Thank you for booking our 2026 Discover the Panama Canal: Panama to Belize Luxury Cruise. Your adventure will be here before you know it!
Approximately 30 days before the trip, your personalized travel documents will be sent out via email confirming all of your trip inclusions and airport transfer details. Below you will find additional information to help you prepare for the adventure that lies ahead.
All documentation required for this itinerary is the sole responsibility of the guest. Brand g Vacations will not be responsible for advising and/or obtaining required travel documentation for any passenger, or for any delays, damages, and/or losses, including missed portions of your trip, related to improper or absent travel documentation. It is suggested that copies of important documents, including your passport and visas, be kept in a separate place, in case the originals are lost or stolen.
Passport:
While some counties in South and Central America only require 3 months validity on your passport, we advise all guests to ensure their passports are valid for a minimum of 6 months after your last date of travel.
Residents of other countries should check with the nearest consulate of each country visited on this itinerary to determine passport and visa requirements.
Visas:
Panama: U.S. tourists can stay in Panama for 180 days without a visa. This is strictly enforced. Confirm you receive an entry stamp in your passport when you arrive.
Colombia: United States and Canadian passport holders may travel to Colombia without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. Residents of other countries should consult with their home country’s state department or Colombian consulate or embassy.
Honduras: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays in Honduras of up to 90 days. For stays longer than 90 days, or for work or study, a visa is required and must be obtained before travel.
Belize: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 30 days but must have a passport valid for the duration of their trip, a return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. For stays longer than 30 days, or for purposes other than tourism, a visa is required. Visitors can apply for a 30-day extension in Belize at an Immigration Office.
Travel Protection: Travel insurance is advised to participate in this program. If you haven’t purchased a policy already, you may do so by contacting your travel agent or Brand g Vacations. You may also get a quote and purchase a policy online from Brand g’s recommended travel insurance provider, Travel Insured International. Please be sure to carry all policy information with you during your program.
Vaccinations: At the time of this printing, no vaccinations are universally required for entry into Panama, Colombia, Belize, or Honduras if arriving from the United States. However, Yellow Fever vaccination may be required if you are arriving from or have recently traveled through a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission. Certain vaccinations such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and others may also be recommended depending on your travel itinerary. We encourage all guests to consult with their personal physician or a travel medicine specialist to discuss recommended vaccinations and any other health precautions based on their individual health history and travel plans. Please also visit The State Department’s travel page at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html
The consulates of the countries to be visited will also provide information on vaccination requirements and/or suggestions. You may also consult your home country’s centers for disease control for their current recommendations. For the US visit CDC.
We cannot reimburse guests for any missed portions of the trip due to illness of any sort. If you haven’t done so already, we highly recommend that all guests purchase a travel insurance policy to cover expenses incurred with any illness as well as reimbursement for missed portions of the trip. We recommend Travel Insured International, however there are many other options available.
Medical: The medical center on the ship is designed to provide care for temporary illnesses and accidents. Please note these facilities are not intended or capable of providing ongoing treatment of pre-existing medical conditions. Any special requirement or need for health services aboard must be cleared in writing with Brand g before final booking will be accepted. Guests are reminded to bring their personal medications, as pharmacy services are limited. Any medical expenses incurred are the guest’s own responsibility and neither Brand g Vacations nor the ship is responsible for costs or quality of medical care received. A travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses while traveling internationally is highly recommended.
Dietary Restrictions: Please advise us of any special dietary restrictions at least 45 days (March 10, 2026) prior to your departure. This information will be provided to the proper personnel, and to the extent possible within local conditions and limitations, every effort will be made to accommodate your needs. It is the guest’s responsibility to provide us with as much detail as possible concerning any medically related dietary concerns. Not all dietary requests can be accommodated, and we appreciate your understanding in this matter.
