The Panama Canal, Pearl Islands and Darién Jungle
7 nights
National Geographic Quest
5 Nov '27Cruise overview
Embark on our only Central American expedition that travels solely through Panama, connecting you more deeply with the region’s wildlife, culture and famed modern engineering marvel. Aboard the National Geographic Quest, transit the historic Panama Canal by day and by night. Learn about the country’s indigenous and colonial history while visiting local communities and two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Encounter monkeys, iguanas, tropical birds and more as you venture into lush rainforests, a wildlife refuge and an important national park. In the surrounding turquoise waters, snorkel pristine coral reefs which shelter an array of colorful marine life.
Itinerary
Panama City
Arrive in Panama City, the capital of Panama this afternoon and transfer to Port Balboa to embark the National Geographic Quest this evening. You may opt for a culturally-immersive pre-voyage extension in Panama City and San Lorenzo, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. Later on, you’ll enter the Panama Canal at the Gatun Locks.
Arrival Time: Arrive by 12:00 p.m.
Arrival City: Panama City, Panama
Expect incredible morning views as you arrive into the port for Panama City. Tinged with a silver pre-dawn light, the city will metamorphosise into a golden glow as the sun rises above it. And from then on expect one stunning view after another. Very interesting in its own right, Fuerte Amador is obviously overshadowed by its proximity to Panama City. So should the Miraflores museum of the Canal, which offers a comprehensive and immersive tour of the Canal including a 3-D experience, four exhibition halls, an observation deck, and a surprisingly good restaurant not interest you then there is always the option of lovely Casco Viejo – literally the old quartier of Panama. The grand old colonial houses, cobbled streets, independent boutiques and buzzing street scene make this a must stop on your itinerary. And if you like seafood, you will not want miss the many restaurants and market stalls serving different variations of so-fresh-it’s-still-practically-swimming ceviche. Best eaten like the Panamanians do, with salty crackers and a cold beer on the beach. And if money is no object, a cup of geisha coffee – supposedly the world’s best and definitely the world’s most expensive at $7 a shot is definitely a pick me up! Cool cosmopolitan capital aside, Panama has a skyscraper filled skyline that is worthy of some of its North American counterparts. But if urban utopia is not your scene then fear not, the sandy beaches and lush rainforests are never more than a short cab ride away.
Read More
Punta Patiño Nature Reserve
Playa Muerto, Darién National Park
Pearl Islands
Panama Canal Transit
Gatun Lake
Portobelo
Colón
Category 1
#301-306 — Cabins feature two single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, two nightstands, two portholes, a full-length mirror, and reading lights.
Amenities
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Ship features
Purpose-built for exploration in coastal waters, National Geographic Quest combines expedition technology with modern comfort.
- 100-passenger capacity for small-group exploration
- Fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and paddleboards
- Shallow draft for access to hidden coves and fjords
- Onboard expedition team and National Geographic photographers
- Open Bridge policy for guest interaction with the crew
- Comfortable lounge with panoramic views
- Spa, fitness area, and library
- Environmentally conscious design and operations
- Locally inspired dining and regional cuisine
- Interactive briefings and lectures daily
