17-night Panama Canal Cruise

Originally a fort built by the U.S. Army in 1838, during the Second Seminole War, Ft. Lauderdale has little left of its warlike past. Instead the city welcomes visitors with broad beaches and an easy pace of life, plus convenient air and water connections that make the city a perfect place to visit.

Cartagena is full of history and charm. At La Popa Monastery, you will have a panoramic view of the city and harbor. Enjoy the artisan center of Las Bovedas (The Dungeons), Plaza Bolivar, the Palace of Inquisition and the Church of San Pedro Claver, and shop for Colombian emeralds - the finest in the world.

Cristóbal is a seaport on the Atlantic side of the Isthmus of Panama and gives access to Colon and Panama City settled by Spain in 1519 on the site of an Indian fishing village.

Linking the Atlantic to the Pacific, the Panama Canal provides one of cruising's most unforgettable experiences. Over 10 years were needed to complete the canal's 51 miles in 1914 - so avoiding the lengthy and often dangerous voyage around Cape Horn. 'The Big Ditch' lifts vessels by a fascinating feat of mechanics aided by on-shore 'mule' locomotives through three great locks, traversing man-made lakes, channels blasted through rock, and the dense jungle. Two other special highlights of the canal are Gatun Lake and the Gaillard cut. Gatun Lake is one of the world's largest man-made lakes covering 163 square miles. Gaillard Cut is an 8 mile channel built through solid rock which was the most difficult excavation in the canal construction.

Balboa, sited at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal was founded in 1914 and named after Vasco Núñez de Balboa, European discoverer of the Pacific. Balboa is noted for its orchid gardens, with more than 400 varieties. It is separated from Panama City by Ancón Hill.

For many years this small island, accessible from the mainland by a causeway, was off-limits. A former headquarters of the U.S. Army and Naval Forces, this island is now developing into an upscale destination. Today visitors can enjoy the first class amenities ashore, go shopping in a luxurious new shopping plaza or tour colonial Old Panama.

For many years this small island, accessible from the mainland by a causeway, was off-limits. A former headquarters of the U.S. Army and Naval Forces, this island is now developing into an upscale destination. Today visitors can enjoy the first class amenities ashore, go shopping in a luxurious new shopping plaza or tour colonial Old Panama.

The Central Pacific's largest city, Puntarenas sits on a long, narrow peninsula in the Gulf of Nicoya in Costa Rica. For years, it was the country's principal port, and though Puntarenas handles big cruise ships, a large fishing fleet still anchors in the estuary behind town. Being the country's most important fishing port, Puntarenas is the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood. Though the water is murky, and the beach may seem a bit urban, it's a lively town on weekends, when people from San José fill its waterfront restaurants and bars. A series of open-air cafes that line the beach are the perfect place to head for dessert, or refreshments, since they specialize in ice cream and fresh fruit drinks.

Located on the western coast of El Salvador, the town of Acajutla, is the site of the country’s largest seaport. During the 19th century, the port became well known for shipping coffee, which continues to make up the majority of Acajutla’s exported goods. With a climate that remains warm and humid year-round, and growing number of luxury resorts, it is an excellent destination for visitors interested in relaxing on one of Acajulta's beautiful beaches. 

Puerto Quetzal, on the Pacific coast of Guatemala, gives access to Guatemala City, the capital, beaches and some significant historical sites. Magnificent buildings of the colonial period remain at Antigua, the colonial capital, located near Guatemala City. Guatemala was the center of the old Mayan civilization, and many sites from the classic Mayan period (3rd-10th century AD) have been excavated and studied. The largest of these is Tikal in the northern lowlands, where some 3,000 structures, including tall temple pyramids as well as plazas and monuments, cover an area of about 6 sq miles. Thought to have sustained a population of 50,000 at its peak, it was abandoned for unknown reasons at the end of the 10th century.

The State of Chiapas is located in the south tip of Mexico, bordered by the states of Oaxaca, Vera Cruz and Tabasco, and the Central American country of Guatemala. The state is extremely rich in water and other natural resources; its jungles and highlands are great producers of valuable hardwoods and are home to an incredible variety of other flora and fauna as well as some of Mexico's most fascinating Mayan archaeological sites.

Miles of white and black sand beaches, glistening bays, spectacular resorts waiting to pamper the senses. This hidden retreat on Mexico's Pacific coast is a charming port town filled with over 600 years of history and boundless beauty. With excellent climate all year, Manzanillo is perfect for a variety of watersports including world-class sportfishing. Soak up the sun, then watch the tide roll away after a delicious dinner under the stars. Manzanillo attracts those searching for a serene setting. A few miles up the coastline is Manzanillo's luxurious and pleasantly understated Resort Zone. Two large bays of golden sand and surf are connected by a coastal highway lined with mini malls, souvenir shops, restaurants and nightspots. Located directly across from the waterfront, the main square becomes quite lively in the evening. The remodeled Malecon provides visitors with a relaxed, peaceful setting for leisurely walks. Visit Museum of Archeology & History - which displays the region's history and a changing exposition of important Mexican painters.

Puerto Vallarta is where Mexico comes alive. Fall in love with Puerto Vallarta's old world charm and dreamlike natural beauty. Lush tropical jungles surround this quaint colonial city with interesting architecture, cobblestone streets and white-washed buildings. Discover chic boutiques along the Malecón, then check out the exploding art scene and sizzling nightlife. Sprawling golden beaches, Pacific blue waters and heart-stopping sunsets reflect on majestic mountains to complete this picture-perfect vacation spot.

San Diego is a city offering a little for everyone. Tons of beaches line San Diego's coastline, ranging from the surfer's beach to the family beach to the private romantic beaches hidden away from the crowds. Attractions like Sea World and the world famous San Diego Zoo are a big reason San Diego is a great family destination. And for those who are just here to get away for the weekend and have a good time, San Diego offers an unbelievable nightlife with outrageous nightclubs, live concerts, professional sports, theatrical performances and much more.