Panama Cruises

Explore the Wonders of Panama with Cruise1st

Panama is a unique and vibrant destination that offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and historic significance. Most famous for the Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, this small Central American country boasts stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and a thriving biodiversity. Fun fact: Panama is home to 978 bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise! A cruise to Panama offers the perfect way to explore this fascinating region while relaxing in comfort, allowing you to see both the bustling cities and serene rural countryside that make Panama truly special.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Panama Itineraries

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess has 8 vessels that explore Panama. The Crown Princess and Coral Princess are particularly notable for their elegant designs and diverse onboard activities. These ships also feature local culinary offerings that celebrate the region's flavours. Departures commonly occur from Sydney or Brisbane for Australian cruisers heading to Panama, but many international journeys set off from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships, Holland America offers 8 vessels that visit Panama, including the Rotterdam and Eurodam. They're renowned for their exceptional culinary experiences, showcasing local ingredients and dishes, as well as insightful cultural programs during the cruise. Most departures happen from Fort Lauderdale or San Diego, allowing cruisers to experience the richness of Panama before or after their journeys.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Operating a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian has 8 that make stops in Panama, featuring Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Encore. These ships excel in providing a vibrant, flexible onboard atmosphere with plenty of dining options and entertainment choices. Cruises to Panama typically depart from Miami or Los Angeles for guests looking to immerse themselves in the local sights and sounds.
• Cunard: With just 4 ships, Cunard has 4 making their way to Panama, with the Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2 leading the charge. Known for their classic luxury and refined service, Cunard ships offer an elegant experience with guest lectures and sophisticated dining options. Cruises commonly depart from Southampton or New York, ensuring a stylish introduction to this gorgeous region.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Boasting a fleet of 27, Carnival offers 7 ships that venture to Panama. The Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle stand out for their family-friendly activities and entertainment options. Most cruises from Carnival set sail from Tampa or Galveston, providing a great gateway into the beauty of Central America.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Panama

• Oceania Cruises: Part of an 8 ship fleet, Oceania has 5 vessels offering itineraries to Panama, with Sirena and Marina leading the way. Known for their rich culinary experiences, these ships emphasise destination-focused dining, which truly allows you to indulge in local flavours. Departures primarily occur from Miami or Panama City, ideal for those wishing to explore the wonders of Panama in luxury.
• Seabourn: With a sleek fleet of 6, Seabourn has 3 ships offering itineraries to Panama, including Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Quest. The focus here is on intimate luxury, with gourmet dining and personalised service. Their cruises frequently depart from Long Beach or Miami, ensuring an elegant exploration of the Panama region.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea features 3 vessels that visit Panama, notably Silver Ray and Silver Moon. An all-inclusive luxury experience awaits on these exquisite ships, where every detail is catered to. Cruises usually depart from Fort Lauderdale or Callao (Lima), making for both a luxurious and culturally rich experience.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara has a total fleet of 4 ships, with 3 offering itineraries to Panama, including Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest. Known for immersive destination experiences, Azamara ensures you’ll truly connect with local culture during your visit. Departing from Miami or San Antonio, it’s a great option for those seeking both adventure and elegance.
• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of 2 ships, Explora has 1—EXPLORA II—visiting Panama. This cruise line focuses on exploration and sustainability, offering a unique journey. Most departures take place from Miami, leading cruisers into the heart of a region rich with history and beauty.

Top Panama Harbours to Explore

• Panama Canal: The iconic Panama Canal is more than a marvel of engineering; it’s an unforgettable experience. Witness large cargo ships pass through as you explore the visitor centre, offering insight into the history and significance of this historical waterway. Take a tour to appreciate the full scope of this achievement!
• Colón: This vibrant town serves as one of the primary gateways for Panama Canal cruises. While there, visit the bustling markets, stunning beaches, or the historic Fort San Lorenzo. For those interested in local culture, a guided tour of the nearby Embera Village is a must-do!
• Panama City: The capital offers a delightful blend of history and modernity. Cruise visitors can explore the historical district of Casco Viejo, visit the impressive Panama Canal Museum, or relax in one of the local parks for a taste of Panamanian life. Don’t miss the chance to sample local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits!
• Fuerte Amador: Located at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, this area is great for a relaxing day. Take in scenic views of the canal and the city skyline or rent a bike to explore the Amador Causeway. Grab some local snacks at the waterfront cafés and enjoy the stunning sunsets!
• Gatún Lake: An enormous artificial lake formed by the construction of the Panama Canal, Gatún Lake is a true nature lover's paradise. While docked, you can partake in excursions to explore the surrounding rainforest, look out for wildlife, or even try a thrilling zip-line adventure amongst the treetops!

Notable Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Panama

• Athens, Greece: A vibrant city steeped in history, Athens allows visitors to explore the ancient ruins of the Acropolis and indulge in authentic Greek cuisine. Plenty of cafes and shops offer a taste of local life, making it easy to spend an entire day soaking in the sights and flavours of Greece.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: This stunning ancient city, often called the "Pearl of the Adriatic," features beautiful medieval architecture and breathtaking views. Stroll along the city walls, visit the Rector's Palace, and unwind with delicious Dalmatian seafood in a local restaurant.
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: As the port for Rome, Civitavecchia is the perfect launching point to experience Italy’s rich culture and culinary delights. Spend time exploring St. Peter's Basilica, the Colosseum, or simply enjoy a gelato while wandering through the city streets.
• Istanbul, Turkey: Istanbul offers a unique crossroad of cultures with its stunning architecture and rich history. Visit iconic sites such as the Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar, or take a scenic boat tour along the Bosphorus for breathtaking views of the city.
• Kotor, Montenegro: Surrounded by towering mountains, the picturesque medieval city of Kotor delivers stunning views and fascinating history that can be explored by walking through its charming streets and visiting historic sites like St. Tryphon Cathedral.

When to Cruise to Panama

Timing your cruise to Panama can greatly enhance your experience. From January to March, temperatures are pleasantly warm, ranging from 24-30°C, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring. April to June sees temperatures between 25-32°C, great for beach lovers looking to soak up the sun. July to October brings the rainy season, but this is when the rainforest is at its most lush, with temperatures averaging 24-30°C. November and December are cooler months, ranging from 22-28°C, perfect for enjoying holiday festivities and breathtaking landscapes.

Pricing Overview for Panama Cruises

The average cost for a week-long cruise to Panama typically ranges from $1,700 to $3,000 AUD, whereas two-week cruises can go from $3,500 to $6,500 AUD. In terms of luxury cruises, you can expect rates starting at around $4,500 AUD for a week and reaching $10,000 AUD for two weeks. While meals are generally included on the cruise, dining at local venues can cost between $15-40 AUD per meal, while drinks usually range at around $8-15 AUD.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you’re contemplating a cruise to Panama, consider these fascinating alternatives:

• Caribbean: With breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cultures, the Caribbean is an alluring escape that promises relaxation and adventure all at once!
• Central America: Comprising several beautiful countries, Central America offers a rich focus on wildlife, rainforests, and cultural experiences that make it a fantastic region for adventurous cruisers.
• South America: From the bustling streets of Rio to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, South America is filled with diverse cultures and extraordinary landscapes.
• Amazon River: Embark on a journey deep into the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where the exploration of its biodiversity and indigenous cultures offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Alaska: For those craving stunning natural beauty and wildlife encounters, Alaska boasts majestic landscapes like glaciers and fjords, making it perfect for nature lovers.

Ready to embark on your next adventure to Panama? Let Cruise1st be your guide, connecting you with remarkable journeys through this vibrant gem of Central America!