Panama Cruises

Set Sail for Panama: The Gateway to Central America

Panama is a captivating destination boasting unique landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the famed Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Cruising to Panama offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, enjoy vibrant wildlife in lush rainforests, and explore the historic charm of Panama City. Did you know that the Panama Canal handles over 14,000 ships a year, making it one of the busiest maritime routes in the world? With stunning beaches, intriguing history, and abundant nature, a cruise to Panama is a fantastic choice for your next holiday!

Top Harbours to Visit in Panama

When your cruise docks in Panama, here are five harbours that offer unique activities and sights for cruisers:

• Panama Canal
  A visit to Panama wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the iconic Panama Canal. As your ship navigates through the canal, you’ll have the chance to witness the incredible system of locks that raise and lower vessels. If your cruise allows, consider heading to the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, where you can learn about the canal’s history and watch ships transit the locks from an observation deck. Don’t miss the fascinating interactive exhibits that showcase the canal’s engineering!
• Colón
  Colón is the Caribbean side of Panama Canal and acts as a significant port city. Once you arrive, delve into the local culture by visiting the historical Fort San Lorenzo, which was built in the late 16th century. If you’re looking to shop, head to the Colón Free Zone, which offers an array of goods at duty-free prices. For a more local experience, take a guided tour through the nearby Gatun Lake and spot wildlife such as monkeys and exotic birds.
• Fuerte Amador
  Nestled along the Pacific entrance of the Canal, Fuerte Amador offers incredible views of Panama City and offers cruisers a chance to unwind. After disembarking, stroll along the Amador Causeway, a beautiful waterfront promenade ideal for walking or biking. Don’t forget to pause at the Miraflores Locks to witness the ships transition through the Canal. This scenic spot is perfect for capturing memorable photos of both the city skyline and the locks in action.
• Panama City
  Upon reaching Panama City, you’ll discover a bustling metropolis that seamlessly combines history with modernity. Be sure to visit the historic Casco Viejo, with its colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. If time allows, explore the Panama Canal Museum, which dives into the history and significance of the canal. For food lovers, treat yourself to Panamanian delicacies at local eateries, where you can savour dishes like sancocho (chicken soup) and ceviche.
• Gatún Lake
  Gatún Lake is a massive man-made reservoir that forms part of the Panama Canal. It is a perfect escape for cruisers interested in adventure and nature. Look for guided eco-tours that offer activities such as kayaking and wildlife watching—where you can encounter monkeys, sloths, and various bird species while enjoying the lush surroundings of the tropical rainforest.

Best Times to Experience Panama

The peak season to visit Panama is between December and April, when the weather is typically sunny and dry, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C. This means perfect conditions for outdoor activities and excursions. If you’re visiting during the rainy season from May to November, you can still explore Panama while experiencing fewer tourists and lower prices. Temperatures during this time fluctuate between 22°C and 28°C, but afternoon showers are common, so packing a light raincoat is advisable.

Cruise Costs Overview for Panama

When budgeting for your Panama cruise, expect a range of prices. A standard 1-week cruise can cost between $1,500 and $3,500, while luxury options may start around $4,500 and can go up to $9,000 or more. For a 2-week cruise, standard offerings usually range from $2,800 to $6,000, while luxury experiences can be upwards of $10,000. Generally, the most budget-friendly times to cruise are during the rainy months of May through November. Dining out in Panama costs about $15 to $50 per meal, and drinks typically range from $4 to $10.

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to Panama

• Princess Cruises
  With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises offers 8 vessels that sail to Panama, including Crown Princess and Coral Princess. Departures most commonly occur from Australian ports such as Sydney and Brisbane, as well as international ports like Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles. Princess is known for its enriching onboard experiences, family-friendly atmosphere, and variety of dining options, ensuring an enjoyable cruise for all ages.
• Holland America Line
  Holland America operates 11 ships, with 8 headed to Panama, notably Rotterdam and Eurodam. These cruises frequently depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Diego. Holland America focuses on providing culturally immersive experiences that engage guests with Panama’s history, along with impeccable dining and a range of entertainment options onboard.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  Norwegian features a fleet of 20 ships, with 8 that visit Panama, including Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Encore. Departures typically happen from Miami or Los Angeles. They offer a unique freestyle cruising concept, allowing guests the freedom to choose whenever and where to dine, along with an array of entertainment options tailored for each guest.
• Cunard
  Cunard’s fleet consists of 4 luxury ships, with Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne offering itineraries to Panama. The primary ports for departure include Southampton and New York. Cunard is synonymous with elegance and excellence, providing guests with world-class service, exquisite dining, and a rich heritage of refined cruising.
• Carnival Cruise Line
  Carnival operates a fleet of 27 ships, with 7 vessels sailing to Panama, including Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle. Departures often occur from Tampa or Galveston. Known for its relaxed and fun atmosphere, Carnival offers a wide range of activities and entertainment options for families and solo travellers alike.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises
  With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania offers 5 that explore Panama, particularly Sirena and Marina. Most departures occur from Miami or Panama City. Oceania is well-regarded for its culinary experiences and cultural immersion, ensuring guests enjoy exquisite dining alongside enriching shore excursions.
• Viking Ocean Cruises
  Viking operates 11 ships, 5 of which are dedicated to cruising Panama, including Viking Mars and Viking Octantis. Departures commonly take place from Fort Lauderdale or Fuerte Amador. Known for its destination-focused itineraries, Viking highlights meaningful cultural experiences and immersive offerings to enhance every guest’s journey.
• Silversea
  Silversea maintains a fleet of 13 luxury ships, with 4 that venture to Panama, including Silver Ray and Silver Shadow. Departures are frequently from Fort Lauderdale or San Diego. Silversea promises an ultra-luxury experience with personalised service, fine dining options, and exclusive excursions that showcase the beauty of Panama uniquely.
• Seabourn
  With a fleet size of 6 ships, Seabourn features 3 that sail to Panama, notably Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Quest. Their voyages generally depart from Long Beach or Miami, and Seabourn is known for its intimate onboard atmosphere and attention to detail, providing unparalleled service to all guests.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  This luxury cruise line operates a fleet of 6 ships, offering itineraries to Panama with Seven Seas Grandeur and Seven Seas Splendor. Departures typically take place from Miami or Los Angeles, and Regent is renowned for its all-inclusive, luxury experiences, ensuring every detail is taken care of during your journey.

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Cruise

If Panama has caught your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:

• Caribbean: Experience beautiful beaches, vibrant cultures, and an array of water activities. The Caribbean offers relaxation and exploration opportunities, from island hopping to enjoying local cuisines.
• Amazon River: Embark on an adventurous cruise down the Amazon River, where you can explore unique ecosystems and witness incredible wildlife. The Amazon provides a different yet equally captivating experience in nature and culture.
• Central America: A cruise through the Central American region highlights diverse landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant cultures. Explore the stunning settings of countries like Costa Rica and Nicaragua.
• Mexico: Experience the beautiful beaches of the Mexican Riviera and explore coastal cities like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. The region is rich in history, delicious cuisine, and fun water sports.
• Galapagos Islands: For wildlife enthusiasts, the Galapagos Islands offer an unforgettable experience to see species endemic to the islands amidst stunning natural scenery. It’s a chance to connect deeply with nature.

Book your unforgettable adventure to Panama with CruiseAway today! With vibrant cultures, historical landmarks, and stunning natural wonders waiting for you, it’s time to set sail for an extraordinary journey!