Panama Canal Cruise

Find a slice of paradise onboard the NCL Bliss on this three week spring getaway to through the Panama Canal.

Embark on an epic 19-day cruise from New York to San Francisco, crossing coastlines and cultures as you sail through the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico. Step into history at the 16th century Fortaleza San Felipe and then unwind in one of the tropical beaches of Puerto Plata. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of lush rainforests as you traverse the 40-mile Panama Canal. Siesta, fiesta and repeat in Cabo San Lucas, where you can sip a cocktail at one of the Mexican Riviera’s luxurious beach bars or head offroad on a wild ride through dramatic desert landscapes. All meals are included onboard this ship.

This tour includes a pre-cruise night and tour in New York City  along with the services of a Cardinal Lakeshore Tour Director. A valid Canadian Passport is required. Space on the ship fills up fast, so book early to guarantee your space and avoid disappointment.

Day 1 | April 8, 2027 – Depart for NYC

Meet the coach at one of our predetermined pickup locations this morning. We plan to arrive in New York City in the early evening. Tonight you will have free time on your own for dinner.

Day 2 | April 9, 2027 – Set Sail (B, L, D)

This morning we will depart for a driving tour of New York City taking in all of the highlights! This afternoon we will board our ship – the NCL Bliss where we will spend the next 19 nights.

Day 3 – 4 | April 10 – 11, 2027 – At Sea (B, L, D)

The next two days will be at sea as we make our way to the Caribbean. All meals are included on board and be sure to take in the amenities of the ship and relax. From bow to stern, our ship has enough onboard activities to fill every minute of your day.

Day 5 | April 12, 2027 – Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic (B, L, D)

Puerto Plata offers plenty to explore. Ride up Pico Isabel de Torres for sweeping views, tour the 16th-century Fortaleza San Felipe, or visit the Amber Museum to see its remarkable collection of amber.

Day 6 | April 13, 2027 – At Sea (B, L, D)

We will continue cruising the sea for the day.

Day 7 | April 14, 2027 – Cartagena, Colombia (B, L, D)

The old walled city of Cartagena is an enchanting city filled with cobblestone streets and colourful buildings; yet reflects a turbulent history of conquistadors and pirates.

Day 8 | April 15, 2027 – Colon, Panama (B, L, D)

Sail into Colón and take in the view of the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal.

Day 9 | April 16, 2027 – Traversing the Panama Canal (B, L, D)

Experience one of the world’s best short cuts! Journey 40 miles through the Panama Canal for an unforgettable experience. Witness first-hand one of the world’s feats of engineering that has changed travel and the transport of goods worldwide.

Day 10 | April 17, 2027 – At Sea (B, L, D)

We will continue cruising the sea for the day.

Day 11 | April 18, 2027 – Puntarenas, Costa Rica (B, L, D)

Puntarenas offers beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, and lively streets of restaurants and cafés. Nature lovers can explore Carara National Park, home to ancient trees, crocodiles, and over 400 bird species, including scarlet macaws.

Day 12 | April 19, 2027 – At Sea (B, L, D)

We will continue cruising the sea for the day.

Day 13 | April 20, 2027 – Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala (B, L, D)

This port is a popular for travellers heading to Antigua—just 90 minutes away—where colourful 17th-century colonial streets and rich Guatemalan history await.

Day 14 | April 21, 2027 – At Sea (B, L, D)

We will continue cruising the sea for the day.

Day 15 | April 22, 2027 – Acapulco, Mexico (B, L, D)

As one of Mexico’s oldest coastal destinations, Acapulco offers great shopping, swimming, and beaches—plus the must-see La Quebrada cliff divers.

Day 16 | April 23, 2027 – At Sea (B, L, D)

We will continue cruising the sea for the day.

Day 17 | April 24, 2027 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (B, L, D)

Experience the charm and adventure of Mexico’s Pacific coast. Enjoy 26 miles of Banderas Bay beaches, stroll cobblestone streets to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and browse local wares at open-air markets.

Day 18 | April 25, 2027 – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico (B, L, D)

Discover the Baja Peninsula’s stunning desert landscapes and azure waters. See El Arco at Land’s End, explore on a UTV, relax at beach bars, or browse local markets.

Day 19-20 | April 26-27, 2027 – At Sea (B, L, D)

We will continue cruising the sea for the day.

Day 21 | April 28, 2027 – San Francisco to Home (B)
This morning we will disembark in San Francisco where we will be transferred to the San Francisco Airport to catch our flight home to Toronto. Our motor coach will await to return you to your original pickup locations and we will one another farewell