cruise season panama

Best Time for Panama Cruise: Tips for Choosing Ideal Seasons and Enhancing Your Experience

Are you dreaming of setting sail on a Panama cruise but unsure about the best time to embark on this unforgettable journey? Picture this: you’re standing on the deck, the warm sun kissing your skin, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Panama Canal. But when is the optimal time to experience this tropical paradise without the crowds or unpredictable weather?

In this article, we’ll guide you through the ideal timing for your Panama cruise, ensuring you make the most of your voyage. Discover the months that offer the perfect balance of favorable weather, fewer tourists, and unique experiences along the way. Get ready to plan your trip with confidence and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Key Takeaways

• Understand Panama’s Climate: Differentiate between Panama’s dry and wet seasons to choose the best time for your cruise.
• Dry Season Benefits: Optimal weather conditions and peak wildlife sightings make mid-December to mid-April ideal for cruising in Panama.
• Navigating the Crowds: Book in advance for peak tourism months; consider shoulder seasons for deals and fewer crowds.
• Events and Festivals: Enhance your cruise experience by timing your trip with Panama’s cultural events and festivals.
• Choose the Right Cruise Line: Compare accommodations, amenities, itineraries, and excursions to select the best fit for your preferences.
• Packing Tips: Pack essentials for the tropical climate, navigational gear, and gadgets to make the most of your Panama cruise.

Understanding Panama’s Climate

Dry season versus wet season.

When planning your Panama cruise, it’s essential to understand the difference between the dry season and the wet season in Panama. The dry season, typically running from mid-December to mid-April, offers less rainfall and more sunny days, making it an ideal time for cruising with stable weather conditions. In contrast, the wet season, from mid-April to mid-December, sees higher humidity levels and more frequent rainfall, which might affect your cruise experience.

Regional Weather Variations

Panama’s climate exhibits regional variations that can impact your cruise depending on the areas you plan to visit. The Caribbean coast experiences a more pronounced wet season compared to the Pacific coast, with heavier rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. In contrast, the Pacific coast often enjoys more stable weather conditions, making it an attractive choice for cruising during certain times of the year. Understanding these regional weather patterns can help you choose the best itinerary for your Panama cruise.

Best Time for Panama Cruise: Dry Season Benefits

Ideal weather conditions.

When planning your Panama cruise, the dry season, which spans from mid-December to mid-April, is the ideal time to set sail. You’ll enjoy stable weather conditions with minimal rainfall during this period. The dry season provides a pleasant climate for your cruise, ensuring that you can explore Panama’s beauty without the interruption of frequent rain showers.

Consider cruising during the dry season if you prefer sunnier days and want to make the most of your outdoor activities, such as sightseeing and wildlife spotting. This period offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures, enhancing your overall cruising experience.

Peak Season for Wildlife Sightings

The dry season in Panama is also the peak season for wildlife sightings. With less rainfall and more predictable weather conditions, this time of year allows you to witness a diverse range of fauna in their natural habitats. From sloths hanging lazily in the trees to exotic bird species soaring above the canopy, the dry season provides ample opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to observe and photograph unique creatures.

Embarking on a Panama cruise during the dry season increases your chances of spotting elusive wildlife, such as monkeys, dolphins, and tropical birds. Whether you’re exploring the lush rainforests or cruising along the Panama Canal, the dry season creates optimal conditions for encountering a plethora of fascinating animals.

Make the most of your Panama cruise by choosing to sail during the dry season, where you can bask in ideal weather conditions and witness an abundance of wildlife against the backdrop of Panama’s stunning landscapes.

Navigating the Crowds

Planning for peak tourism months.

When considering the best time for a Panama cruise, it’s crucial to plan for the peak tourism months to effectively manage crowds. The dry season, running from mid-December to mid-April, is not only renowned for its stable weather but also attracts a high number of visitors eager to experience Panama’s natural beauty. During these peak months, popular tourist spots along the Panama Canal and coastal regions can get crowded. To navigate this influx of travelers, it’s advisable to book your cruise well in advance to secure your preferred itinerary and accommodations. By planning early, you ensure a smoother experience and avoid last-minute disappointments due to fully booked tours or excursions.

Finding Deals in Shoulder Seasons

To steer clear of the hustle and bustle of peak tourism months while still enjoying favorable weather conditions, consider booking your Panama cruise during the shoulder seasons. These transitional periods between the dry and wet seasons offer a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, providing a more relaxed and intimate cruising experience. During the shoulder seasons, which typically fall in late April to early May and late October to early December, you may come across attractive deals and discounts on cruise packages. Taking advantage of these offers not only allows you to explore Panama’s beauty comfortably but also helps you save on costs while enjoying a more serene ambiance onboard. Keep an eye out for promotional offers during these off-peak times to make the most of your Panama cruise experience.

Events and Festivals to Enhance Your Cruise Experience

Carnaval in Panama

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Panama by timing your cruise during Carnaval—the country’s most celebrated event. Held before the Christian observance of Lent, Carnaval features colorful parades, lively music, traditional dances, and elaborate costumes. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience Panama’s rich heritage and enjoy the festivities that bring the streets to life. By planning your cruise around this event, you’ll add an extra layer of excitement and cultural immersion to your Panama experience.

National Holidays and Cultural Events

Exploring Panama during national holidays and cultural events can provide insight into the local traditions and customs. Attending festivals like Independence Day or Flag Day allows you to witness the pride and patriotism of the Panamanian people. Participating in cultural events, such as the Panama Jazz Festival or the International Film Festival, offers a glimpse into the country’s artistic and musical talents. By aligning your cruise schedule with these significant occasions, you’ll not only enjoy unique experiences but also gain a deeper appreciation for Panama’s diverse cultural tapestry.

What to Expect From Different Cruise Lines

Accommodations and amenities.

When selecting a Panama cruise, the variety of accommodations and onboard amenities offered by different cruise lines is essential. Some cruise lines provide luxurious suites with private balconies, while others focus on cozy cabins with all the necessary comforts. Depending on your preferences, you can opt for all-inclusive packages that cover meals, drinks, and entertainment or choose a la carte options for more flexibility in your expenses. Make sure to review each cruise line’s offerings to find the accommodations and amenities that best suit your needs and budget.

Itineraries and Excursions

The itineraries and excursions provided by various cruise lines can greatly impact your Panama cruise experience. Each cruise line offers unique routes that may include stops at different ports, allowing you to explore diverse regions of Panama. Some cruise lines focus on wildlife excursions, such as visits to national parks or bird-watching tours, while others emphasize cultural experiences with visits to historical sites and local communities. Consider your interests and desired activities when selecting a cruise line to ensure you have a fulfilling and memorable Panama cruise.

Packing Tips for Your Panama Cruise

Essentials for the Tropical Climate

When preparing for your Panama cruise, pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics to stay comfortable during excursions. Don’t forget to pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s strong rays. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for shore excursions and exploring ports of call. A reusable water bottle will keep you hydrated throughout your journey.

Navigational Gear and Gadgets

To enhance your Panama cruise experience, consider bringing a waterproof phone case to capture stunning moments during water activities or rainy days. A compact backpack is handy for carrying essentials during excursions. Don’t forget to pack binoculars for wildlife spotting opportunities along the Panama Canal and other scenic locations. It’s also wise to bring a power bank to keep your devices charged while on the go. Lastly, a travel journal can help you capture memories and jot down interesting details about your cruise adventure.

You’ve learned about the ideal time for a Panama cruise, focusing on the advantages of the dry season and strategies for avoiding crowds. Timing your trip with cultural events adds depth to your experience. Remember to pack smartly with essentials like lightweight clothing and binoculars to make the most of your adventure. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your Panama cruise, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what are the benefits of cruising in panama during the dry season.

A: Cruising in Panama during the dry season offers stable weather conditions and excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Q: How can I manage crowds while cruising in Panama?

A: To manage crowds while cruising in Panama, consider booking your trip in advance and exploring deals during shoulder seasons.

Q: Why is timing important for a Panama cruise?

A: Timing your Panama cruise with cultural events enhances the overall experience, providing a richer cultural immersion.

Q: What packing tips are recommended for a Panama cruise?

A: Essential packing tips for a Panama cruise include lightweight clothing, navigational gear like binoculars, and gadgets like a waterproof phone case for comfort and preparedness.

Hi, I'm Richard, a passionate traveler and cruise enthusiast. With over a decade of experience exploring the world's oceans, I've developed a deep love for all things related to cruising. Whether it's luxury liners or intimate river cruises, I enjoy sharing my insights and tips to help others plan their perfect getaway. When I'm not sailing the seas, you can find me writing about my adventures or planning my next voyage

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Panama Canal Cruises

Set sail with princess – the #1 panama canal cruise line. experience unique engineering, rainforest & wildlife and culture..

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We’re the number one cruise line sailing to this travel wish list destination, and as awe-inspiring as it is to travel through one of the greatest wonders to see by ship, we’ll help you explore equally fascinating places along the way. So stretch out on a Caribbean beach, admire the pristine rainforests, stroll the cobbled streets of historic towns and journey through the fabled Panama Canal with Princess.

Why Princess is the #1 Panama Canal Cruise Line

Meaningful travel to a must-see destination

Destination Best Seen by Ship

The Panama Canal is a unique destination and one of the only destinations in the world that is better seen by ship. Grab a spot on the top deck or your balcony and witness how the system of locks operates as the water elevators raise the ship from sea level to the water levels of Gatun Lake (26 meters above sea level) and then lowers to sea level on the other side. Truly a unique experience you can only have being onboard a ship transiting the Panama Canal.

Destination immersion

We craft our Panama Canal itineraries to enrich our guests' experiences to provide the most exposure to this must-see destination. You'll be enchanted by Spanish and Dutch cities dating back centuries, as well as diverse tropical rainforests, white-sand beaches, dramatic volcanoes, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And Princess provides live narration from the bridge while transiting the locks, just one reason we were voted "Best Cruise Line for Enrichment" by Cruise International .

The leader in the Panama Canal

From ships custom-built to sail the massive locks to immersive onboard programs and onshore adventures that inspire, Princess is the number one way to explore this epic phenomenon. We've sailed the Panama Canal since 1967 and we have more itinerary choices and departures of any cruise line in the region.

Abundant adventures ashore

Each voyage offers a myriad of experiences and cultures. There is something for every type of explorer in this culturally diverse region. Choose from immersive excursions such as exploring the engineering mastery of the Canal, trekking through surrounding rainforests, visiting local villages, and relaxing on the pristine beaches of the Caribbean.

• Scenic cruising of Gatun Lake

Home to lush tropical landscapes and unique wildlife, included in every Panama Canal Cruise. Gatun Lake is one of the largest freshwater human-made lakes in the world, located south of Colon, Panama, and is a major part of the Panama Canal operation. 

Panama Canal Cruise Departure Ports

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From the East Coast

• Two great itineraries to choose from to experience the transit of the Panama Canal
• Sail roundtrip or Ocean to Ocean to experience the transit of the Panama Canal
• Visit the pristine beaches of the Caribbean and explore the lush rainforests of Costa Rica

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From the West Coast

• Sail Ocean to Ocean and transit all three sets of locks and sail through history
• Experience a full transit of the Panama Canal, ocean to ocean

Port Canaveral, New York, and Vancouver B.C.

Other Departure Locations

• Select sailings roundtrip from Port Canaveral, New York, or Vancouver

Panama Canal Beautiful Port Cities

Limon offers an incredible blend of lush rainforests, historic banana plantations, and exotic wildlife, making it a must-visit port. Dive into the magic of the Sloth Sanctuary, where you can meet these adorable creatures up close. For an unforgettable experience, the Rainforest Aerial Tram provides breathtaking views from the treetops, showcasing the vibrant flora and fauna in a private nature preserve.

Fuerte Amador

Located at the gateway to the Pacific side of the Panama Canal, Fuerte Amador offers convenient access to the bustling Panama City. This charming causeway is lined with delightful shops, inviting restaurants, and specialty stores, all set against the backdrop of stunning city views. Don't miss the chance to marvel up close and personal at the engineering marvel of the canal’s expansion from a unique vantage point. 

Bonaire is a diver's paradise, renowned for its pristine waters, vibrant marine life, and spectacular coral reefs. This Dutch Caribbean island is also home to the captivating pink flamingo, adding a touch of elegance to your visit. With its world-class diving and snorkeling sites, Bonaire promises unforgettable underwater adventures and scenic beauty at every turn.

Aruba is the epitome of a Caribbean paradise, famed for its stunning palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters. This idyllic island offers perfect conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, making it a top destination for beach lovers. Discover the intriguing "Antilla" shipwreck, the largest in the Caribbean, now a haven for diverse sea life and a popular spot for diving enthusiasts.

Panama Canal Cruise Articles and Videos

Find fascinating articles with Panama Canal cruise tips for experiencing unforgettable attractions, regional cuisine, and more on both sides of this epic human-made wonder.

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Have a volcanic adventure during San Juan del Sur excursions from Princess Cruises. Nicaragua excursions show you dynamic landscapes and exotic wildlife.

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Panama Canal Cruises

Experience one of the wonders of the modern world on Holland America Line’s Panama Canal cruises. Our Panama cruise itineraries depart from both east and west coasts for loads of convenient options. A cruise to the Panama Canal is an incredible experience, worthy of any bucket list as you travel between oceans. The shipping channel—which took 33 years to complete and cost more than 25,000 workers their lives—is arguably the greatest engineering achievement of all time. As you cruise the canal, you will pass through the two-chambered Miraflores Locks, the one-chambered Pedro Miguel Lock, and three-chambered Gatun Locks. Along the way you’ll find Gatun Lake, once the largest manmade lake in the world, which has proved a boon for the species that thrive here, undisturbed by the passing ships.

The Panama Canal Cruise Experience

Feel your ship rise 85 feet as water fills the locks on the Panama Canal. Listen as a historian shares tales of this incredible engineering feat that divided two continents. Explore the intriguing landscapes, culture and people of this amazing region. From engineering marvels to exotic wildlife, there's so much to discover while on your Panama Canal cruise.

