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Panama Canal & the Pacific Holiday

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 Cruise Length
22 Days
 Cruise Starts
Miami
 Cruise Finishes
Los Angeles
22 Day Panama Canal & the Pacific Holiday Itinerary (Viking)
Countries Explored: USA, Jamaica, Aruba, Colombia, Panama, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico
Cruise Line
Viking
Ship
Passengers
930
Crew
465
Launched
2017
Cruise Code
VKPCP

Overview

Cruise the legendary Panama Canal, exploring Central America’s colonial and natural beauty. From Miami, sail to Jamaica and Aruba before discovering Cartagena, Colombia, where you will take in the city’s historic treasures. Cruise to Panama to transit the famed 'Path Between the Seas.' Visit Nicaragua, a visually arresting country of tropical jungle and dramatic mountain peaks, and admire colonial Guatemala. Enjoy the famed Mexican resort of Cabo San Lucas before discovering the charm and culture of California’s seaside cities, San Diego and Los Angeles.

Itinerary

Arrive in Miami today, Florida's sun-kissed city of glimmering high-rises and vibrant culture on scenic Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Settle in to your veranda stateroom and take time to explore your ship amid Miami's coastal beauty.

As you sail the sapphire blue waters of the Caribbean, take advantage of the many amenities of your ship. You might take in an enrichment lecture on board, or sip a cocktail and enjoy the view through the two-story panoramic windows of the Explorers' Lounge.

Located on the southern coast of Jamaica at the mouth of Kingston Harbour, Port Royal is a small fishing village with a grand past. After an earthquake buried much of the city underwater in 1692, leaving many buildings intact and undisturbed, historians have compared it to Pompeii, Italy for its archaeological wonders. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site today, and perhaps discover the town's most coveted commodity: the carefree spirit that has come to embody the entire Caribbean.

As you cruise these legendary waters, the distinct light of the Caribbean sun dances on the sea like dazzling diamonds. Once a busy route for ships from the Old World ferrying supplies and people to the New World, today the Caribbean exudes tranquility and calm. Enjoy the amenities of your ship as you sail. Tonight, perhaps savor an authentic Italian meal at Manfredi's or sample international fare in the World Café.

Visit the welcoming Dutch island of Aruba and its colorful capital, Oranjestad. Once strictly a horse-breeding farm, the city grew up around Fort Zoutman and became the capital in the 1820s, when the discovery of gold brought settlers to its shores. Venture away from the island's hot spots and you will discover rugged, unspoiled vistas and miles of unexplored beaches—perfect for walking, relaxing or exploring Aruba's surrounding crystal clear waters.

Once European explorers stumbled upon the Caribbean's emerald islands and white-sand shores kissed by turquoise waters, the paradisiacal setting became the backdrop for armadas and expedition ships. Soon, rich legends of marauding pirates, swashbucklers and cannon skirmishes at sea were born, and these waters became synonymous with adventure and hidden treasures of glittering sixpence. But it was trade that provided the real profits on these shores, as those same ships returned to the New World laden with sugar. Today, international divers travel here to explore some of the world's finest coral reefs. And deep underwater in the seabed, a rich oil field makes this one of the largest oil-producing regions in the world. As you sail these historic waters today, perhaps take in an enrichment lecture that explores one of these topics, or relax in your own waters in the Infinity Pool or The Spa.

Explore the stunningly picturesque port of Cartagena today, a cultural treasure with its scenic setting on the Caribbean Sea and intact colonial city. On a panoramic drive, you will see its extensive San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, boasting the longest walls in South America. Or, you may choose to explore the spectacular Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of picturesque, tree-shaded plazas and beautifully preserved colorful buildings. You may also visit the stunning church of San Pedro Claver, named for the patron saint of missionary work.

More than a gateway to the Caribbean side of the Panama Canal, Colón also introduces you to the unique native traditions of an ancient people. Witness centuries-old tribal life firsthand during a visit to Chagres National Park and an Emberá village, where people live in thatched-roof huts, travel by dugout canoe and keep the craft of basket weaving alive. Experience the majesty of the Panama Canal, an engineering marvel of the 20th century.

