Colon To San Juan Cruise 7 Nights • Colón, Panama to San Juan, Puerto Rico • Grandeur of the Seas

A cruise from Colon gives you the chance to explore this exciting, small Caribbean province in Panama that’s packed with natural splendor and historical gems. For incredible views, trek through the tropical forests of Portobelo National Park to the impressive 17th century Fort San Lorenzo, which was overtaken by Henry Morgan’s pirates. Visit the town of La Guaira to fuel your senses with traditional dishes, artwork from local artisans, Calypso music and Congo dances. And be sure to check out the Agua Clara Visitor’s Center before you cruise to get a close look at the inner workings of the Panama Canal considered an engineering marvel.

Your ship departs promptly at 8:00 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

There are so many things to do in Kingstown, St. Vincent — like exploring the centuries-old Fort Charlotte or strolling through the Grenadines Botanic Gardens. But it’s worth venturing out beyond the capital to experience some of the island’s more secluded wonders, like snorkeling the reefs off Indian Bay Beach or hiking the trails around Mount Soufrière.

Get to know St. Lucia— an eco-tourist’s utopia. You can trek the enormous rainforest to visit the towering, green-mantled twin peaks known as the Pitons. And be sure to soak in the natural wonders at the hot mineral pools.

In the capital of St. John, you can peek into local craft shops or explore a centuries-old British naval base in Nelson’s Dockyard. If beachcombing is more your speed, choose from any of Antigua’s 365 beaches. The island offers the best of both worlds, from bustling markets and candy-colored colonial buildings to winding rainforest trails and hidden coves.

Tortola blends British roots, West Indies flair and a colorful history built upon pirate lore. Explore the capital city of Road Town. Charter a boat for a scenic sail. Or take a ferry to the neighboring islands of Virgin Gorda, Anegada or Jost Van Dyke.

Puerto Rico’s 500-year-old capital is a history buff’s dream come true. The Spanish settled this harbor as a New World home base, and that influence is still evident, from the fortress walls lining the coastline to the rainbow of colonial buildings along narrow streets. Venture further out from the old town and nature unfolds. You can scale high into the jungled mountains of El Yunque Forest, or keep to the foothills on a riverside horseback ride. If despacito is more your speed, pick a pristine beach and recline with codfish fritter and rum drink in hand. San Juan cruises give you the perfect outpost to dial up or dial down your vacation.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.