A Panama Canal Cruise is an amazing experience
that should not be missed. The Panama 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 Panama Canal
Cruises. These one way cruises sail through all of the Panama
Canals impressive locks. In the winter cruise lines offer partial
Panama Canal cruises. These itineraries sail roundtrip from Florida,
pass through the locks of the Panama Canal 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.
Panama
Canal and Central America Cruise Highlights
The
Panama Canal Locks 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 Panama Canal cruises are also offered for those who prefer to sail coast to coast and can often be combined with back to back cruises to create a longer and more diverse cruise experience.
A
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 Panama 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.
A
Variety of 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 Panama Canal, the
itineraries offered on a Panama Canal cruise include
diverse ports throughout the region including beautiful
Caribbean ports, Central America ports as well
as stops in South America and Mexico.
