Locate a cruise line or travel agent that offers small cruise ships, 700 maximum passengers. Going through the canal on a small ship makes the trip friendlier and smoother. Larger ships tend to be cumbersome, scratching the canal and ports of call.
Book your cruise early and preferably between September and April. After you book your cruise, take time to plan what to take and research the Panama Canal, which is rich in history of the Americas.
Discuss with your travel agent what you want to get out of the trip. Have her arrange the best itinerary, so the cruise is smooth, care-free and relaxing. In your itinerary you must include an excursion to Panama City where your drive through a rain forest to get to the ruins of the old capital city that was established in 1519 and visit the old colonial city Casco Antiguo that was established in 1673.
Reserve a cabin on the aft (back of the ship) with a balcony or veranda. The cruise through the canal lasts a long day, so with a veranda you can relax and enjoy the scenery with an iced cold drink.
Make a list of what you need to take on the cruise. Your cruise line offers passengers lists as a standard procedure. Look over their list and add to it.
Begin organizing and packing at least two days before boarding because you want enough time for last minute shopping needs. Check everything off the list as you go making sure not to miss anything. If you forget to pack something, the item will be available on the cruise ship for double or triple the price.
Inquire about the weather conditions before you board. Most certainly, the tropical climate is hot and balmy with occasional cool nights and rain storms. Sandals and loose fitting cotton clothes keep the days comfortable, and the chance of cool nights calls for a light pull over or sweater. Bring a compact umbrella in case you get caught in a brief rain storm.
