14 Night Panama Canal Eastward Cruise on Brilliance of the Seas from Los Angeles, California Puntarenas, Costa Rica Monteverde Cloud Forest
The 14 Night Panama Canal Eastward Cruise from Los Angeles, California visits Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Huatulco, Mexico; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Panama Canal (Cruising), Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; New Orleans, Louisiana . Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Priced from: $998.5 per person 1 sailing dates available
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14 Night Panama Canal Eastward Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Brilliance of the Seas
Day 1 - Los Angeles, California
Day 2 - Cruising
Day 3 - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Day 4 - 5 - Cruising
Day 6 - Huatulco, Mexico
Day 7 - Cruising
Day 8 - Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Day 9 - Cruising
Day 10 - Panama Canal, Panama
Day 11 - Cartagena, Colombia
Day 12 - 14 - Cruising
Day 15 - New Orleans, Louisiana
View Itinerary
Puntarenas, Costa Rica Monteverde Cloud Forest
The rain forest within the Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica
This is your

14 Night Panama Canal Eastward Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Los Angeles, California
Onboard
Brilliance of the Seas
Day Port
1
Los Angeles, California
Departs at 5:00 PM
2
Cruising
Day at sea
3
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Tendered from 12:30 PM - 8:00 PM
4 - 5
Cruising
Day at sea
6
Huatulco, Mexico
From 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
7
Cruising
Day at sea
8
Puntarenas, Costa Rica
From 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
9
Cruising
Day at sea
10
Panama Canal, Panama
Sightseeing from 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
11
Cartagena, Colombia
From 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
12 - 14
Cruising
Day at sea
15
New Orleans, Louisiana
Arrives at 7:00 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Your ship Brilliance of the Seas

Your ship
Brilliance of the Seas
View Itinerary
Brilliance of the Seas, Aerial View, Caribbean and European Destinations
Aerial View of Brilliance of the Seas Cruise Ship Visiting Amsterdam , Russia, and Germany
Get to know
Brilliance of the Seas
Calling all backroads ramblers and culture cruisers— your ship's come in. Whether you're catching a movie poolside or enjoying Tuscan dishes at Giovanni's Table, you're in for the ultimate adventure in between shores.

SEIZE THE SEA DAY

When you're not exploring onshore, conquer some bucket list firsts on deck. Catch a movie on the poolside screen, tee up for a game of mini golf, or scale the Rock Climbing Wall. Looking to unwind or break a sweat? Indulge in some "me time" at Vitality℠ at Sea Spa and Fitness Center.

WOAH-WORTHY EATS

In between brag worthy destinations and social feed filling adventures onboard, you'll discover flavors that raise the bar. Like prime cuts of steak at Chops Grille℠ and Italian favorites at Giovanni's Table. Not to mention a Far East feast at Izumi and wines from around the world at Vintages.

SHOWTIME AT SEA

Watch and listen as outstanding singers and dancers showcase their skills in the variety revue, Center Stage. And sing along to modern stage hits in Now and Forever. This is entertainment that hits all the high notes.

Day 1: Los Angeles, California

Day 1
Los Angeles
California
View Itinerary
Los Angeles, California, Aerial view of Santa Monica beach
Aerial view of a beach in Santa Monica, California
Things to do in
Los Angeles
Departs at 5:00 PM
The trend-setting global metropolis of Los Angeles has it all. Get to know the Entertainment Capital of the World: Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and take a drive down cinematic Sunset Boulevard. But there's a lot more to explore in LA than its star-studded heritage. Enjoy the 75 miles of coastline: Wander the famous canals of Venice Beach, or drive out to the more remote Malibu coast. Get your culture on at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, home to everything from ancient Islamic artifacts to contemporary American art. Or stretch your legs with a hike at Runyon Canyon Park — it offers great views of the surrounding hills and the iconic Hollywood sign.
Los Angeles, California, Point Dume
View of Point Dume in Malibu, California

Explore the Outer Beach Towns

Santa Monica, Venice, Malibu and Long Beach are four of Los Angeles' most popular beach destinations. Of the four, Malibu is the most remote and least urban — head here for surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Depending on traffic, you can get to Long Beach in 40 minutes, while the others take around an hour.
Los Angeles, California, Famous Hollywood sign
The famous Hollywood sign in California

