Panama Canal Cruise
Plus Colombia, Costa Rica & Mexico
Paradise awaits as we depart Miami for a thrill of a lifetime—cruising ocean-to-ocean via the Panama Canal. We depart from Miami, stop at a private Bahamian island before enjoying two days at sea, exploring our floating accommodations and taking advantage of the pools, food, shows, and more. We'll stop in Cartagena, Colombia with its turbulent history of conquistadors and pirates before we transit the massive canal. Entering the Pacific Ocean we head north up the coastline with ports of call in Costa Rica and Mexico before arriving in Los Angeles. Join us for this 17-day cruise through one of the greatest engineering feats of mankind.
Panama Canal Cruise
February 14 - March 1, 2020Highlights
- Daylight transit through the Panama Canal
- 17 days aboard NCL's Norwegian Joy
- Balcony cabins with unobstructed views
- Stops in Costa Rica, Colombia and Mexico
- Includes 2 shore excursions
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for things to see and do
- And More...See itinerary for details
Itinerary
Friday, 14 February 2020: Arrive Miami; Transfer to Ship; Welcome Meeting & Dinner (B,D)
Welcome to Miami, a city known for its gorgeous white sand beaches, people watching and sunrise strolls. Schedule arrival into Miami International Airport no later than 12:00 noon and make your way to the dock. Everyone must be on board ship no later than 2:00pm. Ship departure is at 4:00pm. We'll gather at 5:00pm for our Welcome Meeting to be followed by dinner together to get better acquainted. Overnight Norwegian Joy - 16 nights
Saturday, 15 February 2020: Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas (B,L,D)
This morning we arrive at our first stop, Great Stirrup Cay, an idyllic private island paradise in the Bahamas. Stroll along soft white-sand beaches and enjoy any of the many activities or simply relax on the beach. What a tropical paradise!
Sunday, 16 February 2020: Cruising At Sea (B,L,D)
Today is a full day at sea. Enjoy the on-board activities, spend time lounging around the pool or just relax on your balcony taking in the expansive views. Every day your WTT Tour Leader will help coordinate travelers who want to attend shows together, dine together, or participate in other ship activities.
Monday, 17 February 2020: Mini-Golf Morning; Cruising At Sea (B,L,D)
Another day in paradise with a full day at sea! This morning, we begin with a round of mini-golf for those interested in a little competition. If pampering is your idea of a good vacation, take advantage of the on board spa and salon this afternoon. These optional services are available on sea days and while in ports of call. Every day your WTT Tour Leader will help coordinate travelers who want to attend shows together, dine together, or participate in other ship activities.
Tuesday, 18 February 2020: Cartagena, Colombia (B,L,D)
Early this morning we arrive at the old walled city of Cartagena, which reflects a turbulent history of conquistadors and pirates. Throughout Colombia, the Spanish Empire's influence in the New World is self-evident. Its fortress walls, quaint narrow streets, and balconied houses are all vivid reminders of Spain's hold on Cartagena and throughout the Caribbean and South America. Perhaps you'll opt to climb "las murallas" for an unforgettable view of the harbor.
Wednesday, 19 February 2020: Daylight Transit through Panama Canal (B,L,D)
Today is the adventure we've been waiting for - transiting the 40 miles of the Panama Canal, one of the world's greatest shortcuts. Sometimes referred to as “the eighth wonder of the world,” the canal is an engineering marvel that cuts across the Isthmus of Panama, connecting the Atlantic to the Pacific. Work on the canal began in 1880 and was completed in 1914. The canal passage includes transit through several locks that allow for the water level to be adjusted.
Thursday, 20 February 2020: At Sea; Group Dinner & Show (B,L,D)
Now that we're through the Panama Canal, we have a day at sea - on the Pacific side. Read pool side, try your hand at the casino, play a game of cards with your fellow travelers, or just enjoy the view from your cabin's balcony. Tonight we'll enjoy dinner together at a specialty restaurant on the ship, followed by an on-board show.
Friday, 21 February 2020: Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Rainforest Adventure (B,L,D)
We arrive in Costa Rica this morning in the seaport town of Puntarenas with its multi-colored cottages, local markets and stunning beaches. Puntarenas is Spanish for "sandy point" and that is exactly what it's built on, a sandy spit of land jutting into the Gulf of Nicoya. Puntarenas is a fishing port and as such you'll find amazingly fresh seafood. We'll have the opportunity to travel by gondola through the canopy of giant trees, hanging gardens, waterfalls and lush green landscapes. Maybe we'll see the spectacular scarlet macaws majestically soaring above the treetops or sitting in one of the trees!
Saturday, 22 February 2020: Cruising At Sea (B,L,D)
Relax and enjoy another day at sea. Your WTT Tour Leader will help coordinate travelers who want to attend shows together, dine together, or participate in other ship activities.
