A Panama Canal Cruise is an amazing experience that should not be missed. The canal is a 48 mile long canal that links the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans. Cruises through the Panama Canal have varied itineraries. Twice a year in the fall and the spring as the ships reposition between the Caribbean and Alaska cruise lines offer full transit through the canal. These one way cruises sail through all of the canal's impressive locks. In the winter cruise lines offer partial canal cruises. These itineraries sail roundtrip from Florida, pass through the locks before turning around and returning to their originating port after re-entering the canal system on the return trip.
Taking a cruise through the Panama Canal allows travelers to witness first hand this marvel of modern engineering. The canal system is made up of three locks and a series of artificial lakes and canals. As ships pass the locks from the east their elevation is gradually lowered and as they pass the final set of locks, the Gatun locks, the ships ascend an amazing 85 feet bringing them back to sea level. The complete journey takes about 8-10 hours in each direction.
Panama Canal cruise itineraries also include wonderful ports of call in the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico. Travelers can explore these different ports and enjoy a number of activities including sightseeing, shopping, watersports, beautiful beaches and friendly people.
Star Pride
Colon to Puerto Caldera
Dec 13, 2025 - Feb 23, 2026
Fr $2,051
Silver Shadow
Panama City/Panama to Fort Lauderdale
May 20, 2025
Fr $4,896
National Geographic Quest
Panama City/Panama to Cartagena/Colombia
Oct 19 - Nov 9, 2025
Fr $5,176
Star Clipper
Balboa/Panama to Puerto Caldera
Dec 13, 2025
Fr $5,544
Seabourn Encore
Miami to Fuerte Amador
Dec 2, 2025
Fr $5,782
Norwegian Jewel
Roundtrip Miami
Dec 1, 2025 - Mar 26, 2026
Fr $1,207
Azamara Quest
Fuerte Amador to Miami
Mar 15, 2026
Fr $2,165
Caribbean Princess
Roundtrip Fort Lauderdale
Oct 30, 2026 - Jan 22, 2027
Fr $939
Rotterdam
Roundtrip Fort Lauderdale
Oct 26, 2025 - Mar 1, 2026
Fr $1,196
Regatta
Colon to Los Angeles
Nov 14, 2025
Fr $1,969
Carnival Spirit
Seattle to New Orleans
Oct 11, 2025
Fr $1,313
Brilliant Lady
Miami to Los Angeles
Mar 21, 2026
Fr $2,627
Seven Seas Grandeur
Miami to Los Angeles
Dec 29, 2026
Fr $11,099
Queen Elizabeth
Seattle to Miami
Sep 25, 2025
Fr $1,526
Seabourn Sojourn
Miami to Long Beach
Nov 25, 2025
Fr $10,953
Queen Elizabeth
Seattle to Miami
Sep 18, 2025
Fr $2,255
All offers are based on select sailings and categories and are subject to availability at time of booking. All rates are per person based on double occupancy.
The Panama Canal Locks
Experience the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal locks, where you can witness the seamless transition of colossal ships as they navigate through this iconic waterway, a testament to human ingenuity and a must-see on your unforgettable journey.
Variety of Itineraries
Panama Canal Cruises are available in a variety of itineraries. Partial transit itineraries are offered for those seeking the convenience of departing from and returning to the same port. Full transit canal cruises are also offered for those who prefer to sail coast to coast. Full transit Panama Canal cruises can often be combined with back to back cruises to create a longer and more diverse cruise experience.
Excursion Opportunities
A variety of excursion opportunities are offered in the different ports on a Panama Canal cruise. In the Caribbean there are beautiful beaches and a variety of watersports and shopping. In Central and South America guests on a Panama Canal cruise can explore local markets, colonial towns and exotic surroundings.
Diverse Ports
In addition to the time spent transiting the canal, the itineraries include diverse ports throughout the region including beautiful Caribbean ports, Central America ports as well as stops in South America and Mexico.