Don't Go on a Panama Canal Cruise Before You Watch This

Before I booked my Panama Canal cruise, there were many things I just didn't know. I admit, this led me to make some Panama Canal cruise mistakes. If you're going on a Panama Canal cruise, this video is a must watch!
In this video I share the Panama Canal cruise do's & don'ts every cruise traveler needs to know, before planning this cruise vacation. If this is your first Panama Canal cruise holiday, these cruise tips will help!
I also share Panama Canal cruise packing tips as well other cruise advice you'll want to know. Our cruise was onboard Holland America Rotterdam. However, this travel information will be helpful whether you are on a Princess cruise, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Carnival or any other cruise line.
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ABOUT ME
Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
Please note that I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking.
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Transcript
Follow along using the transcript.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limted time). Details here: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner/

[@paulpeel2518]

We cruised on Celebrity from California to Ft. Lauderdale, it was an older ship so we traveled through the old locks. Celebrity engaged an engineer, who had worked in the locks, describing the sites as we transited through the locks. The descriptions and stories were broadcasted in all public spaces. Those discussions made the trip more meaningful and complete.

[@larryfinkel4102]

Took a Panama Canal cruise in 2018 on the Coral Princess through the old locks. Did the complete transit from Ft. Lauderdale to LA. I stood at the front of the ship for the entire crossing about 12 hours. It was absolutely fantastic

[@LifeWellCruised]

Wow!! Thanks for sharing

[@monikaliebold4225]

​@@RedRoseSeptember22 Full transit goes from East Coast to West Coast or the other way around. Partial transit means just going in canal at one coast side, then making a U-turn on lake and going back the same coast side.

[@TheHelgaAnna]

I did the same last spring!

[@JilSpangenberg-ys7fz]

We are going on Island Princess (coral class) Apr 25- May 9. I am trying to figure out how hot and humid it will be this time of year

[@annenorthman8154]

Food For Thought: One thing that we thought was so interesting, is a certified Panama Canal Navigator comes onboard and steers the ship through the locks. We talked to the Co-Captain (or whatever you call the second-in-command) and he said our Captain could definitely do it himself, but it's the law to have the P.C. official sail the ship through the locks. Thanks for the video, Ilana! Always great! 🥰

[@neutrino78x]

"We talked to the Co-Captain (or whatever you call the second-in-command)" In the Navy, Executive Officer, abbreviated "XO" (I was Navy, submarines 🙂). I think on Merchant ships (to include cruise ships, that's part of the merchant fleet), they call the XO "First Officer". 🙂

[@crazy4dariver]

I have done the full several times as a Yacht Capt that specializes in deliveries. Don't feel like you are being ignored by the lock workers! Once in the lock, damage incurred is on them and prior to that it's on the Pilot. They are deadly serious and may seem standoffish, far from it. They are eyes wide open. Smaller guys like me get stuffed in and tied together. Ah my first time through was a MAJOR learning experience. YOU must furnish the lines you will need AND the fenders to protect those you are tied to. Crusty old TugBoat Capt helped me out

[@richardmacdonald6303]

I did the partial transit on the Eurodam in 2022, a helpful book to get before the cruise was "CRUISING COAST TO COAST THROUGH THE PANAMA CANAL 2022-23: A GUIDE ON WHAT TO EXPECT" gave a good look on what to expect and what to look for. Be ready for oppressive heat and humidity even in springtime.

[@leeannkleine6120]

I was in high school when I first went through the canal in 1984. Our concert band was the shipboard entertainment, and honestly I didn't understand what all of the fuss was about. Naturally, with age comes wisdom and the canal is back on my bucket list so that I can truly enjoy and appreciate all that it has to offer. I prefer to do a full transit over a partial, but when I actually book it will depend on cost, and several other things. In the meantime, I will get reaquainted with it from an educational point and be more prepared then I was at 16.

[@monarusch4087]

Just did a Panama Canal cruise on NCL. We had an aft facing balcony and spent most of the day there - we had a great view as we went through the locks - even ordered room service lunch so we didn't have to leave the cabin.

[@woofolliesmydog8628]

Sounds perfect!

[@IAmMiami]

If you're cruising for the canal experience, definitely choose the old locks and a smaller ship, but preferably a PanaMax ship. Otherwise, you're too far from not so much action. PanaMax puts you right up at the lock wall. I also did the new locks on Norwegian Bliss and it was comparatively disappointing. And it's always best to cruise _to_ Florida. ;)

[@FraserAtSea]

After doing this same cruise on the same ship as you, I completely agree with everything in this video. The biggest point I would stress is looking at the newer and older lock systems. I did the older locks a few months ago, and personally enjoyed that much more, and found it to be way more impressive. However, I do think that if I hadn't done the old locks before, I probably would have found the new ones amazing. The partial transits open up the canal to those who can't take too much time out of work - I found that I could do this trip with way less work holiday, as it was a shorter cruise than the full transits, which are often 14 nights!

