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Panama Canal Eastward Cruise 15 Nights • San Diego, California to Tampa, Florida • Serenade of the Seas
Itinerary & Excursions
Cruise Overview
Day 1 San Diego, California Departs at 5:00 pm
Days 2-3 2 Days at Sea Serenade of the Seas
Day 4 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Docked from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Days 5-6 2 Days at Sea Serenade of the Seas
Day 7 Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala Docked from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Day 8 Day at Sea Serenade of the Seas
Day 9 Puntarenas, Costa Rica Docked from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Day 10 Day at Sea Serenade of the Seas
Day 11 Panama Canal (Cruising), Panama Sightseeing from 6:00 am - 6:00 pm
Day 12 Cartagena, Colombia Docked from 11:30 am - 7:00 pm
Day 13 Day at Sea Serenade of the Seas
Day 14 George Town, Grand Cayman Tendered from 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
Day 15 Day at Sea Serenade of the Seas
Day 16 Tampa, Florida Arrives at 5:00 am
Cruise Overview
Dive headfirst into adventure on a 15-night cruise through the Panama Canal. Depart from San Diego, California on Serenade of the Seas for your epic journey through one of the most striking wonders of the modern world. Gaze in awe at the beauty of the region as you travel from one ocean to another.
Although itinerary call times are thoughtfully scheduled, in the unlikely event of a change, we will share details promptly and work diligently to minimise both the adjustment and its impact on your experience.
Day 1 San Diego, California Departs at 5:00 pm
National LanguageEnglish
Currency AcceptedU.S. Dollar
A cruise from the Port of San Diego is always a great idea, because it means you get to start your vacation in a city that’s filled with as much adventure as the destinations you’ll soon sail to. San Diego is nicknamed “America’s Finest City,” and it sure lives up to the title. With its breezy, sunny climate and laid-back, beach-town spirit, this West Coast gem beckons with unique experiences. Before you set out on your cruise out of the Port of San Diego, head to the world-famous San Diego Zoo for an up-close look at pandas and Komodo dragons. Sip local brews and savor tasty empanadas outdoors at Liberty Public Market. At the San Diego Museum of Man, a climb to the top of the California Tower will yield dazzling views of the sea, city and bay. And of course, make sure you spend some time at the iconic La Jolla Cove, home to sea lions and an underwater park that’s a favorite destination among snorkelers and divers.
Your ship departs promptly at 5:00 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 holiday early.
Travel Tips
1
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring, and carry a light jacket — this coastal city can get chilly in the evenings.Days 2-3 2 Days at Sea Serenade of the Seas
A friendly reminder
Make the most of your day at sea by enjoying our Wi-Fi, drink and Speciality Dining Packages. These services are available at an additional costWhile at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at any of the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until we arrive at the next destination.
Learn more about the shipDay at Sea Highlights
Day 4 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Docked from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
National LanguageSpanish
Currency AcceptedMexican Peso
Puerto Vallarta is paradise and romance defined. Relax on pristine beaches such as Yelapa, admire the the terracotta roofs of the old town and take in the impressive views of the bay from its charming promenade. From there, walk down to Los Arcos, the Roman-style arches overlooking the water that are Vallarta's most iconic symbol. Then, head to El Malecon, a beachside walkway with contemporary sculptures, as well as bars, lounges and nightclubs.
Travel Tips
1
Stroll down the old town and take in the hustling and bustling of the lively streets.2
Look for street stalls selling every Mexican dish under the sun, from tamales to enchiladas.Days 5-6 2 Days at Sea Serenade of the Seas
A friendly reminder
Make the most of your day at sea by enjoying our Wi-Fi, drink and Speciality Dining Packages. These services are available at an additional costWhile at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at any of the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until we arrive at the next destination.
Learn more about the shipDay at Sea Highlights
Day 7 Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala Docked from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
National LanguageSpanish
Currency AcceptedGuatemalan Quetzal
Feel Guatemala's true pulse in the colonial capital of Antigua or the charming villages of San Antonio Aguascalientes. Then, discover its natural wonders, like the majestic Lake Atitlan in the town of Panajachel. Lake Atitlan isn't merely a single destination, but rather a collection of quaint villages and towns. They pepper the crater's cliffs and hide in majestic fjord like valleys.
Travel Tips
1
Take Spanish-speaking lessons in Antigua, a hub of international exchange with dozens of language schools.2
Walk the cobblestone streets of the old town and look for that perfect photo of a volcano emerging in the background.Day 8 Day at Sea Serenade of the Seas
A friendly reminder
Make the most of your day at sea by enjoying our Wi-Fi, drink and Speciality Dining Packages. These services are available at an additional costWhile at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at any of the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until we arrive at the next destination.
