Panama Canal

4.5/5 Based on 2 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Our Price From
US$2,884
Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
18 Days
 Cruise Starts
Fort Lauderdale
 Cruise Finishes
San Diego
18 Day Panama Canal Itinerary (Holland America)
Countries Explored: USA, Aruba, Panama, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico
Ship
Ship Class
Signature Class
Departures
Passengers
2104
Crew
876
Launched
2010
Refurbished
2018
Cruise Code
T7P17A

Overview

Begin your journey in Fort Lauderdale and cruise through to San Diego onboard Nieuw Amsterdam and enjoy exclusive savings and cruise inclusions with Holland America and Global Journeys.

Cruise Itinerary

Departs: 16:00

Fort Lauderdale, also known as the Venice of America, invites visitors to explore its intricate canal system on a paddlewheeler or water taxi. Discover the city’s vibrant nautical lifestyle, upscale Las Olas Boulevard, and the cultural delights of the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District. An airboat adventure through the Everglades offers an unforgettable Florida experience, solidifying Fort Lauderdale as a top cruise destination.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

Dutch influence still lingers on this balmy Caribbean island, part of the former Netherlands Antilles until its independence in 1986. Aruba is a contrast, the island's arid interior is dotted with cactus and windswept divi-divi trees while secluded coves and sandy beaches make up its coast.

Top Things to Do in Aruba:

  • 4WD through the Aruba Arikok National Park
  • explore the islands capital, Oranjestad
  • climb the steps to the summit of Hooiberg
  • swim and relax at Eagle Beach
  • snorkel or dive the Antilla shipwreck
Port:Oranjestad

Incredibly white sands and cobalt blue seas make the small island of Aruba a popular destination. In the bustling freeport town of Oranjestad, sherbet-coloured Dutch colonial buildings, draped in bougainvillea, oleander and hibiscus are simply picturesque. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal. 

Top Things to Do in Oranjestad:

  • 4WD through the Aruba Arikok National Park
  • visit the National Archeological Museum
  • climb the steps to the summit of Hooiberg
  • swim and relax at Eagle Beach
  • snorkel at De Palm Island

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 5:00 Departs: 5:00

The Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering, links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating global maritime trade. Stretching approximately 80km/50mi, this intricate waterway features three locks - Miraflores, Pedro Miguel, and Gatun - that elevate and lower vessels to overcome the variation in sea levels.

The Miraflores Locks' visitor center offers an insightful experience, allowing observers to witness massive ships navigating the locks. The Gatun Locks, a crucial part of the canal, showcase the impressive process of raising and lowering water levels to enable the passage of ships.

Traversing the Panama Canal provides a firsthand glimpse into the intricate operations that have shaped international shipping for over a century.

The Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering, links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating global maritime trade. Stretching approximately 80km/50mi, this intricate waterway features three locks - Miraflores, Pedro Miguel, and Gatun - that elevate and lower vessels to overcome the variation in sea levels.

The Miraflores Locks' visitor center offers an insightful experience, allowing observers to witness massive ships navigating the locks. The Gatun Locks, a crucial part of the canal, showcase the impressive process of raising and lowering water levels to enable the passage of ships.

Traversing the Panama Canal provides a firsthand glimpse into the intricate operations that have shaped international shipping for over a century.

Arrives: 19:00 Departs: 19:00

The Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering, links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating global maritime trade. Stretching approximately 80km/50mi, this intricate waterway features three locks - Miraflores, Pedro Miguel, and Gatun - that elevate and lower vessels to overcome the variation in sea levels.

The Miraflores Locks' visitor center offers an insightful experience, allowing observers to witness massive ships navigating the locks. The Gatun Locks, a crucial part of the canal, showcase the impressive process of raising and lowering water levels to enable the passage of ships.

Traversing the Panama Canal provides a firsthand glimpse into the intricate operations that have shaped international shipping for over a century.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

Puntarenas beckons with its rich tapestry of lush landscapes making it a vibrant spot for adventure and relaxation. This coastal city is a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering thrilling activities like zip-lining and river rafting amidst its natural parks, and is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts eager to spot sloths, scarlet macaws, and capuchin monkeys in their natural habitats.

The city's history is as rich as its landscapes, from its indigenous roots to its emergence as a vital coffee exporting hub. Today, Puntarenas thrives with cultural landmarks such as the Casa de la Cultura and the Marine History Museum, blending educational experiences with natural exploration. Whether it's wandering through the Paseo de los Turistas, visiting the NATUWA Macaw Sanctuary, or exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Puntarenas offers a unique blend of cultural and ecological wonders for every traveller.

Port:Puerto Caldera

Puerto Caldera's cruise terminal is approximately 23 kilometers (about 14 miles) from the city of Puntarenas, around 30 minutes away. For transportation, you can opt for taxis, which are readily available at the port, or consider an organized shore excursion to maximize your visit. A must-see is the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, offering a glimpse into the country's diverse flora and fauna.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

Acajutla, located on the Pacific coast of El Salvador, is the primary seaport for cruise ships entering the country. Cruise ships docking at Acajutla are perfectly positioned for exploration, with the nearby Tazumal ruins in Chalchuapa representing some of the most well-preserved Mayan architecture in Central America.

The Ruta de las Flores, a scenic route through charming villages and coffee plantations, is particularly appealing for those interested in authentic experiences. Acajutla itself provides a rare glimpse into the maritime and economic life of El Salvador, with the port situated roughly 84 kilometers (52 miles) west of the capital, San Salvador (travel time of about an 1h 15m).