[@susanjones9345]

We were on Princess and did a full passage - and we booked the sanctuary which is at the front of the ship we were on. Best choice ever to go through in the sanctuary - not crowded and so relaxed. It did cost an extra fee but worth every penny.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great idea!

[@BonnieStill]

Were you able to stay the entire time going thru the locks?

[@susanjones9345]

@@BonnieStill yes but there is an extra charge for being there and it books very quickly. Front row seats are best and you need to go there right by away when you first get on the ship because front row seats fills quickly.

[@dwayne7356]

April 2023, we did a full transit from LA to Ft. Lauderdale on the Emerald Princess (new locks). A full transit takes about 12 hours. Each individual lock is about 30-45 minutes. It is important to realize that during our transit, we sailed north through Panama over the continental divide between two oceans. We took an excursion in Panama City which took us to the old locks viewing stand. It was nice to see ships going through from the land side and then sailing through the locks, so you can see it from both angles. The transit is not a party cruise, I think because ours was 15 days long, so it is very laid back. It even lacked some of the energy found on other cruises. We also met a couple that did back to back transits because it was cheaper to sail back to Florida from LA than to fly back to Florida. And yes, they were retired. Tips: 1) pre tan if you can and still use sun screen on transit day. It is a long time on deck. 2) There is a lot of down time between locks and after you rise (or fall) in one lock, all the other locks are exactly the same except for the view. 3) Mega cruise ships cannot fit under the bridges that cross over the canal, so don't look for one of those ships to sail the canal. They would fit in the new locks but can't reach them. 4) Princess had a self-service laundry plus laundry service. Plan on using it. You need change clothes from day actives to night actives unless you are eating in the buffet everyday. We had three formal nights on that cruise and we did dress up, so that was some extra clothes. Then we won a seat at the chef's table. Had to get my suit cleaned. If you ever win a seat at the chef's table, pay whatever price they want. It is more than worth it for a once in lifetime experience.

[@tom9537]

We have been fortunate to have done six full transits. This is my favorite trip. You are correct about the older crowd. That’s basically demographics. Most of the new Ships are much larger and cannot travel through the old locks. Some of the older Holland, older Celebrity, and two Princess ships can travel through the old locks. But the Panama Canal is one I encourage for everyone.🛳

[@davidmealey2000]

Just disembarked from a 21-day reposition from Seattle to Miami on the NCL Encore, which due to size can only use the new locks. Encore is NCL's physically largest ship by Gross Tonage, but sister ship Bliss is configured with a handful more beds, although overall layout is nearly identical. It really did take the entire day. Plus, we saw Mayan Ruins in Guatemala, ziplined the rain forest in Costa Rica, and swam with dolphins in Grand Cayman--on the same trip! Great itinerary, even though we lost Acapulco--they not only compensated each passenger $100, but added Costa Rica so we didn't have three sea days in a row. I'd skip Mazatlan, however--just a slightly nicer Tijuana.

[@darlenehynes855]

We did Miami to Seattle on NCL Sun in 21 days! The ship broke down in Columbia and we stayed there for the night. We missed Costa Rica and were so disappointed. Regardless it was a beautiful cruise.

[@nancyc1196]

What company did you use for Costa Rica ziplining? The one I'm booked for is 30 minutes from Port Limon, called Jungle Breeze.

[@donandrobintodd2206]

Did a repositioning, Vancouver to Fort Lauderdale, in October 2022 on the Nieum Amsterdam. Incredible experience! Bow was open and well used. Whole Canal experience was greatly enhanced by pre cruise reading about the incredible history and the on board talks prior to the transit. My humble recommendation is to view the many aspects of the canal from as many view points as possible all over the ship including your balcony where I was able to some great close up of the mules. Agree the older locks are more historically interesting and we were glad that the NA fit nicely. A bucket list trip for sure. If you have chance do it. Happy Cruising

[@user-iw8wn5le4d]

I can't believe it is 11 years since we did the Panama Canal cruise but it was wonderful then and I would definitely do it again. I just want to support your advice to get up early. One of my favourite memories was seeing the number of ships waiting to enter the canal. Maybe because I hadn't really thought about it, I was amazed at the number of ships and the variety of ships that were sitting in the water just waiting their turn. I can just imagine what it would look like now with the backup. We went through the docks with another cruise ship which they said was a very rare occurrence and it was a special feeling of being connected to these other tourists doing the same thing we were doing.

