Panama Canal Repositioning Cruise

Seattle is a dynamic, urban city, located in the Northwest region of the United States on Puget Sound. Being surrounded by water and unmatched natural beauty, outdoor activities have become a popular aspect of this area. This city is also home to modern architecture, captivating art, and their famously prominent coffee culture.

Top Things to Do in Seattle:

• shop at the longest-running farmers markets in the US, the Pike Place Market
• visit ‘The Seattle Spheres’, an indoor rainforest
• explore the Starbucks Reserve and Tasting Room
• visit the iconic ‘Space Needle’

With Victorian-era homes etched into hills overlooking the Columbia River, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Surrounded by forests, boasting three rivers and situated a stone’s throw away from the Pacific, Astoria is a fishing village meets Victoriana that is chock-a-block with forts, museums and great local brews. Ships dock at the Port of Astoria.

Top Things to Do in Astoria:

• visit the Tillamook Air Museum
• ride the Astoria Riverfront Trolley
• enjoy a beer at a local brewery
• explore Lewis and Clark National Park

When you cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line you'll have plenty of great places to shop. Whether you are looking to splurge on yourself at one of our onboard boutiques or you want to shop for gifts for your friends and family on shore, our friendly staff will help you find exactly what you are looking for. Check your Freestyle Daily for shopping seminars, special sales and more on shopping while you cruise with us.

Explore the captivating Catalina Island, a serene haven just 35km/22mi off the Southern California coast. Unwind amidst swaying palms, white-sand beaches, and enchanting sunsets.

The island is renowned for its vibrant marine life, including dolphins and seals. Visitors can explore by water with snorkelling, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, all available to rent at Descanso Beach.

Traverse the island's interior and explore the rugged terrain by golf cart, catching breathtaking views from the Skyline Drive. Enjoy a stroll along Crescent Avenue in the town of Avalon, which is lined with quaint shops and cafes.

The Avalon Pier facilitates easy tender access to and from the ship, ensuring a seamless transfer at this port of call.

When you want some "me" time, look no further than Mandara Spa®. Relax with a hot-stone massage, one of over 50 specialty treatments offered. At our onboard spas, treatments range from the classic to the luxurious. Let our pampering professionals soothe and rejuvenate you with facials, massages, acupuncture and a full menu of services.

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

Mazatlán, located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, is celebrated for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. This city, known as the "Pearl of the Pacific," offers a charming blend of old-world architecture and modern amenities. The historic Centro is a maze of neoclassical buildings and cobbled streets, highlighted by the beautifully restored Angela Peralta Theater, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.

The city's waterfront promenade, or malecón, stretches for miles, offering spectacular ocean views and lined with statues and art installations. Mazatlán's golden beaches are perfect for water sports or simply soaking up the sun. Nearby, the lush El Quelite and the tropical islands off the coast provide excellent day-trip opportunities for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Manzanillo, situated on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is renowned for its status as the "Sailfish Capital of the World," hosting international fishing tournaments that highlight its vibrant marine life. The city's dual bays, Bahía de Manzanillo and Bahía de Santiago, are lined with beautiful beaches and busy ports, reflecting a dynamic blend of leisure and commerce.

Beyond its famous fishing scene, Manzanillo’s history is evident in the city centre, where traditional architecture and local markets offer a glimpse into the area’s cultural fabric. Ecotourism in the region thrives, with the lush vegetation of the Sierra Madre Occidental providing a backdrop for activities such as bird watching and hiking.

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

Huatulco is a resort region known for its nine beautiful bays and thirty-six pristine beaches. This area is celebrated not only for its scenic beauty but also for its commitment to environmental sustainability, with much of the land designated as a protected national park. The clear, calm waters make it ideal for snorkelling, scuba diving, and kayaking, especially around the reefs of Chachacual Bay.

Huatulco also offers a rich cultural experience with its lively markets and local festivals. Visitors can explore the small traditional communities nearby, sampling Oaxacan cuisine, which is famed for its complex flavours and indigenous ingredients.

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.

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).

San Juan del Sur, located on Nicaragua's Pacific coast, is primarily a tender port, with cruise ships anchoring offshore and passengers ferried to the town via small boats. This charming beach town is just a short walk from the tender dock, allowing visitors immediate access to its numerous attractions.

San Juan del Sur offers a laid-back atmosphere with a beautiful crescent-shaped bay that's perfect for swimming and sunbathing. For those looking for adventure, the surrounding area is known for excellent surfing spots and ecological tours, including zip-lining through the lush Nicaraguan forest. The town itself is dotted with vibrant local eateries and bars where visitors can sample fresh seafood and traditional Nicaraguan dishes.

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.

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.

When it comes to the award-winning entertainment on board our ships, you won't believe your eyes or even your ears. Journey from the gritty streets of New Jersey to glamour and international fame with Jersey Boys. Put on your dancing shoes for Footloose. From hit Broadway musicals to buzzworthy original shows, discover the best entertainment at sea with Norwegian.

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.

Cartagena is a feast for the senses, with its consistently warm air, bright colours, history and nightlife. Filled with legends, romance and splendour, the walled city features Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and cultural sites. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Cartagena:

• join a walking tour through the city
• visit the Rosario Islands
• explore the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
• visit the chocolate or emerald museums
• wander the streets of Old Town and the Plaza Santo Domingo
  

NCL's ships feature up to 22 bars and lounges, each with its own unique vibe. Dance to the ultraviolet energy at Bliss Ultra Lounge. Sip champagne, sake or scotch. Lounge poolside with an umbrella drink. Play pool at the pub. Or chill at the Ice Bar. Follow your mood and mingle.

Known as the 'cruise capital of the world', Port Miami is is considered to be the world’s busiest cruise ship port. Whether arriving or departing, aboard your cruise liner you can take in the superb view of the Miami skyline.

This multicultural city where the sun rules supreme is more than just a cruise port. Palm-lined causeways stretch across luminous Biscayne Bay as Miami rises in a gleam of glass towers, Art Deco curves, and tropical colour. Along Ocean Drive in South Beach, pastel facades from the 1930s glow beneath the Florida sun, while nearby Little Havana hums with domino parks, cigar shops, and the aroma of Cuban coffee. Beyond the shoreline, calm waters, yacht marinas, and breezy promenades frame a city shaped by Caribbean rhythms and sunlit coastal glamour.