Seattle. When Norwegian Bliss arrives in Seattle, the official naming ceremony and more festivities are planned for May 30-June 2.

We are very proud to showcase our newest ship and celebrate one more exciting milestone with Norwegian Bliss as the largest passenger ship to transit the new Panama Canal, said Andy Stuart, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. We are excited for this sixteenth ship in our young and modern fleet to begin welcoming guests in her home port of Seattle and provide them with the outstanding service, dining, entertainment and amenities for which we are recognized.

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How Much Does It Cost To Go Through Panama Canal

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Regarding this, how much does it cost for a cruise ship to go through the Panama Canal?

The cost of moving a ship through the Panama Canal has tripled over the past five years to around $450,000 per passage for a vessel carrying 4,500 containers, and this figure is likely to go up upon completion of the expansion process.

Beside above, how much does it cost to go through the Suez Canal? Vessels sailing from Asia to the East Coast via the Suez Canal have to pay on average US$465,000 for passage, according to SeaIntel, which calculated that the South Africa route would save an average of US$235,000 per voyage.

People also ask, how long does it take to go through the Panama Canal?

eight to 10 hours

What is the toll to go through the Panama Canal?

Under the new toll structure, a 9,000-TEU ship carrying 6,500 loaded TEU, or 72.2 percent of capacity, would pay a regular $677,500 toll for its headhaul voyage. That same ship, carrying 4,000 TEU on the backhaul, would pay $550,000, a 6.8 percent reduction from the current $590,000 toll .

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 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 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 ships excursion to disembark, and if you do so, you wont be sailing onboard the cruise ship back through the locks .

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 youre looking for a more luxury experience, youll need to choose a full transit.

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Panama Canal Cruise Highlights

Hike up to an active volcano. Raft one of the many rivers. Scuba dive in its beautiful seas, or zip along a cable through the rainforest tree tops. There are so many adventure sports such as kayaking, rafting, rappelling, and horseback riding.

Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers streets lined with old architecture plus modern amenities like restaurants and shops. The best historical structures are the churches, including the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion, dating from 1619, and the Iglesia de San Jose, noted for its vaulted side chapels and golden altar.

Natural Beauty

Central America has breathtaking natural areas, perfect for spotting wildlife or hitting the trails. In fact, more than 25% of Costa Rica is protected land or national parks. With more than 900 species of birds in this region, bird watchers can be sure to check the Resplendent Quetzal off their list.

Which Panama Canal Cruise To Go On The Old Or New

The Panama Canal is a great cruise to go on but with now two canals to choose from which is the best Panama Canal cruise to go on the old or the new?

Once an upon a time only smaller cruise ships could only transit through the Panama Canal and then they built a bigger canal.

Now bigger cruise ships can transit through the new Panamax Canal.

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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 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.

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.

How Many Locks Are In The Panama Canal

Travel on a cruise ship through the locks in Panama ...

12 locksThe Panama Water Lock System consists of a total of three sets of locks-12 locks- to help vessels transit between the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans via artificial lakes and channels. Before the canal expansion, which was completed in 2016, the canal had two lines with two sets of the lock at both ends of the canal.Sep 7, 2021

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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?

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

How Long Does a Panama Canal Cruise Take?

What Are Some Top Excursions During a Panama Cruise?

What Are the Top Cruise Lines for Panama Canal Cruises

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

Will The Expanded Panama Canal Accept Mega Cruise Ships

Cruise Line & Cruise Ship Celebrity Cruises Jason Leppert December 18, 2015

The Panama Canal is a marvel of engineering that allows cruise and cargo ships to efficiently cross Central America instead of skirting the southernmost tip of South America at Cape Horn. For years, most cruise ships could pass through the locks, but as they got increasingly bigger over time, they outgrew the canal. Now the canal is expanding with a third lane of larger locks and will be able to accept many bigger cruise ships in the near future.

