In an exciting announcement, Princess Cruises, the renowned expert in Panama Canal expeditions since 1967, has released its highly anticipated 2024-2025 season. This extraordinary opportunity allows travellers to embark on an unforgettable journey through the Panama Canal, famously known as the “world’s greatest shortcut,” while indulging in the mesmerizing beauty of this remarkable destination.
Princess Cruises President, John Padgett, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, stating, “We are delighted to offer three magnificent ships for our 2024-2025 season, providing full transit sailings, ocean-to-ocean adventures, or roundtrip options departing from Ft. Lauderdale. This season will witness the much-anticipated return of Coral Princess to the region, reconnecting the vessel to its origins where it was christened in the Panama Canal by the esteemed former president of Panama, Mireya Moscoso, in 2003.”
With a fleet of three luxurious ships, Princess Cruises will set sail on an impressive 26 departures, unveiling 23 breathtaking destinations across 12 captivating countries. Passengers will have the privilege of experiencing 24 transits through the new locks and 13 transits through the historic locks, creating an unrivalled Panama Canal adventure.
Among the enticing itineraries, the 12-Day Panama Canal with Costa Rica and Caribbean voyage emerges as a newcomer on Princess Cruises’ roster. This groundbreaking itinerary offers guests the chance to enjoy a partial transit of the Panama Canal, explore the splendours of the Southern Caribbean, revel in a memorable night in Aruba, and embrace an additional stop in either Bonaire or Curacao. Ideal for those seeking an immersive experience blending the wonders of the Panama Canal, the vibrant cultures of South and Central America, and the allure of the Caribbean islands and rainforests, this itinerary promises a truly unforgettable journey. Notably, all sailings on this itinerary will pass through the new locks, providing an up-close encounter with the marvels of modern engineering.
For travellers yearning for a comprehensive Panama Canal experience, the 16-Day Ocean-to-Ocean Itineraries are a perfect fit. These unique journeys allow guests to delve deep into the Panama Canal’s lock system while visiting Fuerte Amador and exploring Panama City. Available as voyages between Los Angeles or San Francisco to Ft. Lauderdale, as well as Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles or San Francisco, these ocean-to-ocean itineraries offer a profound appreciation of the canal’s historic locks.
Embarking on a Princess Cruises voyage unlocks an immersive experience like no other. Onboard, expert destination guides provide captivating insights into the history and culture of Panama, enhancing the journey through the locks. Ashore, travellers can venture into lush rainforests teeming with ecological wonders and encounter unique wildlife, with the option to visit a sloth sanctuary recommended by Animal Planet™.
Princess Cruises’ latest packages offer exceptional value and savings for guests. The highly sought-after Princess Plus package, available for just $60 per person daily, includes unlimited drinks, Wi-Fi access, and crew gratuities. As an added bonus, guests who opt for this package will also receive two premium desserts per day, two fitness classes per voyage, and unlimited juices—a combined value that would normally retail for USD$140, offering almost 60% savings.
Moreover, guests can enhance their vacation with the Princess Premier package, priced at USD$80 per person daily. This exclusive package unlocks incredible savings, providing a total amenity value of USD$257 daily. With Princess Premier, guests will enjoy perks such as MedallionNet Wi-Fi for up to four devices (usually priced at USD$40 per day), two nights of exquisite specialty dining, reserved seating in the Princess Theater (an exclusive benefit), premium desserts and drinks, unlimited smoothies or juices, unlimited access to fitness classes including Pure Barre, Yoga Six, and Stretch Lab, a photo package, Princess Prizes, a complimentary Medallion accessory, and special crew appreciation events.
Setting sail during the 2024-2025 season, Princess Cruises will offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore seven remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among these iconic landmarks are the Spanish Fortifications at Portobelo-San Lorenzo (accessible from Colón), the Archaeological Site and Historic District of Panama, and the Port Fortress, a captivating walled city in Cartagena.
Travellers interested in experiencing the wonders of the Panama Canal firsthand are encouraged to contact a professional travel advisor for additional information and booking details. With limited availability, securing a spot on one of these extraordinary cruises is essential to embark on the journey of a lifetime.
Don’t miss your chance to navigate the World’s Greatest Shortcut with Princess Cruises and unveil the secrets of the Panama Canal. Book your adventure today and let the wonders of this extraordinary region captivate your soul.
Please get in touch with your professional travel advisor for more information about Princess Cruises and their Panama Canal season.
Written by: Anne Keam
