Coast to Coast by Sea: 18-Night MSC Panama Canal Cruise

This 18-night voyage from Miami to Seattle is a rare chance to cross the continent by sea, and it suits retirees, multigenerational families and anyone with time to enjoy a long, unhurried trip. MSC Poesia leaves Miami on April 8, 2027, sails to Cartagena and Colón, transits the Panama Canal, then follows the Pacific coast north through Mexico and California before arriving in Seattle on April 26. It is a repositioning-style itinerary with ten days at sea, so expect plenty of downtime.

Cartagena’s walled old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most colorful stops in the Caribbean. At Colón you are on Panama’s Atlantic side, ready for the canal. The itinerary includes two days of canal cruising, giving you time to watch the ship rise through the locks and cross Gatun Lake, one of the great engineering sights in the world.

On the Pacific side, Huatulco offers a series of quiet bays and beaches on Mexico’s Oaxaca coast. Cabo San Lucas follows with its famous El Arco rock formation. San Diego and Los Angeles back to back give you two very different California cities: Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter, then beaches, Hollywood or Griffith Observatory. The final three sea days carry you north to Seattle, where Pike Place Market is a good first stop.

MSC Poesia is a mid-sized ship by MSC standards, with classic styling and a comfortable, easygoing feel. MSC brings an international atmosphere, family activities and evening entertainment, all of which help sea days pass easily. Drinks and Wi-Fi are generally extra, so on a trip this long a package may save money. Ask us to compare.

A one-way voyage of this length takes planning for flights and hotels, and we handle that part for our clients. Share your dates and cabin preferences and we will check fares and current promotions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many sea days are on the MSC Panama Canal cruise from Miami to Seattle?
The itinerary includes ten sea days plus two days of Panama Canal cruising. It is a great trip for travelers who enjoy a slower pace.

Do I need a passport for a Panama Canal cruise from Miami to Seattle?
Yes, plan on a valid passport. The cruise visits Colombia, Panama and Mexico, and requirements depend on your citizenship, so we will confirm the details.

Is a Panama Canal cruise good for kids?
MSC is a family-friendly line with kids’ clubs and activities, so children are welcome. With ten sea days, this voyage works best for kids who are happy with lots of ship time and for families that can travel during spring.