We booked this as a last-minute deal, about 2 weeks prior to embarkation. Although we had always said that the Panama Canal might be a fun trip, we were unprepared for how exciting it was to actually pass through and see the locks! Ours was the first Princess ship to pass through the new locks, and the captain and crew did everything to make certain that we all had a fabulous experience, including even pointing out a large crocodile in the water just before the first lock.

Our cabin showed some signs of wear, but the bed and pillows were super comfortable and the room was so quiet. The balcony was very large, allowing both of us to stretch out easily and enjoy the warm breeze off the ocean.

In addition to the Canal, we particularly enjoyed Columbia and Costa Rica as ports of call, primarily for the rich biodiversity both countries offer. As a nature enthusiast, I was thrilled to see so many new and fascinating types of wildlife. Read more