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Puerto Chiapas, Mexico

San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua

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Panama canal travel articles.

The ultimate journey between two continents and two mighty oceans, a Panama Canal cruise encompasses Spanish colonial architecture, verdant rainforest and an engineering marvel. Learn more about our ports in the region with articles on  Cartagena’s  graceful Old City and  Costa Rica’s  exotic Pura Vida Gardens;  Antigua, Guatemala , including La Merced, the city’s 250-year-old cathedral; and the storied past of  Panama Viejo , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And be sure to explore the complex and fascinating history of the  Panama Canal .

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MAN-MADE MARVEL

Panama canal cruises.

From Cartagena to Cabo San Lucas, cruise the Panama Canal.

The Panama Canal is one of the most astonishing human-made wonders, a sliver of ingenuity that allows ships to move from one ocean to another. Cruise from the Pacific to the Atlantic, or vice versa, and take in the scenery as you move through this engineering marvel built in 1914. Along with the tropical views and modern design of the canal, there's also great opportunity for adventures on land and by the shore, where you can get in touch with the indigenous culture at the Museum of Oaxacan Art in Huatulco, Mexico, or go kayaking in Nicoya Bay at Puntarenas, Costa Rica.

Journey Between Worlds

From Cartagena to Cabo San Lucas, cruise the Panama Canal

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DIVERSE DESTINATIONS

Descend on some of the most exciting travel destinations in Central America during a Panama Canal cruise. Stops in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; and Colón, Panama, means appreciating countless natural landscapes on top of traversing through the famous shortcut itself. 

HOME OF THE CANAL

A stop in Colón, Panama, lets you lay on the sand at serene Maria Chiquita beach or hike your way through Portobelo National Park to reach the 17th-century San Lorenzo Fort. And if you're in the mood for the city life, head to Panama City, the Caribbean's most urban cluster that's only an hour away by car.

ROCK THE BOAT

Accessible only by water taxi, El Arco at Land's End in Cabo San Lucas is a natural rock arch that frames a powdery beach. It's the perfect backdroparagraphCopy for a jaw-dropping photograph — just watch out for the sea lions that like to photobomb while sunbathing on the rocks.

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS

Cross foggy suspended bridges or zip-line along the treetops at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve near Puntarenas, Costa Rica, where local travel guides take you deep within the forest as you learn about its precious ecosystems.

CROSS-CANAL CULTURE

Along with crossing the impressive Panama Canal during your vacation, you can also get in touch with the local cultures of different countries, where indigenous peoples still live and where heritage and history are treasured and preserved. 

COLORS OF FOLKLORE

About a 90-minute drive from Puntarenas, the artisan village of Sarchi, Costa Rica, is known for the quality of its arts and crafts, especially the beautiful construction of the colorful oxcarts, the folkloric carriages that are a symbol of Costa Rican culture.

EAT LIKE A LOCAL

Mercado de Bazurto in Cartagena, Colombia, is home to stand after stand of local fruits like mamey, a sweet tropical fruit with a creamy texture, as well as cooked-food kiosks serving generous plates of seafood like crab, rice and veggies, for just a few dollars.

HISTORIC HUES

Step into the past as you stroll down the Spanish Colonial lanes of Antigua in Guatemala, a picturesque town with pastel buildings and balconies filled with pink flowers. A short trip from the port at Puerto Quetzal, the city is home to museums like Casa de los Sueños, where the history of this town is depicted through art.

CRISS CROSS TO A NEW WORLD ON THE PANAMA CANAL

A cruise to the Panama Canal is filled with country-hopping adventures that take you to Mexico's Mayan ruins, white beaches in  Cabo San Lucas  or Colonial treasures in  Colombia .

ONE TRIP, MANY ADVENTURES

As part of your grand crossing of the Panama Canal, you can also laze on beaches and trek lush mountains in places like Mexico,  Costa Rica , Colombia and Grand Cayman .

MAN-MADE FOR YOU

Cruise from Los Angeles  or  Miami  and pick the trips that make your favorite stops. Prefer more of Mexico? There's a cruise with stops in Manzanillo,  Puerto Vallarta  and Cabo San Lucas. Want to include some Caribbean islands? Finish your cruise in Puerto Rico or stop in Grand Cayman.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Plan-ama Canal

Panama enjoys a gentle tropical weather almost every day of the year. This translates into the easy planning of a crossing anytime is convenient for you.

Moving around in the different ports is simple, just choose the authorized taxi services or hop on the local public buses. You can also rent a car and be your own guide.

The best time to go on a Panama Canal cruise is anytime. The canal never stops working and you will traverse along with other ships and boats and witness the swift movement of these vessels.

Finding the Right Ship for You

7 Unexpected Places You Can Go on a Cruise

Once you're crossing the canal, head to the front of the ship for the best view.

You'll get to see other ships as they cross, too, giving you a different vantage point and a new way of learning how the canal works.

The thrill is not over after you go through the canal locks, there's more to see as you travel through the canal, with tropical flora and fauna adorning the way.

LOCAL CUISINE A WORLD OF FLAVORS  

Stopping at different cruise ports during a Panama Canal crossing makes it easy to savor the varied flavors of these countries, each with its own signature spice and tang.

TASTES OF JALISCO

Jalisco, the state where Puerto Vallarta is found, is the definitive influence on this destination's cuisine. Go for the famous lemon-marinated grilled fish known as pescado embarazado, and ask for huichol sauce, a blend of chili peppers, cumin and vinegar.

SAVOR GUATEMALA

Enjoy a mouth-watering empanada in Antigua, Guatemala — these savory pastries are stuffed with potato and meat and topped with guacamole, cilantro and onions.

TAMALES AND THEN SOME

Famous for its tamales fajados (chicken tamales) and tamales guemes (pork, raisin and olive tamales), Cabo San Lucas also boasts a seafood stew known as comida de pobres, served with rice and beans and flour tortillas.

Related Ports

A cruise to the Panama Canal is a chance to land on amazing destinations during the same trip. Get in some beach time Oranjestad, Aruba. See traditional tapestry-making in Huatulco, Mexico. Or go snorkeling along the coral reef off the coast of Grand Cayman.

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The Ultimate Guide for a Perfect Panama Canal Cruise

While many dream of visiting Central America, very few ever get the chance to experience cruising through the very spot North and South America split. Many note that a vacation to Panama is too expensive or not safe. Well, let me tell you, the best way to see the Panama Canal and possibly get off your boat at an affordable price is through a Panama Canal cruise!

If you are bit wary to cruising, you are going to absolutely fall in love with what the Panama Canal has to offer! I had the chance to experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on my Panama Canal cruise back in December 2019, and to this date, it is my favorite cruise that I have been on.

Plus, cruise ships offer an extra sense of security, as you will have a safe place to rest your head everyday. So, grab your  free cruise planner , review our top cruise essentials , and buckle up, because we are going to go through everything you may need to know about Panama Canal cruises!

When is the Season for Panama Canal Cruises?

Most cruises through the Panama Canal consistently run from October to April. This means you have a lot of flexibility for when you want to enjoy your Panama Canal cruise, whether looking for a Christmas escape, Spring Break adventure, or planning a Transpacific back-to-back cruise .

If you are planning to cruise the Panama Canal and the surrounding Caribbean countries, the optimal time is after the rainy season ends in November for the best weather, wildlife, and viewing experience . This is truly when the temperatures are the most comfortable and enjoyable with sunnier days and breathtakingly scenic Panama Canal views.

For longer, repositioning Panama Canal cruises, you should stick to the earlier or later months of this window when the cruise ships are finding a new home.

There are some  Panama cruises running year-round , which are typically shorter in length between 3-5 nights long.

How is the Weather on a Panama Canal Cruise?

Since the Panama Canal is nestled between the Caribbean and the Pacific Ocean, weather can vary greatly during Panama Canal cruises. With the varying climates of Panama and the mixing weather of two different oceans, it would be best to prepare for some rainy weather during the transit.

When I went on my Panama Canal cruise, there were plenty of clouds in the sky, however, it did not rain. That being said, make sure to bring your rain jacket as it could have just as easily gone the other way. It was also fairly humid , leading to fog during the morning hours of the Panama Canal transit.

Technically the Caribbean side of Panama Canal measures twice the amount of rain as Panama City, notable for short and unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms during the spring months.

Because of Panama’s strategic location, it is safe to assume that you will be enjoying warm temperatures during your Panama Canal cruise. The Panama Canal area has a tropical climate , meaning temperatures will range between 75 and 85 degrees on your Panama cruising adventure.

How do I plan a Panama Canal Cruise?

If you have never been on a cruise before, you may have  some questions about the logistics  and  how to plan your cruise .

First, you will want to get an idea of what your  must-see attractions are. Most Panama Canal cruises will focus on either Caribbean islands, Central America, Mexican Rivera, or a combination of those destinations. Very few Panama Canal cruises are more than 14 days long, but if you are looking for a longer Panama Canal cruise, make sure to investigate repositioning cruises.

After you determine the itinerary you would like, then you need to  focus on a specific cruise line for the best Panama Canal cruise ever. Each cruise line offers a unique experience for every type of cruiser. Then, you can select a date with that perfect cruise line and itinerary to book and mark in your calendar!

I highly recommend  booking a balcony or higher stateroom on your cruise ship as you will not regret waking up to the breathtaking Panama Canal from your own private balcony. Just imagine waking up, stepping outside, and seeing all the fascinating locks and landscape surrounding the transit.

 Also, it is important to make sure to avoid the loudest staterooms onboard to completely relax on your Panama Canal cruise.

Once booked, you will receive access to more booking options like  onboard packages, shore excursions, and stateroom upgrades . I highly suggest taking advantage of these pre-travel opportunities to have your vacation planned out before you leave on your Panama cruise!

What are the Different Panama Canal Itineraries?

There are way more Panama Canal cruises than you probably thought possible! With that, you may be wondering what the best itinerary is for your specific cruising goals. From repositioning cruises to Mexican Riviera adventures, there are positives and negatives to every itinerary option in the cruising realm in regards to Panama Canal cruises.

With that being said, all Panama Canal cruises can be categorized into three categories– Trans-Canal Crossing, Partial Crossing, and Faux Crossing.

Trans-Panama Canal Crossing

By far the most popular Panama Canal itinerary for cruises runs from Florida to the West Coast– or vice versa. The most popular departure ports are Miami and Fort Lauderdale in Florida, with Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego serving as the larger West Coast cities.

If you are lucky, you may be able to find some longer sailings departing from Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, Canada. However, if you prefer to plan a back to back cruise , I highly suggest heading out of and to one of the most popular ports, as these will typically have more options to extend your cruising vacation.

Most trans-Canal itineraries will call in many ports found in the Western Caribbean. These include Puerto Limon and Puntarenas in Costa Rica, and Cartagena, Colombia. Other Panama Canal itineraries include stops along Mexico’s west coast and in Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala.

Panama Canal Experience

With this trans-Panama Canal itinerary, you can expect to spend a full day on the canal, crossing the beautiful Panama Canal from the Caribbean to the Pacific, or vice versa.

If you have been dreaming about cruising the Panama Canal for a while, this cruise itinerary is definitely for you! Plus, you will more than likely receive an in-depth history of Panama and the lock system involved with the Canal. Therefore, if you are an engineering geek and don’t mind not getting off the ship within Panama, this itinerary is for you.

Partial Crossing

If you are wanting to get the “Panama Canal Experience” but are looking for a round-trip itinerary, I highly suggest looking into the Panama Canal Partial Crossing cruises.

This is also a great option for those who want to see a bit of the canal, but also want to get out and explore the country of Panama. Most partial crossing itineraries will stop in Colon and Gamboa, perfect towns to get a taste of Panamanian culture.

Most of the partial crossing Panama Canal cruises will depart from Florida, and therefore, you will also enjoy some of the other fabulous Caribbean ports during your adventure. These include islands in the Southern and Western Caribbean, and occasionally Cartagena, Colombia.

On partial crossings, the cruise ships do not actually cross the entire Panama Canal. Instead, the ship will typically pass through one lock, and let passengers of in a town along the canal to explore.

Passengers on their Panama Canal cruise with partial crossing will discover the town of Gamboa, taking in sights that they would not otherwise get to experience and see during the full crossing itineraries. From Gamboa, passengers can expect to enjoy a variety of shore excursions that they otherwise would not get a chance to experience.

Alternatively, for those who were hoping to see the full canal, you can book a shore excursion on a smaller boat to the Centennial Bridge, Gaillard Cut, and the Bridge of the Americas.

Faux Crossing

The last form of Panama Canal cruise is the Faux Crossing itinerary. Many cruise lines will offer all the proper shore excursions of Panama Canal cruises without actually entering the canal at all!

Instead, these cruise ships dock at Colon, Panama (the entrance to the canal), and spend a day on the Caribbean side in port. From here, passengers can see the canal however their heart desires, whether stopping for a few minutes on a city tour, or booking a longer shore excursion through a private boat tour crossing the Panama Canal.

The best way to find this type of Panama Canal cruise is through searching for Caribbean and Central American itineraries that stop in Colon. From there, look into the shore excursions carefully to fully plan your Panama Canal adventure.

Types of Panama Canal Cruise Lines

No matter what type of Panama cruising experience you are looking for, I guarantee you will find it through one of these main and not-so-main-stream cruise lines.

From 3-day weekend trips to 180-day world cruises, these Panama Canal cruises are worth every penny. There are plenty of Panama cruise deals available for eager cruisers booking through a travel agent or directly with the cruise line.

Make sure to research diligently to find the best Panama Canal cruise for you!

