Panama Canal Cruises

While the canal operates year-round, it’s best to experience the Panama Canal crossing after the rain, from November to April, when the weather is usually sunny and dry. If you want to do it right, make sure you’re up early to snag the best on-board spots to see what the Panama Canal has to offer.

The idea of a passageway connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean dates back to the 16th century when Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa discovered that the isthmus of Panama was just a slim land bridge separating the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Initially kicked off by the French in the 1880s, they hit a fair few snags and really just weren’t prepared for South America, and so instigator and sponsor Ferdinand De Lesseps called it off. The U.S. picked up where De Lesseps had left off, in 1904, providing over $50 million in funding, and completing the Panama Canal in 1914.

Several cruise lines offer itineraries that include a Panama Canal transit, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Explora Journeys, MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Cunard Line..

It takes approximately 8-10 hours to successfully complete traversing the Panama Canal.

A cruise through the Panama Canal is a one-of-a-kind and exhilarating way to travel from the Atlantic to the Pacific. These cruise trips open up a wealth of wonderful opportunities, where you can explore the postcard-perfect cities and pristine beaches, and marvel at the sheer cliff drops and the sights and sounds of the colourful birds and animals that inhabit the lush tropical forests.