MSC Magnifica
38% offsuite
Central America, Panama CanalCentral America, Panama Canal
Panama Canal Transit Cruise Port
Panama Canal Transit
The Panama Canal is a 48-mile long waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#11
of 54 ports in the Central America, Panama Canal
Today · high / low
88° / 73°
September normals
Central America, Panama Canal
Panama Canal Transit
// Panama Canal Transit cruise port overview
The cruise port in Panama Canal Transit,
explained
Lat: 9.1°NLong: 79.7°WTimezone: America/PanamaINTN code: PCL
The Panama Canal is a 48-mile long waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It is one of the most important waterways in the world, allowing ships to travel between the two oceans without having to go around the entire continent of South America.
The canal is divided into three locks, which are used to raise and lower ships as they pass through. The locks are filled with water from Gatun Lake, which is the largest man-made lake in the world.
The transit through the canal takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on the size of the vessel. During the transit, the ship is guided by a pilot who is familiar with the canal and its conditions.
The pilot is assisted by a team of tugboats, which help to maneuver the ship through the locks. The transit also requires the payment of tolls, which are based on the size of the vessel and the type of cargo it is carrying.
The Panama Canal is an incredible feat of engineering and a testament to the ingenuity of mankind.
Ships visiting
8 lines
19 ships call at Panama Canal Transit
Peak passenger day
8,660
cruise passengers ashore
Excursions from
$175
per person · 1 tours
Most ships dock at
6:00 AM
arrival for 71% of calls
Average port time
12h
alongside, typical call
Excursions in Panama Canal Transit start at $175.
Browse Panama Canal Transit excursions// Panama Canal Transit Cruise Deals
Price drops on cruises to Panama Canal Transit
250 cruises stop here in Panama Canal Transit during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Panama Canal Transit cruise's 90-day average.
Prices refreshed daily
Norwegian Star
32% offinside
Island Princess
32% offinside
Coral Princess
30% offinside
Queen Victoria
29% offsuite
Disney Magic
29% offsuite
Coral Princess
28% offoceanview
Norwegian Joy
28% offoceanview
// Panama Canal Transit Cruise Port location
Where is Panama Canal Transit Cruise Port?
The Panama Canal Transit cruise port is located in the city of Colon, Panama. Colon is located on the Caribbean Sea side of the Panama Canal, near the Atlantic entrance of the canal. The port is situated on the north side of the canal, just east of the city of Colon. It is a major port of call for many cruise ships that transit the Panama Canal.
- General location
- Central America, Panama Canal
- Coordinates
- 9.12°N, 79.73°W
- Time zone
- America/Panama
Cruise port · 9.12°N, 79.73°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Panama Canal Transit cruise port guide
What to do in Panama Canal Transit
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Your day ashore
You'll have about 12 hours in Panama Canal Transit. Most ships dock around 6:00 AM.
Median across 42 scheduled calls
Ways to spend the day
3 themesTheme 1
Historical Tours
Historical tours are a great way to learn more about the history of the Panama Canal Transit. These tours offer a chance to explore the area's rich cultural heritage and learn about the people and events that shaped the region. From visiting historical sites to learning about the canal's construction, these tours provide an in-depth look at the area's past.
Theme 2
Nature Tours
Nature tours are a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting the Panama Canal Transit. These tours offer a chance to explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the area. From bird watching to hiking, there are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna. Nature tours are a great way to learn more about the region and its unique ecosystems.
Theme 3
Shopping Tours
Shopping tours are a great way to explore the local markets and shops of the Panama Canal Transit. These tours offer a chance to browse the unique wares of the area, from handmade crafts to souvenirs. Shopping tours are a great way to pick up a few souvenirs to take home and support the local economy. Plus, you never know what you might find!
Panama Canal Transit cruise port beaches
3 in our guideP
Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca is a stunning beach located just a few miles from the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. It is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is also lined with palm trees, providing plenty of shade for those who want to relax and take in the beautiful scenery. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a great spot to spend the day.
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Playa Bonita
Playa Bonita is a stunning beach located just a few miles from the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. It is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is also lined with palm trees, providing plenty of shade for those who want to relax and take in the beautiful scenery. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a great spot to spend the day.
