Mexico and Central America: Panama Canal - Ocean to Ocean Cruise

Princess Cruises

Experience a diverse array of cultures on both sides of the canal from the Caribbean to Mexico. Discover verdant rainforests in Costa Rica filled with ecological wonders or explore Cartagena's walled Old Town and the Archaeological Site of Panamá Viejo.

Included Extras

Executive Member Benefit

  • Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases

Digital Costco Shop Card

  • Member Exclusive: Digital Costco Shop Card with every Princess Cruises® sailing†

Sailing Itinerary

Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.

Day 1 Port of Call Fort Lauderdale Departure 3:00p.m.

Overview

Ft Lauderdale is a city of islands held together by an intricate web of canals, rivers, bays and waterways hundreds of miles long. Needless to say, boating is a favorite city pastime, whether zooming along on a speedboat, enjoying a fishing charter, or cruising the coastline by yacht. Beautiful homes of every size and style make up the bulk of this primarily residential area. By the beach, a leisurly stroll can be taken along the new landscaping wavewall design of the beachfront promenade. But this city is anything but sedate. Once a spring break hot spot, the town still has an energetic and colorful nightlife. Nearby, charming Laudrdale-By-the-Sea is home to one of the only living coral reefs in the US accesible from shore. Las Olas Boulevard, a shoppers paradise, is the chic new shopping and trendy dining area of downtown. If sports are more your inclination, dozens of golf courses and hundreds of public parks allow you to absorb the great Florida outdoors. Cultural arts are also popular. Water taxis bring theater-goers from throughout the city to the Performing Arts Center on the water.

Day 2 Cruising
Day 3 Cruising
Day 4 Port of Call Aruba Arrival 9:00a.m. Departure 6:00p.m.

Overview

Aruba's path to the present day is marked by the mystery of ochre-colored rock drawings left behind by island shamans, the enterprising spirit of European adventurers and settlers and the diverse experiences and traditions brought by the many nationalities that have since sought out the island as either a new home or temporary resting place. The look of the people, the languages they speak and the innate hospitality that manifests itself in the Aruban psyche is the result of a multi-cultural mix that reflects a rich past.

Day 5 Cruising
Day 6 Port of Call Panama Canal Arrival 6:00a.m. Departure 6:00p.m.

Overview

The Panama Canal is an artificial 48-mile waterway in Panama that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. The canal cuts across the Isthmus of Panama and is a key conduit for international maritime trade. The Canal uses a system of locks -compartments with entrance and exit gates. The locks function as water lifts: they raise ships from sea level (the Pacific or the Atlantic) to the level of Gatun Lake (26 meters above sea level); ships then sail the channel through the Continental Divide. Each set of locks bears the name of the townsite where it was built: Gatun (on the Atlantic side), and Pedro Miguel and Miraflores (on the Pacific side). The lock chambers -steps-- are 33.53 meters wide by 304.8 meters long. The maximum dimensions of ships that can transit the Canal are: 32.3 meters in beam; draft -their depth reach- 12 meters in Tropical Fresh Water; and 294.1 meters long (depending on the type of ship). The water used to raise and lower vessels in each set of locks comes from Gatun Lake by gravity; it comes into the locks through a system of main culverts that extend under the lock chambers from the sidewalls and the center wall. The narrowest portion of the Canal is Culebra Cut, which extends from the north end of Pedro Miguel Locks to the south edge of Gatun Lake at Gamboa. This segment, approximately 13.7 kilometers long, is carved through the rock and shale of the Continental Divide. Ships from all parts of the world transit daily through the Panama Canal. Some 13 to 14 thousand vessels use the Canal every year. In fact, commercial transportation activities through the Canal represent approximately 5% of the world trade. The Canal has a work force of approximately 9 thousand employees and operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing transit service to vessels of all nations without discrimination.

Day 7 Port of Call Fuerte Amador Arrival 7:00a.m. Departure 6:00p.m.

Overview

Fuerte Amador is a Peninsula jutting out into the Pacific from Balboa. It is separated from Panama city by Ancón Hill and is situated at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. It was built to protect the canal entrance from the Pacific Ocean and is a major port of call for the cruise lines. There is also a Marina, the Flamenco Yacht Club.

