Royal Caribbean Colon Cruise Tips
When are the best deals on Royal Caribbean cruises from Colon?
If you are looking to save money on a Royal Caribbean Cruise from Colon,
the lowest prices are usually available in October thru November. Check out our
Royal Caribbean from Colon Sailing Calendar to see for yourself.
What's the best way to get to the Port of Colon from the Panama City airport for my Royal Caribbean cruise?
If you are flying to Panama for your Colon flight, you will arrive at Tocumen International Airport (PTY/MPTO) in Panama City. This airport is about 65 kilometers from downtown Colon, so be prepared to travel for up to two hours to reach your port. Car rental is possible, but we do not suggest this for a few good reasons... potholes, frequent sharp turns, and inclement weather during Panama's April through December rainy season!
Cruise travelers often opt for taxis, and consistently arrive at the port safely. However, these drivers tend to race you to your port (which will certainly give you something to talk about with other ship mates). While the currency is in American dollars (Balboas), it may be helpful for you to brush up on your Spanish a bit so you can communicate with your driver. Rates for a taxi from PTY to Colon will include the following: a surcharge of at least $.40 if you called the taxi; a surcharge of at least $.50 for each additional passenger; charges imposed by the government as taxis move from one city zone to another in Panama City. Taxi drivers do not expect tips (or lunch), unless you have rented the car for the day. That said, they may want to pick up other fares en route. Altogether, expect your taxi to Colon to cost at least $25.00.
For cruises for 2010 through 2012, Royal Caribbean provides a round trip shuttle at a cost of $80.00 per person. While not the cheapest, it is likely the safest and most stress free mode of transportation to and from Tocumen International. When taking a Royal Caribbean transportation from the airport on the day of embarkation, staff is mindful of flight arrival and departure time. If there is a plane that is late with a number of Royal Caribbean passengers on it who are scheduled to take the shuttle, Royal Caribbean staff can delay the departure of the ship so everyone can make it. If you are not taking the Royal Caribbean approved shuttle from the airport and your flight arrives late, there is a risk of missing your ship's departure. So if you are coming from a long distance, or traveling via airports where cancellations and delays are frequent, consider booking the Royal Caribbean transportation.
When does my flight need to arrive in Colon for my Royal Caribbean cruise?
If you are flying in to Tocumen International Airport (PTY/MPTO) on the day of your cruise, make sure you allow plenty of time to get to the ship. Royal Caribbean recommends arriving in to PTY/MPTO by 1:30PM at the latest on the day of embarkation. After your cruise, your flight should not leave before 12:30PM from PTY/MPTO. (verified September 2010)
What Royal Caribbean ships are based in Colon?
The
Grandeur of the Seas sails from Colon from November to April. She cruises to the Southern and Western Caribbean, and most of these cruises are 7 nights in length.
What time can I board my Royal Caribbean cruise out of Colon?
Boarding for your Royal Caribbean cruise starts at 5:00PM. If possible get there early to avoid the lines. You must be checked-in at least 90 minutes prior to the scheduled cruise departure. Cruises typically depart on Sundays at 6:30pm, but it is always prudent to confirm this and other information with Royal Caribbean in advance.
Safety in Colon, Panama
Some travelers report that they feel that Colon, Panama is not a tourist-friendly city. If staying in a hotel in Colon, you may be advised to be escorted, and there are concerns about theft. If this type of environment concerns you, it may be best to plan your travel arrangements so that you minimize your time in Colon. When traveling from the ship to the airport (and vice versa), this will not be a concern if taking the secure Royal Caribbean-provided transportation. Given that the cruise itineraries do not transit the Panama Canal, if you have not seen the Gatun Locks, it would be wise to add a pre- or post-stay in Colon and take a tour -- the Canal and the locks are an amazing sight. (updated September 2010)
What other departure ports and cruise lines are alternatives to Royal Caribbean from Colon?
Common alternative cruise ports to Colon include
Manaus,
Buenos Aires,
Rio De Janeiro,
Sao Paulo,
Callao and
Valparaiso.
Additionally, check out other cruise lines who may have departures from Colon, including,
Holland America Line,
Azamara Club Cruises,
Celebrity Cruises,
Cunard Line,
Princess Cruises and
Carnival Cruises.
Royal Caribbean Colon Resources
Let CruiseAdventures.us send you on a Royal Caribbean Cruise from Colon. You'll find the largest selection of Royal Caribbean cruise deals, discount prices and helpful advice on Royal Caribbean Colon Cruises. Book your Royal Caribbean cruise out of Colon online, or, call our Colon cruise experts at (888) 454-3858.
Images Copyright: Royal Caribbean Cruises