October 17, 2023
Looking for which cruise line departing from Galveston goes to Panama? Carnival, Royal Caribbean International and Norwegian cruise lines are your options. This article will break down their features, amenities and itineraries so you can pick the best Galveston Panama Canal cruise.
If you want to sail through the Panama Canal from Galveston you have several cruise lines to choose from, depending on your style, whether you want luxury, adventure or family friendly activities.
Carnival Miracle has a fun vibe, Royal Caribbean International has modern amenities, Norwegian Cruise Line has unique itineraries. Each one puts their own spin on the trip and gives you unforgettable moments as you cross the Panama Canal and the Caribbean.
Cruisers love the Carnival’s newest ship to the Port of Galveston – Miracle – because of its many facilities and activities onboard. The ship has multiple dining venues, a casino, an adult-only retreat and several pools to suit all tastes. Guests have a water park, spa services and live shows to keep you entertained throughout the trip.
If you want to cross the Panama Canal in luxury, the Carnival Miracle is your top choice.
You can also go on a Panama Canal cruise from Galveston aboard the Carnival Dream. Many say the best part of the Carnival Dream is the “Ocean Plaza” which is the central hub of the ship with live music, entertainment and food options. Some like the variety of dining options like Guy’s Burger Joint and the Alchemy Bar too.
Royal Caribbean International is known for their modern ships with features like surf simulators and rock climbing walls so if you want adventure, this is the one. Their Galveston Panama Canal cruises visit exciting ports like Costa Rica, Jamaica and the vibrant port city of Cartagena in Colombia.
Known for adventure onboard and cultural immersion across ports of call, the Royal Caribbean Galveston Panama Canal cruises offer an unforgettable journey.
Norwegian Cruise Line has different itineraries for travelers who want different experiences. Their Panama Canal cruises visit Colón, Panama and Limon, Costa Rica and add cultural and natural beauty to the trip.
Known for their flexible and à la carte packages, Norwegian Cruise Line lets you customize your Galveston Panama canal cruise to your style and budget.
A Panama Canal cruise from Galveston gives you many options for different and exciting itineraries. These 10 to 14 night cruises visit Colón, Cartagena and Puerto Vallarta where you’ll find unique cultural experiences and activities.
As you cross the canal you’ll see the combination of human engineering and natural beauty while enjoying shipboard amenities like fine dining and lounging by the pool. With these options available on every trip, Panama Canal cruises have something for everyone.
10 day trip through the Panama Canal on Carnival Miracle where you’ll visit Colón in Panama and Cozumel in Mexico. Royal Caribbean International has itineraries that visit Costa Rica and Jamaica.
During these trips you can do different activities like cultural tours, visits to natural reserves and exploration of historical landmarks along the way. Prices start at around $1,500 per person but can range from under $1,000 to over $5,000 depending on season and demand.
Fourteen-night Panama Canal cruises give you more time at ports and extra stops like Curacao and Limon. This means you have more time to really get to know each place and experience different cultural encounters at ports like Montego Bay and Curacao.
Highlights on a Panama Canal Cruise
Special stops and highlights on these cruises include indigenous visits, beach days and historical hikes. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Panama Canal cruises have many excursion options in different countries. You can visit the beautiful Maria Chiquita beach or historical sites like San Lorenzo Fort.
Cruise lines also offer à la carte packages so you can customize your experience, including excursions, dining and accommodations.
Crossing the Panama Canal is an experience you will never forget, seeing the lock systems and the engineering marvels that move you from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. The lush landscapes and wildlife around the canal add to this adventure.
A marvel of engineering, the Panama Canal has a complex lock system that lifts and lowers ships as they cross the Isthmus of Panama. The locks are seven feet thick; that’s how much engineering went into building the canal.
For the best views of the Panama Canal, get to the upper decks of the ship early. These areas offer great views of the locks and surrounding landscape.
Look out for:
August 15, 1914 was a big day in maritime history. The construction of the Panama Canal involved 60 million pounds of dynamite. It created a direct route between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and changed the world of international trade.
Galveston Panama Canal cruises often stop at various ports like Colón which is near Costa Rica and Cartagena in Colombia. These ports offer lots of cultural and leisure activities to enjoy on your journey.
Colón, Panama has lots of attractions and activities. From the relaxing Maria Chiquita beach to historical hikes at San Lorenzo Fort, there is something for everyone.
Exploring Panama City from Colón adds another layer of attractions, making it a multifaceted port of call.
Cruising with Royal Caribbean International often includes a stop in the vibrant city of Cartagena. This city is famous for its colonial history and many historical landmarks that show its colorful past and lively culture.
Get the real Cartagena experience by visiting Mercado de Bazurto, the bustling markets that show the city’s diversity and rich culinary culture.
Puerto Vallarta is famous for its beaches and food, fresh seafood and Mexican dishes. The artisan markets are a treasure trove of local crafts that showcase the area’s rich heritage.
Puerto Vallarta is a great mix of relaxation and cultural immersion, a perfect destination to unwind and explore.
Booking a Panama Canal cruise from Galveston involves a few things to consider, early booking discounts, pricing and time of year.
Many cruise lines offer early booking discounts, onboard credits or reduced fares, so make sure to book during promotional periods.
The cost of a Panama Canal cruise can vary greatly depending on the cruise line, length of cruise and inclusions. To book one of these cruises you might be asked to put down a deposit of $100 to $1,000 or pay an initial percentage of the total price which could be 10% to 25%.
Know these prices to budget accordingly for this trip.
The dry season, the end of November to April, is the ideal time for a Galveston Panama Canal cruise. Sunny skies, pleasant temps and low humidity make it perfect for travelers who want to transit the Canal and see the blooming landscapes and wildlife surrounding it.
Ensure a smooth start to your trip by making a reservation for cruise parking at the same time that you are booking the actual cruise. Not only will you get the best price but also a guaranteed parking spot, to ensure a hassle-free departure day.
The Official Port of Galveston cruise parking lots offer both garage and economy cruise parking options, conveniently located on port property. These lots offer affordable rates, Port Police security 24/7, free shuttle buses and an online reservation system.
In summary a Galveston Panama Canal cruise is an adventurous, cultural experience and a chance to see one of the world’s greatest engineering wonders. Choose the right cruise line, plan your itinerary, book early (including cruise parking) and you’ll have a trip to remember.