Physical Limitations: This cruise program is active. While there will be plenty of time to relax, there is much to see and do. Many included excursions require an extensive amount of walking over cobblestone streets, and many sites have numerous steps that may be steeper and narrower than is common in the U.S. For your safety and enjoyment, we recommend that all guests be in good physical condition. Brand g Vacations at its sole discretion, reserves the right to refuse passage, or to require a current passenger to end their trip, if the passenger’s state of health or physical condition may affect their own health, safety, or enjoyment or that of other passengers.
Mobility Requirements: Please note that the ship is anchored at sea for many of the ports on this itinerary, and land is accessed by means of the ship’s zodiacs. A Zodiac boat is a type of rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) known for its durability, stability, and versatility—especially in expedition and adventure settings.
Each Zodiac boat nudges up to a ‘beach’ or an island. Expedition guides and crew will hold the Zodiac stable while passengers slide their legs over the side and wiggle toward the front of the boat before stepping out. This may mean stepping into the water, but there will be someone to help you.
When you make a “wet landing” at the shore, you scoot up to the front of the zodiac and they have you swing your legs around first and then exit the zodiac. They usually have boxes there as well for boarding the zodiac. Lots of crew to help you with the wet landings and boardings.
While there are no restrictions on the number of bags each guest may bring on board the ship, storage space is limited, and it is suggested that each guest bring only one checked bag. Additionally, all airlines impose restrictions on both size and weight, and many airlines restrict the number of bags per person. Each guest must check with their selected air carrier for limitations prior to departure, as luggage restrictions are subject to change. Guests who exceed an airline’s luggage restrictions may be asked by the airline to pay the airline’s overweight/oversized luggage fees.
An airline’s limitations on the weight and size of checked and carry-on baggage are usually found on their website or may be obtained by calling the airline directly. Please remember that international (over the water) and domestic (intra continental) restrictions may not be the same.
Your luggage and all personal belongings are solely your responsibility throughout the trip. Neither Brand g Vacations or the cruise line are responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage or personal belongings. Selecting a travel insurance plan that will cover lost or stolen luggage and/or personal items is highly recommended.
Please place luggage tags on the outside of all of your bags, including carry on and hand luggage, and include a copy of your contact information during the trip on the inside of your checked bags. Valuables and medication should only be packed in your carry-on bags (unless required to be placed in checked bags by your airline).
Please be sure to contact your airline prior to departure and verify there have been no changes to the flight number or schedule. If you have an airport transfer confirmed with Brand g Vacations, please advise of any schedule change affecting your airport pick up time.
Familiarize yourself with current airport security procedures and arrive at the airport at least two and a half (2.5) hours prior to your scheduled departure. During peak travel times, you may want to arrive three (3) hours prior to your scheduled departure time.
Most items you purchase internationally can be brought back into the US and Canada. We do recommend, however, that you check with both your home country’s customs office for current restrictions, as well as with the embassies of the countries you are visiting for any restrictions on items that may be unlawful to take outside their borders.
When you return to your home country, you should be prepared to declare everything you purchased or acquired while traveling. Many countries will ask you to complete a customs form, which will require descriptions and values of the items. These forms are easier to complete if you keep your sales receipts easily accessible. Most countries have set customs duty exemptions for both quantity and value of certain items. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with these allowances and limits prior to your travel.
Guests who provided their independently arranged flight details to Brand g Vacations no later than 45 days (March 10, 2026) prior to embarkation, will automatically have airport arrival and departure transfers arranged.
Arrival Transfers
Arrival transfers are provided from the Panama City Airport (PTY) to the ship or to your pre-cruise hotel.
Contact our team or your travel agent to ensure arrangements outside of these arrival and departure transfers will be included. Booked guests should provide their arrival and departure details 45 days (March 10, 2026) prior to the trip to ensure transfer availability.
If you experience a travel delay while still in your home country, after working with your air carrier to revise your flight schedule, please contact Brand g’s Operations Office at 952-405-9309 to advise us of your revised arrival date and time. If the line is busy or you are calling outside of general business hours, please leave a message.