Sunday, 23 February 2020: Puerto Quetzel, Guatemala (B,L,D)
This morning, we arrive in Guatemala at the port city of Puerto Quetzel, which was constructed in 1984 to help connect nearby cities. This city is Guatemala's largest port on the Pacific Ocean and is a gateway to Antigua, Lake Atitlan, coffee plantations and Mayan ruins.
Monday, 24 February 2020: Cruising At Sea; Evening Show (B,L,D)
A full day at sea! Perhaps pamper yourself and take advantage of the on board spa and salon. These optional services are available on sea days and while in ports of call. Your WTT tour leader will help coordinate travelers who want to attend shows together, dine together, or participate in other ship activities.
Tuesday, 25 February 2020: Cruising At Sea (B,L,D)
A full day at sea! Perhaps pamper yourself and take advantage of the on board spa and salon. These optional services are available on sea days and while in ports of call. Your WTT tour leader will help coordinate travelers who want to attend shows together, dine together, or participate in other ship activities.
Wednesday, 26 February 2020: Mazatlan, Mexico; Old Mazatlan (B,L,D)
Today, we awake off the coast of Mexico. Our port is Mazatlan which has a fabulous beach combined with an illustrious colonial past. Perhaps enjoy a margarita, or visit some of the shops offering local crafts. We'll enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town including the House of Music, the Cathedral and the city market.
Thursday, 27 February 2020: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (B,L,D)
This morning, we arrive in Puerto Vallarta with its small village charm along with 26 miles of spectacular beaches along the Banderas Bay. You might stroll the cobblestone streets to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, or peruse the many local wares for sale at the open-air markets.
Friday, 28 February 2020: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico (B,L,D)
Lying at the very tip of Baja where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez, Cabo San Lucas - or "Cabo" - is one of the premier resort destinations in the Western Hemisphere. Cabo's signature landmark is El Arco (The Arch), a rock formation at the tip of "Land's End." The jewel of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo is famous for its world-class sportfishing, as well as its high-end resorts and exclusive gated communities.
Saturday, 29 February 2020: Cruising At Sea; Farewell Dinner (B,L,D)
Enjoy our final day at sea! This is your last chance to soak up some rays or see a show, have a massage, or win big at the casino. We'll gather tonight for our Farewell Dinner.
Sunday, 01 March 2020: Arrive Los Angeles; Disembark Ship (B)
It's time to leave your sea legs behind. This morning, our ship docks in Los Angeles at approximately 7:00am. Make your return flight home no earlier than 12:30pm, which will help ensure you have sufficient time to disembark and get to the airport. Departure transfers are not included, but your Tour Leader will help with coordination.
The ship is not exclusive to WTT and will have other guests. All shore excursions available through the ship are not exclusive to WTT will have other guests. Weather conditions may impact the cruising itinerary of this tour; if this is the case, the tour will be modified while retaining as much of the original itinerary as possible.
Panama Canal Cruise
February 14 - March 1, 2020Pricing
Room Share
$5,412.00Single Room
$8,839.00Non-Members
ADD $100.00Status of this Tour
Trip Full and Closed
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Arrival and Departure Transfers
- Onboard gratuities (approximately $15/day per person)
- Any optional shore excursions not specifically listed in the itinerary
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Any personal expenses or expenditures, including alcohol or beverage packages
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Passport and/or visa fees
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Leader
- Travel Insurance
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
At Space Reservation: Initial Deposit is due.
Sunday, 18 Aug 2019: Initial deposit cannot be parked and is forfeited if traveler cancels after this date.
Monday, 7 October 2019: Payment in full. 50% cancellation penalty after this date.
Thursday, 12 December 2019: 100% forfeited if traveler cancels after this date.
Please review our travel and cancellation policies before making your reservation. You will be asked to confirm you have read and understood WTT's travel polices before we will accept your reservation.
Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect you in the event you need to cancel your tour. WTT will mail you information from 2 reliable travel insurance providers at the time we confirm your reservation.
You can review the insurance information from TravelGuard to get an idea of rates.
Panama Canal Cruise
February 14 - March 1, 2020Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air arrangements as follows:
When searching for flights for this trip, be sure to search "Multi-city" (on Kayak) or "Multiple Destinations" (on Expedia). For comparison, you may also want to search for one-way fares.
Arrival Airport: MIA - Miami, FL (Miami Int'l Airport)
Arrival Date: Friday, February 14th. 12:00PM.
Arrival Transfer: Use local shuttle or taxi. Details will be provided in Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: LAX - Los Angeles, CA (Los Angeles Int'l Airport)
Departure Date: Sunday, March 1st. Depart no earlier than 12:30PM.
Departure Transfer: Not included. Departure Transfers to LAX can be arranged onboard ship for an additional fee.