Norwegian Cruise Line Updates Cancellation Policy Cruise Line & Cruise Ship

Anyone who has taken a Panama Canal cruise knows just how fascinating it is to be on a ship of around 90,000 tons in size as it effectively rides an aquatic escalator up the continent, over a central lake and back down again on the other side. Clearances are often super snug, as ships steel hulls glide gracefully past concrete walls as close as inches away, guided by mule trains tied to the mooring lines. Just go down to a lower deck to see the locks immediately outside a window to really perceive the staggering scale.

You Shall Not Pass

So once completed, will the Harmony of the Seas be able to fit through? Well, not quite. The new lane of locks, under construction in parallel with the existing ones, will measure in at 1,400 by 180 feet with a 60-foot draft, but the maximum allowed ship size will be capped to 1,200 by 161 feet and a 50 foot draft.

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Want To Cruise Through The New Panama Canal Locks Here’s How

The official opening of the 48-mile-long waterway’s massive new locks on Sunday will add a new twist to what long has been a bucket list item for cruising fans. Some lines will begin using the new locks for canal sailings. Others will stick with the older locks. Cruisers who want a specific experience will need to choose their ship wisely.

Princess Cruises, which offers more voyages into the canal than any other line, recently became the first line to announce plans to use the new locks. The line said its 3,080-passenger Caribbean Princess would operate partial transits of the canal using the new locks starting in late 2017.

The Caribbean Princess’ first canal sailing on Oct. 21, 2017 will be a milestone for the cruise industry. Barring a last-minute announcement from another line, it’ll mark the first time a “post-Panamax” cruise ship — one too big for the waterway’s original, smaller locks — has entered the canal. The Caribbean Princess’ beam is 118 feet. That’s 12 feet wider than the maximum allowed in the older locks.

Disney Cruise Line also plans to use the new locks for its twice-a-year voyages through the canal starting in 2017, a spokeswoman tells USA TODAY. Disney’s canal sailings in 2017 are scheduled to take place on the Disney Wonder, which can fit in both the old and new locks.

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Holland America Line Opens Bookings for 2025-2026 Hawaii and Panama Canal Voyages

Holland America Line is setting sail for adventure with the opening of bookings for its 2025-2026 Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises. With a focus on longer voyages and destination immersion, the premium cruise line is set to offer sailings out of five North American homeports on five separate ships for the 2025-2026 season.

For the specified season, Holland America Line is offering six different Panama Canal cruises. The upcoming season’s offering will feature several firsts, including the addition of the port of Acajutla, El Salvador on most Panama Canal itineraries and the inaugural transit of the canal by the Pinnacle-Class ship Koningsdam. For those looking to cross the canal aboard Zuiderdam, the 2025-2026 season will bring new departures from Miami .

These cruises, ranging from 15 to 22 days, provide guests with the opportunity to embark on shorter or more extended journeys, all while experiencing the wonders of the iconic Central America waterway.

"We know a Panama Canal transit is a once-in-a-lifetime experience many of our guests are seeking, and by adding Acajutla to select voyages, we're making it even more memorable. Guests can discover the 'Pompeii of the Americas' with a shore excursion to Joya de Cerén archaeological site, where they'll explore a Mayan farming village remarkably preserved under volcanic ash," said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America Line's chief commercial officer. "With four different departure cities, there are so many different ways to experience the Panama Canal aboard one of our ships.

In addition to Panama Canal adventures, the 2025-2026 season marks the debut of Holland America Line's ship Nieuw Amsterdam in Hawaii. Sailing roundtrip itineraries from San Diego, California, Nieuw Amsterdam will be joined by Koningsdam and Zaandam in sailing island-hopping itineraries, almost all of which include an overnight in the Aloha State’s iconic capital city of Honolulu. 

Holland America’s selection of Hawaii and Panama Canal cruises both range in duration from 15 to 22 days and are available from October 2025 through April 2026. Cruises to both of these colorful equatorial destinations showcase a blend of natural wonders and manmade marvels, from breathtaking cascading waterfalls and verdant tropical landscapes to ancient Mayan ruins and the world-famous locks of the Panama Canal. 

