Luxurious Panama Canal Full Transit Cruise ~ April 7 - April 30, 2027 (24 Days)
Have you always wanted to sail through the Panama Canal? Join Collins Tours for a special opportunity to do just that! Enjoy 2 relaxing pre-cruise days in New York City, NY at a 4.5-star city centre hotel before embarking on a 19-day sailing south aboard the NCL Bliss....sail by the Statue of Liberty and see the sights of New York City! Enjoy several ports of call in culturally rich Central America and even touch down in Colombia to cross South America off your bucket list! The highlight of our tour is an exciting crossing through the Panama Canal! Our adventure ends with 2 nights in San Francisco, CA before returning home from our once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
Overview
DADS & GRADS TRAVEL SALE
UNTIL JUNE 15TH
Experience one of the wonders of the World and transit through the Panama Canal from New York to San Francisco!
Experience many diverse cultures cruising to South America and the Mexican Riviera. In Cartagena, Colombia you'll see imposing walls around the city that will leave you in awe - built to protect its colourful colonial buildings. Then enjoy an adventure full of wonder as you cross the Panama Canal to the Pacific Ocean and visit bustling Panama City. El Arco, a natural archway in the sea cliffs at Cabo San Lucas, Mexico is a must-see on this trip.
Our adventure begins with two Pre-cruise nights in New York City staying at a beautiful 4.5 Marriott Hotel City Centre Hotel in the heart of Times Square! Next, we embark on a thrilling cruise adventure aboard the Norwegian Bliss - a breathtaking addition to their impressive fleet.
After a couple days at sea, we arrive in Puerto Plata. Puerto Plata (or officially known as the San Filipe de Puerto Plata) is the ninth largest city in the Dominican Republic and the capital of the province of Puerto Plata. For spectacular city views, take a ride up the Pico Isabel de Torres mountain which stands over 2600 feet high.
After a day at sea, we arrive in South America and enjoy a day in Cartagena, Colombia. Enjoy the unique history and architecture or relax on the beach! From Cartagena, we make our way to Colon, Panama where we will see the entrance to the famous Panama Canal. Sail into the Caribbean and grab a good spot on deck so you can take in the view. Behold the Atlantic Ocean entrance to the famous Panama Canal. Born from a desire to get to California (and its Gold Rush) as fast as possible, this industrious town was the last stop on the 19th century Panama Railroad. It's now home to Canal Zones, U.S. military bases and, of course, a beautiful region.
On to the highlight of our tour as we pass through the Panama Canal and experience one of the world's best short cuts! Journey 40 miles through the Panama Canal for an unforgettable experience witnessing first-hand one of the world's manmade shortcuts that has changed travel and the transport of goods worldwide.
After another day at sea, we arrive in port in Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala! This port city was constructed in 1984 to help connect nearby cities. Travellers often venture out to Antigua, a 90-minute trek to where 17th century colonial facades beckons and Guatemalan history comes alive.
Another day at sea and then we arrive in Acapulco, Mexico! As one of Mexico's oldest coastal tourist destinations, Acapulco has much to offer both tourist and traveller. Shop, swim or simply take a siesta on the beach, but be sure not to miss the legendary La Quebrada cliff divers.
Another day at sea and then we arrive in beautiful Puerto Vallarta! Smaller and more subdued than Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta has retained a good deal of its small village charm along with 26 miles of spectacular beaches along the Banderas Bay. Stroll the cobblestone streets to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Or peruse the many local wares for sale at the open-air markets.
Hello Cabo San Lucas! Cabo's signature landmark is El Arco ("The Arch"), a rock formation at the tip of "Land's End." The jewel of the Baja Peninsula is famous for its world-class sportfishing, as well as its high-end resorts and exclusive gated communities that line an area simply called "the Corridor."
2 more sea days until our fabulous cruise portion of our tour ends in San Francisco, California, but our vacation is not complete! After disembarking the NCL Bliss, we make our way to a 4.5-star city centre hotel in San Francisco and enjoy 2 post-cruise night stays. Enjoy a guided city tour of this iconic city and more!
Don't miss your chance to book this bucket-list trip of a lifetime!
