Cruise Quest app screenshots
New
The Cruise Quest app is here.
Bar Bingo & Cruise Cameo · works offline!
// MENU
HomeCruise SearchShipsPortsBlog
Share
Central America, Panama CanalCentral America, Panama Canal

Panama City Cruise Port

Panama City, Panama
Panama City, Panama is a vibrant and bustling metropolis located on the Pacific coast of Central America.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#39
of 54 ports in the Central America, Panama Canal
Today · high / low
88° / 75°
September normals
Panama City, Panama cruise port
Central America, Panama Canal
Panama City, Panama
// Panama City cruise port overview

The cruise port in Panama City,
explained

Lat: 8.9°NLong: 79.5°WTimezone: America/PanamaINTN code: PTY

Panama City, Panama is a vibrant and bustling metropolis located on the Pacific coast of Central America. It is the capital and largest city in the country, and is home to a diverse population of over 1.

5 million people. The city is known for its modern skyline, which is dominated by the iconic Panama Canal.

The city is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the Panama Viejo ruins, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Panama Canal Museum. The city is a popular destination for tourists, offering a wide range of activities and attractions, from shopping and dining to sightseeing and nightlife.

The city is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Panama City is a great place to visit, offering something for everyone.

Ships visiting
3 lines
6 ships call at Panama City
Peak passenger day
4,004
cruise passengers ashore
Most ships dock at
7:00 AM
arrival for 50% of calls
// Panama City Cruise Deals

Price drops on cruises to Panama City

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

Prices refreshed daily
Norwegian Joy
Norwegian Joy cruise ship
22% offinside
Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Joy, 16-night cruise departing Oct 7, 2026

Oct 7, 2026 · 16 nights
from: San Pedro
$69/ night
$1,099 total, 22% off was $1,401 avg
Brilliant Lady
Brilliant Lady cruise ship
18% offbalcony
Virgin Voyages

Brilliant Lady, 17-night cruise departing Oct 29, 2026

Oct 29, 2026 · 17 nights
from: San Pedro
$139/ night
$2,363 total, 18% off was $2,885 avg
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Bliss cruise ship
3% offsuite
Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Bliss, 17-night cruise departing Oct 19, 2027

Oct 19, 2027 · 17 nights
from: San Pedro
$256/ night
$4,359 total, 3% off was $4,474 avg
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Bliss cruise ship
3% offsuite
Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Bliss, 20-night cruise departing Oct 19, 2027

Oct 19, 2027 · 20 nights
from: San Pedro
$221/ night
$4,419 total, 3% off was $4,534 avg
Brilliant Lady
Brilliant Lady cruise ship
0% offoceanview
Virgin Voyages

Brilliant Lady, 17-night cruise departing Nov 27, 2027

Nov 27, 2027 · 17 nights
from: San Pedro
$119/ night
$2,023 total, 0% off was $2,023 avg
// Panama City Cruise Port location

Where is Panama City Cruise Port?

Panama City, Panama cruise port is located on the Pacific coast of Panama, on the Gulf of Panama. It is situated at the entrance of the Panama Canal, near the city of Colon. The port is located approximately 80 miles (130 km) from the Caribbean Sea. It is the largest port in Central America and the busiest in the region.

General location
Central America, Panama Canal
Coordinates
8.92°N, 79.52°W
Time zone
America/Panama
Cruise port · 8.92°N, 79.52°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Panama City cruise port guide

What to do in Panama City

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

Cultural Experiences

Panama City is a melting pot of cultures, and there are plenty of opportunities to experience the city's unique heritage. Visit the Panama Canal to learn about its history and importance to the country. Explore the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo, the city's oldest neighborhood, to get a glimpse of its colonial past. Or, take a tour of the Panama Canal Railway to learn about the country's role in the construction of the canal.

Theme 2

Exploring Nature

Panama City is surrounded by lush rainforest and stunning beaches. Take a day trip to the nearby Soberania National Park to explore the jungle and spot wildlife. Or, take a boat tour to the San Blas Islands to experience the Caribbean Sea and its white sand beaches. There are also plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking in the area.

Theme 3

Shopping

Panama City is a great place for shopping. From the bustling streets of Casco Viejo to the modern malls of the city center, there is something for everyone. Whether you're looking for souvenirs, local crafts, or designer labels, you'll find it in Panama City. Plus, the city's duty-free status makes it even more attractive for shoppers.

