Helpful Tips to Know Before You Go
- A full Panama Canal cruise takes two weeks or longer, touring not only the canal itself but also some noteworthy ports around it. Decide whether you prefer a full-length comprehensive transit, or a shorter partial transit.
- If you choose to do a partial transit cruise, you’ll typically pass through only one set of locks, and then return to your starting port. For these, you will most likely be flying home from the same airport you flew out to.
- If you choose a full transit cruise, you’ll be travelling the entire length of the canal from the Atlantic to Pacific oceans, or the reverse. You’ll begin your cruise in one port and end in another, so will need one way flights to and from your starting and ending ports respectively.
- Certain shore and shipboard opportunities must be booked promptly, such as rainforest tours or seats in the Sanctuary sun decks available in some ships. Be sure to book these ahead of time where possible, or first thing once you’re aboard if not.
- The climate around the Panama Canal is very warm and humid, with rainforest sprawling across the land. You can expect plenty of rain in some months, particularly the wettest months of April to December. Bring a waterproof layer for rainforest tours, and be prepared to change clothes regularly. Suncream is also a must.
- The best time to cruise the Panama Canal is in November, when the rains aren’t so heavy and the temperatures not too high.
Things to Do
- Appreciate the wildlife. The area surrounding the Panama Canal is blanketed in lush rainforest, whose canopy stretches over a sizeable portion of the world’s biodiversity. Animal and nature lovers will have plenty to enjoy, with birds and jungle fauna of all kinds ready to spot on shore excursions into the forest.
- Take a dip in the beautiful waters. Many ports at or around the Panama Canal benefit from gorgeous bay views and pristine ocean water, perfect for swimming, and crystal-clear to ensure fantastic snorkelling experiences. It’s a good way to refresh yourself in the humid rainforest climate, too.
- Tour local ports. No matter where you stop by on your cruise, there’s fantastic things to see. Take tours of fort cities like Cartagena, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, take photos of iconic local landmarks, and so much more.
- Crossing the canal itself generally takes a full day; you’ll want to spend a great deal of ‘transit day’ on deck to appreciate the views, and marvel at the spectacle of the gigantic locks you pass through. The time to pass through these can be extensive, so good sun decks – like The Sanctuary and its spa facilities – will make the crossing even better.
Why Book With Kenwood Travel
When you book your cruise on the Panama Canal with Kenwood Travel, you can be confident that your cruise is in safe hands. Our decades of cruise experience and our expertise in crafting perfect holidays will ensure every aspect of your dream Panama Canal cruise is exactly as you could have hoped, with every single detail taken care of. We’ll help you plan the ideal itinerary for your needs, whether you’re interested in a full or partial cruise of the canal. We’re excited to help you plan your perfect voyage, so give us a call today.
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