Free Amenities Included for guests in all Cruise Cabin types - Valued at $ Per Person!
-Specialty Dining Package (3 Specialty restaurant dinners)
-Specialty Dining Package Gratuities
-Ultimate Beverage Package
-Ultimate Beverage Package Gratuities
-$100 USD On Board Credit per cabin.
Optional add on of NCL Gratuities for only $375 CAD per person!
Reserve an Oceanview Cabin or Balcony Cabin and receive 2 additional Amenities
-$50 USD Excursion Credit (per cabin)
- 300 WIFI minutes per person (per cabin)
Reserve Balcony Cabin - Receive 1 Additional Additional Amenity
-2 additional specialty dinners (5 Specialty restaurant dinners in total)
Prices shown based on Double Occupancy
Land & Cruise Pricing:
Inside Stateroom (per person)
Full Price: $7,495 per person On Sale: $6,795 per person Savings: $700 per person
Oceanview Stateroom (per person)
Full Price: $8,495 per person On Sale: $7,495 per person Savings: $1000 per person
Balcony Stateroom (per person)
Full Price: $9,295 per person On Sale: $8,595 per person Savings: $800 per person
Deposit: $900 per person Reduced Deposit: $500 per person
Second deposit: $500 per person June 11, 2026
Final Payment Due November 5, 2026
COLLINS TOURS INCLUSIVE AIRFARE & TRANSFERS
Includes in destination return transfers and 1 piece of luggage per person.
Full Price: TBA per person All Fuel Surcharges & Taxes included.
**************All Taxes included in pricing***************
**Non-refundable.
Updated Deposit Policy:
Initial deposit can be transferred to another tour within the same calendar year up to 60 days after booking. New reservations must be made for the same traveler, otherwise, name change fees apply – see “Name Changes or Corrections” section for more details.
Please note: These exchangeable deposits are a one-time transfer and cannot be moved forward continually to other tours. Once the exchange has taken place from an original tour to a new tour, there is no longer an exchangeable policy for that newly booked tour. We recommend the purchase of travel insurance on ALL our tours as they are 100% non-refundable.
Collins Tours has many supplier agreements to meet and is not responsible for clients’ misfortunes, sickness, illness, or changes in decisions to travel. Deposits secure your travel arrangements on the tour you have chosen. Balances must be paid in full prior to the tour by designated date or risk of automatic cancellation with full loss of payments. To avoid disappointment, we ask for all payments to be met by initial timelines provided on invoices, website, or documentation from Collins Tours.
Note: If the final payment date passes, or if reservation is made after the tour’s final payment date, the deposit amount cannot be moved to a different tour.
We encourage the purchase of travel insurance to protect your travel investments from unanticipated reasons to cancel and/ or out-of-province medical coverage.
Collins Tours offers insurance coverage through Manulife. Click here to quote and purchase insurance online.
legacy-tour:481
Gallery
Itinerary
Download itinerary (PDF)Location: Flight from Canada to New York – Marriott Marquis Hotel,
Times Square (Welcome Reception)
• For those who purchased Collins Tours Inclusive Air &
Transfers Package, you will depart the Maritimes on your
scheduled flight, en route to Toronto, where you will meet
your tour manager. The group will pre-clear US Customs in
Toronto before boarding Air Canada flight for New York.
st (Airfare + 1 piece of checked luggage + 1 carry-on bag
included with package).
• Once we have collected our luggage in New York, we board
our coach and transfer to our hotel (Transfer fee included).
• The tour manager will check the group into the Times Square
Marriott Marquis Hotel, distribute room keys and have bags
sent to your room (bag handling fee included).
• This evening, join your tour manager and fellow travellers
for a Welcome Cocktail reception (included). Here you will have an opportunity to discuss the exciting tour
ahead.
• Following our reception, feel free to enjoy the city and dinner at your leisure (not included).
Location: New York (B, Welcome Dinner)
• Rise and shine in beautiful New York for the first full day of our tour. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel
before we embark on a guided tour of this fine city and its landmarks.
• Our local professional guide takes us on a New York City Highlights tour! Features: Central Park, 5th Avenue
with stop at Rockefeller Plaza, Grand Central Terminal, and more. We are including a ticket to the Top of the
Rock Observatory, perched high above Rockefeller Center for breathtaking 360° views of New York City!