Immersive shore excursions offer cultural insights into the destinations' rich heritage and natural beauty. Meanwhile, the diverse cuisine offered on board incorporates unique local flavors, including succulent Pacific mahi-mahi, sweet golden pineapple, fresh homemade salsa, and other regional specialties sourced directly from port to plate.

Highlights of the 2025-2026 Panama Canal Cruise Season:

  • Panama Canal cruises are aboard Eurodam, Koningsdam and Zuiderdam.
  • Cruises start or end in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Seattle, Washington; San Diego, California; or Miami or Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
  • Guests enjoy a daylight transit of the Panama Canal, with commentary on the open decks detailing the amazing feat of the man-made marvel.
  • Itineraries range from 15 to 22 days and include a combination of calls in Aruba, California, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama and Turks and Caicos.
  • Several cruises offer multiple embarkation or disembarkation options. For example, Fort Lauderdale to San Diego, Seattle or Vancouver.
  • Select Panama Canal sailings include a call at Acajutla, a new port for Holland America Line, offering excursions to remarkably preserved Mayan ruins, volcanoes, and cacao plantations, while also providing a gateway to see more of El Salvador, including San Salvador and Nahuizalco.
  • Many Panama Canal cruises include a call at Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line's award-winning private island in the Bahamas.

Highlights of the 2025-2026 Hawaii Cruise Season:

  • Cruises to Hawaii are aboard Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam and Zaandam. This will be Nieuw Amsterdam's first season in Hawaii.
  • Itineraries are roundtrip from San Diego, roundtrip from Vancouver, or from Vancouver to San Diego.
  • 17-day "Circle Hawaii" from Vancouver to San Diego visits Nawiliwili, Kahului, Hilo, Honolulu (overnight) and Kona. The 17-day roundtrip from San Diego features either an overnight or late departure from Honolulu, a call to Ensenada, Mexico, and more Hawaiian ports like Kona and Kahului.
  • 18-day "Circle Hawaii" is roundtrip from San Diego or Vancouver and calls at Kahului, Hilo, Honolulu (overnight), Nawiliwili and Kona. Roundtrip San Diego adds a call at Ensenada and roundtrip Vancouver includes Victoria, Canada.

For a limited time, guests who choose to add the ‘Have It All’ premium package—the line’s standard package of amenities, such as shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package, Surf Wi-Fi and free prepaid Crew Appreciation—when booking select Panama Canal and Hawaii voyages will receive free upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi.

Holland America Line's Pinnacle-Class ship, the MS Koningsdam.

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6 top luxury alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Book a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land on one of these top luxury ships.

Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Veranda of Aquamarine Suite on Crystal cruise ship.

Courtesy of Crystal

Cruising to Alaska on a small luxury ship affords a very different experience than sailing through The Great Land on a larger vessel. On a smaller luxury ship, you'll enjoy the expected perks like fewer passengers and more personalized service – but you'll also physically get closer to the boundless wilderness, abundant wildlife, icy blue glaciers and majestic snow-capped mountains that you've waited a lifetime to see.

While the fares to sail on such vessels are quite a bit higher than those of larger cruise providers, the all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) prices typically include all-suite accommodations with balconies, all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, welcome bottles of sparkling wine, pillow selection, some shore excursions and butler service. Best of all, you won't feel like you're being nickel-and-dimed while on board. As a special touch, the attentive crew members may even learn your name and memorize your preferred pre-dinner cocktail.

Unlike many mainstream lines, most luxury Alaska cruises do not offer pre- and post-cruise tours to extend your adventure. However, you can plan these experiences on your own through third-party providers.

