On August 15th, 1914, the Panama Canal opened, connecting the world’s two largest oceans and signaling America’s emergence as a global superpower. There’s no better way to discover this immense wonder than on a Panama Canal cruise.
Best Time to Cruise
Come to the Panama Canal in the months of February, March, September, and October for the least chance of rain. The Panama Canal Zone has a tropical climate ranging from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with high humidity year-round. The “best time” to travel to the Panama Canal depends on how you wish to spend your time. The ideal time to hike is during mid-December up until the month of May. It is advised that you bring warm clothes if you’re going to high altitudes in Boquete, El Valle or Cerro Punta. During those times, it is also ideal to surf big waves and dive into the clear pristine waters. For canal cruising, November to April is the most popular season and during the off-season from May to December, you’ll find the best whitewater rafting in Chiriquí Province.
What to Explore
Come and sail between two mighty oceans from Ft. Lauderdale, and discover why it was popular among the top “where to go” attractions. Hop aboard the Jungle Queen Riverboat for their spectacular dinner cruise and presentation while waiting for your vacation cruise to start.
Cruise Gatun Lake to explore a series of island habitats created during the construction of the Panama Canal. These islands were once mountaintops and the lake was a deep valley. During construction, the valley was flooded and animals were forced into the highlands, which now make up the islands of Gatun Lake.
Try capturing photos with the monkeys and birds in the tree tops, as you explore a unique ecosystem formed during the creation of the Panama Canal. Sail to Colombia and visit the greatest fortress ever built by the Spaniards in any of their colonies. It still dominates an entire section of Cartagena’s cityscape today, and should definitely be your first choice of fortresses to visit. Ashore you will find everything from Costa Rican rainforests to Old World cities like Cartagena that recalls the age of exploration. Don’t miss your chance to cruise the Panama Canal during its 100th anniversary celebration.