• This evening, join your tour manager and fellow travellers for a Welcome Group Dinner (included). Here
you will have an opportunity to discuss the exciting tour ahead.
• Following our dinner, feel free to enjoy the city and dinner at your leisure.
Tentative Itinerary – 2027 Panama Canal Full Transit Cruise Tour, Collins Tours
Location: Embarkation aboard the Norwegian Bliss (B, L, D)
• Enjoy another tasty breakfast at the hotel before we board our private transfer to the pier to board the
Norwegian Bliss! At the cruise pier we begin our embarkation process for the Panama Canal Cruise.
• You have already completed your online NCL cruise check-in process prior to today, so relax while your
bags are sent to your assigned stateroom (bag handling fees included).
• All cabins will not be ready upon boarding, but lunch is! Enjoy your first meal aboard the Bliss at your
leisure while waiting for all cabins to be cleaned and ready for your stay (included).
• All meals are included during your cruise, with endless options to satisfy any craving!
• Our ship sets sail this afternoon. Make plans to find your way out on the top deck to bid Bon Voyage to New
York as you set sails on an unforgettable experience on one of the newest ships at sea today!
Location: At Sea (B, L, Cocktail Reception, D)
• Relax during your first day at sea, exploring the Bliss at your leisure.
• Check out the ship’s daily program for featured shows and entertainment while cruising.
• This evening, meet your fellow Collins Tours travellers for a Collins Tours Welcome Aboard Cocktail
Reception at Sea, (included) for 1 hour of complimentary alcoholic beverages and dry snacks. Following
our cocktail reception, we will have our welcome dinner in one of the ship’s dining rooms (Price included).
• Dinner this evening will on your own with many choices to choose from, enjoy!
Location: At Sea (B, L, Group D)
• Refer to the ship’s itinerary for today’s events.
• It is another day in free-style cruising heaven, so live like the Norwegians… smile bigger, explore further,
and relax longer!
• This evening join your tour manager for group dinner to discuss our first port of call and opportunities
ahead.
Location: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic (B, L, D)
• Optional Collins Tours Excursion will be offered today – a panoramic city tour Price TBA
• This morning, we dock in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm this afternoon.
• Puerto Plata (or officially known as San Felipe de Puerto
Plata) is the ninth largest city in the Dominican Republic and
the capital of the province of Puerto Plata. For spectacular city
views, take a ride up the Pico Isabel de Torres mountain
which stands over 2,600 feet high. History buff? Visit
Fortaleza San Felipe, which was built in the 16th century and
served as a prison under the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo. Or
head to the Amber Museum, a museum filled with a unique
collection of valuable Dominican amber which is
semiprecious tree sap that has hardened for millions of years
capturing many fossils of plant and insect life.
• Refer to the ship’s itinerary for today’s events.
• It is another day in free-style cruising heaven, so live like the Norwegians… smile bigger, explore
further, and relax longer!
Location: At Sea (B, L, Group D)
• Refer to the ship’s itinerary for today’s events.
• It is another day in free-style cruising heaven, so live like the Norwegians… smile bigger, explore further,
and relax longer!
• This evening meet your fellow travellers for another group dinner and discuss the opportunities for
Colombia!
303 Westmorland Road, Saint John N.B. Canada E2J 2G2 www.collinstours.ca
Tentative Itinerary – 2027 Panama Canal Full Transit Cruise Tour, Collins Tours
Location: Cartagena, Colombia (B, L, D) ***Optional Excursion
• This morning, we dock in Cartagena, Colombia from 12:00 pm
until 7:00 pm this afternoon.
• Meet your Tour Manager and fellow travellers as we discover
the vibrant history and rich culture of Cartagena on this
optional captivating 3-hour walking tour through the city’s
most iconic landmarks. Explore the historic Walled City,
starting with the Torre del Reloj (Clock Tower), La Plaza de La
Aduana (old Slave Market) to learn about the city’s colonial
past, then see the Murallas (Walls) that once protected
Cartagena from pirates. Discover beautiful colonial squares
like Plaza de Bolívar & Plaza Santo Domingo, and stroll along
the scenic Camellón de los Mártires. Continue through the
vibrant Getsemaní neighbourhood, where colourful streets
and artistic energy await. By the end of this unforgettable tour, you will return to the ship with lasting
memories of Cartagena’s rich history, culture, and transformation over the centuries, just in time for lunch.