S
Santa Clara Beach
Santa Clara Beach is a popular beach located near the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. It is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is also lined with palm trees, providing plenty of shade for those who want to relax and take in the beautiful scenery. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a great spot to spend the day.
// Panama Canal Transit fun facts
The Canal is a Vital Trade Route
The Panama Canal is a vital trade route for many countries, allowing ships to travel between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans without having to go around the entire continent of South America. It is estimated that over 5% of the world's trade passes through the canal each year, and it is a major source of revenue for the country of Panama.
The Canal is Constantly Expanding
The Panama Canal is constantly being expanded and improved to accommodate larger ships and more traffic. In 2016, the canal was widened and deepened to allow for larger ships to pass through. This expansion project cost over $5 billion and took almost 10 years to complete, making it one of the most expensive and ambitious engineering projects ever undertaken.
The Panama Canal is a Man-Made Wonder
The Panama Canal is an incredible feat of engineering, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It was built by the United States between 1904 and 1914, and is now managed by the Panama Canal Authority. It is considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world, and is a major shipping route for vessels traveling between the two oceans.
Panama Canal Transit cruise port shopping
3 in our guideA
Almacen El Rey
Almacen El Rey is a great shopping option near the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. It is a large store with a wide variety of souvenirs, including traditional Panamanian crafts, jewelry, and clothing. The prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful. It is a great place to find unique and memorable souvenirs to take home.
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Panama Gift Shop
The Panama Gift Shop is a great shopping option near the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. It is a large store with a wide variety of souvenirs, including traditional Panamanian crafts, jewelry, and clothing. The prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful. It is a great place to find unique and memorable souvenirs to take home.
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Panama Souvenir Shop
The Panama Souvenir Shop is a great place to find souvenirs near the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. It is a small shop with a wide selection of traditional Panamanian crafts, jewelry, and clothing. The prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful. It is a great place to find unique and memorable souvenirs to take home.
// Panama Canal Transit Cruise Port Terminals
Which Panama Canal Transit 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 Transit
Pier 1 of 3
Balboa Cruise Terminal
Calle 2, Balboa, PanamaBalboa Cruise Terminal is located in the city of Balboa, Panama. It is a popular port of call for many cruise lines and offers a variety of services, including a shopping mall, restaurants, and a casino. It also has a large outdoor area for passengers to enjoy the views of the canal. The terminal is equipped with modern facilities and is a great place to start your Panama Canal Transit journey.
Pier 2 of 3
Colón 2000 Cruise Terminal
Calle 11, Colón, Panama
Pier 3 of 3
Cristobal Cruise Terminal
Calle 1, Cristobal, PanamaCristobal Cruise Terminal is located in the city of Cristobal, Panama. It is a popular port of call for many cruise lines and offers a variety of services, including a shopping mall, restaurants, and a casino. It also has a large outdoor area for passengers to enjoy the views of the canal. The terminal is equipped with modern facilities and is a great place to start your Panama Canal Transit journey.
Wi-Fi
Most cruise ships that transit the Panama Canal will provide wifi access onboard. Additionally, some ports may have wifi access available in public areas such as cafes, restaurants, and hotels.
Safety
The Panama Canal Transit cruise port is generally considered to be a safe destination for travelers. The Panama Canal Authority has implemented a number of security measures to ensure the safety of travelers, including the installation of security cameras, the deployment of police officers, and the implementation of strict port regulations. Additionally, the Panama Canal Transit cruise port is located in a relatively safe area of Panama City, and there are no reports of any major security issues in the area.
Port address
Balboa, Panama. The exact address is Balboa, Panama, Panama
Panama Canal Transit 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.
// Panama Canal Transit cruise port excursions
Most Popular Panama Canal Transit Cruise Port Tours
1 excursions · book direct with the operator
Independent shore excursions in Panama Canal Transit, booked directly with the operator who runs them. We flag the ones that guarantee you're back on board before the gangway lifts.
