Best Panama Canal Cruises

Take the World's Greatest Shortcut

Witness first-hand one of the most amazing feats of modern engineering — the Panama Canal. Sail through the islands of the Caribbean and stop in Belize at our premier resort, Harvest Caye. Let history unfold in Cartagena's picturesque squares and explore Panama City - a vibrant, historic metropolis. West of the Canal, cruise to Costa Rica's jungles, the beaches of Mexico and more. Come aboard and let your incredible journey begin.

Depart From the East Coast or West

NCL offers the unique opportunity to sail the Panama Canal from both Miami and California. Start in the east and cruise the Caribbean with a shorter Canal visit or go all the way west. Or begin in California and sail through Mexico and South America before crossing into the Caribbean and up the east coast.

Cruise Directly Through the Canal

Sailing the Panama Canal from beginning to end is a lifelong dream for many, and one that was only recently made available to large cruise ships. So make this a journey you'll never forget. Select a longer itinerary and experience the famous system of locks as you cross oceans on the world's greatest shortcut.

Choose a Partial or Full Canal Experience

Get a birds-eye view of this maritime marvel when you sail the Caribbean entrance and explore the land side of the Panama Canal, then continue on for a tropical cruise. Or take advantage of the miraculous gateway between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans with a full journey spanning multiple countries.

Feel Free to Sail on a Variety of Ships

From smaller ships offering a more intimate cruising experience to larger ships brimming with endless activities, you can experience the wonder of sailing through the Panama Canal while also vacationing exactly how you want to.

Free Airfare^

Pay airfare for one guest, and you'll automatically lock in roundtrip flights for two. Secure these savings online by choosing your nearest airport in step one of your cruise booking, and enjoy air-to-sea made easy. We'll coordinate your roundtrip flights and transportation between the airport and cruise port.

Find this offer on 7+ Day Cruises to this destination and beyond.

^Buy an air ticket and the 2nd guest flies for free. *View for full terms and conditions.

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Departure Ports

Los Angeles, California

Miami, Florida

San Diego, California

San Francisco, California

Seattle, Washington

Featured Itineraries

Norwegian offers two different routes through the famed Panama Canal. Depart from Miami and sail through the Caribbean entrance to the east, stopping for a birds-eye view of the Canal from Gatun Lake. Or experience the full Panama Canal journey from additional departure ports to the west like San Diego, Los Angeles, and Seattle. Our sailings visit amazing destinations throughout Central America and the Caribbean.

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6 Reasons to Cruise the Panama Canal

Are you searching for a relaxing cruise that combines history, culture, and breathtaking scenery with warmer weather? If so, a Panama Canal cruise should be at the top of your vacation list. This man-made marvel of the modern world is one of the most popular cruise destinations and with good reason.

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA street cars.

Cruise from New Orleans: Explore the Caribbean and Panama Canal

Are you looking for a warm-weather getaway outside of the typical summer vacation from New Orleans? Why not consider a Caribbean cruise during the winter, spring, or fall? With Norwegian Cruise Line, you can escape to the warm waters of The Caribbean most of the year.

Panoramic Aerial View of Cabo San Lucas in Baja california Sur, Mexico.

Cruises from California to Add to Your Must-Do List

If you live in California, you likely already know how many great cruise itineraries are available from the Golden State. With Norwegian Cruise Line, you can enjoy the warmth of the Mexican Riviera, transit the Panama Canal, relax along the Pacific Coast, or do some wildlife spotting in Alaska. Choose from two great departure ports — Los Angeles and San Diego.