Central America combines beautiful beaches, dense tropical jungles and a dramatic historical backdrop, making it a great choice of destination for those seeking an alternative to cruising classic regions like the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.
Linking the southern and northern regions of America, Central America consists of seven countries (Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama), each offering a rich mixture of culture, cuisine and tropical attractions.
Undoubtedly a region best explored by ship, a cruise along the coastlines of Central America allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of one of the world’s most authentic bucket-list destinations.
Central America Cruise Itineraries
Central America cruise itineraries generally depart from the USA, with the most common embarkation ports being Los Angeles, Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Central America cruises last typically between 10 and 20 nights, with some calling at a selection of Caribbean islands such as Aruba and Bonaire.
Upon leaving the US and arriving in Central America – or departing from one of the region’s ports such as Colon or Puntarenas – you will begin your adventure, visiting various cities, towns and places of cultural and historical significance.
For history lovers, the ruins left behind by the ancient Mayan civilisations in Belize and Guatemala will thrill and excite, while those looking for the hustle and bustle of a thriving Central American city will love the colourful cosmopolitan vibrancy of Panama City.
In Costa Rica, disembark in Puerto Limon to spend the day lazing on one of the great beaches in Cahuita and Puerto Viejo, or tour the nearby Tortuguero National Park which offers 300 kilometres of tropical rainforest, swamps and waterfalls. Guatemala is also a hidden gem; offering Mayan ruins and the picturesque Amatique Bay.
Selected Central America cruise itineraries will include either a full or partial transit on the world-famous Panama Canal. Winding its way from the capital of Panama to Colon on the Caribbean Sea coast, the Panama Canal was built to aid cargo trafficking and is now rightfully regarded as one of the Modern Wonders of the World.
The best time for Central America cruises
The best time for Central America cruises is during the dry season which runs from December to April. During this period, the climate is pleasant and the humidity less intrusive, making exploring ashore a far more comfortable experience. The ‘peak’ times for cruises in Central America are during Christmas and Spring Break (March), during which the region welcomes many visitors looking to celebrate with family and friends.
The rainy season in Central America runs from April to early December, with hurricane season landing in September and October, during which the Caribbean coast is particularly susceptible.
Cruise lines that offer Central America Cruises
The options available for Central America cruises are varied, from cruises under sails with the likes of Windstar Cruises to expedition-style experiences with operators such as Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and Ponant Cruises.
If you would prefer a more ‘traditional’ experience, then Celebrity Cruises, Silversea and Holland America are just a few of the lines that sail the region during the peak season. The itineraries and durations vary, with some visiting Central America as part of a Caribbean itinerary and others offering more dedicated voyages.
Full transits of the Panama Canal are available with Oceania Cruises and Seabourn, while guests looking to cruise to the region from the UK will find longer sailings available with Fred Olsen Cruise Lines and P&O Cruises.
For more information regarding cruises to Central America or to receive a quote for a future voyage, please call us on 0800 008 6677 or make an online enquiry for one of the itineraries featured below.