Alaska Tour & Travel has pre-cruise packages that include visits to Denali National Park & Preserve and the small, quirky Alaska towns of Homer and Talkeetna. You can also see a different side of Alaska via a train ride on the Alaska Railroad, take a national parks tour that includes Kenai Fjords National Park or head northbound to Fairbanks , one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights (if you visit during aurora season, from late August to late April). In addition, the company can plan a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Seward, which includes a stay at a wilderness lodge, helicopter flightseeing over Knik Glacier and guided tours in the parks.

The following luxury cruise lines will ensure you make the most of your voyage in Alaska – one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

Find your perfect cruise

Silversea Cruises

Pool deck on the Silversea Nova.

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' small luxury ships are designed for adventurers interested in visiting a mix of Alaska's top ports and more rugged, off-the-beaten-track locales. Extended itineraries offer stops in less-visited destinations like the towns of Haines and Wrangell. On board, guests can expect a personalized experience that includes luxurious ocean-view suites with butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and attentive service with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.

Base fares for Silversea's 2024 and 2025 Alaska itineraries start at $3,250 per person. If you upgrade to Silversea 's door-to-door fare (which starts at $5,200 per person), you'll receive private chauffeur service from your home to the airport (and back home upon your return) and round-trip flights, with business class upgrades in some destinations.

Silversea also offers immersive pre- and post-cruise land experiences, departing from Seward, Alaska. Highlights include sightseeing flights over Denali National Park & Preserve or into bear country to see Alaska's magnificent grizzly bears. In Vancouver, travelers can take a flightseeing transfer to Victoria to tour the 55-acre Butchart Gardens or board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day train ride through the Canadian Rockies.

Silversea's Alaska itineraries extend from May to September, with voyages ranging between seven and 16 days. The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova , sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests). There are 35 Alaska voyages available in 2024. In 2025, luxury cruisers can hop aboard one of 45 scheduled voyages on either Silver Nova or the 596-guest Silver Moon .

For a seven-day itinerary, consider a sailing from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This voyage cruises the Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage and stops in the Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan. Complimentary excursions in Ketchikan include a tour of Saxman Native Village; a visit to Bonfire Bay Oyster Farm, featuring a sea-to-table oyster tasting; the Alaskan Cultural, Culinary & Lumberjack show; the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast and a day as a fisherman aboard the Aleutian Ballard, as seen on Discovery Channel's "The Deadliest Catch." You can also opt for a Selected Shore Excursion (for an additional cost), such as mountain biking or a private fishing trip.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Bed in the Concierge Suite on the Regent Seven Seas Explorer.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it debuted in 2016; among its impressive features are the 3,875-square-foot Regent Suite and a high-end collection of art displayed throughout the ship, including works by Pablo Picasso.

Alaska voyages with Regent in 2024 and 2025 start at $4,799 per person. Upgraded 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (starting at $5,499 per person) cover elegant all-balcony suite accommodations; round-trip airfare (business class on international flights); a one-night pre-cruise hotel package; free two- or three-night land programs; free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic); complimentary specialty dining; and prepaid gratuities. You'll also receive complimentary airport transfers, unlimited Wi-Fi access and valet laundry service.

Every suite style includes a private balcony, roomy closets and upscale finishes. Concierge Suites (and above) add cozy in-room amenities like cashmere blankets, perfect to bundle up in while you take in the scenery. Meanwhile, Penthouse Suites (and higher) include a private butler who can book excursions, make dinner and spa reservations, unpack your luggage, arrange for a private cocktail soiree in your suite and indulge any other special requests.

Between May and September 2024, Regent sails 22 Alaska voyages. There are 16 Alaska sailings scheduled for the same period in 2025. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights. For plenty of scenic cruising days, consider a round-trip itinerary from Vancouver departing May 28, 2025. The cruise includes five relaxing days at sea, where you'll enjoy scenic cruising through the Inside Passage (twice), Hubbard Glacier (twice) and Endicott Arm Fjord. Ports of call in Alaska include Wrangell, Juneau , Skagway, Sitka, Seward, Icy Strait (Hoonah) and Ketchikan. You'll also have a full day in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Vancouver.

