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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Darién is a province of Panama near the border with Colombia. The capital is La Palma. Darién extends from the Gulf of Darién and Urabá of the Caribbean Sea to the Gulf of San Miguel of the Pacific Ocean and is a heavily wooded, hilly area.

The San Blas Islands are an archipelago of 360 islands in the Caribbean Sea. Crystal-clear sea waters, white sandy beaches, the blue sky and palm trees create a truly beautiful scenery for you to enjoy. Take a dip in the waters to uncover some beautiful corals and other exciting marine life! The residents of San Blas Islands are known for their warmth and will certainly give you a warm reception!

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.

The island of Isla de Coiba is located off the Pacific coast of Panama and is surrounded by fine white sand beaches and mangroves. It is the largest island in Panama, and offers a lot of natural beauty. The relative isolation means that several species can only be found on this island.

The essence of a rural Panamanian town offers everything that's associated with an amazing tropical experience. Startling beaches and stunning rainforests of the Natural Reserve Punta Patino guarantee beautiful memories from this special location.

Located on the coast of National Park Darien, this resort is home to native Panamanians who welcome tourists looking to explore the gems of nearby locations.

The Pearl Islands are a group of 100 or more islands, many of which are tiny and uninhabited, lying about 30 miles off the Pacific coast of Panama in the Gulf of Panama.