Mainstream Cruise Lines for Panama Canal Cruises

Just about all the main cruise lines offer sailings to and through the Panama Canal:

• R oyal Caribbean International — Royal Caribbean offers spectacular itineraries up through the Panama Canal and to the Caribbean’s most popular cruise ports at extraordinarily low prices. With this cruise line offering countless amenities for all types of cruisers, Royal Caribbean offers dozens of Panama Canal cruises every year.
• Norwegian Cruise Line  — Norwegian (NCL) offers plenty of unique itineraries visiting the Panama Canal, boasting new discoveries around every turn. NCL prides themselves on offering exhilarating wildlife and cultural shore excursions during their NCL Panama Canal cruises. (NOTE: this is the cruise line I sailed with through the Panama Canal)
• Celebrity Cruises — Celebrity Cruises offer their passengers a slightly more luxurious experience tailored to each guests’ dream Panama Canal cruise. This cruise line is popular for it’s over-the-top vacation experience traveling to the diverse Caribbean and Central American cruise ports!
• Holland America — Holland America offers cruises through the Panama Canal during the Southern Caribbean cruising season. Whether cruising around the Caribbean first or exploring the western coast of Mexico, you are guaranteed to enjoy their luxurious experience on your Panama Canal cruise!

Smaller Lines Cruising through the Panama Canal

Active travelers may be looking for expedition-style voyages or cruises on a smaller ship to enjoy more time exploring the Panama Canal.

• Silversea — Silversea offers stylish and intimate Panama Canal cruises. Their smaller ships visit plenty of the cruise spots in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean on their journey. They pride themselves on their crew to guest ratio of almost 1:1 creating a personalized Panama Canal trip for every passenger.
• Seabourn — Seabourn offers a couple of Panama Canal sailings every Southern Caribbean cruising season. Their stunning cruise ships bring passengers to the sweeping landscapes of Panama. They also bring intelligent historians onboard to explain the history and importance of the Panama Canal.
• Regent Seven Seas — Regent Seven Seas explores the Panama Canal through immersive experiences on their Panama Canal cruises. This cruise line balances cultural, active, and foodie activities as they navigate through the warm climate of the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and Panama.
• Oceania — This small and luxurious cruise line offers a variety of intimate Panama Canal expeditions on their cruise ships. Their ships visit plenty of other Caribbean and Pacific Ocean destinations on their Panama Canal sailings. That, paired with the personalized cruising experience curated by Oceania, offers some of the best experiences at sea.

Popular Ports for Panama Canal Cruises

No matter which cruise line and itinerary you ultimately decide on, you will likely visit a mix of these fantastic Panama, Caribbean, and Central American cruise ports. 

Many cruises through the Panama Canal offer trips to these popular ports of call that are consistent with most itineraries. Like mainstream Caribbean cruise ports, these ports cater to the tropical   cruise market . If you are looking for more than touristy attractions and activities, make sure to get out of the main port area and explore.

Colón, Panama

The city of Colón is most frequently referred to as the gateway to the Caribbean for the country of Panama. Therefore, if you are cruising through the Panama Canal, there is a high chance this port will be on your cruise itinerary.

If you are looking to learn about the history of the Panama Canal before you embark on your transit, make sure to spend two to three hours at the Agua Clara Visitor Center . Here, you will learn about one of the world’s greatest engineering feats; the Panama Canal. For more history of Panama, check out Fort San Lorenzo ; another must-do attraction in Colón. This fort is a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers no official tours, but you can walk around the area with a handy map.

If you prefer to hit up the Panamanian shopping scene on your Panama cruise, check out Avenida Central — a six-block-long pedestrian mall that is filled with tasty, local restaurants with boutique shops and unique finds alike.

Fuerte Amador (Balboa), Panama

Another popular Panama port found on the Caribbean coast near the canal is Fuerte Amador. The main marina found at the tender pier for Panama Canal cruises offers numerous tasty restaurants and souvenir shops.

The top attraction to explore during your time in Fuerte Amador is the Biomuseum . This modern, brightly-colored building is found just across the causeway and illustrates the story of the Panama isthmus formation. Another popular excursion is Casco Viejo , the older area of the city famous for its narrow streets surrounded by flower-lined balconies. Here, you can explore historic cathedrals and sites while browsing the local shops for souvenirs.

If you prefer to learn more about the locks you will see on your Panama Canal cruise, check out the Miraflores Locks Museum and Visitor Center .

Gamboa, Panama

If you get the opportunity to stop part-way through the Panama Canal, you are more than likely going to stop at the Gamboa cruise port on your Panama Canal cruise.

By far the most popular and worthwhile attraction in the Gamboa cruise port is the Gamboa Rainforest . One area that offers a unique experience is the Sloth Sanctuary . There is also a aerial tram that will bring you through the vast rainforest and the surrounding landscape. Another nice Gamboa shore excursion is a boat trip on the Chagres River to Gatun Lake .

Another exciting outdoor adventure spot is the Soberania National Park . This has been noted as one of the best places in the world to observe flora and fauna.

Cartagena, Colombia

Another popular Panama Canal cruise port is Cartagena, Colombia. This beautiful South American city is filled with colorful buildings, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits– all of which will leave you wanting more!

The easiest excursion to enjoy in Cartagena is a free walking tour. This is the best way to see the Old City area on your Panama Canal cruise as you can easily spend hours meandering the streets boasting loads of fascinating Colombian history. To dive deeper into Cartagena’s history, head over to San Felipe Castle — the most famous landmark in Cartagena, built back in 1657. 

Before you head back to your Panama Canal cruise, make sure to grab some fruit from the local palenqueras — groups of women balancing bowls of fruit on their heads dressed in vibrant colors.

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Puntarenas is most popular as the biggest beach town near Costa Rica’s capital city. As a simple and laidback town, Puntarenas used to be to the largest fishing port in the country.

That being said, the top thing to do in Puntarenas on your Panama Canal cruise is heading over to the main beach– Playa Puntarenas . If you prefer to get out of the port area, take the Puntarenas ferry to either Paquera or Naranjo . These are the best spots to experience the local Costa Rican life on your adventure.

If you can’t decide what to do during your time in the Puntarenas cruise port, many shore excursions offer numerous stops at the city’s top attractions during their tours. These typically stop at the nearby rainforest and Tarcoles Town .

Puerto Limón, Costa Rica

The more popular and larger Costa Rican cruise port is Puerto Limón. There are plenty of outdoor and historic activities to enjoy during your Panama Canal cruise stopping in Costa Rica.

The best outdoor area to explore is the nearby Veragua Rainforest Park. Here you will find hundreds of frogs, butterflies, and reptiles, in addition to monkeys, sloths, and birds up above. Just a few miles from Puerto Limón is the breathtaking Playa Bonita , the perfect tropical beach offering crystal-clear waters and soft sand. If you are an adrenalin-junkie, check out the rafting opportunities on the Reventazon River .

Finally, book a tour to the nearby banana plantations . During this enlightening tour you will come to understand how bananas grow, are cleaned, and ultimately selected.

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Another popular port for cruises through the Panama Canal is San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. This cruise port is not as common as other Central American cruise ports, so make sure to watch out for this unique city on your itinerary!

San Juan del Sur is home to one of the world’s largest Jesus statues. In fact, hiking to the Jesus statue sitting atop a hill overlooking San Juan del Sur is the top thing to do when in this fabulous city. If you are looking for the best beaches during your Panama Canal cruise, you may want to venture a little out of town to the beautiful beaches Playa Maderas and Playa Hermosa . One of the most special things to do in this city is horseback riding on the beach , so make sure to ask your cruise line if there are any shore excursions like this on your Panama Canal cruise.

Finally, if you prefer to get back on the water, take a catamaran ride around the area. These tours will typically offer all you can drink and delicious snacks with your fare, stopping at beautiful private beaches for you to explore and enjoy.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

While Cabo San Lucas is most popular as a college Spring Break destination, there are also plenty of enjoyable attractions for cruisers of all ages during your Panama Canal cruise.

The most notable and photograph site in Cabo is Land’s End . Most travelers will travel to this area for its breathtaking views– strategically located right where Playa del Amor and Playa del Divorcio join. If you would like to explore some of the traditional Mexican culture, head over to San Jose del Cabo . This area is the official “Old Town” of Cabo San Lucas, offering plenty of tasty local eateries and artisanal shops. Later, tour the Church of Saint Luke , one of Cabo San Lucas’ top historical landmarks.

If you prefer to head back onto the beautiful ocean, sign up for one of Cabo’s deep-sea fishing adventures on the Sea of Cortez.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is another one of Mexico’s beautiful gems frequently visited on Panama Canal cruises. As a destination that has welcomed travelers from around the world for many years, there are plenty of fascinating activities and Puerto Vallarta shore excursions for every age.

If you are looking for one of the top beaches, head over to Las Caletas . This beautiful beach is one of the top private beaches in the world where you can find crystal-clear waters brushing up against the jungle-mountain backdrop. To learn about Puerto Vallarta’s history, head over to San Sebastian Del Oeste . This Puerto Vallarta attraction dates all the way back to 1605 as one of Mexico’s most well-preserved towns. Other historic towns include Talpa and Mascota , both colonial mining villages.

If you prefer to explore Puerto Vallarta’s vast natural beauty, check out Islas Marietas , one of the area’s protected state parks offering exotic marine wildlife and lush scenery.

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12 Panama Canal Cruise Mistakes, Do’s and Don’ts

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If you’re going on a Panama Canal cruise for the first time, these are some potential mistakes to avoid, as they can impact your cruise.

We recently came back from our first Panama Canal cruise, and there were definitely some things that I wish I would have known before I sailed. While I did a lot of research before my cruise, there were still some things I would have done differently.

In this post I share information that you’ll want to know about the Panama Canal cruise itinerary, cruise ships and what not to forget to pack for your cruise vacation.

These Panama Canal cruise tips will help you to be better prepared and avoid potential pitfalls and common mistakes.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

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Panama Canal Cruises: What Cruise Passengers Need to Know

1. Will Your Cruise Ship Be Transiting the New or Old Locks

Before we went on our Panama Canal cruise, I never looked into whether we’d be sailing through the new locks, built in 2016, or the original. I found out that this is a potential mistake.

Navigating the Panama Canal presents a choice that can significantly shape the experience: the new or old locks. The modern Agua Clara locks showcase cutting-edge engineering, while the historic Miraflores, Pedro Miguel and Gatun locks embody the canal’s rich past.

Each route offers a distinct perspective. However, most cruise travelers agree that the old locks present the most interesting experience. As the ship glides through the narrow passage, you’re practically touching the walls.

Our cruise ship sailed through the newer locks. However, for those that are interested in getting up close to the historic locks, there are shore excursions available.

2. Partial vs Full Transit

While there’s no right or wrong answer, there are pros and cons of doing either the full or partial transit of the Panama Canal.

A partial Panama Canal cruise usually involves a round trip, departing from and returning to the same embarkation port, providing passengers with a condensed canal experience. On a partial transit, which is what we did, you’ll navigate through the iconic locks of the Panama Canal and into Gatun Lake. After several hours, your ship will return through the locks.

On the other hand, a full transit Panama Canal itinerary is a crossing from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean or vice versa. It encompasses the entire canal, offering a deeper exploration of the locks, channels, and the diverse landscapes encountered along the way.

While a partial round trip cruise is a shorter time commitment, a full transit provides a more extensive and awe-inspiring journey through this iconic waterway.

Related: What to Pack for Your First Cruise (Packing List & Tips)

3. Not Being Prepared for the Day in the Panama Canal

Make sure that you’re prepared for an early start on the day you cross the Panama Canal. Your cruise ship will likely have an approximate schedule or itinerary so that you can plan and follow along.

Plan your viewing spot, whether at the bow, from your balcony, or on upper decks. The bow is generally the best spot to view the cruise ship enter the locks, both early in the morning and when returning through in the later afternoon (on partial transits).

Be forewarned, these spots get busy, so plan to arrive early.

On our Panama Canal cruise, I mistakenly was under the impression that our day would be similar to an Alaska cruise glacier viewing day. Instead, there are distinct times of the day that you’ll want to be more actively viewing.

Something nice is that there is a slower pace to the day and you can take advantage of the downtime.

4. Not Learning About the Panama Canal

I admit I was guilty of not learning as much as I could about the history of the Panama Canal. Thankfully there are educational cruise talks and guest lecturers who will be onboard most cruise ships. It’s a mistake not to attend some of these talks to be better prepared and enhance your experience.

A book you may wish to read ahead of time is “The Path Between the Seas,” by historian David McCullough .

Recommended: Panama Canal book (check price & reviews on amazon here)

5. Cruise Port Mistakes

When it comes to shore excursion planning , be sure to research the ports of call. Be cautious about wandering off on your own and consider booking cruise line excursions or reputable tours.

Even if you’ve been on Caribbean cruises before, you may find the port areas in Central America have a less developed infrastructure and local vendors can try and take advantage of cruise travelers.

Be cautious when it comes to travel scams and tourist traps, that you can encounter in ports of call including Old Town, Cartagena.

That said, you’ll also meet many lovely local people and be able to see and experience the natural beauty, as well as wildlife, of the destinations. Don’t forget to try some of the local food when in port.

6. Forgetting to Pack these Panama Canal Cruise Essentials

Panama Canal cruises tend to be hot and humid, so it’s essential to bring the following items. On our cruise, there were many cruisers who didn’t consider the weather or the mosquitos!

Don’t forget to pack:

• Aloe Vera Gel (for sunburns)
• I nsect repellant
• Afterbite (or a similar product)
• Poncho or light rainjacket
• Sunhat – men or women

Related: 50+ Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon

7. Expecting a Caribbean Cruise Atmosphere

When talking with some fellow passengers, some people were surprised to find that a Panama Canal cruise had a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere than a typical 7 day Caribbean cruise .

Longer cruises tend to be a bit slower paced and attract a somewhat older passenger demographic. We also find that on longer cruises, people don’t stay out late every single night.

We really enjoyed the relaxed pace and chill vibe during our 12 day cruise. However, I could see how it could a surprise to those who are expecting a more party like atmosphere.

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8. Not Using the Cruise Ship’s Laundry Services

It can be hard to avoid overpacking for longer cruises . However, planning what to wear and using the cruise line’s laundry services can really help.

While some cruise ships have a self serve laundrette for passenger use, this isn’t the case on all cruises. Many cruise lines offer convenient laundry packages. This includes a laundry bag special which can be used once or twice during the cruise, or an unlimited laundry package.

