12 Reasons Why You Should Cruise the Panama Canal in 2025-2026
Updated: Dec 3
Cruising through the Panama Canal is on many travelers' wish lists. I want to share 12 of the many reasons why people want to cruise there and some examples of terrific options to choose from.
Before the completion of the Panama Canal, ships sailing between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans had to circumnavigate South America around the continent's southernmost point, Cape Horn, an area known for difficult sailing conditions. Built primarily to expedite shipping, the canal has benefited travelers since the first passenger ship transited soon after construction ended.
I wonder if the canal's designers and builders ever realized this cargo route would also result in millions of future travelers choosing a cruise itinerary because of this engineering feat.
Quick Links:
12 Reasons Our Clients Choose to Book a Panama Canal Cruise
1. Engineering Marvel
The Panama Canal is a testament to human ingenuity, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Watching massive ships navigate through these intricate waterways, raised and lowered by sophisticated lock systems, offers a profound appreciation for this monumental engineering achievement.
2. Historical Significance
The Panama Canal, built over a century ago, has a rich history that predates the creation of the Panama Canal Zone in 1903. Its construction was completed in 1914, and the canal remained a U.S. territory until 1979. This history encompasses the immense challenges of building the canal's mechanisms, digging through difficult terrain, combating disease, and showcasing the power of human courage and innovation.
3. Scenic Beauty
Cruising through the Panama Canal treats passengers to breathtaking vistas of lush rainforests and tranquil lakes. The beauty of Central America’s landscapes contrasts with the impressive lock systems.
4. Transit Experience
Experiencing a transit firsthand is a thrilling experience, far surpassing the amazement of watching a documentary about the canal on television. Witness your cruise ship being carefully guided through chambers, gradually raised or lowered to match the water levels of Gatun Lake or the oceans.
5. Bucket List Adventure
Crossing the Panama Canal is a dream for many travelers, marking a significant milestone in their global explorations. It's more than a passage; it's a voyage through history and geography, offering a sense of awe as your ship traverses the narrow strip of land that connects continents and divides oceans.
6. Cultural Diversity
Panama's cultural tapestry is woven from indigenous roots, Spanish colonial influence, African heritage, and global migration. Shore excursions and onboard programs introduce passengers to this rich diversity through visits to local communities, performances of traditional music and dance, and opportunities to experience authentic cuisine that reflects Panama's multicultural identity.
7. Wildlife Encounters
The canal's proximity to lush rainforests and diverse ecosystems makes it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. From spotting playful monkeys swinging through treetops to glimpsing colorful toucans and possibly elusive jaguars, every moment along the canal offers a chance to connect with nature's wonders in their habitats.
8. Educational Insights
Expert lectures and presentations onboard delve into the canal's history, ecological impact, the region’s biodiversity and natural resources, and its ongoing significance in global commerce. These sessions also explain the engineering marvels that make the canal operate.
9. City Exploration
Panama City is an intriguing blend of historic charm and modern sophistication, with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and towering skyscrapers. The city is known for its unique Panamanian cuisine, art influenced by centuries of regional history, museums, and vibrant city life.
10. Adventure Activities
A Panama Canal itinerary offers a playground for adventure enthusiasts. Activities such as kayaking through the mangroves of Lake Gatun, hiking to cascading waterfalls, riding an aerial tram above a rainforest, snorkeling in crystal-clear Caribbean waters, and horseback riding are among the options.
11. Gatun Lake
This 164-square-mile lake was the largest manmade lake when it was created. Cruising across Gatun Lake reveals a tranquil oasis amid Panama's wilderness. Surrounded by lush rainforests filled with wildlife, this expansive artificial lake forms an integral part of the canal's complex water management system. Local operators run boat trips, and those seeking a more hands-on experience can kayak among the lake's mangroves.
12. Panama Canal Railway
The historic Panama Canal Railway provides a nostalgic journey through time, offering panoramic views of the canal, rainforests, and Gatun Lake. Originally constructed in the 19th century to expedite transportation between oceans, this railway now serves as a scenic route for travelers to appreciate the canal's history.
Do any of the above reasons resonate with you? Do you have a reason not mentioned above?