If you have already departed your home country, please contact our local staff at the numbers provided on the Arrival Transfer Information page that is included with your personalized travel documents, and in the Contact Information section below.
If you purchased travel insurance that covers flight delay and cancellation expenses, you will also want to contact your travel insurance company to start a claim for expenses incurred during your delay. If the delay is serious enough that you will miss the starting point of your cruise, any additional hotel, and/or flight arrangements necessary to meet your group will be at your expense.
Baggage delays unfortunately, occur from time to time, especially during peak travel periods. If you discover any bag did not make it to your destination, do not leave the airport baggage area without completing a Lost Baggage Report with your air carrier. This report is essential to the tracking of your claim. If you have an airport transfer scheduled and are traveling with a companion, we recommend that one person exit the baggage claim area and locate the representative to inform him or her of the situation. This will allow the representative to ensure that the transfer is properly provided. Give the air carrier a copy of your travel itinerary, along with the hotel and ship contact information. Report your lost baggage to your Brand g Vacations Tour Leader and provide them with a copy of your Lost Baggage Report. Brand g Vacations is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and/or personal belongings. Selecting a travel insurance plan that will cover lost or stolen luggage and/or personal items is highly recommended.
A Brand g Vacations Tour Leader will be with you during your travel program to handle all the details, leaving you to relax and enjoy your vacation.
The ability to stay in touch with friends and family is an important part of travel, and many guests choose to bring cell phones on the trip. International roaming charges can be expensive, and it is advisable to contact your domestic carrier to determine the charges and plans available for each country you are visiting, then select the best available plan for your expected usage. In some countries, SIM cards are available for purchase that can be used in an unlocked phone (call your carrier to determine if your phone is, or can be, unlocked), providing a local number that can be used both locally and internationally, usually at a significantly lower rate.
Making international calls from hotels is possible, but costly. Connection fees are usually applied, in addition to other call charges.
The ship is equipped with a state-of-the-art satellite communication systems. Every accommodation contains a direct-dial telephone and satellite calls may be made from your room and charged to your onboard account. You may also use your mobile phone throughout the ship and while in port. Mobile coverage may be limited depending upon your carrier’s service plan and ship’s location. Please contact your service provider for more information. Speed and bandwidth are affected by vessel location and number of simultaneous users.
Standard wifi usage for social media messaging up to 2mbs speed, email and surfing, standard app usages and online games for one device up to 5mbs (streaming/music/video as extra) Premium wifi available onboard at extra cost for streaming per device / per day.
The ship operates on a ‘cashless’ system and all charges are billed directly to each guest’s onboard account. While onboard, guests will sign for all purchases and pay their charges at the end of the cruise with a credit card; cards accepted are American Express, MasterCard, and Visa. Credit cards will be charged in US Dollars.
Cash is not accepted for settling the onboard account.
Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards internationally. American Express is accepted at most major hotels and large vendors. Smaller vendors and particularly restaurants may not accept American Express for payment. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express cards are all accepted onboard.
There may be some stores or locations where cash is preferred (especially for small purchases) or where a card cannot be used for purchases. We recommend bringing at least one major credit card as well as an ATM card that is both a debit and credit card.
Please contact your bank and/or credit card companies to let them know that you will be leaving the country to avoid any problems using your credit or debit cards overseas.
Optional Gratuities for the included components of this program have been pre-paid. You are welcome to provide additional tips at your discretion.
On the ship, smoking is allowed only in designated areas on open decks. We ask everyone to refrain from smoking while on excursions.
All rooms on the ship include both 110/220v outlet, as well as a USB port.
The voltage in hotels is 220v, European Standard. To use any electrical products from the US or Canada you will need a plug adaptor and any device that is not dual voltage will require an electrical converter. Many electronic devices have built-in electrical converters, however, please check the manufacturer’s specifications for specific details.