Star-Studded Trails

Snap a pic of the Hollywood sign, stroll down the Sunset Strip and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, or visit Paramount Studios. You can see all of these and more on the Grand City Tour by StarLine Tours which operates two times a day, seven days a week.
Los Angeles, California, View from Runyon Canyon Park
The view of Los Angeles, California from Runyon Canyon Park

Hit the Hills

LA isn't only about urban adventure — the locals love the outdoors, too. Hike the hills at Runyon Canyon Park, where they also offer free outdoor yoga classes. Or hit the Griffith Park trails: Here, you can hike to Bronson Canyon, the entrance of which appears as the mouth of the Batcave in the 1960s version of "Batman."
Los Angeles, California, Chorizo Tacos
Chorizo tacos on a white plate with a sliced lime

Local Cuisine

As international and unique as its residents, the cuisine in Los Angeles is an experience all of its own. Indulge your sweet tooth with unique ice cream flavors like chocolate caramel potato chip cupcake at Salt and Straw. Stop by one of the many food trucks for carne asada tacos. Or head to high-end Nobu for classic sushi or new-school tuna sashimi tacos — it doesn't get more LA than that.
Los Angeles, California, Famous Rodeo Drive
View of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California

Shopping

LA is known for its shopping, and the city's most iconic spot for retail is Rodeo Drive. Browse through high-end fashions, and maybe spot a few celebrities while you're there. Head to the Grove for more budget-friendly designer offerings, and stroll down Melrose Avenue if you're looking for boutiques and vintage items. For bargains on clothes, shoes and textiles, check out the Los Angeles Fashion District.

Day 2: Cruising

Day 2
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Family Celebrating a Hole in One
Family Playing Mini Golf on Liberty of the Seas
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
Man Climbing Rock Wall On Board Day Time
Man Climbing Rock Wall On Board Day Time

Rock Climbing Wall

Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
Navigator of the Seas Adventure Ocean
Girl Playing with Dolls at Adventure Ocean

Adventure Ocean®

“Are we there yet?” is a thing of the past. We keep every kid entertained with games, events, age-appropriate activities and more in our award-winning youth program.
Father and Son Playing Basketball On Board
Father and Son Playing Basketball in the Sports Court

Sports Court

Whether it's a game of one-on-one or an all-out tournament to fuel your competitive fire, our Sports Court is just the spot for basketball and volleyball action.
Whirlpool at Night
Beautiful Night on the Pool Deck

Whirlpools

It’s easy to let every thought melt away while relaxing in a whirlpool, especially when you’re soaking up ocean views, too.

Day 3: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Day 3
Cabo San Lucas
Mexico
View Itinerary
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Marina
Boats docked at a marina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Things to do in
Cabo San Lucas
Tendered from 12:30 PM - 8:00 PM
As Baja California's most electrifying destination and a playground for the rich and famous, Cabo San Lucas delivers a dreamy set of tropical wonders. Unspoiled shores like Lover's Beach paint the town in brushes of turquoise and white. Fertile ocean waters supply the seafood for fish tacos with adobo sauce. Cruise to Cabo San Lucas and head to Desert Park Natural Reserve to behold expansive cream-colored desert scenery. See soaring natural rock formations plunge into the Sea of Cortez at Land's End, only reachable by boat — the spot is also known for throwing the best beachside parties. Stride along a happy crowd while sipping on a margarita, taking in the impressive views and doing a little dancing while you're at it.
Hidden Coves, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Hidden Coves, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Natural Monument

Reachable by water taxi, El Arco ("The Arch") will enchant you. Here, impressive arches naturally formed from rock frame white-sand beaches and crystal-blue waters. Snap a pic of the arch, and catch a glimpse of the sea lions that often pop up to get some sun on the rock formations.
Insider tip
Drive the coast that connects both Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo for gorgeous seascapes and delicious cuisine by the sea.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Lovers beach view from sea
View of Lovers beach in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico from the sea

Submerge in Love

This same water taxi can also drop you off at romantic Playa del Amor — Lover's Beach. Watch the clear waters of the Sea of Cortez crash against the massive eroded granite rocks that rest on the shore.
Insider tip
Stop by the San Jose del Cabo farmers market and take succulent fruits and vegetables with you to the beach.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Colorful houses
Colorful houses in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Creativity Walk

Take a break from the sun and stroll through the old town of San Jose del Cabo, a quick 30 minutes away from Cabo San Lucas. The town's Gallery District is full of small studios where local artists sell their work. Bring your camera to capture the enchanting Spanish colonial architecture of this historic town.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Spring tacos with coleslaw and salsa
Three shrimp tacos with coleslaw and salsa on a wooden board