[@stevek7068]

Great video! One other tip based on my experience. I took a full transit on Serenade of the Seas. On this class of ship, the bow is open 24x7, but it wasn't the best place to watch. People were packed in 5 or 6 deep. No way most of them could see. Instead, go up to deck 12. Go all of the way forward. You can watch from there, but there are 2 staircases down to an observation deck on deck 12. This was much, much, much less busy. It was also higher and gave a terrific view.

[@johnhigbie3011]

The old locks are 110 feet wide, and the Holland America Rotterdam is 115 feet wide, so that is why you went through the new locks. You sort of addressed this, but you were destined to go through the new locks before you left Ft. Lauderdale. My Reserarch says that if the ship will fit through the old locks, you are almost certain to go that way. The ideal situation would be to go one way through the old locks and the other way through the newer locks. Thanks for all your content. We are going to the Panama from Ft. Lauderdale round trip 14 nights on Viking in February 2024. The Viking ship is 94 feet wide, so we are anticipating the old locks.

[@barbaralazier8352]

I took the Celebrity Repositioning Panama Cruise through the old locks last March. It was terrific. I was really happy to have a balcony cabin. I did not need to fight the mass trying to see.😅 I am so happy I had the whole experience Ft Lauderdale to LA

[@lynettefulton]

We have cruised through the entire old canal 3 times on Holland America and absolutely loved it. HAL had coffee stations all over the ship so you could get a refill and not miss a thing. In the morning they had traditional Panama pastries and at lunch served soup outside. The history of building the canal was so very interesting. They loaded 3 local captains on the ship, 2 for each side of the bow and one for the back. There were more workers, linesmen I think, loaded also. I would love to go back again. Great video, thanks!

[@vanceb1]

I highly recommend reading The Path Between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama Canal, 1870-1914 prior to or during your trip. It's a comprehensive and interesting account of the canal.

[@pattymc4726]

I bought that book on someone else’s advice. I’m only about 20% through. It’s amazing how much went on before they even started digging. It’s a good book and I’m glad I bought it.

[@karlsandykildow5765]

We did Holland America and it was a full transit through the old locks. Great history. The night before entering we were approached to get an opportunity to buy tickets to the crows nest bar for $100 dollars each with unlimited food and drinks and it was limited to 30 couples. We had an 180 degree view in air conditioning as it was very hot and humid. Had a great time.

[@annesimpson8375]

We are currently on our last of 10 nights panama canal cruise. Did lots of pre planning & did not get off in Cartagena. Heard the vendors were in your face. Our ship went thru the new locks but we booked an excursion that gave a bus tour, then ferry to Gatun lake and Mira Flores lake. That took us thru THREE of the OLD locks as a partial transit. It was fantastic to go thru both the new gates and the old door locks. It was hot & humid but so informative. Do your homework and read everything about your cruise months ahead. Our ship was Ruby Princess and well worth the experience 💕.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s awesome! So glad to hear you were able to get off for that excursion

[@annesimpson8375]

@@LifeWellCruised the unrest & protestors in Panama lasted for 37 days & we got there 2 days after it ended. Very lucky...

[@tduck828]

Yes cartagena is awful. Wise choice to stay onboard.

[@user-mw8oq6gp2f]

@@tduck828 I disagree! I went twice, once for a wedding and again on vacation.

[@user-mw8oq6gp2f]

If vendors are a challenge for you then don't go to Mexico or Rio, Brazil. I never had any issues with vendors in Cartagena.

[@temikagray8068]

Wow! A lot of good information. I did not know there were new locks! Thank you for sharing🤗

[@michaelp.ohaneson2065]

We enjoyed an unusual cruise which began in Vancouver, went to Alaska, then went to SF, LA, and on down through the Panama Canal to Fort Lauderdale. It was amazing. It was on the Cunard Queen Elizabeth. We went through the old locks with less than a foot on either side of the ship as we transited through. Old locks vs. new locks is all about the size of the ship. Most newer ships are too big to go through the old locks, so that’s the main factor in which one is used. In my opinion, Glacier Bay is far more fascinating and magnificent than going through the Panama Canal. However, the history of the canal is unbelievable, and we had excellent enrichment talks on Cunard. Another nice thing about our Cunard cruise is that they prepared an amazing video of the transit which made taking pictures and videos unnecessary. I definitely recommend cruising through the canal, partial or full. Enjoy!