Learn more about the shipDay at Sea Highlights
Day 9 Puntarenas, Costa Rica Docked from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
National LanguageSpanish
Currency AcceptedCosta Rican Colón
Puntarenas introduces you to the ever-beautiful beach attractions of Costa Rica. Drive out to the Nicoya Peninsula and relax on one of its diverse beaches. Journey to the top of active Poas Volcano for incredible views of the turquoise lake that fills its steaming crater. Observe rescued wildlife like jaguars, spider monkeys and electric-colored frogs at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a private eco-tourism reserve.
Travel Tips
1
Take a historic train or a river cruise and witness the lesser-known side of Costa Rica's wildlife.2
Save a few dollars on food and pop into a soda, a small local eatery, for an authentic casado plate.Day 10 Day at Sea Serenade of the Seas
A friendly reminder
Make the most of your day at sea by enjoying our Wi-Fi, drink and Speciality Dining Packages. These services are available at an additional costWhile at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at any of the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until we arrive at the next destination.
Learn more about the shipDay at Sea Highlights
Day 11 Panama Canal (Cruising), Panama Sightseeing from 6:00 am - 6:00 pm
Cross from one ocean to another while taking in the unparalleled mountain and water views of the engineering marble known as the Panama Canal. The best way for visitors to see the canal is to literally get in the middle of it. See the man-made marvel of the canal while you take in the natural wonders around it, including the rainforest of Soberania National Park and the bright green hilltops of Barro Colorado Island.
Travel Tips
1
Record the Panama Canal crossing during the ship's elevation, an unforgettable experience to keep for years to come.Day 12 Cartagena, Colombia Docked from 11:30 am - 7:00 pm
National LanguageSpanish
Currency AcceptedColombian Peso
Cartagena feels like a fairy tale town with colorful streets like Calle del Tablon, where balconies overflow with bright pink bougainvillea. Beautiful historic buildings like the San Pedro Claver Church showcase the city's heritage, while flawless beaches like Playa Blanca remind you this is also a Caribbean paradise.
Travel Tips
1
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.2
Take a short cooking class and learn some Colombian recipes you can take home with you.3
Discover the natural benefits of a mud bath at Volcan de Lodo el Totumo — an active mud volcano 30 miles outside of Cartagena.Day 13 Day at Sea Serenade of the Seas
A friendly reminder
Make the most of your day at sea by enjoying our Wi-Fi, drink and Speciality Dining Packages. These services are available at an additional costWhile at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at any of the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until we arrive at the next destination.
Learn more about the shipDay at Sea Highlights
Day 14 George Town, Grand Cayman Tendered from 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
National LanguageEnglish
Currency AcceptedCayman Islands Dollar
Grand Cayman strikes the perfect balance between glitzy glamor and easygoing island life. You can hit the famous Seven Mile Beach and just chill, Cayman Mama in hand. Swim with stingrays on a snorkeling safari. Or treat yourself to a little retail therapy at some of the best designer shops in the world.
Travel Tips
1
Everyone drives on the left here, so look both ways before crossing the street.Day 15 Day at Sea Serenade of the Seas
A friendly reminder
Make the most of your day at sea by enjoying our Wi-Fi, drink and Speciality Dining Packages. These services are available at an additional costWhile at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at any of the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until we arrive at the next destination.
Learn more about the shipDay at Sea Highlights
Day 16 Tampa, Florida Arrives at 5:00 am
National LanguageEnglish
Currency AcceptedU.S. Dollar
Pirates once plundered the shores of Tampa Bay, but today this swashbuckling city attracts beach seekers, outdoor enthusiasts and museum lovers alike. Its low-key beach vibe blends seamlessly with its glistening downtown atmosphere— and there’s no shortage of thrills for all ages. Explore Ybor City’s cigar-rolling history or brave rollercoasters at Busch Gardens. Kayak along the Hillsborough River past sunning alligators, and see the elusive Florida panther at the Lowry Park Zoo. Geek out at the Museum of Science & Industry’s domed IMAX Theater— or browse Florida Cracker exhibits at Tampa Bay History Center. Tampa cruises allow you to discover a treasure trove of adventures, from the beach to the bay.
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.
Your ship:
Serenade of the Seas
From poolside movie nights and jaw dropping entertainment, to game changing flavors prepared to please your palate, all paths lead to discovery onboard Serenade of the Seas®.
Learn more about the ship