Enjoy a fascinating transit of the 'Path Between the Seas' today as you traverse the famed Panama Canal. When it opened in 1914, it was hailed as one of the world's great engineering feats. Forty-eight miles long, it links the Atlantic to the Pacific at the narrowest stretch of the Isthmus of Panama, cutting thousands of miles off shipping routes that once stretched all the way around Cape Horn at the tip of South America. Your ship will enter the canal and continue its course sailing the Pacific Ocean, the gateway to Los Angeles.

Relax on board as you sail the Pacific Ocean and enjoy a Scandinavian-style Christmas. Feast on fine food prepared by our Executive Chef as you celebrate the festive season with your fellow guests.

Visit Nicaragua today, a visually arresting country of tropical jungle and dramatic mountain peaks. Nearly 20 percent of this nature-loving nation is protected as parks and reserves and its farming culture has thrived for centuries. Absorb its magnificent beauty and gain insight into its unique agriculture when you travel to a banana plantation, or finca, for insight into Nicaragua's largest export.

Cruise into Puerto Quetzal this morning, a pair of towering volcanoes overseeing your arrival in the distance. You will journey into the central highlands to the stunningly preserved city of Antigua, the capital of Spain's Central American colonies for more than 200 years and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its stunning streets lined with Spanish Renaissance and baroque churches, monasteries and homes.

Enjoy the range of amenities on board as you spend four days at sea, cruising the Pacific Ocean. Sign up for a variety of activities on our Sports Deck, or join a cooking class and enhance your culinary repertoire. You may visit Mamsen's, our casual gourmet deli, any time from early morning to late night for a taste of traditional Norwegian fare. Or, perhaps renew your body and spirit in our Scandinavian-inspired Spa, a Nordic sanctuary of holistic wellness, today while at sea. Indulge in a soothing massage, facial or body treatment.

Spend another relaxing day cruising the waters of the Pacific Ocean. As you sail, you might take a swim in the Infinity Pool. Join new friends for afternoon tea in the Wintergarden or relax on board as you sip a cocktail by the pool.

Anchor near the tip of the Baja Peninsula today for your visit to Cabo San Lucas, 'Cabo' to its more frequent visitors. One of Mexico's top destinations for its long beaches, resorts, scuba diving and picturesque rocky coast, it boasts one of the region's most scenic harbors. Get acquainted with a panoramic tour of the resort city, San José del Cabo, sister to Cabo San Lucas and the oldest Spanish mission on the Baja Peninsula.

Sail around the Baja Peninsula. Early explorers ventured into these once-unknown waters for many years in search of California, then a mythical El Dorado that seemed just out of reach. One Spanish author called it 'very close to the side of the Terrestrial Paradise.' Today, the Baja Peninsula is among the world's most picturesque coasts. As you approach California, perhaps you will visit the onboard cinema to view a movie produced in a Los Angeles studio.

Discover California's coastal gem as you explore its white-sand beaches and parks. Visit the historic Gaslamp Quarter on a panoramic tour, or soar over the city's skyline on a thrilling helicopter ride. Head to the world-famous San Diego Safari Park to see animals in their natural habitat and explore walk-through exhibits. With renowned attractions and near perfect weather, San Diego calls itself 'America's Finest City.'