Arrives: 7:00 Departs: 17:00

Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala’s principal Pacific Ocean port, is a gateway to some of the country’s most captivating attractions. While primarily a launch point for nearby destinations, its proximity to key sites allows visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of local culture and history swiftly. From here, the colonial beauty of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and stunning volcano views, is easily accessible (approx. 1hr15m drive - 90 km/56mi away).

For those interested in the natural beauty of Guatemala, the surrounding area offers activities such as visits to coffee plantations in the highlands where the unique, aromatic beans are cultivated. Additionally, the coastal town of Monterrico is within reach, known for its black volcanic sand beaches and as a nesting ground for sea turtles, making Puerto Quetzal a strategic starting point for exploring Guatemala’s diverse landscapes.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

Nicknamed the 'Pearl of the Pacific,' Acapulco is Mexico's most glamorous pacific resort. The city is famed for its splendid beauty and its superb weather with an average of 360 days of sunshine per year. Its lively promenade gives travellers a sense of modern Mexico with a creative food scene and excellent shopping. Ships will dock at the Terminal Maritima.

Top Things to Do in Acapulco:

  • watch the cliff divers at La Quebrada
  • take a jetboat ride on Puerto Marques Bay
  • visit the Fort of San Diego
  • explore La Roqueta Island

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 7:00 Departs: 15:00

Puerto Vallarta, nestled on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is famed for its vibrant arts scene and stunning natural beauty. The city balances quaint, traditional Mexican charm with the sophistication of a modern resort town. Art enthusiasts are drawn to the numerous galleries along its cobbled streets and the iconic sculptures that line the Malecón, a seaside promenade.

The area is encircled by lush jungles and clear blue waters. Beaches like Playa Los Muertos offer sunbathing and water sports, while nearby, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens provide a tranquil escape with native flora and fauna. For an authentic taste of local life, the Olas Altas Farmers Market showcases crafts, food, and music, enriching any visit to Puerto Vallarta.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 14:00

Cabo San Lucas is the sunny resort town on the tip of Mexico’s Baja California. This colourful small town is known for its excellent big-game fishing, great diving spots and challenging surf waves. Ships will anchor offshore in Cabo San Lucas bay and tender guests to shore.

Top things to do in Cabo San Lucas:

  • catch the sunset at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
  • snorkel the coral reefs along the Sea of Cortez
  • relax on Medano beach
  • explore nearby Todos Santos

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 7:00

The Port of San Diego is the fourth largest port in California and is  is located right in downtown San Diego. Major cruise lines depart from the B Street Pier Terminal which is located a 10-minute drive from San Diego International Airport (SAN) and San Diego Station (Amtrak) and is easily accessible from major freeways.  The Embarcadero and nearby areas offer plenty of options for paid parking during your cruise.

Cruise lines embark to destinations such as the Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, the California Coast and the Panama Canal. 


Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life Onboard Nieuw Amsterdam

Nieuw Amsterdam
Nieuw Amsterdam

Nieuw Amsterdam’s inspired interiors and the exclusive art collection pay homage to New York City style. Read more

An Exciting Culinary Journey
An Exciting Culinary Journey

The delectable showcase of global cuisine found in the complimentary and specialty dining will delight. Read more

Explorations Central
Explorations Central

Elevate your experience in port with the expert presentations, cultural performances and local knowledge. Read more

Take the Music Walk
Take the Music Walk

Enjoy an incredible program of live classical and contemporary music; rock, the Memphis blues and Billboard hits. Read more

From Port to Table
From Port to Table

Savour the food and wine traditions of the ports you visit with local culinary demonstrations and wine tastings. Read more

Refresh, Relax, Rejuvenate
Refresh, Relax, Rejuvenate

Enjoy an indulgent massage or treatment, rejuvenate with a facial when you refresh in the heavenly spa and salon. Read more

Nieuw Amsterdam Reviews (2) Most Recent 'Nieuw Amsterdam' Reviews

4.5
Average Rating 4.5 / 5
2 Reviews
5 Star
50%
4 Star
50%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Alaska cruise 0 , WA, Australia, Sep 2025
Well organised. Liked the online check-in. Would definitely consider cruising with Holland America again provided it’s good value for money. Quality of ship and amenities excellent.
Alaska Cruise & Cruise Tour 3 , QLD, Australia, Jun 2024
Enjoyed our Holland America Cruise and Cruisetour. Holland America were very well organised so everything went smoothly. Glacier Bay was a highlight. Enjoyed sessions on the ship with ranger. Enjoyed some of entertainment in the World Stage and the piano bar. Enjoyed presentations about Alaska. Some of the highlights of our cruisetour was visiting... read more Seward as in our free time we visited the “Sea Life Centre” getting to see sea animals and birds up close.

In Denali the Rangers Office had excellent displays and films for free and arranged free tours to their Alaskan Huskies kennels a few time a day. At Fairbanks the HA included excursion of Gold Dredge and Paddle Steamer was a highlight. At Skagway we thoroughly enjoyed a privately arranged excursion to the Suspension bridge in Yukon.

Dates & Pricing USD USD

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Sunday 11 Apr 2027 11 Apr 27 Fort Lauderdale
Wednesday 28 Apr 2027 28 Apr 27 San Diego
Details
Nieuw Amsterdam
Book Early & Have It All Fare Option
Inside
US$2,884
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Holland America. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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