Lodging / Hotels
Our accommodations will be on the cruise ship, Norwegian Joy, which was built in 2017 and renovated in 2019 with $50 million worth of upgrades, making it the most modern of the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. The ship has several decks full of shops, restaurants and entertainment. The ship includes observation lounges with floor-to-ceiling windows, cozy sitting areas, and expansive views. This cruise is not exclusive to WTT.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Transfer from hotel to ship
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$255.00 Roomshare $496.00 Single
Additional Reminders About This Tour
- For security reasons, all guests must be on board 2 hours prior to sailing.
- Disembarkation typically begins 2 hours after docking.
- Itineraries are subject to change at any time without notice.
- The cruise company reserves the right to re-instate the fuel supplement for all guests should the price of light sweet crude oil increases above $65 per barrel.
- WTT may collect any fuel supplement charge in effect at the time of sailing, even if tour cost has already been paid in full.
- All travelers must have valid passports. Most countries require your passport to be valid a minimum of six months after your return home date, and have at least two consecutive blank pages.
- Travelers from Canada and other countries should check entry requirements with their consulate. Visa requirements are based on your country of residence.
Panama Canal Cruise
February 14 - March 1, 2020Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
Traveling Solo? Most of the women on your tour are traveling solo!
- If you wish to share with another solo traveler, select this option on the Reservation Form and your tour price will automatically be based on the room share price.
- Or, you may select a single room, when available, on the Reservation Form and your tour price will be automatically based on the single room price.
- These choices are clearly stated on the Reservation Form.
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- Your roommate will be of similar age
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" for more details
How Active is this Tour?
Because of this requirement, WTT tours are not suitable for anyone who is physically challenged, walking impaired, or is a slow walker that cannot keep up with the pace of the group.
The activities on this tour are rated as follows:
- 85% Easy
- 15% Moderate (walking)
If you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
Read more about Activity Levels
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
- All meals while onboard ship
- 2 specialty dinners
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general the daytime temperatures will be in the upper 70s with nightly lows in the 60s. We suggest you monitor weather apps before you depart for the most current information.
Be sure to refer to your cruise documents for additional packing recommendations.
For This Trip You Will Need—
- Swimsuit and a cover-up or sundress
- Sandals, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
You May Also Want—
- Smart-casual wear if you'd like to dress up a bit for dinners. Pool and beach attire will not be allowed in the more formal sit-down dining rooms.
- Lightweight but warm jacket/sweater for the cool mornings and evenings or the unusually brisk day.
- Insect repellent
- Medication for motion sickness if you are prone
- Inexpensive rain poncho, just in case!
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping pills, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
Good Packing Habits—
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
- We suggest you bring one suitcase weighing no more than 50 lbs, plus a small shoulder bag/day pack or purse. There will be limited space in the transfer vehicles used from the airport to the ship and the ship back to the airport. Additionally, suitcase storage space is limited in the ship’s cabins.
- If you are arriving a day early you will be responsible for managing your own luggage until you get to the ship.
- Porters will be available to assist you at the port. If you choose to use this service, be sure to tip accordingly.
What are the phone and internet recommendations for this tour?
Only you can determine your need to stay in contact while traveling. Internet access is available in most hotels, sometimes for a fee.
- If you are bringing a cell phone, contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding international calling and/or texting features. Texting internationally is often less expensive than placing a cell phone call.
- While at sea, you can connect to Freestyle Cellular Service through Wireless Maritime Services when aboard ship and international roaming charges will go into effect.
- If family or friends need to reach you from home and are calling from the US, they can dial 888-627-4477 and select the ship Norwegian Joy.
- Learn how to make an international call BEFORE you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the web site www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: the number of meals you are responsible for, the amount of money you like to have on-hand for snacks and drinks, and your individual shopping interests and habits.
- Credit cards are widely accepted in ports.
- ATMs are available on-board and in ports. You may want to have extra cash on hand as ATMs may be limited and have higher than normal surcharges.
- The US Dollar is accepted in most ports. Small markets or local shops in port will accept cash and you will likely receive any change in the local currency.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
- You are not required to tip guides during shore excursions. However, if you feel you have received excellent service, a small tip is always appreciated.
- You are responsible for tipping wait-staff, porters or other individuals who provide service to you at the hotel or other public locations.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $5-$8 per day.
What other Additional Information do I need to know?
- For security reasons, all guests must be on board 2 hours prior to sailing.
- Disembarkation typically begins 2 hours after docking.
- Itineraries are subject to change at any time without notice.
- The cruise company reserves the right to re-instate the fuel supplement for all guests should the price of light sweet crude oil increases above $65 per barrel.
- WTT may collect any fuel supplement charge in effect at the time of sailing, even if tour cost has already been paid in full.
- All travelers must have valid passports. Most countries require your passport to be valid a minimum of six months after your return home date, and have at least two consecutive blank pages.
- Travelers from Canada and other countries should check entry requirements with their consulate. Visa requirements are based on your country of residence.
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?

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