Disembark today and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Life Onboard Viking Sky

Viking Sky
Viking Sky

Launched in 2017, the Viking Sky is an all-veranda ship, part of a fleet of award winning, state of the art ships incorporating all the comforts & luxuries you would expect from Viking. Read more

The Thinking Person's Cruise
The Thinking Person's Cruise

Viking are destination experts. With no casinos or children on board, you can be assured that the focus is firmly on enrichment and education. Read more

And Relax
And Relax

After a day of exploration or just to enhance the relaxation of a day at sea, the on-board Spa will leave you feeling recharged and revitalized. Read more

Destination Focused Dining
Destination Focused Dining

Viking offer eight on board dining options. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available with lunch and dinner at no additional charge of fee. Read more

All Inclusive
All Inclusive

Viking proudly includes all that you need and nothing you do not. A variety of features and services valued at $200 per person per day are standard inclusions in your cruise. Read more

Onshore Experiences
Onshore Experiences

Viking include one complimentary shore excursion in every port of call. Enjoy exclusive entry to cultural treasures and seldom-seen collections around the world. Read more

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Viking Sky Reviews (5) Most Recent 'Viking Sky' Reviews

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Viking cruise Venice to Istanbul 0 , VIC, Australia, Aug 2023
Thanks Tracey, the cruise and itinerary was first class with nothing too much trouble for the friendly Viking crew. There were highlights and tours at every port, each one offering amazing insights into these ancient countries and cities. Global Journeys made the booking process simple and assistance always available.

The only downside for us was ...read more the airline choice and final booking for flights seemed rushed with limited options. I realise we chose Singapore Airlines economy but on reflection it was a poor choice, crowded and uncomfortable. I think more time and advice from Global Journeys should have been available. The return flight took the shine off the experience.
Viking Homelands 11 , WA, Australia, Aug 2019
We were so impressed with our recent ocean cruise onboard the Viking Sky. We boarded the ship on 25th August to do The Viking Homelands, and loved everything about the whole journey. So much to do onboard with space for everyone and the free excursions in every port with excellent local guides and time to explore afterwards, as well as optional more ...read more in-depth tours on offer. The service throughout was exceptional, as was the food and restaurant choices .

The Baltic offers so much in scenery, culture and history in a compact area and charming ports along the way. We love the mid-size ships and there was no hassles or queues getting off or on, the organisation was well done. We were blessed with wonderful weather everywhere which even Viking couldn’t have planned, only two showers in the whole two weeks, so all the warm clothing and raincoats were hardly needed. Read more about Vikings cruises, it’s all true and book through Global Journeys, they never let us down.
Viking Ocean cruising ... hard to fault 12 , QLD, Australia, Aug 2019
Thanks Jemma at Global Journeys for all the work to get us on this fabulous trip. The planning and documentation phases were perfect - as was the trip. We had travelled on a Viking river cruise before - so felt confident of our choice for Viking for an ocean cruise. Wow - the Viking ocean performance was absolutely fantastic in every aspect - from the ...read more pick up at the airport, including porters for our luggage to our cabins, to an outstanding itinerary, marvellous staff, food, entertainment and variety of shore excursions. The itinerary was amazing - taking in small and large ports with amazing scenery and activities onshore.

Iceland was amazing and provided stunning scenery. The trip to the Golden Triangle was well worthwhile as an optional extension trip. The days at sea between Iceland and the Faroes and Faroes to Norway were relaxing and filled with interesting activities. Faroe Islands also had much to offer and the stop at Torshavn and included tour gave a real insight into the life of this remote place. The 4 stops in Norway were also lovely and the trips to Geiranger and Flam were excellent with great shore excursions by coaches winding up amazingly steep mountains with spectacular views.

Everything about the trip and Viking was excellent - so much so that we've booked another Viking ocean cruise for next year. Viking has spoilt us for all other cruise lines and we won't be looking further when seeking a company for our future cruising holidays. Thanks Jemma and Viking for a memorable and wonderful time.
Excellent cruise on Viking Sky, a lovely ship 10 , NSW, Australia, Jun 2019
First time we have sailed with Viking and will do so again if the right itinerary comes along. There seemed to be plenty of space on the ship. Entertainment was excellent and food was good. Met some lovely people on the cruise.
Viking Ocean Adventures   22 , NSW, Australia, Apr 2018
Great cruise, one of the best we have done. Our booking, Viking Sky, the food, the ports, the crew, the cabin were all excellent.

Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

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. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Viking. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Viking. These 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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