This excursion includes return transportation from the pier to the Clock Tower and from Getsemani back to
the pier and a local English-narrating guide. (Price $TBA CAD per person including tax. Please book by
TBA TIME by contacting Collins Tours staff by email getaway@collinstours.ca or dial 1-888-636-
8080).
• The Bliss sets sail again today at 4:00 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
• Prepare yourself for a thrilling trek through the Panama Canal tomorrow.
Location: Colon, Panama (B, L, D)
• Sail into the Caribbean seaport of Colón, Panama. Your ship is docked from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm today.
This is where you will see the Atlantic Ocean entrance to the famous Panama Canal, born from a desire to
th get to California (and its Gold Rush) as fast as possible, this industrious town was the last stop on the 19 -
century Panama Railroad. It's now home to Canal Zones, U.S. military bases and of course, a jumping point
to see beautiful scenery and the option of seeing the canals and lakes at different vantage points.
Location: Transit Panama Canal Day (B, L, Group D)
• Behold the canal itself as we enter on the Atlantic Ocean (Caribbean
Sea) entrance before transiting the lakes and lock system that make
this one of the greatest feats of modern-day engineering
• Be sure you are up bright and early today to get the full experience
of the 48-mile passage
• Taking “the world’s best shortcut,” you travel from the Atlantic to
the Pacific Ocean in about 10 hours!
• Refer to the ship’s itinerary for today’s other special activities.
• This is where that balcony stateroom is worth every penny and the
first cabin selection that sells out on all Panama Canal Cruises.
• Join your tour manager and fellow travellers in one of the ships main dining rooms this evening (included)
– a great opportunity to exchange stories on what you’ve seen in the canal today.
Location: At Sea (B, L, D)
• Warm breezes welcome you to the Pacific Ocean today!
• Free day to relax and enjoy the Norwegian Bliss and take advantage of the amenities of your ship: only an
elevator ride away!
303 Westmorland Road, Saint John N.B. Canada E2J 2G2 www.collinstours.ca
Tentative Itinerary – 2027 Panama Canal Full Transit Cruise Tour, Collins Tours
• Tonight, enjoy your dinner in the ship’s main dining room at your own pace.
Location: Puerto Caldera, (Puntarenas), Costa Rica (B, L, D)
***Optional Excursion – Price TBA
• The ship is scheduled to dock in Puntarenas, Costa Rica from 7:00 am to
6:00 pm.
• Today is your chance to do a Collins Tours Optional Excursion- this will
be a 5 hour tour with highlights of the Puntarenas and its famed culture.
• Just a few miles from Puerto Caldera is Puntarenas, where stunning
beaches, an array of wildlife, and streets lined with restaurants, bars and
cafés await. Carrara National Park is a must for nature lovers and
features ancestral trees and secondary forests, perfect for spotting
wildlife such as crocodiles and 400-plus species of birds, including
colourful scarlet macaws or switch gears and party with the locals at
Jaco, about 30 miles south. There, find sun, fun and sand with plenty of bars and places to grab a bite.
Location: At Sea (B, L, D)
• Enjoy another beautiful day sailing in the Pacific Ocean!
• Free day to relax and enjoy the Norwegian Bliss and enjoy the amenities of your ship.
• It is another day in free-style cruising heaven, so live like the Norwegians… smile bigger, explore further,
and relax longer!
• Tomorrow we will awake in Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala!
Location: Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala (B, L, D) ***Optional Excursion
• The ship is scheduled to dock in Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala from 7:00 am until 6:00 pm today.
• Join your Tour Manager and fellow travellers for this full day optional excursion to Antigua, where 17th-
century Spanish Baroque facades beckon and Guatemala’s history, charm and colours come alive.
