Panama Canal Cruises 2019 - 2020

What better way to see the Panama Canal than by cruising through it? Sail in the wake of history as your ship navigates the locks which have been in service more than 100 years and are still functioning flawlessly today. Plagued by difficulties during construction, the final lock system was so effective, it has remained virtually unchanged throughout the years.

The entire Panama Canal crossing takes 8 to 10 hours.

• Get up early to secure your spot on the bow of the ship, where you'll have the best view of the locks as you pass through
• Capture a scenic photo of the Bridge of the Americas, the world's first non-swinging bridge to span the canal
• Learn about the exciting history of the canal, from ill-fated construction attempts in the 19th century to its most recent expansion in 2016

Cristobal is one of two ports in Colon on the Atlantic side of the Panama Canal. Many ships stop in Cristobal before they enter the locks, or stop in Cristobal and then turn around on partial crossings. If your cruise belongs to the latter, consider booking an excursion to complete the crossing in a smaller boat to get the complete experience.

Directly next to the pier, cruise passengers will find a lively flea market with plenty of opportunities for shopping, souvenir hunting, and haggling over prices. Adventure-seekers and nature-lovers may wish to visit the beautiful Gatún Lake.

• Snag some deals while shopping at the local market
• Take a tour of the rainforest's canopy with the Gamboa Aerial Tram
• Visit a nearby indigenous village and learn about the local art of basket weaving

An island located off the west coast of Panama, Fuerte Amador is the gateway to Panama City. Sitting close to the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, it offers the perfect place to watch ships enter the locks as they begin to traverse the canal. In addition to holding numerous canal-related museums and attractions, Fuerte Amador offers easy access to Panama City, the metropolis-like capital city and heart of the nation.

• Check out the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center to learn more about the canal, its history and its engineering
• Explore Casco Viejo, Panama City's historic quarter and a UNESCO protected site
• Learn about the importance of gold in Panama's history and see golden treasures up close at the Old Panama Museum

Balboa is one of two cruise ports on the Atlantic side of the Panama Canal, located in close proximity to Panama City. Head down to the Miraflores Locks to watch the ships as they enter and exit the locks, or take a taxi into the city for excellent shopping, sightseeing and dining opportunities. Another option is a shore excursion into the rainforest – the surrounding area is a nature and wildlife preserve.

• Take advantage of the duty-free shopping at Fuerte Amador Mall, or snag souvenirs at a local artisanal market
• Explore the Spanish and French colonial architecture in the Panama Viejo, the old part of the city
• Visit one of the city's many museums to learn about the history of the canal and the native wildlife to Panama

Gatún Lake makes up a major component of the Panama Canal. Located near the Atlantic side of the canal, a series of lock separate it from the Caribbean Sea. The man-made lake was created during the construction of the canal by damming the Chagres River, and it plays an important role in restoring the water lost during boat transit from the canal.

• Drift through the narrow channels and scenic islands of Gatún Lake on a Panama Canal crossing
• Take a boat tour and look for exotic wildlife, such as monkeys, sloths, and toucans
• Rent a kayak and paddle around the lake on your own or with an expert guide

Panama City is the thriving, urban metropolis that is the heart and soul of Panama. The largest city in Central America, it is said to rival Miami as being the "Capital City of Latin America." Panama City can be accessed by ship at the nearby cruise ports, Fuerte Amadore and Balboa, or by a boat or train ride from Colon. Situated on the Pacific side of the Panama Canal, the city has benefited from a century of wealth generated by the canal.

• Capture a scenic photo of the Bridge of the Americas, the world's first non-swinging bridge to span the canal
• Stroll through the scenic city center, which was influenced by both Spanish and French colonial architecture
• Browse the numerous markets, malls and souvenir shops dotted throughout the city

Visitors are drawn to the island archipelago Bocas del Toro by its funky, Afro-Caribbean vibes, its year-round tropical temperatures, and its buzzing nightlife. Sweeping sandy beaches invite visitors to stroll barefoot on the shore, and crystal clear waters are inviting for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The quirky capital city of Boca Town draws creative types from around the world, who turned this laid-back island town into a colorful artist's paradise. Browse hand-made souvenirs and organic products at local artisan shops, or practice yoga in a funky purple house.

• Surf, snorkel or sunbathe at one of the many beaches on the islands
• Learn about local flora and fauna at Finca los Monos botanical garden
• Indulge in an alternative wellness treatment in the bohemian Boca Town

Named by Christopher Columbus "Puerto Bello," or beautiful port, Porotbelo was an important Spanish settlement in the early colonial days. A major Spanish trade port, the Spanish Armada used it to transport goods to Central America and bring Incan gold back to Spain. Today, the ruins of three Spanish fortresses still remain, with ancient cannons rusting between their crumbling walls. Portobelo's rich history of Incan treasure, Spanish conquistadors and ruthless pirates make it a must-see stop for any history nut.

• Walk in the footsteps of Spanish settlers among the ruins of the ancient forts
• Take a trip to the local museum to learn about the town's colorful, violent history
• Visit the Black Christ statue in the Iglesia de San Felipe church, which draws pilgrims from around the world in October each year

Fort San Lorenzo is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular shore excursion for cruise itineraries traveling the Panama Canal. Wander among the ancient ruins of Spanish fortresses, which were used to protect trade goods from plundering by pirates.

The fort sits at the top of a cliff, and you can enjoy spectacular views of the Chagres River from above. Nearby, a vast natural reserve beckons, holding some of Panama's most spectacular jungles and wildlife.