Panama Canal Cruise with Holland America

Day 1 : Fly to Fort Lauderdale

Our trip begins with a flight to one of the most popular beach resort towns in Florida, Fort Lauderdale.

Day 2 : Set Sail!

Before we board the ship, enjoy a tour of the Sawgrass Recreation Park in the Everglades by airboat. Take in close-up views of endangered wildlife and learn about the area’s history from our experienced tour captain.

Early afternoon, we board our luxurious cruise liner the ms Zuiderdam. Dinner this evening is on the ship.

Day 3 : Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Our first port of call brings us to Holland America Line's private island in the Bahamas. Wade in Half Moon Cay’s crystal-blue waters or relax in comfortable lounge chairs on white sand beaches. Optional excursions available through the cruise line include snorkeling, kayaking, horseback riding, and a guided nature walk.

Day 4 : At Sea

Featuring a wide selection of comfort, excitement and decadence, there is something for everyone to enjoy on our cruise ship. Choose from a wonderful variety of entertainment, relaxation, and dining options to enjoy with your Tour Director, your new friends, or on your own. This afternoon, join your Tour Director for a private Holiday Vacations social hour.

Day 5 : Oranjestad, Aruba

Our port of call today is the capital of Aruba. Feel the Dutch colonial spirit at its bustling portside shopping district. Look for white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and Aruba's iconic Divi-Divi trees, whose gnarled trunks always point southwest with the trade winds.

Day 6 : Willemstad, Curacao

Stroll the historic districts of a 17th century Dutch trading port in Curaçao. Willemstad's natural harbor, the Schottegat, is a fascinating display of Dutch colonial architecture including centuries-old fortifications and colorful townhouses in vibrant shades of red, blue, yellow, and green.

Day 7 : At Sea

Today we are at sea, giving us a chance to indulge in our ship’s exciting offerings. Attend a hands-on cooking workshop with America’s Test Kitchen, enjoy a revitalizing body treatment at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, or sip a signature cocktail while taking in the views from the promenade deck.

Day 8 : The Panama Canal

Connecting the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans, today we witness one of the 20th century’s greatest feats of engineering, The Panama Canal. The United States completed the Panama Canal in 1914, saving ships a two-week, 5000-mile journey around South America’s southern tip. We cruise into the Panama Canal, traversing the locks to Gatun Lake where guests may disembark for optional shore excursions. Later in the day, the ship retraces her route to dock in Colón, Panama where we may disembark and explore the dockside shops.

Day 9 : Limón, Costa Rica

Offering up-close views of dense rainforest and sprawling banana plantations, Limón’s Caribbean lowlands provide an amazing opportunity for eco-tourism.

Day 10 : At Sea

Our ship begins its return journey to Florida. On our way, relax and enjoy the many amenities our ship has to offer. You are invited to join your Tour Director for dinner tonight followed by an exciting stage show.

Day 11 : At Sea

Today is yours to enjoy the last full day on the ship. Take in live music at one of the many lounges, try your luck at the onboard casino, or attend a personal enrichment class taught by experts. This afternoon, join your Tour Director for a private Holiday Vacations social hour.

Day 12 : Fort Lauderdale

We arrive in Fort Lauderdale this morning and enjoy a cruise on the world-famous Jungle Queen riverboat. Relax as we float past the opulent homes of Millionaires Row.

This afternoon, we tour the historic Bonnet House, designed and built by artist Frederic Clay Bartlett.

In the evening our Tour Director hosts a Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner with a chance to say our goodbyes to our new friends.

Day 13 : Fly Home

Today we fly home filled with wonderful memories of our Panama Canal Cruise!