# Panama Canal Cruises *By James Hills — Updated September 2023* Panama Canal canal cruises are one of the more exotic cruise options that guests can take to or from California. While the actual canal experience itself is the bucket list objective for most guests, cruises on these itineraries also offer the opportunity to visit ports that are seldom explored on other itineraries such as Cartagena, Columbia, and Huatulco, Mexico.  With its lush jungles, vibrant cities, and rich cultures to explore along the route, it’s no wonder why a Panama Canal cruise is one of the most sought-after vacation experiences.    ## Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal Cruises Also known as full transit [Panama Canal Cruises](https://cruisewestcoast.com/what-is-the-best-side-of-the-ship-for-a-panama-canal-cruise.html), these journeys typically travel between Ft Lauderdale or Miami on the Atlantic side and San Diego or Los Angeles on the Pacific. Most of these itineraries will spend two days crossing the canal itself, providing passengers with plenty of time to take in the scenery and watch as their ship navigates the locks. Some cruises may also feature a stop in Panama City where travelers can explore its rich culture and history.   ## Partial Transit Panama Canal Cruises Another option to consider is a Partial Transit Panama Canal Cruise. As the name suggests, these cruises spend only part of the journey crossing the canal and typically involve a round trip from San Diego or Los Angeles (or Ft Lauderdale or Miami for Caribbean itineraries), some of these partial transit Panama cruises will be point to point from San Diego to Panama City (on the Caribbean side of the Canal) for instance. This allows guests to have a shorter overall cruise experience while still being able to experience the thrill of passing between two different oceans!   ## Cruise Pick of the Month October's Pick Virgin Voyages (affiliate) ### Virgin Voyages Mexican Riviera, October 2027 Why we picked it: adults-only, with tips and most dining included. [See Sailings](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/gnLZdsW83hvZJhNITG_UBw.2461) [September's Pick Virgin Voyages Alaska from Seattle, May 2027](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/gnLZdsW83hvZJhNITG_UBw.2462) [August's Pick Viking Christmas Markets](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/gnLZdsW83hvZJhNITG_UBw.2463) [July's Pick Viking Alaska 2027](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/gnLZdsW83hvZJhNITG_UBw.2464) Promoted by FlowAds No matter which option you choose, a Panama Canal cruise will be sure to provide an unforgettable journey! With plenty of unique destinations to explore along with one of the world’s most stunning engineering feats, it’s no wonder why this type of itinerary is becoming increasingly popular among travelers. So if you’re looking for an exotic adventure that’s full of culture and history, consider taking a Panama Canal cruise for your next vacation!  You won’t be disappointed.  ### 🚢 Ready To Book A Cruise? #### Saint John's Maple Sugar Shack Tour Brings Fall Colors, a Cable Ferry and Maple Taffy on Snow [Saint John's Maple Sugar Shack Tour Brings Fall Colors, a Cable Ferry and Maple Taffy on Snow](https://cruisewestcoast.com/saint-john-maple-sugar-shack-excursion.html) [Plan Your Next Cruise Today!](https://cruisewestcoast.com/book-a-cruise.html) ### Cruise Gear & Shopping Guides #### Lightweight Waterproof Backpacks Perfect for Your Alaska Cruise Tours [Lightweight Waterproof Backpacks Perfect for Your Alaska Cruise Tours](https://cruisewestcoast.com/lightweight-waterproof-backpacks-for-alaska-cruise-tours.html) #### 10 Best Gifts Cruise Lovers Will Actually Want For Their Next Alaska or Mexican Riviera Cruise [10 Best Gifts Cruise Lovers Will Actually Want For Their Next Alaska or Mexican Riviera Cruise](https://cruisewestcoast.com/best-gift-ideas-for-cruisers.html) #### Powerboost Move Is The Perfect Cruise Companion For Sore Muscles [Powerboost Move Is The Perfect Cruise Companion For Sore Muscles](https://cruisewestcoast.com/powerboost-move-is-the-perfect-cruise-companion-for-sore-muscles.html) [Ask Cruise Questions Here!](https://cruisewestcoast.com/answers.html) ### Latest Cruise News #### Holland America Opens 2028 Canada and New England Bookings With the Most Montréal Calls [Holland America Opens 2028 Canada and New England Bookings With the Most Montréal Calls](https://cruisewestcoast.com/holland-america-opens-2028-montreal-cruises-canada-new-england.html) #### Things To Do In Puerto Chiapas, Mexico On A Cruise Visit [Things To Do In Puerto Chiapas, Mexico On A Cruise Visit](https://cruisewestcoast.com/puerto-chiapas-mexico.html) #### Port or Starboard: Which Side of the Ship Is Best for a Panama Canal Cruise? 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We offer cruise news, tips, and deals to help make cruising to our favorite West Coast and [Canadian destinations](index.php?Itemid=1812) an amazing adventure! ### Cruise Community Login: --- *Source: [Panama Canal Cruises](https://cruisewestcoast.com/panama-canal-cruises.html)* **Tags:** Panama Canal Cruises