Panama Canal Expects More Than 220 Transits During the 2026-2027 Cruise Season

The ship, the Carnival Miracle, opened the Panama Canal’s 2026-2027 cruise season today, Wednesday, marking the start of more than 220 transits scheduled for this period.

The ship began her northbound passage through the Miraflores Locks, from the Pacific side to the Atlantic, as part of a 16-day repositioning voyage from Seattle, Washington.

This season affirms that the Panama Canal continues as an appealing strategic route for the cruise industry and reinforces its role for itineraries that connect tourism markets across North America, the Caribbean, and along the Pacific coast.

According to Albano G. Aguilar, Market Analysis and Forecasting Specialist at the Corporate Affairs Office, cruise transits are projected to perform favorably during the fiscal year. This outlook reflects the industry’s sustained expansion, growing global passenger demand, and the optimism of major cruise lines about their future operations.

This story was originally published by Panama Canal Authority. Read the full story at Panama Canal Authority →