12 Day Curaçao Aruba & Cartagena Question

[Salf777]

Does anyone know if this cruise goes partly through the Panama Canal? It lists Panama as a port and I heard of some cruises that go partially into the canal and out. 

[Turtles06]

It would be helpful if you would post the ship, itinerary and dates. 

 

[Salf777]

The Joy April of 2023

[Turtles06]

OP, you are correct that some cruises offer a partial transit of the Panama Canal (as distinct from a full transit).  But looking on NCL's web site at the description of the cruise you've asked about, and specifically at the description of the port call to Colón, Panama (quoted below), it does not appear that this cruise will even partially transit the Canal.

 

"Sail into the Caribbean seaport of Colón and grab a good spot on deck so you can take in the view. What a picture it is. Behold the Atlantic Ocean entrance to the famous Panama Canal. Born from a desire to get to California (and its Gold Rush) as fast as possible, this industrious town was the last stop on the 19th century Panama Railroad. It’s now home to Canal Zones, U.S. military bases and of course, beauty."

[Salf777]

Thank you

[complawyer]

if it isnt a total transit of the canal, the itinerary should say "partial transit" if this is the case, the ship usually goes through a set of locks, turns around in gatun lake, and goes through the locks again.

 

at least that's what happened the last time i took a canal cruise. 

 

fyi. curacao, and cartegena are both beautiful cities, been to aruba twice and found it meh

[Salf777]

Thanks would actually be satisfied just seeing it and not going totally thru it

[Turtles06]

15 minutes ago, Salf777 said:

Thanks would actually be satisfied just seeing it and not going totally thru it

You will not be seeing it on this cruise unless you take an excursion from Colon.     

[Homosassa]

Colon port itself is a port where cruisers are warned not to go outside the immediately port area on their own.

 

You will need to take an excursion to see the canal, locks or other sights.

[Sand and Seas]

4 hours ago, Salf777 said:

Thanks would actually be satisfied just seeing it and not going totally thru it

Still, it's a great itinerary.  It's getting harder to find a NCL Miami RT that visits the Southern Carib.  

You should be able to find some interesting shore excursions.  We loved Cartagena years ago and are looking forward to visiting again.  Have a great cruise😎

[Homosassa]

Please check if you still need a passport with six months validity after your port visit date for Cartagena.