Panama City cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
P
Playa Blanca (illustrative photo)

Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a stunning beach near Panama City, Panama cruise port. It is a white sand beach with crystal clear waters and plenty of activities to enjoy. Visitors can take part in a variety of water sports, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and jet skiing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars along the beach, making it a great spot for a day of relaxation and fun.

P
Playa Bonita (illustrative photo)

Playa Bonita

Playa Bonita is one of the most popular beaches near Panama City, Panama cruise port. It is a beautiful white sand beach with crystal clear waters and plenty of activities to enjoy. Visitors can take part in a variety of water sports, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and jet skiing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars along the beach, making it a great spot for a day of relaxation and fun.

P
Playa Coronado (illustrative photo)

Playa Coronado

Playa Coronado is another popular beach near Panama City, Panama cruise port. It is a stunning beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars along the beach, making it a great spot for a day of relaxation and fun.

// Panama City fun facts

Biodiversity

Panama City is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is located in the tropical rainforest and is home to over 500 species of birds, over 200 species of mammals, and over 200 species of reptiles and amphibians. It is also home to a variety of endangered species, including the Harpy Eagle and the Central American Tapir. It is a great destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo is the historic district of Panama City. It was founded in 1673 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to many of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Presidential Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Theater. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and vibrant nightlife.

Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is a 48-mile long canal 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. It is a major shipping route for international trade and is a major tourist attraction for Panama City.

Panama City cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
A
Albrook Mall (illustrative photo)

Albrook Mall

Albrook Mall is the largest shopping mall in Panama City, located just a few minutes away from the Panama City cruise port. It has over 300 stores, including international brands, local boutiques, and souvenir shops. It also has a food court with a variety of restaurants and cafes, as well as a movie theater. Albrook Mall is a great place to find souvenirs, as it has a wide selection of items from all over the world.

M
Multicentro Mall (illustrative photo)

Multicentro Mall

Multicentro Mall is a popular shopping destination in Panama City, located just a few minutes away from the cruise port. It has over 200 stores, including international brands, local boutiques, and souvenir shops. It also has a food court with a variety of restaurants and cafes, as well as a movie theater. Multicentro Mall is a great place to find souvenirs, as it has a wide selection of items from all over the world.

S
Souvenir Market (illustrative photo)

Souvenir Market

The Souvenir Market is a great place to find unique and authentic souvenirs from Panama City. Located just a few minutes away from the cruise port, the Souvenir Market has a wide selection of items from all over the world. It also has a variety of local handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing. The Souvenir Market is a great place to find unique and authentic souvenirs from Panama City.

// Panama City Cruise Port Terminals

Which Panama City 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 City
Pier 1 of 3

Balboa Cruise Terminal

Balboa, Panama City, Panama

The Balboa Cruise Terminal is located in the Balboa district of Panama City, Panama. It is the main cruise port for the Panama Canal, and is the largest port in the country. It is a modern facility with a wide range of amenities, including a shopping mall, restaurants, and a variety of other services. It is also the departure point for many of the Panama Canal cruises.

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

Colon Cruise Terminal

Colon, Panama City, Panama

The Colon Cruise Terminal is located in the Colon district of Panama City, Panama. It is the second largest cruise port in the country, and is the departure point for many Caribbean cruises. It is a modern facility with a wide range of amenities, including a shopping mall, restaurants, and a variety of other services. It is also the departure point for many of the Panama Canal cruises.

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

Puerto Amador Cruise Terminal

Puerto Amador, Panama City, Panama

The Puerto Amador Cruise Terminal is located in the Puerto Amador district of Panama City, Panama. It is the third largest cruise port in the country, and is the departure point for many South American cruises. It is a modern facility with a wide range of amenities, including a shopping mall, restaurants, and a variety of other services. It is also the departure point for many of the Panama Canal cruises.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Puerto Amador Cruise Terminal)
Wi-Fi

The Panama City cruise port offers free wifi access to all passengers. The wifi network is called “Panama City Cruise Port” and can be accessed from any device. Additionally, many restaurants and cafes in the area offer free wifi access to customers.