[@nrgpokemon5158]

Wow! What a trip! I love Glacier Bay. Looking forward to the canal just as much … just days away now. It will be my first cruise into the Caribbean Sea

[@wjrsb58]

Going on that exact cruise, same ship end of February. I love all your tips. It really helps.😊

[@kma9292]

The information that you deliver is always informative and interesting. Thank You for another great video.

[@rickk6700]

Another very helpful video Ilana! We did the Panama Canal last November on the Celebrity Edge. You are correct about it being an early morning. We stayed on our balcony for the first part of the transit. I loved watching the tugs move it into position for the first lock. The tug captains fare amazing talented. There was an excursion to go to the old locks and other areas though rhe people who did or actually never experienced or saw the ship go through the Canal. For me staying on the ship was the perfect option. For transit back out we were were at the Retreat on the Edge which faces the bow. The view and experience was amazing. Have some great pictures from that high up perch on the ship. Sadly covid canceled two full transit cruises we had booked so we decided half a loaf is better than no loaf. Happy cruising Ilana!!

[@GroupHealth3]

Thanks Ilana. We are going through the old locks on Island Princess. We are adjusting expectations based on the fact it is an older ship. That said, most passengers say it it lovely and full of character. Going through the old locks was our primary goal! Super excited!

[@kimvilleneuve2543]

We did the island princess in 2019 partial locks. But did a day excursion through the Pedro Miguel locks it was great. I would recommend it if it’s available.

[@carmenoakes4653]

We are going on Island Princess on Jan 4 from FLL to San Pedro CA. Can't wait!!!!

[@matthowe5193]

Thank you for all the helpful details. Didn't know much about Panama Canal cruises and wondered whether this is something my family would enjoy! Very helpful!

[@kathyfaraci7036]

Great info for our Panama cruise next year. Thank you.

[@halucca22]

First, thank you Ilana for all the help, advice and encouragement you give in your videos, you were my Go-To for planning this trip. My sister and I just came back from a thru transit from LA to MIA on the Norwegian Bliss. We went thru the new locks, and a crew member suggested viewing part of the transit from the aft of the ship to see the lock gates closing and the water level changing, with fewer crowds. I saw the PC pilot being brought to our ship to “advise” our captain on the transit - I was told the captain never yields command of the ship, the pilot is only there to advise 🤷🏼‍♀Unfortunately, our transit started around midnight; I hung in until 3 am, missed all of Gatun Lake but caught our passage thru the last lock the next morning. It really is important to learn some of the history of the construction and operation of the Canal to appreciate what is going on during transit.Due to health issues we didn’t do too many excursions, but boy is the Bliss a beautiful ship 🥰😍❤. I bought a Scrubba bag less than a week before departure; I could have taken less than half the clothes if I had known what a nifty gadget that is.

[@KT81879]

Hi Ilana, This will be my first comment to you even though I've been subscribed to your channel for over a year! You are a pleasure to learn from. Thank you for all your hard work! We just returned from the very same 12 day cruise on the Rotterdam that your video describes. Back in August we cruised on HAL to Iceland and Holland reached out and offered us a free cabin and this Panama cruise was one of the choices. Though I am not a warm weather gal, this itinerary called out to me because all the ports of call would be new to me. We lucked out because the two previous cruises had to cancel the shore excursions of Panama due to civil unrest and fear of possible traffic delays and road closures. Having that information, I decided not to book a shore excursion for Panama just in case they might have been cancelled. The day the Rotterdam went through the canal was one of the warmest of the trip so I didn't do outside viewing at all but watching from the crow's nest and even from the Lido deck (where you could see great side views) was perfect for me. The morning trek to Lake Gaston was fully narrated by our cruise director so thoroughly that he even pointed out to everyone the crocodiles that were swimming alongside and even one that was inside the first lock that day. We were given advance notice that the ship would not be going to Key West but instead to Jamaica. I was disappointed to not go to Key West (never have visited) but Jamaica was going to be new too, so "Ya Man!"

[@reneedeubner2183]

I just returned from a Panama Canal Cruise on the MS Rotterdam, at the end of October, and it was so much fun to relive my experience through your video. On the day we transited the locks, we were given the greenlight to go ahead and exit the lake, almost as soon as we had entered it. Thankfully, at that time, I had a great seat in the cafe on the 12th deck. You’re right about this cruise having a very relaxed vibe. I absolutely loved it!

[@lindagraves4121]

Planning one now!! Great info as always! So grateful I found your channel. Husband & I are retired and live cruising. ❤❤❤

[@happycruiser]

We have done full and partial. Full is the only way to go. So excited we were up at 6am watching all the ships waiting to go through. Sat on our balconies for the entire day, had room service, A total great experience.