Best Panama Canal Transit shore tours
Curated from 1 · not a search result
4.7(29)$175
Birding Pipeline Road from Panama City or Gamboa
// Weather
Panama Canal Transit Cruise Port Weather
Central America, Panama Canal·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Panama Canal Transit
80°
Avg · °F
Hot, very wet
- High
- 88°F
- Low
- 73°F
- Rain
- 9.7 in
// Year-round in Panama Canal Transit
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Avg temp °FRainfall in
// Panama Canal Transit cruise ship schedule
Panama Canal Transit Cruise Port Traffic Today
No cruise ships are scheduled in Panama Canal Transit today, Thursday, September 17, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.
Schedule updated
Planning around the crowds?
- Panama Canal Transit cruise port schedule 2026, day by day
- Slowest & busiest day analysis
- Complete cruise line & ship visitor list
// Keep exploring
Also on your cruise
71% of Panama Canal Transit cruises also call at one of these.
// Questions
Panama Canal Transit cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Panama Canal Transit.
Where is Panama Canal Transit cruise port located?
Panama Canal Transit cruise port is located in Central America, Panama Canal. The Panama Canal Transit cruise port is located in the city of Colon, Panama. Colon is located on the Caribbean Sea side of the Panama Canal, near the Atlantic entrance of the canal. The port is situated on the north side of the canal, just east of the city of Colon. It is a major port of call for many cruise ships that transit the Panama Canal.
Is Panama Canal Transit a good cruise port to visit?
Yes, the Panama Canal Transit is a great cruise port. It offers a unique experience of sailing through the canal, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There are also plenty of activities to do in the area, such as visiting the nearby rainforest, exploring the local culture, and taking part in water sports.
How safe is Panama Canal Transit cruise port for passengers?
Panama Canal Transit cruise port has a safety score of 7.6 out of 10, ranking #11 of 54 ports in Central America, Panama Canal. The Panama Canal Transit cruise port is generally considered to be a safe destination for travelers. The Panama Canal Authority has implemented a number of security measures to ensure the safety of travelers, including the installation of security cameras, the deployment of police officers, and the implementation of strict port regulations. Additionally, the Panama Canal Transit cruise port is located in a relatively safe area of Panama City, and there are no reports of any major security issues in the area.
What is the weather like at Panama Canal Transit cruise port in September?
In September, Panama Canal Transit cruise port has average high temperatures of 88°F (31°C) and average lows of 73°F (23°C).
How many excursions are available at Panama Canal Transit cruise port?
There are currently 1 excursions and tours available at Panama Canal Transit 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 Transit cruise port?
Panama Canal Transit cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Historical Tours, Nature Tours, Shopping Tours. The Panama Canal Transit is known for its unique opportunity to experience a journey through one of the world's most iconic waterways. It is a chance to witness the engineering marvel of the canal, as well as the lush tropical rainforest and diverse wildlife that surrounds it. The transit offers a unique perspective of the canal, allowing visitors to observe the locks and other features of the canal from the comfort of their own boat. It is also a great way to experience the culture and history of the region, as well as the vibrant local communities that line the canal.
Can I rent a car at Panama Canal Transit cruise port?
1. Budget Car Rental: Budget Car Rental offers a wide selection of rental cars near the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. They have a variety of vehicles to choose from, including economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury, and SUV models.2. Hertz Car Rental: Hertz Car Rental is another great option for car rental near the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury, and SUV models.3. Avis Car Rental: Avis Car Rental is another great option for car rental near the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury, and SUV models.4. Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is another great option for car rental near the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury, and SUV models.5. Enterprise Car Rental: Enterprise Car Rental is another great option for car rental near the Panama Canal Transit cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, luxury, and SUV models.
What is the WiFi situation at Panama Canal Transit cruise port?
Most cruise ships that transit the Panama Canal will provide wifi access onboard. Additionally, some ports may have wifi access available in public areas such as cafes, restaurants, and hotels.
Where is the cruise terminal at Panama Canal Transit cruise port?
The Panama Canal Transit cruise port is located at Balboa, Panama. The exact address is Balboa, Panama, Panama.
What is the Panama Canal Transit Cruise Port cruise schedule?
There are no cruise ships scheduled at Panama Canal Transit today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Panama Canal Transit on any past or future date.