• Be driven inland before arriving in Antigua, where we will begin our walking tour (please note that total
walking will be around 2 kilometers with several stops and time for lunch—on your own—and shopping).
Our journey by foot begins at the vibrant local market, where the colours, scents, and sounds of Antigua’s
culture come to life as we browse handmade crafts, textiles, and fresh produce while engaging with local
vendors. Next, we will admire the iconic Santa Catalina Arch, a historic gateway to the city, and learn about
its significance. We will then visit Central Park, the heart of Antigua, surrounded by colonial buildings and
street performers, offering a peaceful atmosphere to reflect on the day.
• After having free time for lunch (on own) and shopping, we
will enjoy a delightful chocolate-making workshop where you
will dive into the fascinating history and process of cacao!
Observe the stages of chocolate-making, taste cacao and
chocolate at different stages of production, and the option to
craft your own personalized chocolate bar to take home. This
hands-on workshop promises a delicious educational and
cultural experience! Finally, before returning to the ship, we
will visit the Jade Museum, where you will discover the ancient
significance of jade in Guatemala, explore impressive
collections, and learn about its use by the Maya civilization.
This excursion includes private transportation, providing a
smooth and comfortable journey to and from Antigua with
English-narrated local guide. (Price $TBA CAD per person including tax. Please book by TBA DATE by
contacting Collins Tours staff by email getaway@collinstours.ca or dial 1-888-636-8080).
Location: At Sea (B, L, Group D)
• Enjoy another beautiful day sailing the Pacific Ocean.
303 Westmorland Road, Saint John N.B. Canada E2J 2G2 www.collinstours.ca
Tentative Itinerary – 2027 Panama Canal Full Transit Cruise Tour, Collins Tours
• Join your tour manager and fellow passengers for another dinner together in one of the ship’s dining rooms.
(included)
Location: Acapulco, Mexico (B, L, Group D)
• The ship is scheduled to dock in Acapulco, Mexico from 7:00 am until 5:00 pm today.
• Known as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” Acapulco is one of Mexico’s most iconic coastal destinations—famous
for its sweeping bay views, golden beaches, and lively energy. When your ship docks at the NCL port, you’re
right in the heart of the city, surrounded by history, adventure,
and vibrant culture.
• Just steps from the pier, you’ll find golden beaches, lively
markets, and a taste of authentic Mexican charm. Watch the
famous La Quebrada Cliff Divers perform their daring jumps
into the Pacific or visit the Fort of San Diego to learn about the
city’s rich maritime history. Stroll through the Zócalo to
experience local shops and cafés or admire the colorful Diego
Rivera Mural overlooking the bay. For breathtaking views, take
a short drive up to the Chapel of Peace, a peaceful hilltop spot
offering panoramic vistas of the coastline.
• Join your tour manager and fellow passengers for another dinner
together in one of the ship’s dining rooms. (included)
Location: At Sea (B, L, D)
• Enjoy another sea day, today.
• Relax and take advantage of everything your ship has to offer today. Check the list of scheduled events and
perhaps join in on some of the fun!
• Tonight, we set sail towards Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (B, L, D) ***Optional Excursion
• Today our ship arrives in Puerto Vallarta – a stunning
resort city situated in the shadows of a beautiful mountain
range. The Norwegian Bliss remains in port from 7:00 am
until 3:00 pm.
• Although a large city, Puerto Vallarta has retained a good
deal of its small village charm along with 26 miles of
spectacular beaches along the Banderas Bay. Today, join
your Tour Manager and fellow travellers for an optional
4-hour guided tour of beautiful Puerto Vallarta where you
will see why this Mexican city is home to many Canadian
and American expats. We will stroll along the scenic
Malecón (boardwalk) with breathtaking ocean views as
we make our way to the iconic Church of Our Lady of
Guadalupe, a stunning piece of history built in the early 1900s, surrounded by a charming plaza. Enjoy some
time to shop for unique treasures at Isla Cuale, a lively riverside market. Then, immerse yourself in the
vibrant atmosphere of Old Town and the Romantic Zone, where colourful streets and local culture come to
life. We will visit the beautiful Los Muertos Beach, a perfect spot to appreciate the laid-back vibe of Puerto
Vallarta. This optional excursion offers the perfect blend of history, culture, shopping, and scenic beauty.
