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
Puerto Caldera to Colon
Feb 16 & Mar 2, 2026
Fr $1,741
Emerald Azzurra
Panama City/Panama to Puerto Caldera
Jan 24, 2028
Fr $6,153
Serenade of the Seas
Colon to Los Angeles
Apr 25, 2026
Fr $795
Explora III
Miami to Fuerte Amador
Apr 12, 2027
Fr $7,465
Celebrity Ascent
Roundtrip Fort Lauderdale
Mar 16, 2026 - Mar 8, 2027
Fr $2,150
Rotterdam
Roundtrip Fort Lauderdale
Mar 1, 2026
Fr $1,392
Seabourn Quest
Miami to Callao
Jan 5, 2027
Fr $5,214
Norwegian Joy
Miami to Los Angeles
Apr 25, 2026
Fr $1,499
Seven Seas Splendor
Miami to San Francisco
Dec 20, 2027
Fr $9,873
Brilliant Lady
Los Angeles to Miami
Oct 29, 2026
Fr $2,495
Azamara Quest
Miami to San Francisco
Dec 18, 2026
Fr $4,817
Queen Anne
Santiago/Chile to Fort Lauderdale
Feb 28, 2027
Fr $2,673
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.