Be sure to check out your cruise line’s laundry options so that you’re prepared before you go.

Panama Canal Frequently Asked Questions

9. why do cruise ships go into gatun lake on a panama canal cruise.

Cruise ships enter Gatun Lake during a Panama Canal transit, utilizing the Gatun Locks to reach the lake’s elevation. This artificial body of water facilitates the canal crossing, aiding ships in traversing the continental divide and transitioning between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Gatun Lake’s inclusion enhances the scenic experience for passengers, showcasing the engineering brilliance of the Panama Canal.

10. When Is the Best Time to Go on a Panama Canal Cruise?

The best time to go on a Panama Canal cruise is during the dry season, which typically spans from mid-December to mid-April. During these months, the weather is more stable, with reduced chances of rainfall, providing the best conditions for a pleasant cruise and travel experience.

11. Which Side of the Cruise Ship is Best for Panama Canal Cruises?

Choosing the best side of the cruise ship for a Panama Canal cruise depends on the direction of the journey. For transiting from the Atlantic to the Pacific (or vice versa), the starboard side (right side when facing forward) is often preferred by cruise passengers.

This allows passengers to have prime views of the canal’s intricate locks and operations. However, for round-trip itineraries or partial transits, either side can offer great views.

Keep in mind that you can watch from your balcony or window, but you’ll likely want to view the Panama Canal crossing from the ship’s bow or stern as well.

How Long Is a Panama Canal Cruise?

The duration of a typical Panama Canal cruise can vary, but it generally ranges from about 10 to 16 days. Shorter cruises might focus on specific regions, such as the Caribbean or Central America, while longer ones could encompass a more extensive itinerary, including both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

The actual time spent transiting the canal itself is usually a day or two, depending on whether it’s a partial or full transit.

• 50+ Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon
• 10 Shore Excursion Mistakes Cruisers Almost Always Regret
• Pre-Excursion Checklist: 16 Things to Do Before a Cruise Port Day
• 60 Cruise Packing Tips & Hacks All Cruisers Need to Know
• 30 Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Cruiser Needs to Know
• 25 Best Cruise Dresses & Cover Ups I’ve Bought on Amazon
• 17 Worst Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid
• 17 Things You’ll Never See on a Cruise Again

Final Thoughts

A Panama Canal cruise is one that should be on every avid cruiser’s bucket list. Whether you do a partial or full transit, go through the older or newer locks, cruise solo or with friends, you’re sure to come back with amazing memories!

Happy Cruising!

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13 Tips for Visiting the Panama Canal

By Candyce H. Stapen

Last updated: November 9th, 2023

• Find a Cruise

Visiting the Panama Canal for the first time is an extraordinary experience, made all the more special if you take some time to learn about this incredible feat of engineering.

Make the most of your visit to the Panama Canal by understanding the canal’s history, mechanics, and importance to trade.

Learn about its setting and context, too; there are opportunities to experience the lush rainforest and serene lakes through which the waterway passes, explore historic forts, and learn about Panama’s exceptional biodiversity.

Here are 13 tips to enhance your visit to the Panama Canal.

Pick the Right Season

Panama Canal

The best time to visit the Panama Canal is from November through April. November marks the end of Panama’s rainy season. The canal does, of course, operate year-round, regardless.

The weather is typically sunny and dry from November through April, perfect conditions for visiting the Panama Canal, exploring the ancient forts on the Pacific and Caribbean sides, and seeing the rainforest in all its lush splendor.

Understand the Geography

Gatun Locks

Cutting through the Isthmus of Panama, the Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, creating an essential shortcut for ships. Prior to the canal’s opening in 1914, vessels transiting the two oceans had to circumnavigate South America.

By using the 50-mile-long man-made canal, ships traveling from the Atlantic to the Pacific or the reverse reduced their voyage by about 8,000 nautical miles.

To transit the canal, ships must be raised to cross the Continental Divide and to bridge the difference in height between the higher Pacific Ocean and the lower Atlantic.

In crossing from the Atlantic to the Pacific, the Gatun Locks raise the ships 85 feet  to the level of man-made Gatun Lake. Then, ships cruise the Culebra Cut, formerly known as the Gaillard Cut, which allows the vessels to cross the Continental Divide.

Miraflores Locks

Next, the Pedro Miguel Locks lower ships to the level of Miraflores Lake, after which the Miraflores Locks lower the ships to sea level. It takes about eight to ten hours for a ship to make the crossing.

Read: The Ultimate Guide To Panama Canal Cruises From California

Know Your Canal Jargon

Being able to fit through the Panama Canal is so important that engineers specifically design vessels, called Panamax ships, that can fit through the locks.

When the canal opened in 1914, ships transiting the canal could be no wider than 106 feet, no longer than 965 feet, with a maximum draft of 39.5 feet.

Vessels meeting those requirements can transit the original locks, which are 110 feet wide, 1,050 feet long, with a maximum draft of 41 feet.

As trade grew, so did the canal and the ships. In 2016, wider, longer, and deeper lanes were opened to accommodate larger passenger and cargo vessels, known as New Panamax or Neo Panamax ships. Engineers employed so much steel in the $5.2 billion expansion of the locks that they could have constructed 22 Eiffel Towers.

Vastly important, the canal accounts for six percent of world trade, with about 14,000 transits a year. But still, the very biggest container ships cannot access the canal and have to be used by shipping lines on different trade routes.

Immerse Yourself in Canal History

Learning the fascinating history of the Panama Canal enriches your visit. France began construction on a canal in Panama in 1881, then abandoned the endeavor in 1889.

Before the U.S. could take over the project, America had to encourage the Panamanians to declare their independence from Colombia.

Conditions in the late 19th and early 20th century were incredibly harsh. More than 25,000 workers died, many from malaria and yellow fever, during the construction of the Panama Canal.

There are several excellent books about the construction and it’s worth reading up about the canal before you visit.

Be Panama Ready

Remember that it’s warm in Panama. Be sure to pack a hat, refillable water bottle, long-sleeved, lightweight top, and pants that protect you from sunburn. And don’t forget to lather on sunscreen and insect repellent if you’re headed into the rainforest.

After your visit, cool off with a cold chicheme, a sweet Panamanian drink made from boiled corn, evaporated milk, cinnamon, and sugar, or a cold beer or iced tea.

Tour the Miraflores Visitor Center

Miraflores Visitor Center Photo by MusikAnimal on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The big draw at the Miraflores Visitor Center is watching a ship transit the mighty Miraflores Lock. From the center’s viewing platform, you can take in the wide-angle sight of an entire ship passing through the lock.

It’s best to arrive when the canal is busiest, often between 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. You also might enjoy the exhibits at the center’s museum and its IMAX film, which covers the history and construction of the canal.

There’s a café at the Visitor Center where you can sit down for lunch and watch the extraordinary sight of vessels transiting the lock, whether they’re giant container ships, passenger vessels, or tiny yachts.

Explore the Rainforest Canopy

Rainforest in Panama

Workers cut and dug through the country’s thick rainforest to build the Panama Canal. On your visit to the Panama Canal, complement your experience with an outing through the area’s amazing rainforest.

Howler monkey

In The Gamboa Rainforest Reserve, board an aerial tram that lifts you 77 feet up into the lush jungle canopy. You’re likely to spot howler monkeys, birds, and maybe even sloths in the canopy of balsa, fichus, oil palm, and other trees.

Ramps, not stairs, lead to the top of a 98-foot-high observation tower, from which you might see ships passing through the canal.

Boat & Kayak Gatun Lake

By cruising or kayaking past the huge container ships on Gatun Lake, you not only have fun but also gain a visceral sense of how small you are, how huge the vessels are, and how mighty the accomplishment was of engineering and digging the  Panama Canal.

The lake, an artificial body of water, acts as a reservoir so that the canal authority can regulate the amount of water in the channels.

Capuchin monkeys

A favorite spot for day trips by kayak or motorboat is Monkey Island, home to scores of white-faced capuchin monkeys. You could also spot howler and spider monkeys, kingfishers, fish eagles, and turtles.

Look out for the curious Jesus lizard, so named because it “runs” across the surface of the water.

Read: Best Things to Do in Panama

Discover the Early Forts in San Lorenzo and Portobelo

Forts in San Lorenzo and Portobelo

Centuries before the Panama Canal was built, the region served as an important trade area. To protect the gold and silver extracted from their territories in Central America, the Spanish built forts in Panama.

Fort San Lorenzo, constructed between 1587 and 1599, protected the entry to the Chagres River, the terminus of the Las Cruces Trail, a land route the Spanish used to carry their plunder.

Attacked by pirates and privateers over the decades, the fort was rebuilt in the 1680s and the 1760s. Perched atop a promontory, Fort San Lorenzo’s ruins offer a splendid view of the Chagres River.

Starting around 1597, the Spanish also used Portobelo’s harbor to transport their booty, constructing a series of forts to protect Portobelo Bay. The ruins attest to the long ago importance of Portobelo. Fort Santiago and San Jeronimo are the two most visited of the four forts. At both ruins, you can see cannons.

Touring the San Lorenzo and Portobelo forts, UNESCO World Heritage Sites known for their examples of Spanish colonial military architecture, adds perspective to the region’s importance.

Learn About Natural History at the Biomuseum

Biomuseum Photo by F Delventhal on Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0

While Panama’s Pacific coast may seem like a world away from the Caribbean, it’s actually very close. If you base yourself in Colon, on the Caribbean side, you can be in Panama City, on the Pacific coast, in under an hour by road.

On a drive of the Amador Causeway in Panama City, you can’t miss the Frank Gehry-designed Biomuseo, with its striking roof of angled red, green, blue, and yellow panels.

Exploring the Biomuseo broadens your visit to the Panama Canal by expanding your understanding of the region’s biodiversity.

At the museum, learn about the geological formation of the Isthmus of Panama and how it affected biodiversity by creating a bridge between North and South America, but dividing the oceans.

Other exhibits focus on the region’s human inhabitants and the differing sea life in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

Along with text, exhibits contain what exhibit designer Bruce Mau called “a device of wonder,” an element that uses art to convey scientific principles. In the Great Exchange, for example, scores of life-sized animal sculptures spiral through the gallery reinforcing the concept of animal migration between the continents.

In Panarama, ten screens surround you with a dazzling slideshow of Panama’s ecosystems.

Sample Panamanian Food

A tasty way to immerse yourself in local culture is by sampling Panamanian food and seeing how it was shaped by the mix of the many cultures that settled, worked, or passed through the region.

Ropa vieja, a thick stew of beef and leftovers, originated in Spain. For snacks, try patacones, chips made from toasted green plantains, or carimanolas, fried yuca balls mixed with meat.

Find such local dishes and others in El Trapiche, a reasonably priced eatery in Panama City’s San Francisco neighborhood.

Try a sandwich of ropa vieja served in puff pastry, tortillas, or bread, or the Panamanian party platter featuring ropa vieja, rice with chicken, fried yuca, carimanola, and patacones.

Mercado de Mariscos

Panama’s bounty of seafood is legendary. At Mercado de Mariscos, a seafood market near the entrance to Casco Vieja, the Old Quarter in Panama City, you walk past stalls of fresh-off-the-boat shrimp, tuna, wahoo, salmon, lobster, and more. At the facility’s seafood court, specialties include ceviche and seafood stew.

Shop for Local Crafts

Local crafts

Shopping for Panamanian crafts is one of the best things to do when you visit the Panama Canal. Look for the brilliantly colored molas made by the Guna (previously called Kuna) people of the San Blas Islands on the Caribbean side of Panama.

Women wear two molas, a front and a back, as a shirt.  To craft the designs of fish, birds, and intricate patterns, women sew layers of colored fabrics using an applique technique.

View some 200 authentic, hand-crafted versions at the Museum de la Mola (Mola Museum) in the Casco Viejo in Panama City. You can find molas and other handicrafts at Panama City’s Centro Nacional de Artesanías (National Crafts Center) near Casco Viejo.

Visit an Embera Village

Embera Village

One of Panama’s Indigenous people, the Embera, reside in the seemingly impenetrable Darien rainforest along the Pacific Coast, but some have established villages along the Chagres River and on Gatun Lake and are happy to share their culture.

You arrive at the village in a dugout canoe, a nice touch that gives you sweeping water views and sets the tone for experiencing the Embera’s traditional ways.

This includes greeting you with songs and dances, and taking you through their thatched-roof community. Questions are encouraged, and you can ask how they blend their traditional ways with the culture of modern Panama.

Crafts from the Embera Village

And of course, you can purchase their crafts, specifically exquisitely woven baskets, and figurines carved from cocobolo wood.

Buy your baskets direct from the tribe and you’ll get a much better deal than you would in a gallery in Panama City—and help them sustain their way of life.

Excited about experiencing the Panama Canal? Browse Celebrity’s Panama Canal cruises and plan your adventure.

Candyce H. Stapen

Candyce H. Stapen is an award-winning travel journalist, author, and family travel expert. As USA TODAY ’s travel editor/producer, Candyce launched the company’s digital travel sites. Her work appears in Frommers.com, the Washington Post , and is syndicated to millions of readers, Candyce lives in Washington, D.C., and travels with her family whenever she can.

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Best and Worst Times to Visit Panama

The best time to visit Panama is during the dry season from the late winter to late spring. The worst time is the rainy season from June through November. But some months are better or worse than others.

Panama is famous for the Panama Canal that connects the Caribbean Sea with the Pacific Ocean. Caribbean cruises often visit the port of Colon at the eastern end of the canal while Pacific coast cruises visit Panama City on the western end.

The two ports, which are only 45 miles apart, share similar temperatures. Daytime temperatures are consistently in the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit and low 30s Celsius for most of the year.

Wet and Dry Seasons

Both coasts of Panama have heavier rains during part of the year as a result of both the Caribbean and Pacific hurricane seasons. The Panama season begins in May and the Caribbean season begins in June. Both last through November.

These seasons begin mildly and become more active until reaching a high point during the fall months of September and October.

