2025 Panama Canal Cruises: Visit Mexico, Costa Rica & Belize
The Panama Canal is a modern marvel that opened sea travel in a way that was unimaginable to previous generations. Upon its completion in 1914, ships were able to take a shortcut between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, which saved them the 8,000-nautical mile trip around the tip of South America. Today, cruisers aboard Norwegian Cruise Line can travel through the Panama Canal and experience this 51-mile engineering wonder firsthand. Set sail aboard one of Norwegian's 2025 Panama Canal cruises, and enjoy stops at a variety of fun and exciting port cities.
Ready to start planning? Explore all Panama Canal cruises.
Travel the Panama Canal on a Norwegian cruise.
Full & Partial Transit Cruises
When deciding which cruise to the Panama Canal you'd like to book, consider whether you prefer a full transit or a partial transit cruise. Partial transit routes are generally shorter journeys that have the same starting and ending ports. These cruises don't travel the entire length of the Panama Canal, as they typically travel to Panama and then turn around for the return trip. Full transit cruises are longer expeditions that make the journey from the Atlantic to the Pacific, allowing cruisers the whole Panama Canal experience.
Ports of Departure
In 2025, cruisers will have the option of selecting a Panama Canal cruise vacation between January and April or October through December, avoiding the blistering hot summer months. Ports available for departure include:
Ballestas Islands, near Pisco Peru.
Norwegian's 2025 Panama Canal Cruise Ports
Whether you choose a partial-transit or a full-transit cruise to the Panama Canal, you'll have plenty of opportunity for fun in the sun. Whether you stay on the side of The Caribbean or venture over to the Pacific Ocean, there's no shortage of activities and shore excursions to leave you with a lifetime of memories. Let's take a closer look at some of the exciting ports that await during a Panama Canal cruise.
Cartagena, Columbia
Walk the cobblestone streets of this colorful walled city with a rich history filled with tales of pirates and conquistadors. Climb "las muralles", or the walls of the old city, for a once-in-a-lifetime view of the harbor. Stroll through local shops specializing in emeralds and leather goods for a truly unique souvenir.
Colón, Panama
Colón holds the distinction of being the Atlantic Ocean's entrance to the Panama Canal. This town was once the last stop along the 19th-century Panama Railroad. Today, you can take in breathtaking Caribbean views or visit The Colón Free Trade Zone, a giant shopping area where cruisers can score some great deals.
Acajutla, El Salvador
On the Pacific coast of El Salvador sits Acajutla, the country's principal seaport. Here, you'll find inviting white sand beaches with crystal-clear waters where you can spend a relaxing afternoon feeling the warm tropical breezes. If you're up for some exploration, opt for a ride to San Salvador, the country's capital city. San Salvador is home to Mayan ruins, historic churches, and dormant volcanoes.
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Iquique, Chile
The port of Iquique dates back to the 16th century. A stroll through the historic city center filled with colorful wooden houses will give you an opportunity to savor the city's rich culture up close. If you want to try your hand at surfing, take a lesson while you're here or even try sand surfing in the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth.
Acapulco, Mexico
Acapulco has been delighting travelers for generations, thanks to its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, abundant shopping, and rich marine life. Don't miss the famous cliff divers, where trained professionals perform daily shows for visitors and dive over 100 feet from the cliffs of La Quebrada. Timing is crucial for this daring feat, so be sure to check the tide tables to see when high tide is during your stop.
Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala
Puerto Quetzal is a relatively new port city constructed with the idea of improving access to neighboring communities. Use Puerto Quetzal as your gateway to nearby adventures. You can take treks through the jungle revealing Mayan pyramids, hikes to active volcanoes, and strolls through colorful historic colonial towns. Your stop in Puerto Quetzal is sure to offer unforgettable experiences.
Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala.
Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Stunning beaches and lush wildlife abound in sunny Puntarenas, where a visit to Carara National Park will offer opportunities to see crocodiles, native birds such as the scarlet macaw, and more. There's no shortage of bars, cafes, and restaurants to tempt your taste buds, making a stop at Puntarenas a nonstop party of food, fun, and fauna.
Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is known as the American Riviera for good reason. Its year-round near-perfect weather, historic Spanish architecture, and beautiful parks and beaches make it the perfect stop along America's West Coast. Try out your surfing skills, or go on a wine-tasting tour in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley. Santa Barbara has something for every cruiser.
Puerto Limon, Costa Rica.
Norwegian's cruises to the Panama Canal offer you the opportunity to see one of the most fascinating modern marvels in the world while cruising the surrounding waters to explore various cultures, customs, and landscapes.
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