An engineering marvel connecting two oceans.
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Overview
The Panama Canal is not a traditional cruise port but one of the world's most legendary cruise experiences. This 50-mile waterway is a triumph of human ingenuity, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and dramatically changing the course of global trade. A cruise through the Panama Canal is a journey through a lush Central American landscape and a live demonstration of a magnificent feat of engineering.
A transit of the Panama Canal is a full-day event filled with anticipation and wonder. Passengers watch from the ship's decks as the massive vessel is guided through a series of locks, meticulously raised and lowered to navigate a total of 85 feet. The journey also includes cruising through Gatun Lake, a massive artificial lake where verdant rainforest and an abundance of wildlife are on full display.
The highlight of any the area cruise is experiencing a transit. Whether it's the Miraflores or Gatun Locks, watching the ship pass. The ship's deck is the place to witness this engineering marvel.
Tip: The transit of the locks is often an early morning affair.
A common shore excursion is a visit to the Miraflores Visitors Center. This center offers a multi-story viewing platform where you can watch ships pass through the Miraflores Locks, a museum detailing the canal's history.
Tip: The center can get very busy, so arriving early is the best way to get a good spot.
After passing through the first set of locks, the ship enters Gatun Lake, an artificial lake that was once a part of the jungle. This section of the journey offers jungle views.
Tip: Keep a pair of binoculars handy to get a closer look at the wildlife on the banks.
From the port on the Caribbean side, many excursions take you deep into the rainforest surrounding the canal. Guided tours use small boats to navigate jungle waterways, providing an up-close look at the area's biodiversity.
Tip: Look for excursions that take you to Monkey Island, where you can see several species of monkeys up close.
You will pass beneath the Centennial Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge that crosses the Gaillard Cut. This modern architectural masterpiece is a symbol of the canal's continued evolution and provides a backdrop for photos.
Tip: The best time for a photo is as the ship passes directly under the bridge's main towers.
The entire transit is an educational experience. Your ship's crew and lecturers will provide a running commentary on the canal's history, its construction, and the operations that keep it running.
Tip: Listen for the stories about the "mules," the small electric locomotives that guide the ships through the locks.
Aboard
Crown Princess
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1 Sailing
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Coral Princess
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1 Sailing
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Aboard
Crown Princess
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Los Angeles, California
1 Sailing
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Aboard
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Fort Lauderdale, Florida
2 Sailings
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Aboard
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San Diego, California
1 Sailing
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Aboard
Island Princess
From
Los Angeles, California
1 Sailing
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Coral Princess
From
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
1 Sailing
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Aboard
Viking Polaris
From
New York City, New York
3 Sailings
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Aboard
Nieuw Amsterdam
From
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
5 Sailings
Nov 8, 2026 - Mar 21, 2027
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Aboard
Nieuw Amsterdam
From
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
2 Sailings
Nov 8, 2026 - Mar 21, 2027
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