Day 8 Cruising
Day 9 Port of Call Puntarenas/Costa Rica Arrival 7:00a.m. Departure 7:00p.m.

Overview

The Central Pacific's largest city, Puntarenas sits on a long, narrow peninsula in the Gulf of Nicoya. For years, it was the country's principal port, and although a newer port in nearby Caldera now handles cargo and Puntarenas the 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, be it camarones al ajillo (shrimp scampi), pescado entero (a whole fried fish), or ceviche de corvina (bits of fresh fish marinate in lime juice with onions, peppers and spices).

Day 10 Port of Call San Juan del Sur Arrival 8:00a.m. Departure 6:00p.m.

Overview

A picturesque port and popular beach town, San Juan del Sur is located 138 kilometers south of Managua, and is easily reached by way of the Pan-American Highway, veering right after passing the small community of La Virgen. San Juan is one of the most important seaports on Nicaragua’s Pacific Coast. Its waters are calm, transparent, and moderately temperate yearlong, making it an excellent swimming and fishing spot, attracting foreign and national tourists alike, particularly during the dry summer months. Interesting wind-blasted rock formations surround San Juan’s crescent-shaped bay, with magnificent, romantic sunsets adding to the surreal beauty of its beach. The plentiful amount of hotels and restaurants in the San Juan del Sur area add to the port town’s growing popularity. Although the specialty in most San Juan restaurants is seafood, delicious fritanga can be enjoyed at some of the popular eateries.

Day 11 Cruising
Day 12 Port of Call Huatulco Arrival 8:00a.m. Departure 5:00p.m.

Overview

Huatulco is a resort region in the Mexican state of Oaxaca with white Pacific coast beaches. The region is made up of 9 bays, including the popular cruise-ship port of call Santa Cruz Bay. Tangolunda Bay is home to upscale resort hotels and a golf course. In the inland community of La Crucecita, there are restaurants and shops around a central plaza.

Day 13 Cruising
Day 14 Port of Call Puerto Vallarta Arrival 8:00a.m. Departure 5:00p.m.

Overview

Puerto Vallarta is a resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, in Jalisco state. It is known for its beaches, water sports and nightlife scene. Its cobblestone center is home to the ornate Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church, boutique shops and a range of restaurants and bars. El Malecón is a beachside promenade with contemporary sculptures, as well as bars, lounges and nightclubs.

Day 15 Cruising
Day 16 Cruising
Day 17 Port of Call Los Angeles Arrival 6:15a.m.

Overview

Los Angeles is the second-most populous city in the United States, after New York City, and the most populous city in the Western United States. With an estimated population of four million, Los Angeles is the largest and most populous city in the state of California and the cultural, financial, and commercial center of Southern California. Nicknamed the "City of Angels" partly because of its name's Spanish meaning, Los Angeles is known for its Mediterranean climate, ethnic diversity, and sprawling metropolis. The city is also one of the most substantial economic engines within the nation, with a diverse economy in a broad range of professional and cultural fields. Los Angeles is also famous as the home of Hollywood, a major center of the world entertainment industry. A global city, it has been ranked 6th in the Global Cities Index and 9th in the Global Economic Power Index. The Los Angeles combined statistical area also has a gross metropolitan product of $831 billion, making it the third-largest in the world, after the Greater Tokyo and New York metropolitan areas. Los Angeles hosted the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics and will host the event for a third time in 2028.

Onboard the Emerald Princess

Costco Member Reviews

Emerald Princess® is everything you expect from a modern, luxurious ship. Featuring multiple dining options, including Traditional and Anytime Dining, and specialty venues like the popular Sabatini's Italian restaurant. The Lotus Spa® offers a myriad of treatments, and the Lotus Fitness Center helps you stay trim from the delicious cuisine. Enjoy Movies Under the Stars® and choose from nearly 900 balcony staterooms.