Local Cuisine

Cabo San Lucas' cuisine is as exotic and mesmerizing as its vistas. Cruise to Cabo San Lucas to savor delicious chocolate clams, tamales fajados (chicken tamales), tamales guemes (pork, raisin and olive tamales), spicy shrimp tacos and their famous comida de pobres (seafood stew). Then wash it all down with clamato, a sweet tomato and clam drink.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Decorative bowls
Various decorative Mexican bowls for sale

Shopping

Head to San Jose del Cabo for beautiful and varied local handicrafts in places like Silver Moon Gallery, Indian Hands and Curios Carmela. Another great stop during your Cabo San Lucas cruise is La Coyota, an hacienda-turned-shop where you can find embroideries, toys, hand-painted bowls and other types of pottery.

Day 4 - 5: Cruising

Day 4 - 5
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Izumi Table with assorted dishes
A top-down view of assorted dishes on a table at Izumi on a Royal Caribbean ship
LET THE FLAVOR FEST BEGIN
Giovannis Table Creamy Lasagna
Hot Lasagna

Giovanni's Table

Every meal at Giovanni’s Table is a family-style celebration of rustic Italian flavor. You’ll find all your favorite Old-World classics on the menu here, like house focaccia served with marinated artichokes, olives and pesto, fluffy gnocchi tossed in a thyme-scented sauce of lamb and root vegetables, traditional risotto finished with porcini and truffle mushroom tapenade, and veal osso buco paired with creamy cheese polenta, ripe tomatoes and sautéed green beans.
Chef's Table Appetizer
An appetizer at Chef's Table on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship

Chef's Table

Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.
Main Dining Room Cheesecake Topeed With Fruit Dessert
A cheesecake topped with fresh fruit on a white plate at the Main Dining Room

Main Dining Room

In the Main Dining Room, you can experience flavors that take you from Jamaica to Jaipur, a rotating menu of delicious dishes always offering something unexpected. A multi-level restaurant that in the morning is the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty brunch paired with refreshing mimosas, at dinnertime transforms into a world class dining experience with a menu that invites you to taste your way around the world course by course.
Room Service Bottle Glass
Room Service Bottle Glass Champagne and Strawberries

Room Service

Want to savor a meal in the comfort of your stateroom? Order delicious in-room dining any time — day or night. Tuck into breakfast in bed with a fresh omelet or a steaming stack of pancakes. Or enjoy an intimate date night in after a long day of adventure onboard and ashore. Room service makes it easy to treat your taste buds without having to set foot outside your door.

Day 6: Huatulco, Mexico

Day 6
Huatulco
Mexico
View Itinerary
Huatulco, Mexico Beach
Huatulco, Mexico Beach
Things to do in
Huatulco
From 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Huatulco is an authentic Mexican town in the Oaxaca region that thrives on preserving its natural beauty. Cruise to Huatulco and explore the charming old town of La Crucecita, where you can visit the Parroquia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe church — its cupola features a 20-meter painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe, the largest of its kind in the world. Fill up at one of the many streets stalls serving carnitas and tamales. Then, explore one of the nine different bays and 22 miles of rugged coastline: Head to Santa Cruz for gentle waves or the crystalline waters of La India, accessible only by boat. Or see exotic waterfalls and lush jungle vegetation at Cascadas Magicas.
Huatulco, Mexico Cacaluta Beach Rock
A big rock coming out of the ocean on the Cacaluta Beach in Huatulco, Mexico

Coastal Bliss

Take a boat ride out to the remote beach at Playa Riscalillo, where you can snorkel the crystalline waters and coral reefs. Or check out expansive Cacaluta beach, where the movie "Y Tu Mama Tambien" was filmed. Or visit Bahia San Agustin, surrounded by rocky cliffs and palapas, open-sided thatched-roof buildings, where you can cool off with a cold cerveza.
Insider tip
Make a stop at the Copalita Ecological Park and Ruins for a view into Huatulco's past and its commitment to the preservation of natural resources.
Huatulco, Mexico Waterfall
Magical waterfalls in Copalitilla and Llano Grande in San Miguel del Puerto in Huatulco, Mexico