Your tour program includes comprehensive shore excursions led by a local English-speaking guide; these excursions have been designed to provide you with the best possible experience. Your Brand g Vacations Tour Leader will provide details on each day’s excursion(s) and timing. Should guests be concerned about any aspect of an excursion, please inform your local guide or Tour Leader.
Some temples, churches, and other tourist attractions may require a dress code. If you plan to bring a cell phone or tablet on excursions, please ensure it is set to “silent.” Guides will alert you when photos and/or flash photos are not allowed.
The ship has an elevator however, embarkation/disembarkation facilities may also be difficult to navigate with wheelchairs or walkers. The cruise line does not accept guide or support dogs. Electric mobility scooters or any other mechanical mobility devices are NOT permitted for use on the ship.
Some of the places we visit on this itinerary are not handicapped accessible. Please note: the American with Disabilities Act does not apply in the countries visited and accessibility to some sights may be limited for those with mobility impairments. Excursions may involve walking over uneven ground and some excursions are walking tours only. For your safety and enjoyment, we recommend that all guests be in good physical condition.
At its sole discretion, Brand g Vacations reserves the right to refuse passage, or to require a passenger to end their trip if the passenger’s state of health or physical condition may affect their own health, safety, and enjoyment, or that of other passengers.
In the countries in which we operate, pickpockets are not uncommon, and caution is encouraged. When sailing, please lock cabin doors, reducing the opportunity for theft. Cabins are fitted with safes for personal use. Brand g Vacations cannot be held liable for loss of money, jewelry, or other valuable items from the ship or while on an excursion ashore during a voyage. A travel insurance policy will typically cover most incidents of loss or theft.
Drinking water is provided in your stateroom for your comfort.
Weather forecasts are widely available on the Internet, and some of the favorites for large, international cities are www.weather.com and www.cnn.com/weather.
Average temperatures:
Travel Essentials: The following items are essential for any destination.
– Sunglasses
– Sunscreen
– Insect repellent
– Hat
– Rain jacket or windproof jacket
– Umbrella
– Copies of prescription eyewear and medications (include generic equivalents)
– Copies of credit card information
– Copies of your passport information pages and visas
– Camera
Clothing: Comfortable, sporty, casual clothing is appropriate throughout the trip.
– Natural and/or moisture-wicking fabrics in light colors that may be layered (e.g., lightweight shirts, khakis, slacks, skirts, dresses, and walking shorts)
– Lightweight jacket or pullover for early mornings, late evenings, or air-conditioned spaces
– Lightweight rain jacket
– Shorts or lightweight pants for daytime activities
– Sport jackets and cocktail dresses are not needed at any time during this program. However, we do recommend a few dressier outfits for dinners and evenings out.
Footwear: As you will engage in significant walking over uneven terrain.
– Comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support
– Sturdy footwear for outdoor activities
Additional Recommendations:
– Sun hat
– Sweater or jacket for cooler weather
– Lip balm
– Waterproof jacket and pants (optional for rainy days)
– Comfortable shoes for excursions
– Extra warm layer of clothing for colder regions
Laundry: The SH VEGA offers laundry, dry-cleaning, and ironing service for a small fee. For your convenience, there is also a self-service area on deck 4 with a laundromat and dryer and an ironing station at no charge.
Hotel Recommendations
Should you wish to extend your stay in Panama City or Belize City, we’ve curated a selection of our preferred properties.
Panama City:
Casa Viejo (Old Town)
Las Clementinas Hotel
Hotel la Compania Casco Antiguo
El Cangrejo
Sortis Hotel, Spa & Casino, Autograph Collection
Bella Vista
Belize City:
Named after the first ship to cross the Arctic Northeast Passage, SH Vega is a 5-star expedition vessel combining elegant Scandinavian design with cutting-edge technology. Built for remote polar and small-ship cruising, Vega’s ice-strengthened hull and large stabilizers deliver smooth, comfortable sailing.
