The Panama Canal is one of the most fascinating experiences you can ever have on a cruise ship. This unbelievable human made wonder allowed ships to move easily and quickly from one ocean to another. No matter which way you go from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, or vice versa, you will be able to take in some of the most amazing scenery. This Marvel was built in 1914 and has been marveled at around the world ever since. Not only are you able to witness the tropical views on your journey, there are also plenty of adventures to have on land and by the shore as well. From being able to learn about the indigenous cultures at the local museums to escaping into nature along the Bay in Costa Rica, there is going to be a little something for everyone no matter your points of interests or what you want to do.
Many cruise travelers looking to booking a Panama Canal cruise tend to wander if there are differences between different cruise lines. In regards to the Panama Canal, the answer is no. You are going to get to experience and see the same wonder of the world no matter which cruise line you are on. The differences come in to play with the route that you may be traveling on. Different routes are going to go to different ports of call as well as start and stop in different locations.
If there are certain places that you would like to travel to besides the Panama Canal in particular, take some time to see which cruise line is going to provide you with the best route. Once that is selected then you can see what land and sea activities will be offered on your cruise ship so you can begin to plan what you want to do and see. The good thing is there is going to be something for everyone’s interests.
Things To Do and See
The reason a Panama Canal cruise is so popular is due to quite a few reasons actually. No matter if you or someone in your family or group of friends is into engineering or lush tropical birds, both can be witnessed from the same cruise ship. In addition, if your ports include Costa Rica’s Puntarenas and Limon then there are going to be quite a few land excursions that will get your adrenaline pumping and leave you with exhilarating experiences that will last you a lifetime.
Panama Canal Locks
The Panama Canal Locks is the entire point of your cruise and you will be able to learn quite a bit as you pass through them. The cruise lines provide on-board lectures as you make your way through the locks and will provide you some fascinating and educational information along your way. No matter if it is your first time through the canal locks or you have done it many times, the experience never gets old. You’ll see the revolutionary mechanism of the canal first hand when it elevates the cruise vessel 85 feet.
Tropical & Exotic Views
During the rest of your time in Central America, take some time to hike the beautiful lush landscape or relax on the pristine beaches. As you pass through the region you will be provided beautiful views of the Soberania National Park which is a lush 55,000 acre region of protected rainforest. There will be countless species of birds, mammals and reptiles to spot and you might even be able to catch a quick glimpse of an orange-chinned parakeet or capuchin monkey. It is simply breathtaking nature at its finest.
Rich Culture & History
There is quite a bit of culture and history to this region. From the museums to the local cuisine, there is no shortage of finding diverse culture. There are plenty of historical points of interests as well. If you head to the Spanish Colonial area of Antigua in Guatemala, you will be met with beautiful buildings showcasing balconies filled with flowers. Museums such as Casa de los Suenos that depicts the history of the town through art, is another example of the type of immersive culture you can take part in.
Lake Gatun
As you make your way through this region make sure you take the time to look for the islands that surround Lake Gatun. Not only will you see the beautiful waters but also the endless colorful birds, forests and learn about this body of water that at one time when it was created, was the largest man-made lake in the world. The scenery is ever changing and you will spot new things every single time you get to sail through region. If you are extremely lucky you might even spot a monkey in its own habitat.
Get The Most Out Of Your Experience
No matter if you are planning a Panama Canal cruise, a Caribbean cruise, a cruise to Mexico, or any cruise destination for that matter, make sure you get the most out of your experience. If you’re traveling with just you and your other half, it’s a little easier to plan all the things that you both would like to do. But even if you are with a group of family or friends, know that it is OK to have different interests.
This is one of the main reasons that so many people like to cruise in the first place is that it is a way for people to travel all together but be able to do the things or activities that appeal to them individually without feeling like the entire group has to do the same thing. If you want to go zip-lining in Costa Rica and others want to head to the museums then do it. You never know if you’ll get the opportunity again.