While in Wrangell, consider the Tongass Botanical Forest Walk excursion. Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with towering old-growth trees and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems. While in the temperate rainforest with your naturalist guide, look for local wildlife like Sitka black-tailed deer, porcupines and birds of prey. Other complimentary excursions at this stop include a round of golf at Muskeg Meadows Golf Course; a canoe trip through Wrangell harbor and nearby islands, and a heritage tour about Tlingit culture and the history of the town.

Nobu restaurant on a Crystal cruise ship.

Recently relaunched Crystal offers just seven voyages in Alaska aboard Crystal Serenity in July and August 2024. The 740-guest luxury vessel was refurbished in 2023 and features the line's signature top-notch service, elegant interiors and suites, and personal butler service in every room category.

Other perks and amenities include plush bathrobes and Sicily's Ortigia bath products; an impressive passenger-to-crew ratio; prepaid gratuities; complimentary beverages; and outstanding cuisine, including Umi Uma (an exclusive Nobu restaurant at sea, available only on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ). Guests can also feast on Italian cuisine at Osteria d'Ovidio; book an exclusive dining experience at The Vintage Room; indulge in Parisian cafe-style fare at The Bistro; opt for American cuisine at Waterside Restaurant or take their pick of several other casual indoor and alfresco options.

Cruisers also have their selection of unique shore experiences curated by Crystal's parent company A&K Travel Group, such as a ride on the world's largest zip line in Hoonah (Icy Strait Point); dog sledding and glacier flightseeing in Skagway; fishing and wilderness dining in Ketchikan and the Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge experience in Sitka, boasting a feast of Alaska king crab and wild salmon.

Crystal offers seven- and eight-night round-trip voyages from Vancouver , as well as one-way cruises from Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. Select itineraries – like the July 30, 2024, voyage from Vancouver to Seward – offer a scenic cruising day in the Seymour Narrows in British Columbia. On this sailing, you'll also enjoy a day at sea cruising Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Hoonah (Icy Strait), Skagway and Sitka in Alaska. Or, opt for the July 2, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver for three scenic cruising days in the Inside Passage, Endicott Arm and the Seymour Narrows.

The line's Aug. 13, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver features a special guest: Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the executive chairman of A&K Travel Group. As such, the cruise will include an exclusive gala dinner and other unique experiences. Other special voyages welcome marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, who will share personal stories from his extensive career and expert insights about humpback whale habitats and behaviors.

largest cruise ship to go through panama canal

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Viking Ocean Cruises

The Restaurant on a Viking cruise ship.

Courtesy of Viking

Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion . In 2025, the line offers the same itinerary on 22 dates between May and September, split between Viking Orion and its sister ship, the 930-passenger Viking Sea .

Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

The line's mostly all-inclusive fares cover accommodations in spacious all-veranda staterooms and suites; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; meals at all the dining venues; one shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center; and other upscale amenities.

Voyages traveling northbound from Vancouver include one day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before stopping in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point in Alaska. The eighth day of the cruise sails through picturesque Yakutat Bay, which includes the Hubbard Glacier. The ship then calls on Valdez, Alaska, before the trip ends with two days in Seward.

While in Valdez, take an optional tour to explore the incredible scenery surrounding the small fishing town. Viking offers a kayaking trip to see the Valdez Glacier; a scenic cruise through picturesque Prince William Sound to view the Columbia Glacier; a wildlife cruise where you can look for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles; a helicopter ride over the area's rugged, icy wilderness; or a UTV adventure through the Chugach Mountains to Mineral Creek Canyon.

Seabourn Cruise Line

The aft pool on a Seabourn Cruise Line ship.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Between May and August 2024, Seabourn Cruise Line will host 20 Alaska voyages aboard the Seabourn Odyssey , before the ship leaves the cruise line in the fall. In 2025, the line offers 27 Alaska sailings on Seabourn Quest. Both yacht-inspired ships accommodate up to 458 guests and feature Seabourn's signature all-inclusive amenities, including luxurious oceanfront suites with verandas; personalized service; complimentary fine wines and premium spirits; complimentary dining; and caviar served throughout the sailing. You'll also have a complimentary W-Fi package and an in-suite minibar stocked with your favorite beverages. Ashore, sign up for exclusive programs like shopping for fresh salmon, halibut and Alaska king crab alongside a Seabourn chef.