Onboard Activities

Activities & Services (included in cruise)

Movies

  • Card Room
  • Casino
  • Disco/Nightclub
  • Game Arcade
  • Movies Under the Stars®
  • Theater/Show Lounge
  • Fitness Center
  • Fitness Classes
  • Miniature Golf
  • Pool - Adults Only
  • Pool - Children's
  • Pool - Outdoor
  • Pool - Indoor
  • Pool - Indoor/Covered
  • Sports Facilities
  • Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
  • Art Gallery
  • Bars/Lounges
  • Library
  • Children's Indoor Play Area
  • Children's Outdoor Play Area
  • Educational Classes
  • Organized Age Specific Activities
  • Teen Center or Disco
  • Teen Programs
  • Business Center
  • Conference Center
  • Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
  • Elevators
  • Infirmary/Medical Center
  • Religious Services
  • Self-Service Laundromat
  • Wedding/Vow Renewal

Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)

Full-Service Spa

  • Beauty Salon
  • Full-Service Spa
  • Sauna/Steam Room
  • Educational Programs
  • Internet Center
  • Babysitting
  • Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service

Costco Travel makes every effort to verify the accuracy of all information provided. Additional fees for amenities or services may be charged by the cruise line. Amenities or services may be discontinued or revised by the cruise line without notice. Staterooms designated as wheelchair-accessible do not necessarily meet ADA requirements. Costco Travel is not responsible for inaccuracies or provider modifications.

Dining

Dining Room

Main Dining

Botticelli Dining Room: After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Michelangelo Dining Room: After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Da Vinci Dining Room: After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Crown Grill

Specialty Dining

Chef’s Table Experience: A multi-course menu that is specially created by the chef, and is not offered anywhere else on the ship. Specially selected wines complement the meal, and each couple at the Chef's Table will receive a personalized autographed copy of Courses, A Culinary Journey. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Crown Grill℠: An upscale and more refined approach to the traditional steakhouse, this venue features some of the best, most tender cuts of beef, such as New York and porterhouse, plus a prime rib carving station. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Planks BBQ: Drop by for a classic American-style dinner, served by wait staff for a nominal fee. The casual BBQ restaurant gives you a choice of "Planks" loaded with four meats, chili, coleslaw and seasoned fries along with starters and decadent dessert. Planks BBQ also serves a buffet-style lunch at no charge, with signature soup and freshly tossed salad, as well as regionally inspired fork-and-knife sandwiches. Buffet-style breakfasts, also at no charge, include savory breakfast bowls customized for you.

SHARE℠ by Curtis Stone: Chef Curtis Stone’s first restaurant at sea, SHARE, gives you an exclusive opportunity to enjoy his exquisite cuisine. Perfect for a special celebration or simply reveling in time spent together, Chef Stone has made an art out of reconnecting with loved ones over a six-course fine-dining experience. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Steamers Seafood: This new family-style seafood restaurant offers dinner served by wait staff for a nominal fee. Choose from Black & Blue Mussels or Classic Clams "Steamers" and other seafood favorites. All come with generous sides and dipping sauces as well as starters and dessert. At lunchtime, help yourself to a buffet that includes Gourmet and Ramen Bowls with regionally inspired broths – all at no charge. And join for breakfast, also at no charge, for specialty egg dishes like omelets, fried eggs and eggs Benedict.

The Salty Dog Gastropub: A warm, inviting gastropub experience developed with Ernesto Uchimura, a founding chef of the original Umami Burger. Try one of our innovative gourmet creations inspired by pub favorites or devour “The Ernesto” a savory rib eye burger. Offering a unique variety of beer, whiskey and cocktail selections, plus live music, there’s something for everyone at this hip, friendly twist on traditional pub fare. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Vines: Vines boasts an extensive collection of wines, like Opus One, Super Tuscans, fine sparkling wines and regional offerings for purchase. The menu also includes wine flights and a selection of wines by the glass.

International Café

Casual Dining

Chocolate Journeys℠: There are few foods that inspire as much passion as chocolate, and master chocolatier Norman Love has designed some of the most decadent, hand-crafted treats exclusively for Princess' Chocolate Journeys℠ program. Trained in France, and named the Inaugural Inductee into the Chocolatier Hall of Fame by Dessert Professional Magazine, Chef Love combined premium quality chocolate with unique flavors and artful designs to mastermind his exclusive creations found throughout the ship.