Cascading Magic

The Cascadas Magicas — or Magic Falls — are shallow waterholes reachable after hiking through the jungles of the Sierra Madre mountains. On your way there, you can stop at different organic coffee plantations and taste the Mexican version of a cup of joe.
Insider tip
Get closer to Huatulco's nature at your own pace by renting a scooter or a motorcycle.
Huatulco, Mexico Mezcal Beverage Alcohol
A cup of mezcal, a local alcohol in Huatulco, Mexico

The Taste of Mexico

Sample real Mexican flavors during a mezcal tasting tour with your Mexico cruise. There are several available in venues like Casa Chahue and Cielito Lindo Centro, where you can try the different varieties of the popular mezcal, a distilled alcoholic drink made from the agave plant.
Huatulco, Mexico Local Cuisine
Local cuisine with a crusty tortilla, beans, and sun dried tomatoes in Huatulco, Mexico

Local Cuisine

Huatulco's cuisine is famous for its use of strong flavors like guajillo chili, poblano peppers and mole, the classic Mexican sauce with onion, garlic, cinnamon, cumin and dark chocolate. Taste them in dishes like tlayuda, a kind of Oaxacan pizza of meat, beans and vegetables on a toasted or fried tortilla. If you're feeling brave during your Huatulco cruise, try chapulines, the seasoned grasshoppers available from many street stalls.
Huatulco, Mexico Colorful Mexican Hats
Piles of traditional colorful Mexican hats sold in souvenir shops

Shopping

Head to Santa Cruz for traditional souvenirs like hammocks, sombreros (hats) and colorful glassware. Check out Plaza Chahue for jewelry and onyx fixtures. And stop by La Crucecita square for local artisan items like Oaxacan barro negro (black clay) pottery, handmade fans and jewelry made with shells.

Day 7: Cruising

Day 7
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Tango Buenos Aires Cruise Show, Couple Dancing Dressed in Black, Jewel of the Seas
Couple dressed in black dancing on stage during the Tango Buenos Aires Cruise Show on Jewel of the Seas
NIGHTS YOU'LL NEVER FORGET
Schooner Bar Close-Up
VY, Voyager, revite, public rooms, revitalization, Schooner Bar, bar, restaurant, dining, drinks,

Schooner Bar

Wrap up your night at Schooner Bar, where perfectly mixed cocktails and live entertainment come together in a warm-lit nautical-themed lounge. Cozy up in a seat under the mast, by the portholes, or right by the gleaming grand piano. The sing-along's about to begin.
Center Stage Cruise Show Performer in blue dress singing Brilliance of the Seas
Performer in blue dress singing during the Center Stage Cruise Show on Brilliance of the Seas

Center Stage

Catch some of the best singers, dancers and musicians from throughout the ship on one stage in this dazzling revue.
Vintages Couple Having Dinner
Couple Enjoying a Bottle of Wine

Vintages

Whether it’s malbec, merlot, riesling or pinot grigio, you’re sure to find all your beloved reds or whites at Vintages wine bar. From France to California, the wide world of wine is well-represented through extensive partnerships with top winemakers, including some exclusive bottles you won't find anywhere else.
Casino Royale Roulette
Casino Royale Roulette

Casino

There's nothing to stir your sense of excitement like the sound of cards being shuffled, chips being stacked and slot machines paying out. Consider the Casino Royale℠ to be your little slice of Vegas right at sea— with thousands of square feet of lights, action, slots and tables.

Day 8: Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Day 8
Puntarenas
Costa Rica
View Itinerary
Puntarenas, Costa Rica Beach
Beach on Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Things to do in
Puntarenas
From 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Situated on the long Nicoya Peninsula, Puntarenas is a great jumping-off point for the eco-adventures that have made Costa Rica famous. Trek lush rainforests in San Luis Park. Discover tropical flora and fauna in Pos Volcano National Park, and shower under Costa Rica's tallest waterfall at Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls. Looking for oceanside adventure? Take the short drive from Puntarenas to the Nicoya Peninsula, where there's a wide array of beaches — relax on family-friendly Playa Guiones, or check out dramatic Playa Ostional, with its volcanic black sands and vibrant sea turtle population. Puntarenas cruises give you access to Playa Tamarindo, where you can find some of the best surf and food in the country.
Puntarenas, Costa Rica Suspension Bridge
Suspension bridge in a rainforest in Puntarenas, Costa Rica