Heavy bursts of rain occur during this rainy season. The Caribbean side of the Panama Canal receives twice as much rain as Panama City. It is known for having short, sudden afternoon thunderstorms.

Much like the Caribbean, the Panama Canal Zone has a tropical climate with high humidity year-round.

The average high temperature on the Caribbean coast reaches the upper 80s Fahrenheit during the entire year. For the west coast and Panama City, the average highs reach into the 90s Fahrenheit, according to Instituto de Meteorologia e Hidrologia de Panama, Panama’s national meteorological service.

But visitors should bring warm clothes if they plan on going to high altitudes, say Boquete, El Valle or Cerro Punta. The weather is also crisp and bright during this period, making it a great time for surfing, snorkelling and diving.

It stands to reason that for tourists visiting a country like Panama , they would expect to focus on such things as shopping and excursions.

But they should take into consideration that Panamanians simply love their holidays. As such, if they visit at the wrong time (during the holidays), they may find a ghost town with all attractions, banks, offices, stores and restaurants closed.

If the official holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, expect everything to stay closed on the following Monday.

As a general rule, visitors will find holiday closures more often in early January, February, the Easter period and November. The dry season historically goes from late December through April.

Local Events

During the dry season, Panama is lit up with the colors of its various celebrations. As an example, January ushers in the Flower and Coffee Festival in Boquete and the Jazz Festival in Panama City.

Many travellers like to organize their visit around Carnival Mardi Gras parties occurring four days before Ash Wednesday for town parades, dancing and music.

Holy week during March is a major calendar event in Panama. During this time, the streets become aglow with processions and parades. During the 40 days after Easter, the quaint, two-week religious event, Festival Corpus Christi in La Villa de Los Santos is marked by devil-mask-wearing dancers.

Visitors travelling to Panama will find it’s so much more than its famed canal. But it is necessary to visit at a time conducive to enjoying all that Panama has to offer so that visitors can make the best of the experience.

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Best (& Worst) Time Of The Year To Visit Panama: Weather By Month

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If you’re thinking about heading to Central America, have you ever considered visiting Panama? If this is the case, you might want to know when the best time to visit Panama is .

To make sure you have the best experience, you’ll need to plan your trip around Panama’s tropical climate. It’s an equatorial country which sees both the sunshine and the rainy weather.

Whenever you decide to go, know that Panama is one of our favourite countries and surpassed all of our expectations.  We spent weeks backpacking the country and loved every moment of our trip! It’s filled with nature and wildlife and soft sandy beaches; it’s literally a haven for adventure travellers and nature enthusiasts.

So, to help you plan an epic adventure, we’ve written this guide to tell you everything there is to know about Panama’s weather, month by month!

Don’t Get Caught Out, Discover Panama’s Weather Month By Month And The Best Time To Visit For You!

In this post, we will cover the weather in Panama month by month to help you plan your perfect holiday! I’ll also include topics:

• The best time of the year to visit Panama
• The worst time to visit Panama
• Our experience visiting Panama in May
• The Geographic overview of Panama
• Festivals and carnivals in Panama not to be missed!

When Is The Best Time Of The Year To Visit Panama?

This is a relative question because depending on your reasons and which activities are attracting you to Panama, the time of year to visit will change.

However, most will agree that the best time of the year to visit Panama for a holiday is during the dry season between January, February and March.

The period from mid-December to March sees the most pleasant temperatures. You will get dry days with plenty of sunshine . There is also a gentle breeze with some cloud coverage so it brings relief from the sun and high temperatures.

That said, there are some questions you should ask yourself to help narrow down the best time of the year to visit Panama for you . Answer these questions to get started:

• Which part of the country are you thinking of exploring?
• Are you okay with variable terrains?
• Does the presence of crowds bother you?
• Does high humidity have a negative impact on your comfort?
• Are you comfortable with cooler or warmer temperatures?
• Do you lean towards spending your time outdoors hiking, by the beach or delving into a new city experience?

Give these questions some thought, and once you’ve determined the answers, you’ll be on your way to discovering when the best time to visit Panama is for you.

Ultimately, 

• The best times for dry weather is between January and March
• The best time for budget travellers is April to early December
• The best time for surfers is May to November

What We Think 

We think the best time to visit Panama is during the shoulder seasons . In Panama, these are a couple of weeks during mid-December and mid-April to early May . These shoulder months bring short spells of sunshine between the wet and dry seasons and fewer crowds. Due to this, they are actually great times to visit Panama! 👉 Further Reading We think Panama is worth visiting, find out why here!

Are you planning a trip to Panama soon? Use my links below to book!

Accommodations – I recommend Booking.com Flights – I recommend Skyscanner Travel Insurance – I recommend SafetyWing Tours/experiences – I recommend Get Your Guide Car rental – I recommend DiscoverCars These are all the sites I personally use to book my trips, and if you use them, some of them will earn me a commission at no extra cost to you . This helps reduce the ever-increasing costs of keeping my site up. Thanks!

What Is The Worst Time To Visit Panama?

Is it the wet season?

Again, this is relative. If you’re a surfer and want to visit Panama to enjoy its waves, then the rainy season is the best time to visit! This isn’t true for those of you seeking endless days on the beach or wanting to experience Panama’s incredible hiking trails. 

Even so, most will agree that the worst time to visit Panama is during the wet season , especially the months of October and November which see the most rainfall. Then again, the country holds some fantastic festivals during these months!

That said, it’s a busy time for domestic travel due to the number of national holidays. You’ll find many roads are blocked due to parades and the shops and businesses all but shut down. So, not ideal if you’re trying to travel and have a relaxing holiday.

• The worst times for wet weather is October and November
• The worst times for budget travellers is late-December to March
• If you’re looking for beach days, the worst time to visit is…depends on what side of the country you go!

Caught you out? We were confused at first, too…Panama has an interesting geological topography and climate. 

Panama Geographic Overview

Panama has both a Caribbean side and a Pacific side and is generally categorised into two climates : dry and wet . But the Caribbean side doesn’t really see a dry season. 

This is because although Panama has a tropical weather pattern created by the collision of the north and south Trade Winds, it features a subclimate on the Caribbean side: an equatorial climate. 

You can expect it to be hot and rainy all year round on the north Caribbean coast , as is expected by an equatorial climate but, tropical on the Pacific Coast.

Tropical climates are categorised by hot weather but with a dry and wet season.

Panama is a Central American country located just 8 degrees north of the equator , its close proximity to the equator is the reason why it has a tropical climate. It doesn’t matter what side of the country you are on; temperatures will be fairly consistent all year round.

In fact, the landscape is what alters the temperatures. North of the Isthmus, Panama has a central mountain range which divides the Pacific Coast and Caribbean Coast. 

You will find that the temperatures vary with altitude rather than with seasons. The higher you go, the cooler it becomes and even the nights can become chilly. Whereas, in the lowlands, it is hot and humid during the day and only slightly cooling off to give pleasant nights.

The North Pacific Coast sees drier plains than the South as it is sheltered by Panama’s mountainous spine. However, due to this, the south is more lustrous. If you’re visiting during the wet season the Azuero Peninsula could be a great shout as it sits in the north Pacific side of Panama!

Our Experience Visiting Panama

“There are more species of birds and plants in Panama — a country the size of South Carolina — than there are in all of Canada and the United States combined.” Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.

Jack and I have only been to Panama once but it was enough to carve the destination into our hearts forever. So much so that we are already planning a return trip!

The start of my journey to Panama found me on a sailing boat in early May 2022. Departing from Colombia’s popular port city of Cartagena, I was heading for the San Blas Islands on a 5-day sailing trip. 

Jack decided to fly straight to Panama City and meet me after this adventure as he isn’t a fan of boats! It was a decision he questions now and again…

The San Blas Islands were my first encounter with Panama. They were something special and along with 8 other people we created lifetime memories there. If you get the chance to go, make sure you plan for at least a day trip to the San Blas Islands, preferably more!

The weather was perfect . We had sunny skies for the most part although there were a few dark clouds and the odd shower but these didn’t last long and were generally at night. There was one time we were snorkelling and soft droplets began to fall, but the water was warm and, in my opinion, it made the activity even better! 

May is the start of the rainy season , but even if there are heavier skies the downpours seem to be less frequent and softer on the Caribbean side.

After the San Blas Islands, I headed to Panama City where we spent a few days . We experienced only one day of rain – when we were walking around Casco Viejo . And, although the skies were duller the sun still made a constant appearance. 

By the time we reached Playa Venao on the Azuero Peninsula , we had a solid week of rain. We were there to surf and since we were in the water most of the day it didn’t affect us. However, there was no opportunity for sunbathing.

Afterwards, we headed to Boquete which is a town in Panama’s central mountain range. There, we had a fantastic time hiking , exploring and eating our way through local delicacies. 

👉 Related Post: We loved Boquete and so to help you plan your visit we’ve written a guide for where to stay to suit ALL BUDGETS!

We saw rain but not as frequently as the week before and generally only in the evening and night. The mornings were fresh and filled with wildlife , and when we did most of our exploration – this was the best time to take a guided wildlife tour through the jungles.

Would We Recommend Visiting Panama In May?

Panama is a year-round destination and although May is thought of as a bad time to visit we had a great time. It is just at the end of the shoulder season which means you’re likely to get both sunshine and rain , with more rain towards the end of the month.

Since we enjoy hiking and nature experiences just as much as beach days we weren’t bothered that we couldn’t enjoy sunbathing. If the beach is what you’re after, I would suggest visiting mid-April instead.

For all other activities, May is a good time to visit. Since it falls into the off-season, attractions are cheaper , there are fewer tourists and accommodation is more affordable. This makes May a great time to visit if you’re travelling on a budget.

During May and with most of the wet season you’ll notice the downpours lasting no more than an hour or two during the day with most occurring at night. Therefore, it is still possible to plan activities but aim for the mornings.

As the wet season progresses, hiking trails can become bogged down, soggy and dangerous so I also wouldn’t recommend visiting later in the season if you want to go hiking.

Panama Weather By Month

Do you know which month you’re visiting Panama? Find out below if it’s a good time to go.

Weather Stats For Panama

Rainiest month(s) in Panama: October and November Driest month(s) in Panama: January, February and March Warmest month(s) in Panama: February, March, April and June Coldest month(s) in Panama: October and November Most crowded month(s) in Panama: January, February and March Least crowded month(s) Panama: May, June, July, August, September and early December

Panama In January

In January, Panama offers the perfect escape. With an average temperature of 27ºC, it marks the first month of the dry season , making it an ideal time to explore. This is when Panama’s beaches shine their brightest, with golden sands beckoning sun-seekers.

For nature enthusiasts, the rainforest hiking experiences are truly enchanting during this time as the forests are lustrous and green following the rainy season. 

Adventurers can also embrace the thrill of kitesurfing along the coast. With the Trade Winds at their strongest from December to mid-February you’ll get the perfect conditions for this exhilarating sport.

The downside is that it’s one of the busiest months to visit Panama . January stands out as a popular month of the year where the skies are often exceptionally clear, creating a stunning backdrop but attracting the most crowds and higher prices.

Best places to visit during January in Panama :

Boquete Panama City Isla Taboga San Blas Islands Bocas del Toro Colon Portobelo

Panama In February

In February, Panama is at its prime with an average temperature of 28ºC. It’s the height of the peak season , offering up to 9 hours of glorious sunshine. 

The weather is warm and dry , making it an excellent time for beach lovers and rainforest hiking. It’s the perfect time to visit if you want to explore the islands on the Pacific Coast, go snorkelling and take part in adventure sports such as kitesurfing

Just keep in mind, it’s a bustling time to explore this beautiful country so you can expect high prices for tourist attractions and accommodations. You’ll need to book activities in advance to ensure they don’t get booked up so pre-planning is a must!

Best places to visit during February in Panama :

Panama City  Portobelo  Colon Las Tablas  Penonomé San Blas Islands

Panama In March

In March, Panama continues its sunny streak , much like January and February. With an average temperature of 28ºC, it’s still the height of the dry season . Panama’s golden beaches and rainforest hikes remain irresistible. 

Additionally, it’s an excellent time to explore places like Bocas del Toro and Guna Yala – San Blas Islands . Notably, Bocas del Toro enjoys two relatively dry spells, one being around March, making it a prime time to visit this coastal gem.

Again, expect higher prices.

Best places to visit during March in Panama :

Boquete Panama City David Portobelo Colon Bocas del Toro San Blas Islands Península de Azuero

Panama In April

In April, Panama has the warmest of temperatures , with an average of 29ºC that can occasionally peak at 32ºC. It marks the end of the dry season , offering the last of the dry weather up until mid-April. 

Easter is a highlight with the country celebrating this holiday. The beaches get crowded and you’ll find daytime highs often reaching over 30ºC. 

It’s worth noting that Easter coincides with spring break , so expect bustling crowds if you’re visiting during this period.

This is an ideal time for hiking in the forests as you’ll be shaded from the heat by tropical trees. But, it’s important to keep in mind that mid-April signals the start of the wet season. However, this shoulder season can be an excellent period to visit, as prices start to drop. 

Just remember that while April brings warmth, sunshine isn’t always guaranteed and it begins to get humid . Puffy hair anyone?

Best places to visit during April in Panama :

Panama City David Azuero Peninsula Santa Catalina & Isla Coiba Rio Hato Boquete Puerto Armuelles

Panama In May

In May, Panama offers an average temperature of 28ºC. It marks the first month of the wet season , signalling the end of the shoulder season towards mid-May. 

If you’re a surf enthusiast, it’s an exciting time as waves begin to grow larger, creating ideal conditions for catching the perfect ride!  Hiking is still possible and the wetter weather brings fewer crowds and more affordable rates.

Nature lovers will find May remarkable, as it’s the start of the nesting season for loggerhead and green sea turtles along the Caribbean coast.

You can expect the odd showers at the start of the month and becomes more frequent towards the end. Even so, rain showers during the wet season last no more than an hour or two during the day.

Best places to visit during May in Panama :

Santa Catalina Playa Venao Bocas del Toro Isla de Canas

Panama In June

This month is a dream for surfers , as the waves are at their best, providing thrilling rides along the coast. It’s also a fantastic time for nature enthusiasts as it can be one of the best times to spot wildlife.

The rain brings life to the jungle and oceans making it the very best time to experience water based-activities. You’ll find that the lakes and rivers fill and flow faster so if you fancy white water rafting , this is the month to visit.

Additionally, June marks the celebration of the Corpus Christi festival in La Villa de Los Santos, a cultural highlight with vibrant parades and festivities. 

However, it’s essential to note that humidity soars in June, and rain showers, along with regular thunderstorms, become more frequent. Be prepared for a downpour if you plan to explore Panama during this time.

The good news is that even though the skies are in near-constant cloud coverage, the rain lasts only for an hour or two and tends to be mid to late afternoon. 

Best places to visit during June in Panama :

Los Santos Panama City Soberania National Park Boquete Bocas del Toro Bastimentos Island Colon

Panama In July

In July, Panama embraces a comfortable average temperature of 27ºC . It’s a haven for surfers along the Pacific Coast, where the best waves continue to form; head to Playa Venao on the Azuero Peninsula for a great experience.

While the Caribbean Coast still sees regular showers it is drier in comparison to the Pacific side, for history enthusiasts, this is a good time to visit Portobelo .

Surprisingly, the Pacific Coast is drier than that in May and June; humidity is also slightly lower than in July. 

July also sees the start of the humpback whale migration which attracts wildlife fanatics to the Pacific Coast. July is still considered an off-peak month for visitors, meaning you can find better hotel rates and fewer crowds.

July is also quite a festive month in Panama, with a range of celebrations, including the Fiesta de Virgen del Carmen in Santa Catalina, Nuestra Señora del Carmen in Isla Taboga, and two more in Las Tablas. 

It’s a great time to immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of Panama!

Best places to visit during July in Panama :

Pearl Islands Panama City Santa Catalina Isla Taboga Colon  Portobelo Las Tablas  Soberania National Park

Panama In August

The month of August in Panama is a haven for divers and wildlife enthusiasts as humpback whales, sharks, and orcas continue to gather in their thousands along the Pacific shoreline. The best place to spot them is at Pearl Island.

For surfers, the waves are still inviting , making it a fantastic time for riding the waves. However, it’s worth noting that August is the cloudiest month of the year in Panama.

Despite the clouds, it’s still possible to visit the Caribbean side of Panama. The San Blas Islands typically see rain for only an hour or so in the afternoon but have warm, sunny skies in the morning. The rain actually brings a welcome relief from the humidity, leaving clear skies afterwards.

In the lush rainforests, August marks a thriving period , with nature bursting with life and greenery. It’s a unique time to witness Panama’s natural beauty in full bloom.

Best places to visit during August in Panama :

Pearl Islands Panama City Azuero Peninsula Parque Nacional Coiba Santa Fe National Park Ocú San Blas Islands

Panama In September

In September, Panama is well and truly into the wet season, offering an average temperature of 27ºC. This month continues to present an exciting opportunity for divers and wildlife enthusiasts , as humpback whales, sharks, and orcas gather off the Pacific coast.

However, due to the rain, there’s less visibility for scuba diving and snorkelling so it’s preferable to take boat trips to see them rather than underwater adventures. 

September also marks the last chance to experience Panama ‘s hiking trails before heavy rains set in, so it’s a unique time to explore the country with fewer visitors and better rates, ideal for budget travellers!

Surfers will continue to find fantastic waves during this season. For those of you interested in the Bocas del Toro island s, September is surprisingly one of the driest months to visit.

Keep in mind that for hiking, towards the end of September, it isn’t the most ideal time to explore, as it marks the beginning of a wetter period that extends into October and November.

Best places to visit during September in Panama :

Panama City Bocas del Toro San Blas Islands Pearl Islands Guarare

Panama In October

In October, Panama offers a comfortable average temperature of 26ºC . This is the prime time to experience Panama with as few visitors as possible, ensuring a more tranquil exploration of the country.

The landscape thrives during this month, creating a vivid rainforest. The rivers and lakes are full and new life has sprung into every nook and cranny of the country. It continues to be a great time to observe the whale migration.

Although daily rain is guaranteed, the downpours are typically confined to a few hours in the late afternoon. Luckily, the weather is quite predictable, allowing for easy itinerary planning.

The best part is Panama begins to celebrate regional fairs during October, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural traditions.

For those interested in visiting Bocas del Toro , note that Bocas enjoys two relatively dry spells, one of which is in October. This makes it a great time to explore this coastal treasure!

Best places to visit during October in Panama :

Panama City David Bocas del Toro Portobello

Panama In November

In November, Panama continues to offer a pleasant average temperature of 26ºC. It’s still the best time to experience the country with as few visitors as possible.

However, it’s worth noting that the rain can be unrelenting in November, with the most rain per year, often up to 5 hours a day, although this is still usually in the afternoons. 

This month is when the whole country takes off to celebrate multiple independence-related festivals, a time of cultural richness and celebrations from both Spain and Colombia.

Panama City tends to empty out as people head to the beaches, but the rain, at times torrential, still accompanies the festivities.

November isn’t the best time to visit the Caribbean Coast, as it experiences heavy rainfall. However, the end of November sees a drastic change in weather, with the rains starting to die off, particularly on the Pacific Coast.

If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly options, November is the cheapest time of the year to visit Panama. 

Again, the month continues to be a unique opportunity to witness humpback whales from both the northern and southern hemispheres as they migrate to mate and give birth, creating a remarkable natural spectacle.

Best places to visit during November in Panama :

Panama City Pearl Islands Azuero Peninsula

Panama In December

In December, Panama’s average temperature remains 26ºC, setting the stage for a delightful holiday season . However, it’s essential to pre-book accommodations, as Christmas and the period onwards mark the start of the dry season , drawing visitors from around the world.

As the month progresses, the weather warms up, and by mid-December , Panama experiences a dramatic decrease in rainfall , making it an excellent time to explore. The sea temperatures are also comfortable, at around 27°C (81°F).

If your plan is to witness the wonder of the Panama Canal , mid-December just before Christmas and New Year’s is the best time to visit, ensuring a smooth and memorable journey through this engineering marvel.

The rainforests in December are truly special, buzzing with new life after the rains. It’s an exceptional time to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Panama.

It’s also the best time to take to the water, activities such as white water rafting and kitesurfing are ideal during this period.

Best places to visit during December in Panama :

Panama City Santa Catalina Bocas del Toro Azuero Peninsula Chiriqui Pearl Islands Coiba National Park

Does Panama Have Seasons?

Panama does not have the typical four seasons most of the northern hemisphere experiences. Instead of spring, summer, autumn and winter, Panama has only two seasons: dry and wet. 

However, these seasons can differ slightly depending on which month and which side of the country you visit. 

This is due, in part, to the Isthmus of Panama, Panama’s central mountain spine and the convergence of the northern and southern Trade Winds.

Generally, the Caribbean Coast will remain damp throughout the year although the sun will appear in the mornings and afternoon. During the wet season, areas such as Bocas del Toro on the Caribbean side of Panama actually experience their driest months!

The Pacific coast sees a typical tropical climate. The dry season is from mid-December to mid-April whereas the wet season starts from mid-April and ends mid-December.

That said, Panama is a year-round destination.

During the dry season in Panama, most of the country enjoys sunny days and minimal rainfall. However, as I mentioned the Caribbean Coast will still experience occasional showers as will the highlands.

Due to the guaranteed sunshine, this is the busiest time for visiting Panama and therefore it becomes the most expensive time to visit as well. 

For hiking, popular places like Boquete and the group excursions into the national parks from Panama City can become crowded alongside excursions to the stunning San Blas Archipelago.

👉 It’s best to pre-book all your tours during the high season. We use Get Your Guide and Viator to pre-book our tours. They are both safe and reputable companies that we love!

While it’s ideal for hiking and water-based sports, the wind during this season can reduce visibility for snorkelers, so keep that in mind if you’re planning aquatic adventures!

The peak season encompasses major holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter, as well as Carnival season. 

The rainy season in Panama stretches from mid-April through December , with its peak occurring in late October and November. During these wettest months, travel in the highlands can become challenging, if not impossible. 

The low season in Panama corresponds to the rainy months, particularly from June through November. This is when you’ll find the most affordable rates in travel, tours and accommodation.

The highlight of the wet season is the beauty of Panama’s natural landscape which truly flourishes. The annual whale migration also takes place during this season which is perfect for nature enthusiasts.

On the Pacific side, you’ll encounter thunderstorms and brief, intense tropical downpours. Meanwhile, on the Caribbean side, showers are less frequent, often occurring at night.

The rain is quite predictable which means it’s possible to plan your itinerary if you’re visiting during this period.

Panamanian Festivals & Public Holidays

Festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm in Panama. Traditionally, you’ll find water trucks, known as “culecos,” at most celebrations during the hottest months which spray the crowds with water. 

Popular celebrations are:

• January: Feria de las Flores y del Café in Boquete (date varies).
• February: Carnival and Ash Wednesday (Feb/March) are celebrated all over the country, but especially in Las Tablas and Panama City, with an aquatic version in Penonomé; Comarca de Guna Yala (Feb 25) celebrates the Guna Revolution of 1925, their independence day; Festival de los Diablos y Congos , biennially in Portobelo (2019,2021,2023…)
• March: Feria Internacional de David , Chiriquí; Semana Santa celebrations , celebrated everywhere, but most colourfully in La Villa de Los Santos, Pesé and Guararé, on the Azuero Peninsula.
• April: Feria de las Orquideas in Boquete (date varies); Feria International del Azuero in La Villa de Los Santos (date varies). Easter holidays!
• May: Labor Day.
• June: Corpus Christi, La Villa de Los Santos.
• July: Fiesta de Virgen del Carmen , Santa Catalina; Nuestra Señora del Carmen (July 16) on Isla Taboga; Patronales de La Santa Librada and Festival de la Pollera in Las Tablas (July 20–22).
• August: Panama La Vieja Day , Panama City; Festival Nacional del Manito Ocueño , Ocú. 
• September: Feria Internacional del Mar, Bocas del Toro; Feria de la Mejorana , Guararé.
• October: Festival del Toro Guapo , Antón. Festival of Nogagope (Oct 10–12) on Isla Tigre, Comarca de Guna Yala; Feria Guna (mid-Oct) on Isla Tigre; Festival de la Mejorana (five days mid-Oct) in Guararé; Fiesta de Cristo Negro (Oct 21) in Portobelo.
• November: Día de la Independencia (November 28). Cities and towns across the nation put on parades featuring school drumming troupes and majorettes, which the whole population comes out to watch.
• December: New Year and Christmas

Panama Resources

After reading all that I hope you’re considering Panama as your next destination! If it’s your first time visiting, we’ve written loads of useful guides to help you plan your itinerary. Here are the most popular articles to get you started:

• Perfect Panama 14-Day Itinerary: Travel Made For You
• 19 Fantastic Things To Do In Boquete Panama
• 21 Best Things To Do In Panama City
• Playa Venao To Boquete: How To Get There & Tips
• Panama City To Playa Venao: How To Get There & Tips
• Playa Venao To Bocas Del Toro: How To Get There & Tips

What To Pack For Panama

Since Panama has both wet and dry seasons, knowing what to pack can be confusing. In truth, you don’t need to pack too differently as the temperatures remain constant throughout the year. 

Instead, you will only need to pack a rain jacket and potentially some warmer layers for the cooler evenings if you are visiting the highlands. 

Click the link below to download your very own Panama packing list:

However, to quickly bullet point the essentials:

• City exploration: lightweight trousers/shorts and skirts, and a comfortable pair of walking shoes/trainers.
• Evening wear: Semi-formal trousers and short-sleeved shirts for men / smart dresses and flat sandals for women
• Beach exploration : lightweight dresses, shorts, vests, flip-flops and sandals 
• Mountain exploration: lightweight, absorbent trousers/shorts/t-shirts and a comfortable pair of walking shoes.
• General : lightweight rain/windproof jacket, rainproof phone cover, bug repellant and a Panama travel book!

Panama Weather By Month FAQs

The rainy season in Panama, also known as the wet season or the low season starts around mid-April and ends mid-December. You can expect daily showers lasting an hour or so towards the late afternoon and evening.

The rainiest/wettest month in Panama is October and November. Although these are the wettest months Panama is a year-round destination. There are many festivals and wildlife adventures to experience during this period; notably the humpback whale migration. 

The cheapest time to visit Panama is October and November at the height of the wet season. Although daily rain is guaranteed it is still worth visiting Panama during this period. The rainforests are truly spectacular and the whale migration is in full swing. Surprisingly, the islands of Bocas del Toro have a dry period in October.

October is thought of as one of the worst months to visit Panama as the rains are at their heaviest. However, October can still be a good time to visit Panama. If you are travelling on a budget, seeking cultural festivities or hoping to see humpback whales migrating along the Pacific Coast, October can prove to be the perfect time to visit Panama.

Best Time Of The Year To Visit Panama Conclusion

In our opinion, the best time of the year to visit Panama is late November into mid-December or mid-April into early May . Panama is a wonderful country which remains less crowded than other Central American countries. 

Therefore it’s a great place to visit if you want to immerse yourself in local culture , food and experiences without being swamped by other tourists. The country is still unique and authentic with multiple locations to visit. 

It has a typography for most holiday-makers with pristine beaches, untouched islands and mystical cloud forests. The urban buzz around Panama City is fun and lively and the Panamanians are a f riendly, welcoming people.

Overall, no matter what time of the year you decide to visit Panama, I guarantee you’ll have an amazing experience come rain or shine!

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Abigail Dalton is the owner and creator behind I’m Going On An Adventure, a blog which helps travellers find unique destinations worldwide. She focuses on offbeat travel and road trips, giving first-hand experiences to help her readers plan their perfect trips and make the best memories. She also helps travellers plan their dream holidays with bespoke travel services where she creates fun-packed itineraries. When she isn't writing about her travels you'll find her on long country walks foraging for mushrooms or enjoying a cool fruity white under the sun, toes tucked in the sand.

The best time to go on a cruise

Sorry to disappoint you, but the best time to go on a cruise is not a fixed week or month, as you might hope. The best time to take a cruise varies based on your travel preferences, including where you wish to travel.

First, you'll need to consider the weather at your destination. The best time of year to visit is typically when warm, sunny days are plentiful and rain is scarce.

If you're not a fan of crowds, you'll want to pass on traveling when everyone else is going during popular vacation weeks. That might mean embracing cooler weather and a little precipitation.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

If price is a major factor in choosing the perfect cruise travel date, you'll also want to look at cruises in the shoulder season, when fewer people are traveling and fares are typically lower. However, don't rule out prime travel dates. You might be able to find cheaper cruises on older ships or in less desirable cabin categories, especially if an abundance of ships sails to your preferred destination.

In the end, the best time to cruise may come down to where you can go for the right price when your schedule allows a vacation. We've compiled the best times to cruise to the most popular cruise destinations based on the weather, lowest prices and fewer crowds. However, the decision of when to travel is ultimately up to you.

Best time to cruise Alaska: June-August

The cruise season in Alaska runs from mid-April to September, with a few cruise lines extending the season into early October. Nearly every month has something to recommend it, depending on what you're looking for.

When to cruise to Alaska for the best weather

If you want to avoid rain, May is typically the driest month, with plenty of sunshine and highs in the 50s. It's a great month for nature lovers to cruise to Alaska because May is when you'll see much of the wildlife emerging, including migrating gray whales, Dall sheep, moose and migratory birds.

If you want to travel to Alaska a little earlier in the season in April, the weather is cool but pleasant, and the nights are still long enough that you may be able to catch a glimpse of the northern lights.

July is the height of peak season, with the warmest weather of the year and long daylight hours. It's also the best month for wildlife viewing, especially for humpback whales, brown and black bears and migrating shorebirds and puffins. However, you should know that you'll have to deal with pesky mosquitos in late June and July, especially in the interior part of the state.

Best time to cruise Alaska for low prices

You can usually find the best prices for an Alaska cruise during the shoulder season months of April, May, September and October. For example, starting rates are as low as $603 per person for a seven-night Inside Passage cruise sailing round-trip from Seattle with Royal Caribbean in May 2024. In mid-September, the same itinerary starts at $631 per person. However, by the peak summer season in late June and July, the starting price is $921 per person.

Best time to cruise Alaska to avoid crowds

The shoulder season months are also the least crowded times to visit Alaska because kids are in school and fewer families are vacationing. Just be aware that if you head to Alaska early in the spring, some of the stores may not have opened yet. Arrive in the fall, and you may find that tour operators and shops have begun to cut back hours or have closed.

The advantage of traveling in the shoulder season is that you can experience the towns without the summer crowds and with cooler temperatures. Shoppers can take advantage of end-of-season sales on souvenirs.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

Best time to cruise the Caribbean and Bahamas: December-May

Almost any time of year is a good time to sail to the Caribbean or Bahamas , with year-round sunny skies, warm temperatures and glistening turquoise blue waters.

When to cruise to the Caribbean and Bahamas for the best weather

Some of the Caribbean's nicest weather is in May, at the start of shoulder season. The weather is particularly pleasant in the Southern Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Barbados, St. Lucia, Dominique, Grenada and St. Vincent, with highs in the 80s and just slightly cooler evenings in the 70s.

January through March also offers picture-perfect weather. January is the beginning of the dry season, so the humidity is lower, and the temperatures are in the 70s and 80s.

Related: Best time to cruise the Caribbean

Best time to cruise the Caribbean and Bahamas for low prices

Shoulder season in the Caribbean is May through November, the months just before peak season, which is December through April. This is the time when you'll typically find better deals on pricing, especially in May and September to November.

Fares for seven-night cruises in May 2024 are as low as $499 per person on an MSC cruise sailing round-trip from Miami and even less expensive at $399 per person come September.

The official Atlantic hurricane season, June 1 to Nov. 30, falls within shoulder season, so you may need to weigh low prices with the risk of a storm affecting your trip. Also, some fares in the summer months can be higher with many families taking vacations. Prices for similar cruises with MSC between June and August range from $649 to $799.

Best time to cruise the Caribbean and Bahamas to avoid crowds

The best time to cruise to the Caribbean without all the tourists is typically in late fall and between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. You can also avoid the crowds in late April and early May after the spring break rush but before school lets out and summer vacations begin.

Related: Best time to cruise the Bahamas

Best time to cruise the Mediterranean: April-May, September-October

The cruise season in the Mediterranean usually begins in April and ends in November, with peak season falling between June and September. Some cruise lines also offer sailings into the winter months to southern Mediterranean destinations, such as Egypt, Israel, Morocco, southern Spain and the Canary Islands, because they have warm weather during that time.

When to cruise the Mediterranean for the best weather

The spring (April and May) and the fall (September and October) afford some of the best weather in the Mediterranean, with sunny days and comfortable temperatures. Though the busiest season for Mediterranean cruises is typically July and August, the temperatures can be unbearably hot (85 degrees and higher).

Best time to cruise the Mediterranean for low prices

Look to the shoulder season to find the best deals on Mediterranean cruises. During April and May and September to November, the combination of cooler temperatures, a higher chance of rain and a lack of family vacations leads to more availability and lower prices for cruises.

For example, in May 2023, you can sail on a seven-night Western Mediterranean voyage from Barcelona to Rome with Princess Cruises starting at $699 per person. If you prefer to travel in the fall, you can still find a good deal on the same itinerary for $848 per person in September. In mid-June, the same voyage costs $1,132. Since you'll have the greatest choice of ships midsummer, you might luck out and find a one-off deal if you can be flexible about ship and sail date.

Best time to cruise the Mediterranean to avoid crowds

Lower prices also mean fewer crowds. The height of summer is incredibly busy in the Mediterranean, especially in smaller destinations, including the port towns in the Greek islands of Santorini and Mykonos and in popular cities in Italy, France and Croatia. The spring and fall are the optimal times to visit, with fewer tourists, cooler temperatures and lower prices. You'll also find that most everything is open during that time and easier to see without battling the crowds.

Related: Best time to cruise to the Mediterranean

Best time to cruise Hawaii: June-August

Hawaii is a year-round destination, but you'll only find one ship that sails the islands throughout the entire year: Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America. Other ships sail one-way or round-trip itineraries to the Hawaiian Islands from the U.S. West Coast, typically between September and April.

When to cruise to Hawaii for the best weather

Hawaii has just two seasons due to its tropical climate. Summer is from May to October, and winter falls between November and April. There's not much variation in temperature between the two seasons, with daytime temperatures hovering around 80 degrees in the summer and not falling much more than that into the high 70s in the winter. Since the temperatures are similar during both seasons, the best time to cruise the islands is when there's less chance of precipitation, which is during the summer months of June, July and August.

Best time to cruise Hawaii for low prices

Cruises to Hawaii will be less expensive in the fall when school is in session.

Summer is peak season with family vacations and honeymooners, so prices will be higher then. Expect a lift during spring break weeks, as well. Even though January, February and March bring more rain, the winter months are also peak season for tourists … and whales.

For example, a seven-night round-trip cruise in November or early December 2024 with Norwegian Cruise Line starts at $1,649. The highest fares are in June, at $2,149. January and February fares are as high as $1,949.

If your heart is set on traveling to Hawaii in the summer, or you want to escape the winter's snow at home in February, look for deals with an early booking. You can also take a chance and wait for last-minute specials if you're flexible.

Best time to cruise Hawaii to avoid crowds

Springtime will be the quietest time to visit the Aloha State, although you might find an uptick of families traveling for spring break during March and April. The summer is the busiest time for vacationers, and the winter months bring whale-watching enthusiasts and surfers. There are also two major sporting events in January, so you'll want to avoid the crowds on Oahu and Maui during that month.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

Best time to cruise Northern Europe: June-August

The cruise season is short if you want to sail to Northern Europe, the Baltic or the Scandinavian fjords; itineraries run from April through October. However, if you love the cold and want to chase the aurora borealis in Norway, several lines offer northern lights itineraries in the winter months.

When to cruise Northern Europe for the best weather

The warmest months in Northern Europe are mid-June to August, making the height of the summer season the most desirable time to cruise Scandinavia and the Baltic region. This is also the Land of the Midnight Sun, where you'll have nearly 24 hours of sunlight in places like northern Norway from early June to mid-July.

The two shoulder seasons – from April to early June and September to October – offer comfortable temperatures, but you'll need to dress in layers.

Best time to cruise Northern Europe for low prices

The shoulder seasons may not be the warmest, but they typically offer better pricing than summer cruises. For example, a 14-night sailing to the Baltic with Holland America is $949 in early May 2023 but $1,329 in mid-June.

Best time to cruise Northern Europe to avoid crowds

The shoulder seasons will also have fewer passengers and tourists — and you may even have some attractions to yourself in the cities and towns.

Best time to cruise the Panama Canal: December-March

Transiting the Panama Canal from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean is a bucket-list trip for many travelers. Panama and the bordering countries in Central America have a tropical climate with lush landscapes and rainforests, so you can expect wet weather at certain times of the year. The height of the Panama Canal cruise season is between October and April.

When to cruise the Panama Canal for the best weather

You'll find moderate temperatures (in the mid-70s to low 80s) and drier weather in January and February. During those months, it's more pleasant to engage in outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking, which are a highlight when visiting places like Panama and Costa Rica.

December, March and April also offer nice weather, although the rainy season sometimes starts as early as mid-March before continuing through the fall.

Best time to cruise the Panama Canal for low prices

It's hard to determine the best time to cruise the Panama Canal at the lowest prices. Many cruise lines offer short seasons or mix up itineraries, so there's not much grounds for comparison. However, if you want a deal, the one thing that's certain is you should not sail over the holidays.

For example, Windstar Cruises ' seven-night Costa Rica and Panama Canal sailings mostly start at $2,299 in February and March 2024 and $2,399 in January. However, its New Year's sailing starts at $2,799 per person.

Best time to cruise the Panama Canal to avoid crowds

The Panama Canal cruise season picks up at the end of the rainy season, so you'll find fewer tourists during October and November when the weather is still wet.

To avoid crowds in port, try not to cruise during the Panamanian festivals that take place in early spring and from November into the winter. These festivals can also affect the opening of attractions, restaurants, banks and other venues you might want to visit ashore.

Best time to cruise Mexico: November-May

The Mexican Riviera (i.e., the Pacific coast of Mexico) is a year-round cruise destination. Most ships sail the itinerary in the fall, winter and spring because those same ships head to Alaska for the summer.

When to cruise to Mexico for the best weather

For the best weather, book your cruise during the dry season, between November and May. The weather can be cool at times along the Pacific coast, so if you're looking for warmer temperatures, you'll need to head to cities located farther south, such as Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan.

Best time to cruise Mexico for low prices

The summer months and early fall will have some of the best rates, but you'll need to take into consideration the hotter temperatures in the summer that can reach into the 90s – and with high humidity. It's also the rainy season, and it's possible to have hurricanes during these months.

For example, a seven-night round-trip voyage from Long Beach, California, along Mexico's Pacific coast with Carnival Cruise Line starts at $629 in June. The same cruise is even less expensive in October at $464 per person.

Best time to cruise Mexico to avoid crowds

The dry season is also the quietest time to cruise to Mexico. Family vacations are over, and the kids are back in school. You will, however, want to avoid booking a cruise around the holidays at the end of the year and during spring break (March and early April).

Best time to cruise Canada and New England: September-October

The cruise season in Canada and New England begins in May and ends in October, with a few ships even making the voyage in April. You'll find more ships in this region between August and October as it gets closer to peak leaf-peeping season.

When to cruise to Canada and New England for the best weather

The summer offers some of the nicest weather, with daytime highs in Boston and New York between 80 and 90 degrees. Along the coastal areas in Maine and Canada, you'll find highs in the 70s in July. Be prepared for cooler evenings.

The summer months are also the best time to see several species of whales off the coast of Newfoundland, including humpback whales.

However, many travelers choose to cruise to Canada and New England specifically for the fall foliage. Peak leaf season begins around mid-September and runs through October. If fall colors are your goal, resign yourself to cooler temperatures on your sailing, especially in the evenings.

Best time to cruise Canada and New England for low prices

For the best cruise deals, look at voyages sailing before August. A seven-night sailing from Boston to Montreal in May 2024 with Holland America starts at $779 per person. A similar seven-night itinerary from Boston to Quebec City in late September starts at $1,279 per person.

Best time to cruise New England and Canada to avoid crowds

You'll have fewer crowds on shore and in the port towns during the shoulder season in the spring when kids are in school and before mid-September, which is the beginning of peak foliage season in Canada.

Summertime is busy in Canada and New England because of the optimal weather and family vacations. You can also expect more ships and crowds in town during late September and October at the height of the leaf-peeping season.

Related: The best time for a Canada and New England cruise

Best time to cruise Bermuda: April-June

Bermuda's cruise season runs between April and November, with a few ships calling on Royal Naval Dockyard in December. While the pink-sand beaches and glistening, turquoise waters offer a slice of paradise, the archipelago in the western North Atlantic Ocean does not stay warm year-round. The subtropical climate of these British islands has winter temperatures that dip down into the low 60s and high 50s.

When to cruise to Bermuda for the best weather

April is one of the best months to sail to Bermuda as the temperatures are pleasant and in the 70s, and it's one of the driest months of the year, along with May. May and early June are great options for cruises to the archipelago, and you can expect highs in the low 80s by June.

July and August are the hottest months with high humidity, but it's a great time to hit the beach with water temperatures around 81 degrees.

Best time to cruise Bermuda for low prices

April through early June and September to November are typically when you'll find the cheapest prices. Norwegian Cruise Line has a seven-night itinerary sailing round-trip from Boston in April that starts at $779 per person. The same itinerary is $979 in June and $1,019 per person in July.

Best time to cruise Bermuda to avoid crowds

If you want the beaches to yourself, book a cruise in April. Even though there are festivities during the month (including Easter and the Peppercorn Ceremony), it's still early in the tourist season.

By late spring, summer and fall, there are more festivals, sporting events and golf tournaments that bring visitors to the islands. In the summertime, you'll have family vacations and people with vacation homes in Bermuda returning for the season and warmer weather.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Best time to cruise Australia and New Zealand: December-February

The height of the cruise season in Australia and New Zealand begins in early October and runs through the end of April because these months are spring and summer in the Southern Hemisphere. You will find a few lines sailing an extended season Down Under.

When to cruise to Australia and New Zealand for the best weather

The summer months of December through February offer some of the best weather for cruising in Australia and New Zealand. Major cities will have high temperatures in the 70s and 80s during that time.

In Australia, summer is the perfect season to enjoy the country's beautiful beaches, especially in the south near Sydney. However, if you plan to head north to destinations like northern Queensland, know that summer is that region's wet season. Most days are sunny, but you'll likely encounter an afternoon or evening storm.

In New Zealand, summer brings long, sunny days with mild evenings. New Zealand's beaches are also a top attraction in the summer, along with outdoor activities and water sports.

Best time to cruise Australia and New Zealand for low prices

Look for the best prices during the shoulder seasons, from September to November (spring) and from March to May (fall). Avoid the December holidays when prices can be high.

For example, Celebrity Cruises has an 11-night cruise sailing round-trip from Sydney in March for $1,320. As you get closer to the holidays in December, a 13-night round-trip itinerary from Sydney with the line costs $2,231.

Best time to cruise Australia and New Zealand to avoid crowds

The shoulder seasons, when temperatures are warming up or cooling off, are a less busy time to cruise Australia and New Zealand and offer slightly lower fares.

If you don't enjoy big crowds with lots of partying, avoid a cruise to Australia during the New Year's Eve festivities, as it's one of the busiest times of year for tourists, especially in Sydney. Australia Day celebrations can also draw crowds, so be aware if your itinerary includes that January holiday.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Latina Republic

The Pulse of Latin America

Cruise Season in Panama

The arrival of cruises to Panamanian waters represents a boom for the country’s economy.

Panama, June 18, 2024. The success of the 2023-2024 Cruise season is evident with the embarkation of 40,065 passengers and 41,991 disembarkations so far, thereby increasing tourism and representing a significant economic income for Panama, celebrates Migracion Panama.

It is worth mentioning that during this season, the Cruise Terminal on Isla Perico was inaugurated, where over 5,000 passengers are received daily.

El éxito de la temporada de Cruceros 2023-2024, se hace notar con el embarque hasta el momento de 40 mil 065 personas y 41 mil 991 desembarques, incrementándose así el turismo y representando un importante ingreso económico para Panamá. pic.twitter.com/FjWaI0B2Bv — Migración Panamá (@migracionpanama) June 18, 2024

As of June 18, Migracion Panama reported that immigration inspectors and supervisors have handled 237 cases and provided guidance to tourists arriving in Panama with high expectations for their planned destinations.

During the 2023-2024 period, Panama’s security agencies recorded a total of 132,563 crew members aboard cruises, including 1,317 embarkations and 1,558 disembarkations.

Latina Republic is dedicated to promoting regional understanding through compelling narratives, articles, interviews, and reports that emanate from the heart of the Americas. Our foremost goal is to facilitate constructive dialogue by illuminating local viewpoints frequently overshadowed by mainstream media. Our mission is to equip all stakeholders with essential insights for addressing regional issues, thus empowering them in their efforts. We are committed to portraying the victories and hardships of everyday life in Latin America, while also chronicling the progression of social movements and amplifying the voices of those at the forefront of change.

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NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line adds Colon and Panama City as new homeports for 2024-2025 season

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line has designated Colon and Panama City as new home ports for a series of 6 operations scheduled between December 2024 and 2025. This decision is expected to significantly boost local tourism, according to Max Florez, Director of Ports and Auxiliary Maritime Industries (DGPIMA) of the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA).

NCL’s upcoming operations will include:

• 4 sailings by Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem , each accommodating between 2400 and 3400 passengers.
• 2 sailings by Oceania Cruises ’ Sirena , a luxury vessel with a capacity of 800 passengers .

This strategic move follows RCI-Royal Caribbean International ’s recent announcement to reestablish Panama as a homeport for the 2025-2026 Caribbean season.

Home port operations differ greatly from traditional port-of-call visits. While port-of-call stops allow tourists only a few hours to explore a city, home port operations encourage extended stays. This deeper engagement offers tourists more time to explore cultural sites, interact with local businesses, and contribute more substantially to the local economy.

Panama City, with its modern skyline, shopping malls, and attractions like the Panama Canal and UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo, offers a vibrant urban experience. In contrast, Colon entices visitors with its historic forts, idyllic beaches, and the bustling Colon Free Zone. Together, these cities present a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, reinforcing Panama’s position as a premier tourist destination.

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Bimini Removed from Carnival Spirit’s 2025-26 Itineraries

Carnival Cruise Line has announced itinerary changes for the Carnival Spirit’s 2025-26 season, affecting booked guests.

The company stated that the ship will no longer make several scheduled stops at Bimini in the Bahamas. This change impacts ten sailings, including those departing on Nov. 8, Nov. 22, Dec. 6, Dec. 20, and Dec. 28, 2025. In 2026, the affected dates are Jan. 31, Feb. 14, Feb. 28, Mar. 14, and Mar. 28.

Despite removing Bimini from its route, the Carnival Spirit will still visit Nassau, Celebration Key, and either Half Moon Cay or Princess Cays during its eight-night cruises. Departing from Mobile, Alabama, these cruises also include three days at sea in the Caribbean.

Carnival Cruise Line clarified that guests with shore excursions booked for the canceled ports will receive automatic refunds to their original form of payment.

After repositioning from Alaska, the Carnival Spirit will be based in Mobile for the 2025-26 winter season. The ship, which accommodates 2,100 guests, will offer a range of six- to eight-night cruises to the Bahamas, along with a special five-night cruise to the Western Caribbean in October. This shorter voyage includes stops in Puerto Progreso and Cozumel, Mexico, following a repositioning cruise through the Panama Canal.

Among the highlights of the 2025-26 schedule is a unique Carnival Journey. This 14-night cruise in January will sail to the Southern Caribbean, with planned visits to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, Aruba, Curaçao, and Jamaica.

Though Bimini is no longer included in the eight-night itineraries, it remains a destination on the Spirit’s six-night cruises, which also call at Celebration Key or Nassau.

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Carnival Jubilee Homeports in Galveston Texas

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MARVELOUS VOYAGES

A collection of the most iconic sailings... ever.

Once-in-a-lifetime voyages showcasing otherworldly beauty from the sea to the land to the cosmos.

Embark on extraordinary adventures, featuring destinations like Iceland, Istanbul, the British Isles, and the Baltics, all with iconic special programming. Don’t wait — now is the time to secure the (very) best prices for these unique sailings.

Once in a full moon sails…

Experience an eclipse like never before

Solar eclipses have long sparked awe and wonder in humankind. We’re embracing that sense of astonishment by sailing two of our luxury ships under the path of totality for the August 2026 eclipse. Experience this life-affirming event — in Ibiza at 100% totality and in Iceland at 98.5% totality — in a completely unique and spectacular way. An exquisite lineup of tailored events, special guests, workshops, and experiences make these two sailings unparalleled and unmissable.

Ethereal extras on our eclipse voyages

Fantastic programming, galactic experts, and one of a kind souvenirs that are guaranteed to make your unforgettable voyage even more memorable.

Live astronauts & astronomers

We’re beaming in the experts — astronauts who’ve spent time in space and astronomers who’ve dedicated their lives to it — to help us deep dive into galaxies above. Satiate your curiosities about solar phenomena through stimulating lectures and discussions with those who understand them the best.

Exclusive edition souvenirs & galactic grandstands

Not only is the itinerary once in a lifetime but your experience on the ship will be completely unique. Dedicated eclipse observation areas, telescopes, and binoculars plus cosmic keepsakes and special edition merchandise, like Virgin Voyages eclipse glasses, will all be available on board.

Cosmic cuisine

We’re taking our award-winning food and beverage program to galactic new heights on these epic voyages. Treat yourself to nostalgic moonpies, mind blowing Milky Way milkshakes, and a variety of other delights that pair perfectly with otherworldly adventure.

Special programming

Marvel at our lineup of phenomenal performances and programming. Absorb the beauty and magic of the skies with live orchestral music, moon ceremonies, and yoga under the stars, just to name a few of our spectacular events we have planned.

Totality breathtaking itineraries -  Book Now!

Eclipse in the land of fire and ice.

Portsmouth • Dublin • Greenock (Glasgow) • Stornoway, Isle of Lewis • Akureyri • Siglufjörður • Isafjordur • Reykjavik • Edinburgh

• Valiant Lady
• August 5 - 20, 2026

Total Eclipse of the (Med)

Barcelona • Palma de Mallorca • Ibiza • Cannes • Ajaccio, Corsica • La Spezia • Amalfi Coast (Salerno) • Catania, Sicily • Civitavecchia (Rome)

• Scarlet Lady
• August 10 - 22, 2026

Things are looking up!

Explore Europe’s northern wonders

Summer is the perfect time to mosey further away from the equator and explore Northern Europe’s eccentricities and culture. Two unique sailings will take place in July 2026 — a cruise through the charming and lush British Isles and a tour of marvelous Scandinavian and Baltic port towns. Both epic itineraries offer an invigorating and ideal way to take in these spread out landscapes and cities without the hassle of tiring travel between them.

British Isles & Baltics — On Sale 8/28!

Emerald isles & highland wonders.

Portsmouth • Cork (Cobh) • Belfast • Dublin • Liverpool • Greenock (Glasgow) • Stornoway, Isle of Lewis • Kirkwall • Invergordon • Edinburgh • Zeebrugge (Bruges)

• July 8 - 22, 2026

Baltic Wonders & Nordic Nights

Portsmouth • Hamburg • Copenhagen • Stockholm • Tallinn • Oslo

• July 22 - August 5, 2026

Extended excursions

Uniquely European sailings

For those looking to stretch out those sundrenched days and enchanted evenings in Europe’s premiere destinations, two June 2026 sailings offer extended itineraries along the Aegean Sea, and even Northern Africa. One sailing will spend 11 nights wandering through wondrous seaside stops like Istanbul, Santorini, and more. Another will journey from Barcelona to the exquisitely colorful shores of Morocco over the course of 10 nights.

Hidden European gems - On Sale 9/4!

Moroccan marvels & mediterranean wonders.

Barcelona • Tangier • Lisbon • La Coruña • Bilbao • Le Verdon (Bordeaux) • Portsmouth

• June 28 - July 8, 2026

Istanbul Delights & Santorini Dreams

Piraeus (Athens) • Istanbul • Kusadasi (Ephesus) • Mykonos • Rhodes • Santorini • Chania, Crete

• June 24 - July 5, 2026

From sea to shining sea…

Marvel at North America’s fantastic feats

We’re taking the classic American road trip and flipping it on its head. Or rather, we’re sending it to sea so you can enjoy a brand new vantage point of this beautiful continent. In March 2026, cruise through the spectacular achievement that is the Panama Canal and witness up close the engineering ingenuity it took to connect the Atlantic and Pacific. Later in the spring, May 2026, you can journey up the iconic and rugged West Coast from SoCal to Canada.

North American coastal cruises -  Book Now!

Panama canal & pacific wonders.

Miami, Florida • Cartagena • Colón • Panama Canal (Cruising) • Puntarenas • Puerto Quetzal • Cabo San Lucas • Los Angeles, California

• Brilliant Lady
• March 21 - April 6, 2026

LA Lights & Vancouver Vistas

Los Angeles, California • Catalina Island, California • San Francisco, California • Astoria, Oregon • Victoria • Vancouver

• May 3 - 11, 2026

Always Included Luxury

Over $1000 in value. The luxury you deserve — without the nickel & diming from the others. Look (far) beyond the headline rate.

Browse, post, and stay connected with WiFi — whenever you want, and wherever you are on the ship.

Tips & Gratuities

We've taken care of (taking care of) your servers, so we handle the gratuities for your onboard experiences. You just enjoy.

From refined dining to relaxed casual, all of our 20+ eateries — featuring menus curated by Michelin star chefs — are yours to savor.

Soda & Water

Stay hydrated with still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas, and drip coffee.

Fitness Classes

Yoga, meditation, cycling, HIIT classes, and more — all your group fitness classes are covered.

Entertainment

Developed by the world’s most-talked-about producers and artists, our awe-inspiring shows are all included in your voyage.

Experience What the World Has Been Raving About

Travel + leisure world’s best awards 2023 + 2024.

Best Mega-ship Ocean Cruise Line Two Years in a Row!

Best Overall Cruise Line - Large Ship Category

Our exclusively adult experience has been dropping jaws ever since we first hit the water in 2021.

Cruise Critic Editor’s Pick - Best Entertainment

Immersive experiences, game shows, and exclusive entertainment — critics say we’re light-years ahead.

Condé Nast Traveler - #1 Best Large Cruise Ship

With our jaw-dropping entertainment and unique dining options — we’re a Condé Nast Traveler’s favorite.

• Anniston/Gadsden

Carnival announces 16-day cruise from Mobile to Seattle in 2026

• Updated: Aug. 20, 2024, 1:20 p.m.
• | Published: Aug. 20, 2024, 1:09 p.m.

The upper deck of the Carnival Spirit. On Friday, the Spirit began sailing from Mobile, and it will sail from October to March. (Photo by Margaret Kates/AL.com)

• John Sharp | [email protected]

Carnival Cruise Line will offer, for the first-time ever, a cruise from Mobile to Seattle starting in 2026.

The 16-day Carnival Journeys cruise will take the Carnival Spirit from its Mobile homeport on April 12, for a journey that will end up in Seattle by April 28, 2026. The cruise is selling for $1,519 per person for an interior room, or $3,038 for two people. Bookings are currently online via carnival.com.

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