Coffee & Cones: Complimentary ice cream cones await you at our transformed top-deck creamery venue. Pick up a chocolate cone, a vanilla, or a combination. Or treat yourself to an ice cream sandwich, with a tempting choice of flavors such as The Classic, Cookie Colada, Snickerdoodle, Honey 'N' Oats and Mint Paddy. We've added specialty New Grounds Crafted Coffee too. Including Espresso and Cappuccino, Latte, Chai Tea and more. You'll even find a choice of Frappes, such as Nuts for Caffeine, Mocha Milkshake and Mexican Frothed Chocolate.

International Café: Open 24-hours a day, the International Café located in the Piazza is the place for an ever-changing array of small bite meals, treats and gourmet beverages. Grab a freshly baked croissant to start your day, snack on pies and quiche or choose from a wide variety of salads and sandwiches at lunchtime, and indulge in decadent desserts in the evening. Coffee and tea fans will love the New Grounds Crafted Coffee menu featuring a variety of specialty espresso-based drinks made from a custom blend of coffee beans, as well as iced tea fusions.

Salty Dog Grill: While you're enjoying the fresh air on the top deck, treat yourself to one of our 100% handmade Gourmet Burgers, including the Princess Burger or Triple Smoked Burger. The Salty Dog Grill also offers new Street Tacos – a Princess first – featuring a choice of grilled chipotle-lime chicken or roasted sweet potato-green chile. And don't miss the Classic Hot Dogs, plus loaded fries in tempting varieties including chili cheese, and bacon and cheese.

Slice Pizzeria: The top-deck pizzeria features a bold new look that sets the stage for tempting offerings that include specialties inspired by local favorites from the Pacific to the Atlantic. Try a Deep Dish Focaccia or a slice of the award-winning signature Neapolitan-style classics. Savor some California Artisanal Toast with Avocado or Caprese toppings. Or go for a Sliced Stromboli, and enjoy an East Coast take on a classic Italian calzone that's stuffed with delicious Italian deli meats and cheeses.

World Fresh Marketplace: Whenever you visit, you'll find plenty of well-balanced options to choose from. Stop by for breakfast and visit the designer pancake station, or enjoy one of the unique hot cereal offerings. At lunch, look for handcrafted sandwiches, regionally inspired dishes and soups, as well as carvery selections. For dinner, there's everything from breakfast at night, family kitchen comfort foods, stir-fry or customized pasta, plus a multitude of fresh fruit and salad choices.

Room Service: Call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® MedallionClass® app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of US $ 14.99 per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a US $ 5 room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. To order, guests can press the "Room Service" button on their stateroom phone, or order through OceanNow®.


Disclaimer regarding ship dining

Times, costs and other specifics are outside the control of Costco Travel. All information is at the sole discretion of the cruise line and is subject to change without notice. Dining time and table size preferences are submitted to the cruise line on a first-come, first-served request basis and are confirmed aboard ship. Questions, concerns and/or special needs regarding dining arrangements must be addressed with the maitre d' hotel aboard ship. Every effort is made to accommodate travelers' preferences; however, Costco Travel cannot guarantee dining arrangements. In specialty restaurants, space is limited and reservations are recommended. A cover charge and dress code may apply.

Staterooms

Staterooms feature a refrigerator, spacious closet and bathroom with shower.

Interior (Category: IA)

Category: IA
Approximately 162 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IB)

Category: IB
Approximately 162 to 182 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IC)

Category: IC
Approximately 162 to 182 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: ID)

Category: ID
Approximately 162 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IE)

Category: IE
Approximately 162 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IF)

Category: IF
Approximately 162 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Nicely-appointed staterooms feature a picture window and bathroom with shower.

Oceanview (Category: OB)

Category: OB
Approximately 179 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window for memorable views.

Oceanview (Category: OC)

Category: OC
Approximately 179 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window for memorable views.

Oceanview (Category: OE)

Category: OE
Approximately 179 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window for memorable views.

Oceanview (Category: OF)

Category: OF
Approximately 179 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window for memorable views.

Oceanview (obstructed view) (Category: OV)

Category: OV
Approximately 179 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window with an obstructed view.

Oceanview (obstructed view) (Category: OW)

Category: OW
Approximately 179 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window with an obstructed view.

Oceanview (obstructed view) (Category: OY)

Category: OY
Approximately 179 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window with an obstructed view.

Oceanview (obstructed view) (Category: OZ)

Category: OZ
Approximately 158 to 179 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window with an obstructed view.

