Cruises to Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is nothing ordinary but a marvel of human engineering. As this artificial waterway cuts through the Isthmus of Panama, it has become a significant trade point, tourist center, and preferred way to commute. It is a passage that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, opening an easy way to discover the rich history and culture of the two distinct regions. As you take a trip through the Panama Canal, you will be amazed by this remarkable engineering achievement that transformed the way goods and people move around the world. You sail through lush rainforests, stop at colonial towns, and visit colorful ports across Central and South America. 

Many famous and luxury cruise lines, such as Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), offer immersive itineraries through the Canal, offering a range of activities from zip-lining in the jungle to snorkeling in turquoise waters. 

Panama Canal's Most Popular Ports

Port of Colón, Panama

The Port of Colón is not just one place. It is like a group of facilities located near the city of Colón on Panama's Caribbean coast. It is the main entry point for cruise ships that either start their journey through the Canal or want to explore nearby attractions. Colón has many attractions that one can visit for historical exploration, cultural insight, and more. The Gatun Locks are part of the Canal, and Fort San Lorenzo is a historical fortress you can visit here. Now, if you need some adventure, you can see the Soberanía National Park, where you can do some jungle safari and wildlife watching. The Colón Free Zone is one of the largest duty-free shopping areas in the world, and a place to shop. 

Port of Fuerte Amador, Panama

If you are on the Pacific side, Fuerte Amador serves as the gateway to Panama City. Cruise ships often dock at the Amador Causeway, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline. It opens up the way to Panama City and the historic Casco Antiguo neighborhood, offering views of the Bridge of the Americas. Travelers in Fuerte Amador have so much to do and see. To start with, the Biomuseo is one of the popular museums where one can discover the rich biodiversity of Panama and how it influenced the current geographical situation of the world. The Punta Culebra Nature Center, Casco Viejo, and Soberanía National Park are a few more places to visit. 

Port of Cristóbal

The Port of Cristóbal is one of the oldest ports on the Caribbean side of the Panama Canal. It plays a key role in both commercial shipping and cruise tourism. Cristóbal is a place full of history and beauty. It features a blend of charming colonial buildings and a background rooted in industrial development. Travelers here can explore Fort San Lorenzo, which is an impressive 16th-century Spanish fortress that overlooks the Chagres River. Another attraction is the Panama Canal Railway, which offers a beautiful train ride across the isthmus. The Gamboa Rainforest Reserve and Chagres National Park are the two main attractions for those looking for a nature walk or wildlife exploration.

Puerto Limón, Costa Rica

Puerto Limón, located on the Caribbean coast, is a popular port of call for ships going to or from the Panama Canal. It is a gateway to the stunning jungles of Costa Rica, which are home to a variety of species and the best place for some outdoor adventure. Travelers can visit nearby banana fields to discover the plantation fields and take canopy tours high in the trees. This tropical port is an exciting and daring destination because of its vibrant marketplaces and vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. Looking for more things to do, you can visit the Parque Vargas, the Cahuita National Park, or the Tortuguero National Park.