[@tinashaarda6992]

We will be doing the repositioning cruise on the Norwegian Encore in April. Our first time through the locks and to all the ports we’ll see. Thanks for the tips and info.

[@ranellmueller2972]

This was so helpful as we're leaving in two weeks on a Panama canal cruise. I still don't know what I'll pack, but everything you mentioned helped ease some of my anxiety. Also, your family is stunning and always looks amazing! Thank you for all you do

[@brendas9803]

Great video! Appreciate you being so thorough with your explanations on alternatives. The Panama Canal is a bucket list item but have been researching for an ocean to ocean on a newer ship. Your overview explains why I have been unsuccessful…. Oh well, will keep looking for just the right one. The hunt is part of the fun!

[@lynnkongkham7655]

We booked the Sanctuary for the day on Princess. They serve a nice breakfast while you watch the amazing views. It was a very relaxing day and perfect way to enjoy the transit through the locks.

[@jeffkellybaldwin7712]

Did a full transit last spring from San Diego to Ft Lauderdale on Zaandam. Small ship, great cruise. I agree with your assessment of Cartagena! The Culibra Cut, which you only get on the full transit, is fascinating! And the engineering in the locks is crazy! It was a bucket list trip, so glad we did it!

[@lauralyons8446]

We are cruising the Panama canal in April on the Emerald Princess, full transit AND we get to see the April 8 total solar eclipse while at sea! I saw the 2017 eclipse and that was extraordinary. I've been following your trip closely and appreciate the tips!

[@jackredmond6023]

We took a Panama Canal cruise in 2019 on the Island Princess through the old locks - partial transit. Loved it! It sounds like our itinerary was very similar to yours. We were very surprised by Cartagena - very different than we pictured. We want to go again - next time, we would like to do a full transit through the new locks.

[@pamelahaskin9738]

Such great tips, as always! We are taking a Christmas cruise this year for our 45th wedding anniversary. Hoping to take a Panama Canal cruise next time. Thanks so much for making cruising so much easier.

[@kingsgaurd]

We just got back from a Full Transit Panamal Canal cruise with NCL. We went through the old locks. It was an amazing "bucket list" kind of trip.

[@xavierosorio6105]

Thank you so much , last December we did 14 night Panama Canal with an overnight in Panama City, beautiful Merry Christmas

[@karenhoward]

Great information

[@trishconlon9258]

We leave in one week for our Panama Canal cruise on Viking, so your video was quite timely! Thank you for your quality videos and information.

[@JaniceM0908]

Thank you for the information, we are cruising the Panama Canal April 2024. We are very excited!!!

[@nigelcartwright5986]

Excellent information. We are on a Panama canal cruise early 2024 and this is just what we need to know. Thanks.

[@user-fb7wq2zy6k]

Thanks for the tips Illana. I've never done a Panama Canal transit, but I have looked at a couple of itineraries that do.

[@micdud3248]

My wife and I got married Jan 1, 2022. We went on our first ever cruise on the NCL Bliss. Full transit Panama Canal from LA to Miami. Because of Covid stuff the ship was at 22% capacity. I chose an aft facing balcony near the top, which was awesome. We went through the canal on Jan. 31st and in the canal we did a Vow Renewal on the back of the ship. It was amazing. We basically had two weddings in 2022. I joke with my wife that this way if I forget the first one on new years I have a chance to make it up on our second one on the last day of the month. The original plan was to get married in the canal, but legally we could not do it that way, so we did it this way. We watched lots of your tips prior to our cruise. And your tips along with the other bloggers we watched helped a lot.

[@user-hy8zj1qj3u]

In April , we are doing full transit on HAL Niew Amsterdam. We are excited! Thanks for all your info.

[@charliev6466]

Great video, very informative, thanks,

[@stevenkukene9970]

As always this episode is super helpful! Ilana has proved to be “helpful, informative and enjoyable”! The life well cruised planner saved me from making packing and planning mistakes, well worth the minimal cost. ❤️

[@user-bp1lq2qq2u]

I have been on four Panama Canal cruises starting back in 1980s when you could still go to the island where the Kuna Indians live I have had wonderful experiences on all four of my canal cruises but next year I am going to do my first transit, I love all of your videos you give such wonderful information

[@amkirsch2000]

Went on our Panama Canal cruise in 2005, on the old Rotterdam, and partially through the old locks... it was quite enjoyable, and we didn't want to end our cruise in California... It was a great experience... but the other ports were a little disappointing, like Puerto Limon in Costa Rica...