Safety

Panama City is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The US State Department has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Panama, which means that travelers should exercise increased caution due to crime. However, the US Embassy in Panama City reports that the majority of crime is limited to certain areas of the city and that most visitors to Panama City do not experience any issues. It is recommended that visitors to Panama City remain aware of their surroundings and take the same precautions they would in any large city.

Port address

Terminal de Cruceros de Balboa, Amador Causeway, Panama City, Panama

Panama City cruise port car rental
HertzAvisBudgetNationalAlamoThrifty

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

// Weather

Panama City Cruise Port Weather

Central America, Panama Canal·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Panama City
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 City

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

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

Panama City Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Panama City today, Friday, September 25, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

Schedule updated

Planning around the crowds?

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

Popular ports in the Central America, Panama Canal

Other ports cruisers visit most in the Central America, Panama Canal.

// Questions

Panama City cruise port, answered

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

Where is Panama City cruise port located?

Panama City, Panama cruise port is located in Central America, Panama Canal. Panama City, Panama cruise port is located on the Pacific coast of Panama, on the Gulf of Panama. It is situated at the entrance of the Panama Canal, near the city of Colon. The port is located approximately 80 miles (130 km) from the Caribbean Sea. It is the largest port in Central America and the busiest in the region.

Is Panama City a good cruise port to visit?

Yes, Panama City, Panama is a great cruise port. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, offering a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. The city is home to the Panama Canal, which is a major tourist attraction, as well as a variety of museums, parks, and other attractions. The city also offers a variety of shopping and dining options, making it a great place to explore.

How safe is Panama City cruise port for passengers?

Panama City cruise port has a safety score of 6.0 out of 10, ranking #39 of 54 ports in Central America, Panama Canal. Panama City is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The US State Department has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Panama, which means that travelers should exercise increased caution due to crime. However, the US Embassy in Panama City reports that the majority of crime is limited to certain areas of the city and that most visitors to Panama City do not experience any issues. It is recommended that visitors to Panama City remain aware of their surroundings and take the same precautions they would in any large city.

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

In September, Panama City 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 City cruise port?

There are currently 156 excursions and tours available at Panama City 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 City cruise port?

Panama City cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Cultural Experiences, Exploring Nature, Shopping. Panama City is a vibrant and exciting destination with plenty of things to do. From exploring the city's historic sites to enjoying its modern attractions, there is something for everyone. Visitors can explore the city's colonial architecture, visit the Panama Canal, and take in the stunning views of the city from the top of Ancon Hill. Shopping and dining are also popular activities, with a variety of markets, restaurants, and cafes to choose from. Nature lovers can explore the nearby rainforest and beaches, while adventure seekers can take part in activities such as kayaking, zip-lining, and hiking. There are also plenty of cultural activities to enjoy, such as visiting museums, galleries, and theaters. No matter what your interests are, Panama City has something to offer.

Can I rent a car at Panama City cruise port?

1. Hertz: Hertz is located just a few minutes away from the Panama City cruise port and offers a wide range of rental cars, from economy to luxury vehicles.2. Avis: Avis is located just a few minutes away from the Panama City cruise port and offers a wide range of rental cars, from economy to luxury vehicles.3. Budget: Budget is located just a few minutes away from the Panama City cruise port and offers a wide range of rental cars, from economy to luxury vehicles.4. National: National is located just a few minutes away from the Panama City cruise port and offers a wide range of rental cars, from economy to luxury vehicles.5. Alamo: Alamo is located just a few minutes away from the Panama City cruise port and offers a wide range of rental cars, from economy to luxury vehicles.6. Thrifty: Thrifty is located just a few minutes away from the Panama City cruise port and offers a wide range of rental cars, from economy to luxury vehicles.

What is the WiFi situation at Panama City cruise port?

The Panama City cruise port offers free wifi access to all passengers. The wifi network is called “Panama City Cruise Port” and can be accessed from any device. Additionally, many restaurants and cafes in the area offer free wifi access to customers.

Where is the cruise terminal at Panama City cruise port?

The address of Panama City, Panama cruise port is:Terminal de Cruceros de Balboa, Amador Causeway, Panama City, Panama

What is the Panama City Cruise Port cruise schedule?

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

Sign up or
Sign in

Save your cruise, track reviews for your cabin, set cruise price drop alerts, & more with an account.

No password needed · Sign-in code sent