High in the Clouds

Walk across four suspended bridges and along the treetops and the forest fog of San Luis Park. A local guide will take you through the dense tropical jungle and into a hummingbird garden to witness the beautiful birds as they fly rapidly among the trees.
Insider tip
Take a historic train or a river cruise and witness the lesser-known side of Costa Rica's wildlife.
Puntarenas, Costa Rica Coffee Beans
Bag of coffee beans from Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Coffee Culture

Tour the 640-acre Arabica coffee plantation of Espiritu Santo in the charming mountain town of Naranjo. Learn how beans are prepared for roasting while sipping on the delicious brew. The coffee produced here lands in Starbucks stores across the globe.
Insider tip
Save a few dollars on food and pop into a soda, a small local eatery, for an authentic casado plate.
Puntarenas, Costa Rica Traditional Ox Cart
Traditional decorated ox cart in Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Folkloric Allure

After the coffee sampling, head to the nearby artisan town of Sarchi, famous for its arts and crafts and for making the colorful oxcarts, famous folkloric carriages and symbols of Costa Rican culture. Wooden rocking chairs and painted ceramics are also available and locally made.
Puntarenas, Costa Rica Gallo Pinto
Ethnic tropical cuisine, gallo pinto with rice and beans in Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Local Cuisine

Fill up for the day with a traditional Costa Rican breakfast of gallo pinto, a hearty combo of rice beans flavored with spices, cilantro and onions. Later on, order up casado, a plate-style combo of rice, beans, tortillas, fried plaintains and your protein of choice — celebrate the ocean and opt for grilled fish. During your Puntarenas cruise, stop by a street vendor for a tamal, the Costa Rican classic of cornmeal and garlic wrapped in a banana leaf.
Puntarenas, Costa Rica Colorful Batiks
Colorful souvenir batiks in Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Shopping

For close-by shopping options, head straight to Paseo de los Turistas, a promenade with many craft shops selling everything from locally grown coffee to leather goods. If driving is not an issue, head to the village of Sarchi and pick your favorite oxcart as a souvenir. Cruise to Costa Rica to stop by a beachside vendor and pick up a batik, a colorful dyed cloth traditional to the area.

Day 9: Cruising

Day 9
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Family Celebrating a Hole in One
Family Playing Mini Golf on Liberty of the Seas
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
Man Climbing Rock Wall On Board Day Time
Man Climbing Rock Wall On Board Day Time

Rock Climbing Wall

Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
Navigator of the Seas Adventure Ocean
Girl Playing with Dolls at Adventure Ocean

Adventure Ocean®

“Are we there yet?” is a thing of the past. We keep every kid entertained with games, events, age-appropriate activities and more in our award-winning youth program.
Father and Son Playing Basketball On Board
Father and Son Playing Basketball in the Sports Court

Sports Court

Whether it's a game of one-on-one or an all-out tournament to fuel your competitive fire, our Sports Court is just the spot for basketball and volleyball action.
Whirlpool at Night
Beautiful Night on the Pool Deck

Whirlpools

It’s easy to let every thought melt away while relaxing in a whirlpool, especially when you’re soaking up ocean views, too.

Day 10: Panama Canal, Panama

Day 10
Panama Canal
Panama
View Itinerary
Panama Canal, Second Lock Entrance Pacific Ocean
The second lock of the Panama Canal from the Pacific Ocean
Things to do in
Panama Canal
Sightseeing from 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
A voyage through the Panama Canal is filled with views of lush terrain and calm waters. This marvelous achievement of modernity is best witnessed from the bow of the ship, where you'll see the revolutionary mechanism of the canal at work when it elevates the vessel up 85 feet. The ship reaches the canal's higher elevation and is able to sail swiftly through its tranquil waters. As you make your way between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans with your Panama Canal cruise, you'll pass by Soberania National Park, a lush region of protected rainforest — you may even spot one of the many species of rare birds that inhabit the forest.
Panama Canal, First Lock
The first lock of the Panama Canal from the Pacific Ocean with a view from a ship

Get Swept Up

The man-made system of locks are where the Panama Canal works its magic by lifting passing ships up to the canal's main elevation, then letting them down again. You'll see three lock systems as you make your way through the canal: Miraflores, Pedro Miguel and Gatun.
Insider tip
Record the Panama Canal crossing during the ship's elevation, an unforgettable experience to keep for years to come.
Panama Canal, Yellow Black Bird
A yellow-backed bird found in the Soberania National Park that can be seen from the Panama Canal

Exotic Views

From the ship, you'll get great views of Soberania National Park, a 55,000-acre area of protected rainforest that's home countless species of birds, mammals and reptiles. See if you can catch a glimpse of an orange-chinned parakeet or a white-faced capuchin monkey.
Panama Canal, Monkeys Lake Gatun
Caupchin monkeys on Monkey Island in Lake Gatun on the Panama Canal

Lake Gatun

Be sure to look for the islands that surround Lake Gatun during your Panama Canal cruise. See the lush forests and colorful birds, and get to know the impressive body of water itself — at the time it was created, it was the largest man-made lake in the world.