Free eBook: Panama Canal Cruising:
21 Reasons for Cruising the Panama Canal
3 Types of Canal Transits
27 Tips for Planning Your Panama Canal Cruise
There are 142 cruises to the Panama Canal in 2025!
Yes, seriously....142 sailings involving the Panama Canal, whether they are to there, from there, partial transits and full transits. I counted them up. The region’s popularity continues to grow, leading to fully booked sailings by the world’s top cruise lines.
You and your interests, budget, available time, needs and even wish list dreams will dictate what sailing is THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOU.
Here are some examples of the diversity of options available:
Princess Cruises’ Emerald Princess
February 16 – 22, 2025
Round trip from Fort Lauderdale to Aruba (for two days!), Cartagena (Columbia), Panama Canal Partial Transit, Colon (Panama), (Columbia), Limon (Costa Rica), Jamaica.
Note: This written itinerary is an update from Princess Cruises' itinerary map to the left.
Prices from: $1377 inside. Add $720 to include all beverages, Wi-Fi, crew appreciation, fitness classes, premium desserts and more! (Ask for details.)
Why did I include this cruise? It's escorted by Carlos, one of our Senior Group Specialists. This is a popular, yet intimate-sized group and this group sailing includes added features that can enhance your enjoyment. The Emerald Princess Grand Class ship is "tried and true" and popular with our clients and the small and large groups we've hosted on her. Itinerary Details.
Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Beyond
April 7 - 18, 2025
One way from Fort Lauderdale to Cartagena (Colombia), Panama Canal Partial Transit, Colon (Panama), Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, Fort Lauderdale
Prices from: $2054 inside. Add $788 to include all beverages and Wi-Fi. (Ask for details.)
Why did I include this cruise? This spring sailing has a terrific partial transit itinerary including the Southern Caribbean and visits to all 3 of the ABC islands. Perfect for those preferring to travel at this time. The Celebrity Beyond, with Simone Biles as Godmother, is a fantastic ship with many amenities. Itinerary Details.
Seabourn's Seabourn Encore
March 16 - April 29, 2026
One way from Kobe (Japan) to Wakayama (Japan), Shirizu (Japan), Yokohama (Japan), Trans-Pacific Crossing, Cross International Dateline, Honolulu (Oahu, Hawaii), Kauai (Hawaii), Long Beach (California), Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Hutulco (Mexico), Puerto Chiapas (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Puerto Cadera / Puntarenaa (Costa Rica), Panama Canal Full Transit Balboa to Cristobal, Cartagena (Columbia), Miami. Itinerary Details.
Prices from $14,399 for the verandah suite include all beverages, all dining venues, caviar throughout the cruise, an in-suite stocked bar, Wi-Fi, and more. (Ask for details.)
Why did I include this cruise? Seabourn is a luxury cruise line and Seabourn Encore is a wonderful ship with very positive reviews. It has a fantastic and unique itinerary for those with the time and resources to do it. You get Japan, a Trans-Pacific crossing, the Mexican Riviera, a Panama Canal transit, Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Columbia!
Holland America Line's Koningsdam
November 1 - 18, 2025
One way from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Huatulco (Mexico), Puerto Chiapas (Mexico), Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Puntarenas / Puerto Caldera (Costa Rica), Panama Canal Full Transit, Aruba, Half Moon Cay (Bahamas). Itinerary Details.
Prices from: $2,474 inside. Add $1,020 to include all beverages, Wi-Fi, gratuities, 2 shore excursions, and 2 specialty dinings. (Ask for details.)
Why did I include this cruise? Holland America is a long, beloved premium cruise line, and the few-years-old Koningsdam has been very popular. This sailing checks off the benefits of someone wanting a mid-range price for a full transit cruise visiting both U.S. coasts, the Mexican Riviera, Central America, and touch on the Caribbean.
Did you order your Free eBook, "Panama Canal Cruising: 21 Reasons for Cruising the Panama Canal, 3 Types of Canal Transits, 27 Tips for Planning Your Panama Canal Cruise"? Click here to request your complimentary copy.
Whether you would like to join our Emerald Princess sailing to the Panama Canal on February 16, 2025, organized and led by Carlos, or would like discuss the best cruise for you or your group for the remainder of 2024, 2025 or 2026, I hope you will contact us to assist you in planning that special cruise!
Happy Traveling!
-Connie
Comments