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If you want a front-row view of the action, you'll probably have to do the same. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. The “Norwegian Bliss” is one of two Norwegian Cruise Line mega-ships that crosses the Panama Canal. Book an UnCruise Adventures sailing to see species such as the yellow warbler. Whether your interest is limited to the canal itself or includes other Panama allures, there’s a Panama voyage that’s right for you.
The Panama Canal Cruise Experience
Built by the U.S. government between 1903 and 1914, this 50-mile waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans revolutionized shipping by creating an expedited route for the transit of cargo and, ultimately, cruise ship passengers. Enrichment is a standout on American Cruise Lines, with a lecturer on every cruise. There may be local culinary experiences like a lobster bake while on American Cruise Line’s coastal New England cruise, or a Cajun cooking demonstration on Mississippi River cruises.
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There are so many fabulous encounters with nature available from this port, you'll have a hard time deciding on a shore excursion. A visit to the Tabacon Resort Hot Springs takes you to the slopes of the active Arenal volcano. The Poas volcano features the amazing sight of a huge crater filled with iridescent blue water. Walk through a cloud forest at Villa Blanca, where you're surrounded by mist and water droplets clinging to the vegetation.
best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip
Then continue your Viking journey to the heart of the Caribbean & Central America. Those who really want to know the ins and outs of the Panama Canal should book a Windstar sailing. Hit the gift shop on the way out for a hat, T-shirt or another souvenir to mark the day you traveled in 10 hours from one ocean to another. You'll undoubtedly learn many fascinating factoids about the construction of the Panama Canal and the steps needed to cross it. This starts with the fact that the captain of the ship has to relinquish control to a Panama Canal official who is in charge of navigating the vessel through the canal the entire day. Passenger ships will usually invite a local guide on board to provide a running commentary of what's happening all day; usually, their narration is piped through the ship's intercom.
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The food and service have always been good and the other passengers and crew friendly and helpful. Look for cruises with diverse itineraries that include ports of call rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Destinations such as Cartagena, Colon, Puerto Caldera, and Cabo San Lucas offer seniors the opportunity to explore vibrant cities, scenic coastlines, and iconic landmarks. Experiencing the Panama Canal doesn't have to be time-consuming or budget-busting.
Seabourn's 21-day Caribbean & Panama Canal Passage
On our crossing in 2009 we left from Ft Lauderdale and ended up in LA. We could have continued on the ship up to Vancouver but we had been there the year before where we left and returned to that city after a 14 day Alaskan cruise and didn't want to face their airport. A full transit of the Panama Canal involves passing through six sets of locks, crossing an entire lake and contending with other marine traffic waiting to go through the lock system one at a time.
A throwback to a bygone era that feels more like a private yacht than a traditional cruise ship, the Royal Clipper offers such diversions as climbing one of its towering masts or helping to hoist its 42 sails. Or laze the day away with your significant other in its bowsprit nets, which jut out from its sleek bow. Because the trips begin or end in Panama, it’s easy to add a few days in the country to see it in more depth. My wife and I did 2 Panama canal crossings, one from West to East and the second one from East to West. Your parents would find lots of others of their age group on this type of longer HAL cruises. My wife and I did over a 100 days on HAL and still consider it along with Princess our favorite cruise line.
NEW! Caribbean & Panama Canal
Many can also accommodate limited mobility issues with advanced notice. IMO, a partial transit gives you the experience of going through the locks on a shorter cruise. Since the crossing does take a while, especially sailing across Gatun Lake, you might find it fun to watch it from a different vantage point from time to time. You can enjoy views from a hot tub on one of the decks, from your table at lunch or even from a deck that's aft, so you can see the locks after you leave them instead of when you arrive. Even if the canal transit is what you're cruising for, don't forget to check out the rest of the stops on the itinerary. You'll want to consider whether you're more interested in Caribbean islands or Central and South American destinations.
Explore the Caribbean and Pacific coasts of Central America, visit picturesque ports of call, and sail through the iconic Panama Canal. With its gourmet dining options, luxurious accommodations, and personalized service, Viking Sky offers seniors an indulgent and unforgettable voyage. The line's four original paddlewheel ships ooze charm, with Victorian touches and history-heavy itineraries. The line targets well-traveled adults 50 years of age and older who are interested in history, art, science, local culture and cuisine.
Silversea Cruises' indulgent 31-day New York to Lima sailing aboard its newest ship, 728-guest Silver Nova features a Panama Canal transit in the middle of the trip. A big caveat to Panama cruises, as noted above, is that they typically don’t include many days in Panama. Due to the country’s long distance from cruise hubs such as Miami, many Panama voyages involve long travel over open seas. If you want an in-depth Panama experience, we recommend choosing one of the itineraries that begins or ends in the country and extending your visit with a stay on land. Opened in 1914 and a marvel of engineering, the Panama Canal is a 51-mile series of locks and channels that crosses Central America at its narrowest point, allowing ships to pass between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans in less than a day.
Obviously, a forward location on the ship will give you a clear vantage point as you head into the locks. Here are some Panama Canal cruise tips to help you plan and get the most out of this bucket list experience. But since a Panama Canal cruise is unique, you'll encounter some logistical considerations that you won't on other itineraries — including the fact that your debarkation and embarkation ports might be different.
A trip is still worth it for the excellent 3D IMAX film narrated by Morgan Freeman, which does a great job explaining the trials, tribulations and perils of building this awe-inspiring feat. You can also stand on the ground-level terrace or grab a seat in the bleachers on the first level to watch ships pass through the final set of locks; sometimes, a staff member is on hand to provide commentary. You can also spot spectators sitting in the grandstands at Gatun Locks on the Atlantic side and on the balcony at the Miraflores Visitor Center on the Pacific side. The latter will wave and cheer you on since the more infrequent sight of a passenger ship with lots of people onboard is infinitely more exciting than the many cargo ships that sail through each day. Sailing through the artificial lake formed by the dam lasts around four hours. This is a good time to grab lunch, take a dip in the pool or just relax for a bit.
Nevertheless, it doesn't hurt to request senior rates or discounts when booking. Seniors who want to get their dressy duds out of the closet will be in heaven; the most casual nights onboard still require a cocktail dress. Viking Ocean cruises also offer educational extras, including cooking classes at The Kitchen Table. You'll also find resident historians that give lectures that relate to Viking's ocean itineraries.
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