Day 11: Cartagena, Colombia

Day 11
Cartagena
Colombia
View Itinerary
Cartagena, Colombia, Playa Blanca
Beautiful turquoise water at Playa Blanca near Cartagena, Colombia
Things to do in
Cartagena
From 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Cartagena de Indias boasts romantic colonial architecture and a Caribbean coast glittering in shades of bright white and aquamarine. Saunter through the leafy Plaza de Bolivar, photographing multicolored streets like Calle Segunda de Badillo. Cruise to Cartagena to dance to the beat of merengue, salsa and Colombia's very own cumbia at places like Bazurto Social Club. Discover Proclamation Square, where the town people gathered in 1811 in support of the declaration of independence from Spain, and walk the 16th-century fortifications of Castillo San Felipe de Barajas. Enjoy Cartagena's natural grandeur on its many beaches, like Bocagrande, Playa Blanca and placid Rosario Islands National Park, just 45 minutes away from the city.
Cartagena, Colombia, Street view
Buildings with balconies lining a street in Cartagena, Colombia

Walk This Way

Get to know Cartagena by foot with any of the many walking tours available and learn about the city's history and charm while discovering every colonial nook. Visit the Palace of the Inquisition, the San Felipe de Barajas Castle and the chocolate or emerald museums. Only a walk will allow you the time and space to see them.
Insider tip
Gabriel Garcia Marquez wrote extensively about Cartagena. Bring with you some of his quotes and try to find the spots he wrote so passionately about.
Cartagena, Colombia, Isla de Rosario
Small boats anchored close to shore at Islas de Roasario, Colombia

Soothing Shores

Get to Bocagrande and see a Colombian version of a Miami strip, clad with trendy shops and stylish sky-rises. Or head to Playa Blanca or Rosario Islands for clear waters and blinding bright sand and be lulled by the gentle waves.
Insider tip
Take a short cooking class and learn some Colombian recipes you can take home with you.
Cartagena, Colombia, Market
An outdoor market under a covered walkway in Cartagena, Colombia

Market Finds

To get a real local experience head to the bustling Mercado de Bazurto, where you can find fresh local fruits like Mamey, Cherimoya and Lulo or have a plate full of seafood — try the popular crab rice — for less than $5.
Insider tip
Discover the natural benefits of a mud bath at Volcan de Lodo el Totumo — an active mud volcano 30 miles outside of Cartagena.
Cartagena, Colombia, Arepas rellenas
Two arepas rellenas filled with shredded beef

Local Cuisine

Cartagena proudly serves some of the best seafood in the country. Caribbean and Latin American flavors blend in dishes like ceviche, arepas rellenas (corn pancakes filled with meat) and pandebono (cheese bread). Don't miss Mila Pasteleria and Gelateria Paradiso for local sweets like coconut cake layered with dulce de leche and gelato made with mamey, a local fruit with a creamy texture and sweet pumpkin-like flavor.
Cartagena, Colombia, Traditional hats for sale
Traditional hats for sale in Cartagena, Colombia

Shopping

Walk to Casa Chiqui, This is Cartagena or Abaco Libreria and Cafe for local books, crafts and coffee. Cruise to Cartagena and stroll the Mercado for trinkets like traditional Colombian hats. If you're looking for jewelry, Cartagena is one of the world's largest producers of emeralds. Go to Lucy Jewelry to find your very own precious stone.