Observation Lounge
A central social hub featuring panoramic views — perfect for recap talks, cocktail hour, and lounging with new friends.
Club Lounge
A relaxed space aft for chatting, casual drinks, and watching the world go by.
Swan’s Nest / Stargazing Deck
Upper-deck outdoor space dedicated to soaking in vistas, wildlife sightings, and serene moments under the sky.
Swan Restaurant
Main onboard restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with an internationally inspired menu and scenic views.
Pool Bar & Grill
Casual spot near the pool offering lighter meals, informal dining, and drinks in an al fresco setting.
Room Service
Available throughout the day for dining in the comfort of your cabin.
Spa & Beauty Salon
Pampering treatments and self-care experiences.
Gym & Fitness Studio
Well-equipped space to maintain workouts while at sea.
Sauna With a View
Relax in heat with panoramic views overlooking the ocean.
Jacuzzi & Heated Outdoor Pool
Great for soaking after shore excursions and enjoying the fresh air.
Basecamp
Expedition hub for gearing up before landings, storing gear, and meeting expedition staff.
Cruise Critic
Library
Quiet space for reading and reflection.
Expedition Lab
Educational and briefing space for presentations, science insights, and talks.
Clinic
Medical facility for guest health and safety.
All accommodations are elegantly designed with plenty of natural light, thoughtful storage, and modern amenities.
In-Room Features Include: minibar, smart HDTV, individually controlled air-conditioning, coffee machine, towels for pool/gym, bathrobe & slippers, toiletries, free-Wi-Fi, personal safe, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Deck 3: Clinic | Library | Basecamp | Beauty Salon | Expedition Lab
Deck 4: Laundry | Swan Restaurant | Oceanview Staterooms
Deck 5 & 6: Balcony Staterooms, Suites, Premium Suites | Swan’s Nest
Deck 7: Shop | Swimming Pool | Pool Bar & Grill | Club Lounge | Observation Lounge
Deck 8: Gym | Sauna | Jacuzzi | Spa | Bridge
Deck 9: Stargazing Deck
On a Brand g Vacations cruise, every night is opening night. These are the Brand g Entertainers who will be providing fabulous entertainment throughout the cruise.
Although the focus of our cruises is mainly on sightseeing and socializing, we do like to mix in a bit of frivolity as well. With that in mind, we’re planning a couple of themed festivities during the cruise which may include a welcome cocktail reception, a T-Dance, or quiz shows. If you should choose to participate, great; if you’d rather just be a voyeur, that is totally fine as well.
ALL ABOUT ME Welcome Party – It’s our hometown party, but with a twist. At Brand g it’s all about you and we want to know more! Wear something that expresses who you are, where you’re from, or shares a favorite color, sport, hobby, etc. It can be a simple t-shirt or a hat, or you can dress to impress in a full costume. It’s up to your creativity and what your suitcase will allow. So, whatever you dream up in the spirit of good clean fun is welcome to let others know what makes you… YOU.
If needed, the Brand g Vacations office is available to support you Monday – Friday 9:00am to 6:00pm Central Standard Time at +1 952 405 9309. Also, you may email [email protected].
Throughout the trip we will be in either in Eastern Standard Time (EST) or Central Standard Time (CST). That means when we are in Panama and Colombia it will be the same time as it is in New York City. When we are in Honduras and Belize if it is noon it will be 1:00pm in New York City.
International telephone calls can be made by dialing the International Access Code (011), the country code and then the phone number.
Country Codes:
Always keep the ship’s number on your phone in case you get separated from the group during an excursion.
Emergency Contact Details:
| Accommodations | Dates of Stay | Address/Port/Slip | Phone Number |
|
SH Vega |
April 24 |
Panama City Port Terminal de Cruceros de Amador
Pacific Cruise Terminal |
Pending |
Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed of deals and promotions