[@barryrankin587]

A Panama cruise is on our bucket list for the near future. My wife’s sister lives in Sacramento Cal. So we plan on doing the full transit and then visit with her for a few day. Thanks for all the tips and heads up on the different ports and the ships.

[@cbradyorganize]

We did a full transit, Ft. Lauderdale to LA, old locks, retirement celebration cruise on the Island Princess. I usually select an aft suite for our special celebrations and was very disappointed when the only suites available were mid-ship. Turns out mid-ship was perfect! From our spacious balcony we could see everything, looking straight down to view the inches away from the side of the canal. It was awesome! Our cruise was at least 2 weeks. You have wonderful tips. Due to the humidity I used "tons" of baby powder and was glad to have a full sized container. On our way out of the canal I ruptured a cyst in my knee and spent the remainder of the cruise in a wheelchair. 😢 Another reason mid-ship worked out well because then we were closer to everything. We still enjoyed ourselves. Princess was wonderful, helping us cancel excursions, purchase crutches and borrow a wheelchair to use onboard and in the cruise terminal. We enjoyed our time on the ship when at port, discovering places and different things that we had not seen before. We also discovered we enjoyed the longer cruises that can be enjoyed during retirement.

[@cathylambert9431]

I was on the Disney Magic doing a full transit just 3 weeks ago. First time on a cruise and loved it. I agree with overpacking. I did laundry twice. It was only 6 doors from my cabin. Looking to cruise Alaska next. Thanks for all the information.

[@billsnyder1021]

We did partial on Carib Princess. Did Panama Railway excursion. Love trains. Included trip to lock hdqts. Loved Cartagena old town and fortress. Rode train and canal boat in Limon, CR. Ship excursions

[@dawndaly2337]

Can’t wait to do the Panama Canal! Thanks for the review!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Hope you enjoy it! I’ll have a detailed review of our ship ect soon

[@benjaminperez1149]

The canal is spectacular and I am glad I got to experience it.

[@roberthicks2191]

Panama Canal Cruise is definitely more chilled. We (and several hundred others) got on a repositioning cruise in San Diego that had just arrived from Fort Lauderdale and was continuing to Vancouver. The vibe changed to “let’s party” for the next four days. (It was also Mother’s Day when we joined and we surprised my in-laws who were on the full canal repositioning. They commented that it was very relaxing until San Diego.)

[@monikaliebold4225]

Thank you very much for all your videos - very helpful, even for an experienced cruiser like me. For all: Information about cruising Panama Canal. Only ships of Panamax Class - 965 ft long and 106 ft wide - can pass the original old Panama Canal locks. Ships above are called Neopanamax-Class and will go through the new locks (opened in June 2016). When going through the old locks you will get the marvellous and historic experience with the locomotives at both sides pulling the ship through the canal. I was on a full transit in January 2019 with the Norwegian Gem going through the old locks - it was simply great. So, check at booking with cruise line about old or new passage, to avoid disappointment. Or check the different ships at websites of the cruise lines, where you should find information about the actual ship size.

[@beckydiercks8637]

Husband and I sailed on 12 day Panama Canal cruise (Caribbean Princess) Dec. 2019 right before the world shut down for Covid. I read and watched videos extensively to make sure we used our time to the most advantage. We had a balcony on Caribe deck (10) as they are larger. The first thing we did when we got onboard was to go to the Sanctuary and reserve a spot for the Canal day. Everything I had read said to do this immediately, but as it turned out we would have been fine doing it a little later. It was $60 per person for the day and well worth it especially since it drizzled most of the morning. The views were spectacular. Going through the Canal was an experience like no other. The sides of the canal looked as though you could reach out and touch them. Watching the locks work, the gates opening and closing, filling the lock, lifting the ship higher each time to the next level you appreciate the engineering and the labor required to build it. Yes, it was warm. You are near the equator. The cold towels and drinks brought to us at the Sanctuary kept us cool and made us feel extremely pampered. Contrary to popular belief Cartagena is “dangerous” and vendors “very persistent “ it turned out to be my favorite port and would go back in a heartbeat. We did book an excursion through the cruise line and by luck of the draw we had a marvelous tour guide. Didn’t rush us, explaining everything and made us feel comfortable as we went to various points of interest. In our experience vendors would back off and keep their distance if you indicated no interest. I was more anxious in Jamaica than in Cartagena which I certainly didn’t expect. BTW we were 69 years old at the time. And Illana, thank you for all you do. I have been watching long before you had 100,000 followers and watched your outreach justifiably to over 200,000. If you weren’t doing it right you wouldn’t be where you are. PS: I didn’t think you were underdressed. Haters are gonna be haters and trolls are going to be trolls.

