An engineering marvel connecting two oceans.
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Overview
The Panama Canal is not a traditional cruise port but one of the world's most legendary cruise experiences. This 50-mile waterway is a triumph of human ingenuity, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and dramatically changing the course of global trade. A cruise through the Panama Canal is a journey through a lush Central American landscape and a live demonstration of a magnificent feat of engineering.
A transit of the Panama Canal is a full-day event filled with anticipation and wonder. Passengers watch from the ship's decks as the massive vessel is guided through a series of locks, meticulously raised and lowered to navigate a total of 85 feet. The journey also includes cruising through Gatun Lake, a massive artificial lake where verdant rainforest and an abundance of wildlife are on full display.
The highlight of any Panama Canal cruise is experiencing a transit through the locks. Whether it's the Miraflores, Pedro Miguel, or Gatun Locks, watching the ship pass through the chambers, raised or lowered by millions of gallons of water, is an unforgettable sight. The ship's deck is the best place to witness this engineering marvel.
Tip: The transit of the locks is often an early morning affair, so get up early to secure a good viewing spot on the ship's bow.
For those on a partial transit, a common shore excursion is a visit to the Miraflores Visitors Center. This center offers a multi-story viewing platform where you can watch ships pass through the Miraflores Locks, a museum detailing the canal's history, and a large-screen movie theater that brings the story of the canal to life.
Tip: The center can get very busy, so arriving early is the best way to get a good spot on the observation decks.
After passing through the first set of locks, the ship enters Gatun Lake, a massive artificial lake that was once a part of the jungle. This section of the journey offers stunning jungle views and excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, including monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds.
Tip: Keep a pair of binoculars handy to get a closer look at the wildlife on the banks of the lake's small islands.
From the port on the Caribbean side, many excursions take you deep into the rainforest surrounding the canal. Guided tours often use small boats to navigate jungle waterways, providing an up-close look at the area's rich biodiversity and a chance to spot rare species.
Tip: Look for excursions that take you to Monkey Island, where you can see several species of monkeys up close.
As the ship traverses the canal, you will pass beneath the impressive Centennial Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge that crosses the Gaillard Cut. This modern architectural masterpiece is a symbol of the canal's continued evolution and provides a beautiful backdrop for photos.
Tip: The best time for a photo is as the ship passes directly under the bridge's main towers.
The entire transit is an educational experience. Your ship's crew and onboard lecturers will provide a running commentary on the canal's history, its construction, and the daily operations that keep it running. Take the opportunity to learn about the incredible effort that went into its creation.
Tip: Listen for the stories about the "mules," the small electric locomotives that guide the ships through the locks.
Aboard
Le Lapérouse for Tauck
From
Panama City, Panama
2 Sailings
Jan 27 - Feb 10, 2027
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per person*
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Aboard
Le Lapérouse for Tauck
From
San Jose, Costa Rica
2 Sailings
Jan 20 - Feb 3, 2027
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per person*
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Aboard
Le Champlain for Tauck
From
Panama City, Panama
1 Sailing
Feb 3, 2026
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per person*
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Aboard
Le Champlain for Tauck
From
San Jose, Costa Rica
2 Sailings
Jan 27 - Feb 10, 2026
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per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Celebrity Summit
From
Los Angeles, California
1 Sailing
Sep 18, 2027
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per person*
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Aboard
Star Princess
From
Port Canaveral, Florida
1 Sailing
Apr 7, 2028
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per person*
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Aboard
Star Princess
From
Los Angeles, California
1 Sailing
Oct 10, 2027
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per person*
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Aboard
Star Princess
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
1 Sailing
Oct 3, 2027
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per person*
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Aboard
Island Princess
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
1 Sailing
Oct 9, 2027
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per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Island Princess
From
Los Angeles, California
1 Sailing
Dec 29, 2027
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per person*
taxes & fees included
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