(Price $TBA CAD per person including tax and driver’s and local guide’s gratuities. Please book by
TBA DATE by contacting Collins Tours staff by email getaway@collinstours.ca or dial 1-888-636-
8080).
• Tonight, we sail for Cabo Sal Lucas, Mexico.
303 Westmorland Road, Saint John N.B. Canada E2J 2G2 www.collinstours.ca
Tentative Itinerary – 2027 Panama Canal Full Transit Cruise Tour, Collins Tours
Location: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico (B, L, D)
• Today we visit our final port-of-call in beautiful Cabo San Lucas – vacationland for many of Hollywood’s rich
and famous! The Norwegian Bliss is in port today from 7:00 am until 3:00 pm.
• Commonly referred to as simply “Cabo”, this city is located at the southern tip of the Baja California “Lower
California” Peninsula surrounded by waters teeming with sea life making Cabo famous for its world-class
sportfishing, as well as its high-end resorts and exclusive gated communities that line an area simply called
"the Corridor."
• Cabo's signature landmark is El Arco ("The Arch"), a rock formation at the tip of "Land's End."
• The Norwegian Bliss sets sail at 3:00 pm as we head north to California and our disembarkation port, San
Francisco.
Location: At Sea (B, L, D)
• Enjoy a relaxing day at sea aboard the Norwegian Bliss.
• Tonight, join your tour manager for another group dinner in one of the ship’s dining rooms (Price included).
Dine together and swap stories of your cruising adventure!
Location: At Sea (B, L, Group D)
• Enjoy a relaxing day at sea aboard the Norwegian Bliss.
• Tonight, join your tour manager for another group dinner in one of the ship’s dining rooms (Price included).
Dine together and swap stories of your cruising adventure!
Location: San Francisco, US (Disembark) -> TBA 4.5 Star Marriott
Hotel(B)
• Rise ‘n shine in the golden city – San Francisco, USA! Ship arrives in port at 7:00 am.
• The Bliss docks at the cruise ship terminal in San Francisco this morning where we disembark for the final
stage of our memorable tour.
• After clearing Customs & Immigration, board our coach for a 4-hour professionally guided sightseeing tour
of San Francisco City Highlights Tour – A great overview including landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge,
Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Twin Peaks for panoramic views , and more (included).
• We will check into the beautiful TBA 4-5 Star Marriott Hotel late this afternoon allowing you the remainder
of the evening to explore this unique part of the city at your leisure, with your hotel located overlooking the
marina and just blocks from the beach.
Location: San Francisco, US (B, Farewell D)
• Enjoy another buffet breakfast (included) this morning before
exploring this beautiful area the way you please during your free day
in San Francisco. Maybe you want to head down to the Boudin Bakery,
sample seafood at Scoma’s on the wharf, or dine with a view at Fog
Harbor Fish House?
• Join us this evening for our "farewell dinner" complete with a glass of
wine or beer, just another signature service of Collins Tours. Enjoy a
delicious dinner while reflecting on our adventure together and
amazing memories shared.
• Please Note: For those who purchased Collins Tours Inclusive Airfare,
your tour manager will have your pre-checked in for your flights tomorrow allowing for a seamless airport
experience.
Location: San Francisco, US – Flights Home (B)
• Enjoy breakfast before check-out of the hotel. Your tour manager will handle group check-out.
• For those who purchased Collins Tours Inclusive Air Package or added the airport transfers to their package
we will board our private motorcoach for the drive to SFO airport.
303 Westmorland Road, Saint John N.B. Canada E2J 2G2 www.collinstours.ca
Tentative Itinerary – 2027 Panama Canal Full Transit Cruise Tour, Collins Tours
• Please refer to our flight letter for more details regarding procedures returning into Canada
Tour Map
Tour Details
What's Included
- Accommodation
- Transportation
- Expert Guides
- 24/7 Support
You Might Also Like
Premium Fox Harbour Golf Package ~ June 8 - 10, 2026 (3 Days)
3 Days
Discover Twillingate & Western Newfoundland ~ June 19 - 28, 2026 (10 Days)
10 Days