[@curlintrenchfield13]

In 2017 I was on a Carnival cruise and I did the Panama Canal excursion .. Very interesting!

[@gerrymccartney3561]

Thank you for all the useful information. I am booked on a Star Clipper cruise that will do a full transit of the canal and expect it will go through the old locks. I was in Panama in 2014 when they were building the new locks. Returning after 10 years is an exciting prospect.

[@justcallmecrazy1]

i just got off the bliss and loved it

[@brendasandusky6306]

We did the partial transit 2017 on holland America Zuiderdam,had a wonderful trip.

[@wandamora2505]

We did the full transit on the Eurodam on April 2023. Ft Lauderdale to San Diego. Great cruise and cruising through the old locks was very interesting.

[@kcjones4211]

Great tips! We are doing a Historic Panama Canal cruise onboard HAL Zuiderdam in 2 weeks! This is a bucket list cruise me.

[@BonnieStill]

We are going on our first Panama Canal full transit cruise this January 2024. Looking forward to it but especially Costa Rica. Thank you for this video, very helpful.

[@BeefromSC]

Never taken a Panama Canal cruise but sounds interesting!!! Thanks for sharing 🛳️🛳️

[@hcliii]

We did a Florida to Florida Panama canal cruise in August on Princess. Our ship only went into a lake on the Atlantic side of the canal. We took tour boat through the old locks and all the way to the pacific, where we took a bus ride back to the cruise ship. It was a long excursion, but a fun and informative one. While we were in the old locks we could reach out and touch the sides. And by being in a tour boat instead of a cruise ship we were really low in the locks, way below ground level. And when the water was low in the locks we got a very good look at the lock doors. Sure, we didn't have our cabin, or the endless food that our ship offered, but there was a buffet lunch and endless supply of hard and soft drinks. I agree with you about the 'rougher' treatment in the ports. More begging, more pickpockets. We especially enjoyed the excursion in Costa Rica, we got to visit a sloth sanctuary and go on a canoe through Howlermonkeyville. Our cruise also stopped in Grand Cayman, where we got to swim with sting rays. Gorgeous day. One tip to pass on to your viewers - if your cell phone is rated for "SCUBA" don't believe it. Get a waterproof pouch of some kind before your cruise, or a new cell phone after you cruise. Thank you for making such an informative Panama Canal cruise video.

[@whit0011]

Done 5 Panama Canal full cruise, still one of my favorite cruises.

[@miniprepper8284]

We met you and your husband on the Pearl this past Fall. What a lovely trip that was. We are looking at the canal journey this year. Thank you for the video!

[@paulbjorlin2807]

I have done multiple full transits of the Panama Canal. I have done both the old and the new locks both directions. For me a full transit is the best way to go and for me I prefer the old locks however I am glad I have done the new locks. I do plan on doing the locks again.

[@philstrack5843]

We have done 3 full transits. One through the old locks and two through the new ones. I think it would be very anticlimactic to get to Gatun Lake and then turn around. It was a thrill going under the Bridge of the Americas knowing that just past it was the Pacific Ocean. We very much preferred the old locks. Loved the sea days going up western coast of Central America and Mexico.

[@douglasbrown6205]

My wife and I have done two Panama cruises. one a total transit one partial. We felt we were lucky to have what we felt had the best cabin location you can have. we had aft cabins!!

[@barbaramorrow8600]

We went from LA to Fort Lauderdale on Princess.Had an amazing time!

[@holmwoodgrows]

We’re going on one that I believe includes a partial transit on the celebrity constellation January 24-February 5. This video was very informative! I will definitely look into an excursion for Costa Rica. Thankyou😊

[@Paul-GrnHil]

We cruised from St Petersburg to Moscow many years ago. The first 5 locks were interesting, by the 18th, not so much. I will be traversing the Panama Canal from Lauderdale to LA in late December. Room service breakfast on our balcony sounds great.

[@sherylhatch9621]

Leaving for the PC on January 14 on Rotterdam. Looking forward to the experience. Thanks for your videos- so helpful!

[@wjrsb58]

We will be getting on the ship after you get off.😊

[@barbarashuster9029]

We were supposed to be on the Rotterdam the first month that was and service but it wasn't ready. So, we were on the following September, well I love a year ago for a Norwegian Fjords cruise. Beautiful.

[@leslieoconnell2051]

We live near Tampa so we chose Carnival for a full transit. It began in San Pedro and ended in Tampa. Our favorite thing was watching about a 40 ft sailboat go in the opposite direction from us. In stead of it being pulse thru by a train it was pulled by 2 men holding ropes.

