Los AngelesPanama Canal

Cruises from Los Angeles to Panama Canal 2026

Panama Canal cruises offer a once-in-a-lifetime engineering marvel experience, transiting between Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Bucket-list journey through locks and tropical rainforest.

Departure
Los Angeles, United States
Destination
Panama Canal
Price Range
€1,200 - €4,000
Typical Duration
10-day

Why Cruise from Los Angeles to Panama Canal?

Cruising from Los Angeles to Panama Canal is one of the most popular routes in cruise travel. LA's San Pedro port offers Mexican Riviera cruises, Panama Canal transits, and Pacific coastal voyages with Hollywood glamour, making it an ideal starting point for your Panama Canal adventure.

Panama Canal cruises offer a once-in-a-lifetime engineering marvel experience, transiting between Pacific and Atlantic oceans. This route typically takes 10-day to 14-day, giving you ample time to explore multiple ports.

Popular Panama Canal Ports

Panama Canal Transit
Cartagena
Colon
Puerto Limon

What to Do in Panama Canal

Engineering marvel

Lock transits

Rainforest scenery

Multiple countries

Bucket-list experience

Best Time to Cruise from Los Angeles to Panama Canal

Best Months from Los Angeles

September, October, November, December, January, February

Best Months for Panama Canal

October, November, December, January, February, March

💡 Tip: The optimal time to cruise from Los Angeles to Panama Canal is when both port and destination seasons overlap: October, November, December, January, February.

Panama Canal Climate

Tropical, hot and humid, dry season Nov-April

Cruise Lines Operating from Los Angeles

Carnival Cruise Line
Princess Cruises
Norwegian Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises

Booking Cruises from Los Angeles to Panama Canal

Cruises from Los Angeles, United States to Panama Canal offer exceptional value and convenience for travelers. Los Angeles serves as a major cruise port with 4+ cruise lines offering regular departures to Panama Canal. Popular itineraries visit Panama Canal Transit, Cartagena, Colon, giving you a comprehensive Panama Canal experience.

Most Los Angeles to Panama Canal cruises range from 10-day to 14-day in length. Prices typically start at €1,200 and vary based on cabin type, cruise line, and booking time. The best deals are usually found September, October, November.

Panama Canal is known for engineering marvel,lock transits, and rainforest scenery. Popular activities include Canal transit, Rainforest tours, Wildlife viewing. The climate is tropical, making it an ideal year-round destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a cruise from Los Angeles to Panama Canal?

Cruises from Los Angeles to Panama Canal typically range from 10-day to 14-day. longer cruises visit 2-3 ports including Panama Canal Transit, Cartagena, Colon.

What's the best time to cruise from Los Angeles to Panama Canal?

The optimal months to cruise from Los Angeles to Panama Canal are when both port and destination seasons align: October, November, December, January, February. Tropical, hot and humid, dry season Nov-April Book 6-12 months ahead for the best selection.

How much does a cruise from Los Angeles to Panama Canal cost?

Cruises from Los Angeles to Panama Canal range from €1,200 - €4,000 per person for inside cabins. Balcony cabins typically cost 40-60% more, while suites can be 2-3x the base price. Prices vary by season, with October and November being premium months.

What ports will I visit on a Panama Canal cruise from Los Angeles?

Popular Panama Canal ports on cruises from Los Angeles include Panama Canal Transit, Cartagena, Colon, Puerto Limon. Most itineraries visit 5-6 ports with 1-2 sea days.

What should I do in Panama Canal?

Panama Canal is known for engineering marvel, lock transits, and rainforest scenery. Popular activities include Canal transit, Rainforest tours, Wildlife viewing. Most cruise lines offer shore excursions or you can explore independently.

What to Pack for Panama Canal

Essentials

  • Valid passport (must be valid 6+ months after return)
  • Cruise documents and boarding pass
  • Credit card for onboard account
  • Prescription medications (in original bottles)
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+, reef-safe for Caribbean)
  • Comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions
  • Layers for varying temperatures
  • Formal/smart casual outfits (1 per formal night)
  • Swimsuit and cover-up
  • Phone charger and adapter (US outlets on most ships)

Nice to Have

  • Refillable water bottle
  • Day backpack for excursions
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Seasickness medication (even if you don't usually need it)
  • Power strip (limited outlets in cabins)
  • Magnetic hooks for cabin metal walls
  • Highlighter for daily cruise planner
  • Small bills for tipping porters

What's Included in Your Cruise Fare

Included in Fare

  • Stateroom accommodation for cruise duration
  • Main dining room meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Buffet and casual dining venues
  • Pool, hot tubs, and fitness center access
  • Most onboard entertainment (shows, live music, movies)
  • Kids clubs and youth programs
  • Room service (may have late-night fee)

Extra Costs

  • Alcoholic beverages and specialty coffee
  • Specialty restaurants ($25-75 per person)
  • Shore excursions ($50-200+ per excursion)
  • Spa services and salon treatments
  • Casino and bingo
  • Photos and professional photography
  • Gratuities ($12-18 per person/day)
  • Wi-Fi packages ($15-30 per day)

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