Day 12 - 14: Cruising

Day 12 - 14
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Izumi Table with assorted dishes
A top-down view of assorted dishes on a table at Izumi on a Royal Caribbean ship
LET THE FLAVOR FEST BEGIN
Giovannis Table Creamy Lasagna
Hot Lasagna

Giovanni's Table

Every meal at Giovanni’s Table is a family-style celebration of rustic Italian flavor. You’ll find all your favorite Old-World classics on the menu here, like house focaccia served with marinated artichokes, olives and pesto, fluffy gnocchi tossed in a thyme-scented sauce of lamb and root vegetables, traditional risotto finished with porcini and truffle mushroom tapenade, and veal osso buco paired with creamy cheese polenta, ripe tomatoes and sautéed green beans.
Chef's Table Appetizer
An appetizer at Chef's Table on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship

Chef's Table

Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.
Main Dining Room Cheesecake Topeed With Fruit Dessert
A cheesecake topped with fresh fruit on a white plate at the Main Dining Room

Main Dining Room

In the Main Dining Room, you can experience flavors that take you from Jamaica to Jaipur, a rotating menu of delicious dishes always offering something unexpected. A multi-level restaurant that in the morning is the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty brunch paired with refreshing mimosas, at dinnertime transforms into a world class dining experience with a menu that invites you to taste your way around the world course by course.
Room Service Bottle Glass
Room Service Bottle Glass Champagne and Strawberries

Room Service

Want to savor a meal in the comfort of your stateroom? Order delicious in-room dining any time — day or night. Tuck into breakfast in bed with a fresh omelet or a steaming stack of pancakes. Or enjoy an intimate date night in after a long day of adventure onboard and ashore. Room service makes it easy to treat your taste buds without having to set foot outside your door.

Day 15: New Orleans, Louisiana

Day 15
New Orleans
Louisiana
View Itinerary
Iron Balconies Hanging Plants, New Orleans, Louisiana
Iron Balconies Hanging Plants, New Orleans, Louisiana
Things to do in
New Orleans
Arrives at 7:00 AM
With a penchant for partying and a joie de vivre lifestyle, every day in New Orleans is cause for celebration. Its melting pot culture is as rich as the roux in its Creole cuisine— and adventure dangles on iron-latticed balconies alongside colorful Mardi Gras beads. Head to the French Quarter in the heart of the city, and get swept up in the wild beat of Bourbon Street. New Orleans cruises give you the chance to check out Frenchmen Street clubs for live jazz tunes, or roam the leafy Garden District. Whether it’s the voodoo vibes, fiery cooking, or down-home hospitality, the quirky heart of Louisiana will forever call you back.
Jackson Square Church, New Orleans, Louisiana
Jackson Square Church, New Orleans, Louisiana

EASY STREETS

No visit to New Orleans is complete without a walk through the French Quarter. Start at St. Louis Cathedral in historic Jackson Square. Stroll along the Mississippi River and through the French Market. Then pass the bohemian charms of Royal Street before topping off with the buzz of Bourbon Street.
St. Charles Streetcar, New Orleans, Louisiana
St. Charles Streetcar, New Orleans, Louisiana

ALL ABOARD

Hop on the historic St. Charles streetcar— the world’s oldest in continuous operation— for a relaxing ride from bustling Canal Street to the oak-lined Garden District. You’ll pass downtown scenes and antebellum mansions en route to Audubon Park, a beloved green space and home to the city zoo.
Turtle Swamp Close Up, New Orleans, Louisiana
Turtle Swamp Close Up, New Orleans, Louisiana

SWAMP ROMP

Venture 20 minutes outside the city to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve to explore southern Louisiana swamplands during your New Orleans cruise. Airboat and sightseeing boat tours offer an up-close look at vast wetlands, plus its local residents— alligators, turtles and snakes included.
Sugar Sprinkled Beignets, New Orleans, Louisiana
Sugar Sprinkled Beignets, New Orleans, Louisiana

LOCAL CUISINE

New Orleans is world-renowned for its seafood and spicy Creole flavors. Here they eat sugar-sprinkled beignets for breakfast. Lunch means fried seafood po’ boys and meaty muffulettas. Gumbo, jambalaya and boiled crawfish are savory dinner options— and you must try an authentic NOLA sno-ball for dessert. “America’s first cocktail”, the bourbon-based Sazerac, was also created here.
Antique Shop, New Orleans, Louisiana
Antique Shop, New Orleans, Louisiana

SHOPPING

Magazine Street spans six miles of boutiques and antique shops. Cruise from New Orleans and pick up fine art and funky works in the galleries along Royal Street in the French Quarter. And with six blocks of shops, the French Market is your best bet for Louisiana cookbooks and hand-painted items displaying the city’s fleur-de-lis emblem.

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