[@harlanabraham7772]

Howdy Ilana, Too late. Went to the Panama Canal several years ago. On the Carnival Sunrise round trip out of NYC. My wife really loved that cruise. We went through the newer locks. We did a partial transit too. It was so foggy that day. Yes, a lot of downtime that day. Often I would get us coffee and pastry. We took shore excursions most places. The private island we just walked around. Always bring sunscreen and bug spray.

[@crazy4dariver]

After this review, it's strangely a bucket list now. I've never done it with zero stress involved and higher than 30ft off the waterline ❤

[@waza987]

My parents are going on Panama Canal cruise soon, from London to Sydney. But the canal Is definitely one of the highlights dad is looking forward to.

[@f4shionlover]

Hello! I love your content, you do such a great job! I started planning a cruise trip after finishing college and your videos are so useful! I marathon your content everyday! Love from Brazil ❤

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad to hear that you’re watching from Brazil! What itinerary are you considering?

[@f4shionlover]

@@LifeWellCruised I'm thinking about Greece with MSC Cruises, but I'm not sure yet.

[@coffofcuppe]

Hi llana, What a great video! So much info that's good to know. We have not done the Panama Canal yet but want to, probably in 2025 since we're doing a Nov. cruise in 2024 to Istanbul, Turkey, Greece, and winding up in Venice. Thank you again. 💖🛳

[@bethbowen4612]

I was on the Rotterdam also. I watched from the Crow's Nest. Good view with air conditioning. I also very much enjoyed the Panama Canal talk in the theatre. Of course, I was disappointed not to be able to disembark and go on a shore excursion due to the civil unrest. Sigh. There was no self service laundry on the Rotterdam, but I used the $25/bag laundry service. I rolled the clothes and was able to get quite a lot into the bag. (3 pair of capris, 7 t-shirts and 3 pair of socks). I will have to consider a full transit for another time.

[@danscheid6031]

went through the old locks well worth it! the wall was close enough to the ship you could reach across and touch them .... except for the guard they put out to stop that very thing . the classes were great learn why and what for of it

[@billhansher9911]

Just completed transit on Windstar Star Pride. Many people had swimming/diving sleaves and neck protection. Supposedly very breathable and quickly dry. If you just want protection from the sun when walking around town it's a lot easier than sunscreen multiple times a day.

[@colby5592]

We did a full transit in late September, in the old locks. It was an absolute wonderful experience. I downloaded a map which we used during the day. Very helpful. I woke up about 6am, turned on the bow webcam and saw where we were. It was a early day. We saw the many Locks from every point of view we could think of. Bow, Stern, side, from our balcony, and from the lower main level. Our next I would like the newer locks, so will need to find a ship that won't fit in the old ones.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing! I’d love to do the old locks full transit.

[@Theire1]

Im taking this cruise on this ship in a week. My first and looking forward to it .

[@jakeimhotep4866]

Hi Ilana, we just got off the Rotterdam 12 day Panama Canal cruise and I agree with all your points you brought up in this video. On our cruise the excursions were once again available for the Panama Canal portion and we actually had a crocodile join us when when were going through the locks.

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad to hear! Thanks for sharing

[@eminiarvii]

Hi Illana, I took 2 full transit Panama Canal cruises, one was 16 day and one was 15 day.old locks and then new locks. We fortunately on this last transit in April we were way forward; we had a large window seat where we sat and could look out straight over the bow and see everything…and yes.. bug spray a necessity. Had you loved your trip. I sure did🙂🚢. Ps..i used a laundry line i bought on amazon and hand washed my items…I could do this because i had a very large cabin up front which i had carefully chosen. We had 3 in the room and had a lot of room and storage space. The last ship was the NCL Encore 10700. I am not an NCL fan per se just wanted to do the canal again. But to those who like NCL, traveling with more than 2 this room is highly recommended by me

[@catherinecyr8331]

You're so right about being a bucket list cruise. We will be sailing Celebrity Beyond in March for Panama Canal. It's also a to and from Fort Lauderdale. We cannot wait to be on Beyond. 🤗😃

[@user-ml6sn5rl3v]

March 11-22 for me! Love Beyond!

[@JessLuvnNicky]

My husband and I were on a cruise in February of this year and one of our ports was Panama. So we did an excursion of the Panama Canal. It was very interesting and cool to see [we went through the old locks], but it was an extremely long day. Our excursion [thankfully booked through MSC] got back I believe almost 3 hours late - I'm sure everyone was EXTREMELY happy with us! lol oops! we were on a smaller boat that had to wait and go through the locks between a cruise ship and another boat -