Guests booking Seabourn Quest for 2025 will be able to sample the line's new dining concept, Solis. Inspired by destinations in the Mediterranean, the menu features a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes and whimsical cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration with master chef and culinary partner Anton Egger and senior corporate chef Franck Salein. In addition to dishes like salt-encrusted whole branzino and Tuscan-style steak, guests will also find a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

The seven-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary on May 31, 2024, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, sails from Juneau to Vancouver and includes a day in either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, depending on the ice conditions. From there, you can take one of the optional guided excursions: Ventures by Seabourn. These tours are an additional cost but offer opportunities for up-close Zodiac, kayaking or catamaran experiences in the wilderness to see glaciers calving and view local wildlife, such as black bears, mountain goats, seals, wolves and seabirds.

You'll also enjoy many days of scenic cruising on this voyage, and have the opportunity for more optional adventures in Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords). The ship makes additional stops in Wrangell, Alaska, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before disembarking in Vancouver.

If you want to see stunning Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, then consider booking the seven-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay sailing on May 10, 2024, from Vancouver to Juneau. This itinerary also includes the Seymour Narrows and Snow Pass, cruising Queen Island Sound and the Lynn Canal. There's a stop for Ventures by Seabourn activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides in the Inian Islands. The Alaska ports of call on this voyage are Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Haines. You'll disembark in Juneau.

Bed in cabin on PONANT Le Soléal.

Francois Lefebvre | Courtesy of PONANT

French luxury expedition line PONANT offers 10 Alaska cruises in 2024; itineraries span between seven and 11 nights. Aboard the 264-guest yacht-style Le Soléal, you'll meet up to 10 naturalist experts and guides specializing in geology, history, ornithology or marine or land mammals. Guests can attend onboard lectures and embark on Zodiac landings with the guides.

The ship features elegant staterooms and suites, a library, a spa, a hair salon and a gym. Guests will be treated to movies in the theater, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations throughout the expedition. All fine dining meals, 24-hour room service, an open bar (including an in-room minibar) and complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi access are covered in the pricing.

Two of PONTANT's eight-night voyages from Vancouver to Sitka are in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys and are curated for English-speaking travelers. Fares for these expeditions include transfers to and from the ship and a shore excursion in each port. On board, you can attend talks and discussions hosted by two Smithsonian Journeys experts: geologist Scott Burns and natural history filmmaker John Grabowska.

On these voyages, there is a sea day after departing Vancouver. You'll cruise through the Johnstone Strait, where you'll have an excellent chance of seeing humpback whales and orcas. After a day spent in the Inside Passage, the ship will call on the village of Metlakatla, Alaska, on the western coast of Annette Island, which is home to the Tsimshians from British Columbia. Other unique Alaska ports of call in this itinerary include the commercial fishing town of Petersburg, the Tlingit village of Kake and the small fishing community of Alfin Cove.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to explore the state's vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. Pratesi used her extensive knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
  • The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
  • Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
  • The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
  • The Top Antarctica Cruises

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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IMAGES

  1. Picture This: The Largest Cruise Ship Ever to Transit the Panama Canal

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  2. Norwegian Bliss Becomes Largest Cruise Ship to Transit the Expanded

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  3. Norwegian's New Cruise Ship Largest to Ever Pass Through Panama Canal

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  4. Picture This: The Largest Cruise Ship Ever to Transit the Panama Canal

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  5. Panama Canal Cruise Deals 2019

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  6. See the largest cruise ship to transit the Panama Canal

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COMMENTS

  1. Biggest-Ever Cruise Ship Sails Through Panama Canal

    May 15, 2018 11:05 AM EDT. A 168,028-ton Norwegian Cruise Line ship traveled through the Panama Canal Monday, becoming the largest-ever passenger vessel to traverse the narrow waterway. The ...