Staterooms feature a private balcony, spacious walk-in closet, desk and bathroom with shower.

Balcony (Category: B1)

Category: B1
Approximately 271 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: B2)

Category: B2
Approximately 271 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: B4)

Category: B4
Approximately 240 to 298 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides dramatic wake views from a rear-facing private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BA)

Category: BA
Approximately 231 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BB)

Category: BB
Approximately 231 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BC)

Category: BC
Approximately 231 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BD)

Category: BD
Approximately 231 to 271 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BE)

Category: BE
Approximately 231 to 271 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BF)

Category: BF
Approximately 231 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Features separate sitting area with sofa bed and desk, refrigerator, wet bar, tub with shower and balcony or window.

Premium Club Class Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: M1)

Category: M1
Approximately 323 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious stateroom provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with combination tub and shower.

Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: MB)

Category: MB
Approximately 323 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious cabin provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with combination tub and shower.

Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: MD)

Category: MD
Approximately 323 - 462 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious cabin provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with combination tub and shower.

Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: ME)

Category: ME
Approximately 323 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious cabin provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with combination tub and shower.

Owner's Suite with Balcony (Category: S2)

Category: S2
Approximately 687 sq. ft. including balcony, the Owner's Suite features an expansive cabin and oversized aft-facing balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Penthouse Suite with Balcony (Category: S3)

Category: S3
Approximately 524 to 531 sq. ft. including balcony, the Penthouse Suite features a spacious cabin and aft-facing balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Penthouse Suite with Balcony (Category: S4)

Category: S4
Approximately 533 sq. ft. including balcony, the Penthouse Suite features a spacious cabin and separate seating area with a sofa bed. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Premium Suite with Balcony (Category: S5)

Category: S5
Approximately 568 sq. ft. including balcony, the Premium Suite features a spacious cabin and separate seating area with a sofa bed. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Vista Suite with Balcony (Category: S6)

Category: S6
Approximately 460 to 495 sq. ft. including balcony, the Vista Suite features a spacious cabin and aft-facing balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Two-Bedroom Family Suite with Balcony (Category: S8)

Category: S8
Approximately 606 sq. ft. including balcony, the Two Bedroom Family Suite features 2 bedrooms to accommodate up to 8 passengers. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Deck Plan

Cruise Ship
Star Deck
Key to Symbols
SymbolDescription
Two-bedroom family suite (connecting staterooms with private balcony, accommodates up to eight persons)Two-bedroom family suite (connecting staterooms with private balcony, accommodates up to eight persons)
Will accommodate third personWill accommodate third person
Will accommodate a rollawayWill accommodate a rollaway
Will accommodate third and fourth personWill accommodate third and fourth person
Connecting stateroomsConnecting staterooms
Fully accessible stateroom, roll-in shower onlyFully accessible stateroom, roll-in shower only

Ship Facts

Emerald Princess ship image
  • Ship Name: Emerald Princess
  • Year Built: 2007
  • Year Refurbished: 2015
  • Year Entered Present Fleet: 2007
  • Ship Class: Crown
  • Maximum Capacity: 3,082
  • Number of Passenger Decks: 15
  • Number of Crew: 1,200
  • Officers' Nationality: British/Italian
  • Ocean-View without Balcony: 222
  • Ocean-View with Balcony: 675
  • Total Inside Staterooms: 436
  • Tonnage (GRT): 113,561
  • Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 3,080
  • Country of Registry: Bermuda
  • Total Staterooms: 1,539
  • Suites with Balcony: 206
  • Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International
Costco Travel makes every effort to verify the accuracy of all information provided. Additional fees for amenities or services may be charged by the hotel, resort or cruise line. Amenities or services may be discontinued or revised by the provider without notice. Hotels, resorts, ships or accommodations designated as wheelchair-accessible do not necessarily meet ADA requirements. Costco Travel is not responsible for inaccuracies or provider modifications.

Available Dates & Prices

Departure Date

Inside Stateroom

Ocean View Stateroom

Balcony Stateroom

Suite Stateroom

Terms & Conditions

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.

†One Digital Costco Shop Card per room/stateroom, per stay. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. A Digital Costco Shop Card will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.

© Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd. Ships of Bermudan and British registry.

    Package ID: PCLEMEMEX20251102