Central America Cruises

Discover the Vibrant Wonders of Central America on a Cruise

Central America is a region bursting with natural beauty, rich cultures, and diverse wildlife. A cruise to Central America allows travelers to explore pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities all from the comfort of your ship. Fun fact: Central America is home to 7% of the world’s biodiversity, making it an exciting destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike! Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, thrilling outdoor activities, or indulging in local cuisine, a cruise to Central America opens the door to unforgettable experiences.

Top Harbours to Visit in Central America

When cruising through Central America, you’ll have the chance to stop at some beautiful harbours. Here are five key destinations you’ll want to explore:

• Panama Canal
  One of the most famous engineering marvels in the world, the Panama Canal is a must-see on any Central America cruise. Once your cruise ship passes through the canal, you could take a guided tour showcasing its history and significance. If you’ve got limited time, a quick visit to the Miraflores Locks offers a fascinating view of ships and the inner workings of the canal, alongside informative exhibits about its construction.
• Roatán, Honduras
  Roatán is renowned for its stunning coral reefs and lush landscapes, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling and diving. Upon docking, hop into a guided snorkelling tour to explore the vibrant underwater ecosystem. Alternatively, take a canopy zip-line tour through the lush treetops for an exciting adventure. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, relax on one of the island’s lovely beaches and enjoy some local seafood at a beachside restaurant.
• Belize City, Belize
  Belize is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including the Great Blue Hole. When you dock in Belize City, consider taking a day trip to experience the incredible barrier reef through snorkelling or diving excursions. If you’re keen on history, visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Altun Ha, only a short drive away. For an option that’s closer to the cruise port, enjoy a refreshments stop at a local restaurant in the city and sample some traditional Belizean dishes.
• Colón, Panama
  Colón is a bustling port city that serves as another gateway to the Panama Canal. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history by visiting the Colón Free Zone, home to shops offering everything from luxury items to local crafts. If time permits, consider taking a tour of Fort San Lorenzo, where you can witness the remnants of colonial Spanish fortifications. Shopping for local souvenirs is also an enjoyable way to pass the time before re-boarding your cruise.
• Puerto Limón, Costa Rica
  Puerto Limón is a major port for those wishing to explore Costa Rica’s lush rainforests and wildlife. Once your cruise ship docks, you can participate in a guided tour to Tortuguero National Park for a chance to see turtles and other wildlife. If you’d rather stay close, take a short stroll to the vibrant market and engage with local vendors offering delicious tropical fruits and handcrafted souvenirs to remember your journey!

Timing Your Visit to Central America

The best time to visit Central America by cruise is between December and April, when temperatures generally range from 25°C to 30°C—perfect for beach lounging and outdoor adventures. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and experience milder temperatures, consider visiting in November or May, when daytime temperatures can be around 20°C to 25°C. However, be mindful that the rainy season typically lasts from May to October, potentially affecting your travel plans.

Cruise Costs and Options for Central America

What can you expect in terms of costs? A 1-week cruise to Central America generally ranges from $1,200 to $3,000 for standard packages, while luxury offerings might cost between $4,000 and $8,500. If you’re considering a longer, 2-week cruise, the typical cost can range from $2,500 to $5,500 for standard cruises, and from $9,000 for luxury voyages. The cheapest months for cruising are typically during the shoulder months of late November to early December and May, while peak travel months from December to February often see higher prices. When dining in the region, expect to pay about $15 to $40 for a meal, with drinks averaging between $5 to $10.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Central America

• Princess Cruises
  With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has 13 vessels navigating to Central America, including Caribbean Princess and Majestic Princess. These cruises often depart from Sydney or Brisbane for domestic travelers, or Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral for international departures. Princess is known for its enriching onboard entertainment and diverse itineraries tailored to showcase Central American’s best locations.
• Holland America Line
  Holland America operates 11 ships, with 8 sailing to Central America, including Eurodam and Rotterdam. Cruises typically depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Diego. Holland America focuses on immersive cultural experiences that allow guests to truly connect with the destinations they visit while also enjoying impeccable onboard service and amenities.
• Carnival Cruise Line
  Carnival boasts a fleet of 27 ships, with 13 offering access to Central America. Popular ships include Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle, with many departures taking place from Galveston or Tampa. Carnival is well-loved for its fun, relaxed atmosphere and ample opportunities for family-friendly activities both on and off the ship.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  Norwegian has a fleet of 20 ships, including 12 that cruise to Central America, such as Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Escape. Departures for these cruises typically occur from Miami or New Orleans. Norwegian offers a unique freestyle cruising experience, allowing passengers the freedom to dine and explore on their own terms without fixed schedules.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises
  With a fleet size of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean has 14 vessels cruising to Central America, including Serenade of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. Most departures occur from Tampa or Galveston. Royal Caribbean is celebrated for its innovative onboard entertainment options and thrilling activities like zip-lining and rock climbing available on select ships!

Luxury and Small Ship Choices

• Oceania Cruises
  This cruise line operates 8 ships, with 7 navigating to Central America, including Vista and Insignia. Departures typically occur from Miami or Los Angeles. Oceania offers exquisite dining experiences, luxurious accommodations, and carefully curated itineraries, ensuring an immersive exploration of the region’s highlights.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent has a fleet of 6 ships, featuring 4 vessels that visit Central America, including Seven Seas Grandeur and Seven Seas Mariner. Departures often take place from Miami or Los Angeles. Regent is known for its all-inclusive luxury experiences that cater to all guests’ needs, providing exceptional service and gourmet dining.
• Silversea
  Silversea’s fleet boasts 13 ships, including 6 that sail to Central America, with Silver Ray and Silver Shadow leading the way. Departing from both domestic and international ports like Fort Lauderdale and San Diego, Silversea offers an intimate luxury cruising experience, focusing on outstanding service and unique shore excursions.
• Viking Ocean Cruises
  With 11 ships, Viking has 5 that explore Central America, including Viking Mars and Viking Octantis. The main departure points include Fort Lauderdale and Fuerte Amador. Viking is known for its focus on cultural enrichment and immersive voyages, offering meticulously designed itineraries that bring local experiences to life.
• Explora Journeys
  The luxury line has a fleet of 2, both offering itineraries through Central America, especially EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II. Departures typically occur from Miami or San Juan, and Explora focuses on unique, meaningful experiences while offering stylish cruising in luxurious environments.

Alternative Regions to Explore

If Central America has piqued your interest, there are several alternative regions to consider for your next cruise adventure:

• Caribbean: The Caribbean is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Each island boasts its unique charm, delightful local cuisine, and warm hospitality, giving you a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
• South America: With rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife, South America is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Be captivated by the sights of Machu Picchu in Peru or the beauty of the Amazon rainforest.
• Alaska: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love Alaska’s majestic landscapes and unique wildlife. The region offers spectacular glacier views, opportunities for hiking, and experiences like dog sledding in some winter wonderlands.
• Bahamas: The Bahamas are perfect for those searching for idyllic beach getaways with crystal-clear turquoise waters, historical sites, and exciting water sports. It makes for an incredible serene escape where relaxation is guaranteed.
• North America: Explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of North America, from the breathtaking vistas of Canada to the lively streets of coastal cities such as New Orleans and New York City.

For an adventure filled with captivating landscapes and rich cultural experiences, book your unforgettable cruise to Central America with CruiseAway today!