Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is one of the world's great engineering marvels, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.1 As a cruise destination, it's not a single port but an incredible experience that takes you through the heart of Panama. Cruises will typically be one of two types: a full transit, which sails from one ocean to the other, or a partial transit, which sails partway through the canal to Gatun Lake and then turns around.2 For both, you will likely have a port of call that allows you to disembark and explore. The two main cruise ports are on either side of the canal: Colón (on the Caribbean side) and Fuerte Amador (on the Pacific side, near Panama City).3
⛵ Port Introduction
Since the Panama Canal is an experience rather than a single port, your "port of call" will be either on the Caribbean or Pacific side.
· Colón: This is the primary port for cruises on the Caribbean side. The port, Colon 2000, is a modern facility that serves as a gateway to the Gatun Locks and rainforest.
· Fuerte Amador: This is the cruise port on the Pacific side, near Panama City.5 It's built on a man-made peninsula and offers stunning views of the Panama City skyline.
In either case, your ship will dock directly at a pier. You will not need to take a tender. However, since the ports are in industrial areas, you will need to walk on a designated path to the terminal building, and you will not be able to walk off the port property.
⚓ Terminal Information
The terminal facilities at both Colón and Fuerte Amador are modern and designed to handle large cruise ships.
· Colón 2000: The port has two cruise terminals, one of which is connected by a pedestrian bridge to a shopping mall with stores and restaurants.7
· Fuerte Amador: The new Pacific Cruise Terminal is a large, modern building with a total area of 21 acres.8 It has berthing capacity for two mega-liners simultaneously.9
🚻 Terminal Facilities
Both ports have comprehensive facilities for cruisers. You'll find tourist information desks, restrooms, and souvenir shops.10 ATMs are available, and many places accept credit cards. Free Wi-Fi is available in the terminal buildings. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the terminals.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Spanish. English is spoken in the tourist areas and by most tour guides and taxi drivers. However, it is a good idea to have a few basic Spanish phrases on hand.
A few useful phrases:
· Hola (OH-lah) - Hello
· Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs) - Thank you
· Por favor (por fah-VOR) - Please
· ¿Dónde está? (DOHN-day ehs-TAH) - Where is...?
· ¿Cuánto cuesta? (KWAHN-toh KWEHS-tah) - How much does it cost?
💰 Money
The official currency is the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), but it is a non-circulating coin. The U.S. Dollar (USD) is the widely used paper currency and is accepted everywhere. There is no need to exchange money. Credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants and shops. ATMs are easy to find at the ports and in the main cities.
🚗 Transportation
Since you are docking at a commercial port, you will need to take a taxi or a pre-booked tour to get to the main attractions.
· Taxis: Taxis are available at the terminals. It is essential to agree on the price with the driver before you start your journey.
· Ride-Sharing: Uber is available in Panama City and can be a convenient option.11
· Panama Canal Railway: A scenic and historic train runs between Colón and Panama City, offering a great way to see the canal and the surrounding rainforest.12
♿ Accessibility
The accessibility of the Panama Canal ports is a 3 out of 10. While the cruise terminals are modern and accessible, the main attractions, like the Miraflores Locks Observation Center or the rainforest, may have uneven terrain, steps, and limited accessible facilities.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
From the Colón port, the best way to get to the Gatun Locks is by taxi or a pre-booked tour. The city of Colón has a reputation for street crime, so it's not recommended to walk outside the secure port area.13 From the Fuerte Amador port, the best way to get to Panama City is by taxi.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are not as common as in the U.S. and may require a small fee. It is a good idea to use the restrooms in the cruise terminal, at tourist attractions, or in restaurants.
💊 Drugstore
· Fuerte Amador: The port terminal itself has a number of amenities, including a duty-free shop that sells some basic over-the-counter medications.14
· Colón: The port has a large mall next to it that likely has a pharmacy or a store with basic supplies.15
✨ Authentic Experience
1. Visit the Miraflores Locks and Museum: Instead of just transiting the canal, take a taxi to the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center.16 You'll get to see the locks up close, watch ships pass through, and learn about the canal's history and operation in the excellent museum.
2. Explore the Biodiversity of Gatun Lake: Take a small boat tour on Gatun Lake, a massive man-made lake that is an integral part of the canal.17 You'll get to see the lush rainforest, a variety of wildlife like monkeys and sloths, and get a completely different perspective of the canal.
3. Wander the Streets of Casco Viejo, Panama City: If you are docked on the Pacific side, take a taxi to Casco Viejo, the historic colonial district of Panama City. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a charming neighborhood of cobblestone streets, beautiful plazas, and colorful colonial buildings. It's a great place to walk, explore local shops, and grab a meal at a local cafe.