  2. Largest Cruise Ship to Transit the Panama Canal

    Not only is Norwegian Bliss the largest cruise ship to transit the Panama Canal, it is also the first cruise ship to have a the largest, 1,000-foot, open-air race track. Alex Vega, Miami-based celebrity car guru, delivered two fully customized electric go-karts prior to the ship's Miami departure. One go-kart is a metallic royal blue and the ...

  3. Will the Expanded Panama Canal Accept Mega Cruise Ships?

    Photo by Jason Leppert. The Panama Canal is a marvel of engineering that allows cruise and cargo ships to efficiently cross Central America instead of skirting the southernmost tip of South America at Cape Horn. For years, most cruise ships could pass through the locks, but as they got increasingly bigger over time, they outgrew the canal.

  4. Norwegian's New Cruise Ship Largest to Ever Pass Through Panama Canal

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  5. Cruising the Panama Canal: Small Ship vs. Big Ship

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  6. Norwegian Bliss Becomes Largest Passenger Ship to Traverse Panama Canal

    Miami - May 16, 2018. Norwegian Bliss completed yet another milestone, as she makes her way to her home port of Seattle, becoming the largest passenger ship to transit the Panama Canal since the completion of the canal's expansion project in 2016. As the newest and largest Norwegian Cruise Line ship at over 168,000 gross tons and a capacity ...

  7. Which Cruise Ships Go Through The New Panama Canal

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  9. Panama Canal cruise port schedule

    Linking the Atlantic to Pacific oceans, Panama Canal provides one of the most unforgettable ship cruising experiences. More than 10 years were needed to complete the Canal's 51 mi (82 km) in 1914, thus avoiding the lengthy and dangerous navigation around Cape Horn.. The transiting vessels (assisted at the locks by land-based locomotives) pass through artificial lakes and narrow channels ...

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  12. What Cruise Ships Go To Panama Canal

    Cruise Ships that Visit the Panama Canal. A variety of cruise ships offer itineraries that include a transit through the Panama Canal. Whether you prefer a large, luxurious mega-ship or a smaller, more intimate vessel, there are options to suit every style and budget. Let's explore some of the popular cruise lines that offer Panama Canal ...

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  14. Top Panama Canal cruise tips and tricks to get the most out of this

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  16. Panama Canal Cruises 2023-2024

    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.

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    Panama Canal from Tampa, FL. 1 cruises from. $. 1389. *. Avg PP. See Cruises. * Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person. Take a cruise with Carnival through the iconic Panama Canal and stop in ports like Cartagena, Puerto Quetzal, and Puntarenas.

  21. Best Panama Canal Cruises for 2024 and 2025

    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.

  22. Panama Canal Increases Length Capacity to Accommodate Most Boxships

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  24. What Cruise Ships Go Through The Panama Canal

    Largest Cruise Ship To Transit The Panama Canal. Norwegian Bliss is now in the record books as the largest cruise ship to transit the Panama Canal. The newest ship for Norwegian Cruise Line, the 4,004 passenger Norwegian Bliss made its North American debut in New York City on May 4-6.

  25. What's new for Holland America Line's Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises

    The roundtrip San Diego cruise adds a call at Ensenada and the roundtrip Vancouver cruise includes Victoria, B.C. Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises are offered from October 2025 through April 2026 ...

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    For the upcoming season, the cruise line will offer departures from five North American homeports, sailing on five ships. Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises will sail from October 2025 through April 2026, and range from 15 to 22 days. Following are highlights of Holland America Line's 2025-2026 voyages by region. Panama Canal Itineraries and ...

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  28. 6 Top Luxury Alaska Cruises for 2024 & Beyond

    The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova, sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests ...