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Central America, Panama CanalCentral America, Panama Canal

Panama Canal Cruise Port

Panama Canal (cruise Into Canal)
The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, allowing ships to travel between the two oceans without having to go around the entire continent of South America.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#1
of 54 ports in the Central America, Panama Canal
Today · high / low
88° / 75°
September normals
Panama Canal (cruise Into Canal) cruise port
Central America, Panama Canal
Panama Canal (cruise Into Canal)
// Panama Canal cruise port overview

The cruise port in Panama Canal,
explained

Lat: 9.1°NLong: 79.7°WINTN code: ICLPA

The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, allowing ships to travel between the two oceans without having to go around the entire continent of South America. The canal is a major engineering feat, and it is one of the most important waterways in the world.

A cruise through the Panama Canal is a unique experience, as it allows travelers to witness the incredible engineering and construction that went into creating the canal. The cruise begins in the Caribbean Sea, and then passes through the Gatun Locks, which raise the ship up to the level of Gatun Lake.

From there, the ship passes through the Culebra Cut, a narrow channel that was carved through the mountains of Panama. The ship then passes through the Pedro Miguel Locks, which lower the ship back down to the level of the Pacific Ocean.

Along the way, travelers can witness the lush rainforest and wildlife of Panama, as well as the many ships that pass through the canal each day. The cruise ends in the Pacific Ocean, providing travelers with a unique and unforgettable experience.

Ships visiting
3 lines
3 ships call at Panama Canal
Peak passenger day
3,950
cruise passengers ashore
Most ships dock at
6:00 AM
arrival for 80% of calls
// Panama Canal Cruise Deals

Price drops on cruises to Panama Canal

63 cruises stop here in Panama Canal during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Panama Canal cruise's 90-day average.

Prices refreshed daily
Celebrity Ascent
Celebrity Ascent cruise ship
37% offinside
Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity Ascent, 11-night cruise departing Nov 23, 2026

Nov 23, 2026 · 11 nights
from: Fort Lauderdale
$139/ night
$1,531 total, 37% off was $2,434 avg
MS Nieuw Amsterdam
MS Nieuw Amsterdam cruise ship
19% offoceanview
Holland America Cruise Line

MS Nieuw Amsterdam, 19-night cruise departing Dec 20, 2026

Dec 20, 2026 · 19 nights
from: Fort Lauderdale
$100/ night
$1,894 total, 19% off was $2,352 avg
Caribbean Princess
Caribbean Princess cruise ship
17% offoceanview
Princess Cruise Line

Caribbean Princess, 12-night cruise departing Oct 30, 2026

Oct 30, 2026 · 12 nights
from: Fort Lauderdale
$80/ night
$959 total, 17% off was $1,156 avg
MS Nieuw Amsterdam
MS Nieuw Amsterdam cruise ship
14% offoceanview
Holland America Cruise Line

MS Nieuw Amsterdam, 12-night cruise departing Nov 8, 2026

Nov 8, 2026 · 12 nights
from: Fort Lauderdale
$100/ night
$1,199 total, 14% off was $1,389 avg
Caribbean Princess
Caribbean Princess cruise ship
13% offoceanview
Princess Cruise Line

Caribbean Princess, 12-night cruise departing Nov 11, 2026

Nov 11, 2026 · 12 nights
from: Fort Lauderdale
$82/ night
$989 total, 13% off was $1,134 avg
Seven Seas Voyager
Seven Seas Voyager cruise ship
10% offsuite
Regent Seven Seas

Seven Seas Voyager, 25-night cruise departing Dec 19, 2027

Dec 19, 2027 · 25 nights
from: Miami
$461/ night
$11,533 total, 10% off was $12,883 avg
Caribbean Princess
Caribbean Princess cruise ship
10% offbalcony
Princess Cruise Line

Caribbean Princess, 12-night cruise departing Jan 22, 2027

Jan 22, 2027 · 12 nights
from: Fort Lauderdale
$148/ night
$1,770 total, 10% off was $1,974 avg
MS Oosterdam
MS Oosterdam cruise ship
9% offoceanview
Holland America Cruise Line

MS Oosterdam, 21-night cruise departing Mar 5, 2028

Mar 5, 2028 · 21 nights
from: Fort Lauderdale
$193/ night
$4,049 total, 9% off was $4,444 avg
// Panama Canal Cruise Port location

Where is Panama Canal Cruise Port?

The Panama Canal cruise port is located in the city of Colon, Panama, on the Caribbean Sea side of the Panama Canal. It is located at the northern entrance of the canal, near the Caribbean Sea. The port is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi from Panama City, which is about an hour away. The port is also close to the Gatun Locks, which are the locks that allow ships to pass through the canal.

General location
Central America, Panama Canal
Coordinates
9.06°N, 79.66°W
Cruise port · 9.06°N, 79.66°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Panama Canal cruise port guide

What to do in Panama Canal

A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.

Ways to spend the day

3 themes
Theme 1

Beach Day

A beach day is a great way to relax and enjoy the sun and sand of Panama. You can take a stroll along the beach and take in the sights and sounds of the ocean. You can also take a dip in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. The beach day usually lasts around two hours and is a great way to get an up-close look at the beach and its surroundings.

Theme 2

Canal Tour

A canal tour is a great way to experience the Panama Canal. You can take a boat tour through the canal and learn about its history and the engineering feats that made it possible. You can also get a close-up view of the locks and the ships that pass through them. The tour usually lasts around two hours and is a great way to get an up-close look at the canal and its operations.

Theme 3

Rainforest Hike

A rainforest hike is a great way to explore the lush jungles of Panama. You can take a guided tour through the rainforest and learn about the local flora and fauna. You can also take a dip in the rivers and streams that run through the rainforest. The hike usually lasts around two hours and is a great way to get an up-close look at the rainforest and its inhabitants.

Panama Canal cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
P
Playa Blanca (illustrative photo)

Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a stunning white sand beach located near the Panama Canal. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The crystal clear waters are perfect for spotting tropical fish and other marine life. The beach is also a great spot for a romantic sunset stroll.

P
Playa Cacique (illustrative photo)

Playa Cacique

Playa Cacique is a stunning beach located near the Panama Canal. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also known for its stunning views of the canal and the surrounding islands. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as kayaking and paddle boarding. The beach is also a great spot for a romantic sunset stroll.

S
Santa Clara Beach (illustrative photo)

Santa Clara Beach

Santa Clara Beach is a beautiful beach located near the Panama Canal. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also known for its stunning views of the canal and the surrounding islands. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as kayaking and paddle boarding.

// Panama Canal fun facts

Cruise Into Canal is a Popular Tourist Attraction

Cruise Into Canal is a popular tourist attraction that allows visitors to experience the Panama Canal firsthand. The tour takes visitors on a journey through the canal, providing them with an up-close look at the engineering marvel. Along the way, visitors can learn about the history of the canal and the people who built it. They can also take in the beautiful scenery and wildlife that the canal has to offer.

The Panama Canal is a Man-Made Wonder

The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It was built by the United States between 1904 and 1914 and is considered one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century. The canal is approximately 50 miles long and is a major shipping route for vessels traveling between the east and west coasts of the United States.

The Panama Canal is a Vital Trade Route

The Panama Canal is a vital trade route for ships traveling between the east and west coasts of the United States. It is estimated that over 14,000 vessels pass through the canal each year, carrying goods and services from all over the world. The canal is also an important source of revenue for the country of Panama, as it generates millions of dollars in tolls each year.

Panama Canal cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
A
Albrook Mall (illustrative photo)

Albrook Mall

Albrook Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in Panama and is located near the Panama Canal cruise port. It features a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It is a great place to find souvenirs, such as clothing, jewelry, and other items that are unique to the area. It is also a great place to find a variety of restaurants and entertainment options, such as movie theaters, arcades, and more.

M
Multicentro Mall (illustrative photo)

Multicentro Mall

Multicentro Mall is another great shopping option near the Panama Canal cruise port. It is a large shopping mall that features a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It is a great place to find souvenirs, such as clothing, jewelry, and other items that are unique to the area. It is also a great place to find a variety of restaurants and entertainment options, such as movie theaters, arcades, and more.

P
Panama Viejo (illustrative photo)

Panama Viejo

Panama Viejo is a great shopping option near the Panama Canal cruise port. It is a historic site that features a variety of souvenir shops, restaurants, and other attractions. It is a great place to find unique souvenirs, such as handmade jewelry, traditional Panamanian clothing, and other items that are unique to the area. It is also a great place to explore the history of Panama and learn more about the country's culture.

// Panama Canal Cruise Port Terminals

Which Panama Canal cruise terminal will your ship use?

Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.

3 piers in Panama Canal
Pier 1 of 3

Balboa Cruise Terminal

Balboa, Panama

The Balboa Cruise Terminal is located in the city of Balboa, on the Pacific side of the Panama Canal. It is the second largest cruise port in the region and offers a variety of services, including a shopping mall, restaurants, and other amenities. It is also the departure point for many of the canal cruises.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Balboa Cruise Terminal)
Pier 2 of 3

Colon 2000 Cruise Terminal

Calle 16, Colón, Panama

Colon 2000 Cruise Terminal is the main cruise port in Panama Canal. It is located in the city of Colón, on the Caribbean side of the canal. It is the largest cruise port in the region and offers a wide range of services, including a shopping mall, restaurants, and a variety of other amenities. It is also the departure point for many of the canal cruises.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Colon 2000 Cruise Terminal)
Pier 3 of 3

Puerto Limon Cruise Terminal

Puerto Limon, Costa Rica
Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Puerto Limon Cruise Terminal)
Wi-Fi

Most cruise ships that travel through the Panama Canal offer free wifi access to passengers. You can usually find the wifi network in the ship's public areas, such as the lobby, restaurants, and lounges. Some ships may also offer wifi access in the cabins.

Safety

The Panama Canal is a very safe cruise port. The Panama Canal Authority has implemented a number of security measures to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew. These measures include the use of armed security personnel, the installation of surveillance cameras, and the implementation of strict access control procedures. Additionally, the Panama Canal Authority has implemented a number of environmental protection measures to ensure the safety of the canal and its surrounding areas.

Port address

Amador Causeway, Panama City, Panama

Panama Canal cruise port car rental
Budget Car RentalHertz Car RentalAvis Car RentalThrifty Car RentalEnterprise Car Rental

Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.

// Weather

Panama Canal Cruise Port Weather

Central America, Panama Canal·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Panama Canal
81°
Avg · °F
Hot, very wet
High
88°F
Low
75°F
Rain
9.7 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in Panama Canal

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

Avg temp °FRainfall in
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECMONTHLY NORMALS · °F AND IN
// Panama Canal cruise ship schedule

Panama Canal Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Panama Canal today, Wednesday, September 16, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

Schedule updated

Planning around the crowds?

  • Panama Canal cruise port schedule 2026, day by day
  • Slowest & busiest day analysis
  • Complete cruise line & ship visitor list
Panama Canal Cruise Ship Schedule
// Keep exploring

Also on your cruise

100% of Panama Canal cruises also call at one of these.

// Questions

Panama Canal cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Panama Canal.

Where is Panama Canal cruise port located?

Panama Canal (cruise Into Canal) cruise port is located in Central America, Panama Canal. The Panama Canal cruise port is located in the city of Colon, Panama, on the Caribbean Sea side of the Panama Canal. It is located at the northern entrance of the canal, near the Caribbean Sea. The port is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi from Panama City, which is about an hour away. The port is also close to the Gatun Locks, which are the locks that allow ships to pass through the canal.

Is Panama Canal a good cruise port to visit?

Yes, Panama Canal (Cruise Into Canal) is a great cruise port. It offers a unique experience of cruising through the Panama Canal, one of the world's most impressive engineering feats. The cruise offers a chance to see the locks, the rainforest, and the wildlife of the area. Additionally, the cruise port offers a variety of activities, such as shopping, sightseeing, and dining.

How safe is Panama Canal cruise port for passengers?

Panama Canal cruise port has a safety score of 9.5 out of 10, ranking #1 of 54 ports in Central America, Panama Canal. The Panama Canal is a very safe cruise port. The Panama Canal Authority has implemented a number of security measures to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew. These measures include the use of armed security personnel, the installation of surveillance cameras, and the implementation of strict access control procedures. Additionally, the Panama Canal Authority has implemented a number of environmental protection measures to ensure the safety of the canal and its surrounding areas.

What is the weather like at Panama Canal cruise port in September?

In September, Panama Canal cruise port has average high temperatures of 88°F (31°C) and average lows of 75°F (24°C).

How many excursions are available at Panama Canal cruise port?

There are currently 78 excursions and tours available at Panama Canal cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.

What are the top things to do at Panama Canal cruise port?

Panama Canal cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Beach Day, Canal Tour, Rainforest Hike. The Panama Canal is a world-famous waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, offering visitors the chance to experience a unique journey through the canal. As you cruise through the canal, you will be able to witness the engineering marvel of the canal, as well as the lush tropical rainforest that lines the banks. You will also be able to observe the many locks and dams that are used to control the water levels in the canal. Along the way, you will be able to spot a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and iguanas. The cruise will also provide you with the opportunity to learn about the history of the canal and the people who built it.

Can I rent a car at Panama Canal cruise port?

1. Budget Car Rental: Budget Car Rental offers a wide selection of vehicles for rent near the Panama Canal cruise port. They offer economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury, and SUV vehicles.2. Hertz Car Rental: Hertz Car Rental offers a variety of vehicles for rent near the Panama Canal cruise port. They offer economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury, and SUV vehicles.3. Avis Car Rental: Avis Car Rental offers a wide selection of vehicles for rent near the Panama Canal cruise port. They offer economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury, and SUV vehicles.4. Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental offers a variety of vehicles for rent near the Panama Canal cruise port. They offer economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury, and SUV vehicles.5. Enterprise Car Rental: Enterprise Car Rental offers a wide selection of vehicles for rent near the Panama Canal cruise port. They offer economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury, and SUV vehicles.

What is the WiFi situation at Panama Canal cruise port?

Most cruise ships that travel through the Panama Canal offer free wifi access to passengers. You can usually find the wifi network in the ship's public areas, such as the lobby, restaurants, and lounges. Some ships may also offer wifi access in the cabins.

Where is the cruise terminal at Panama Canal cruise port?

The address of the Panama Canal (Cruise Into Canal) cruise port is Amador Causeway, Panama City, Panama.

What is the Panama Canal Cruise Port cruise schedule?

There are no cruise ships scheduled at Panama Canal today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Panama Canal on any past or future date.

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