Just a knot longer
Hang tight. We're checking the weather.
Just a knot longer
Hang tight. We're checking the weather.
Colombia · Ships call at Cartagena, Colombia
Dry season returns — peak Panama Canal cruise season
Cartagena in December is warm and sunny, with average highs around 88°F and lows that rarely dip below 76°F. Rain is uncommon, with only about 4 rainy days expected across the month, ideal for beach days and shore excursions. Dry season returns — peak Panama Canal cruise season.
This is one of the most popular months to visit Cartagena, so book shore excursions early. The top snorkeling spots and tours sell out fast. Pack reef-safe SPF 50+ sunscreen, a hat, and breathable fabrics. The sun at 88°F is intense, especially near the water.
Affiliate links — these help keep our site free by earning us a commission at no extra cost to you.
Tours via Viator. Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews. Booking through our links keeps this site free at no cost to you.
Sailings that are at sea during December, with the date each one leaves port.
Die grose Herbstreise in 50 Tagen
Phoenix Reisen Cruises
Sails Oct 29, 2026
Star Collector: Southern Caribbean Thanksgiving Jubilee
Windstar Cruises
Sails Nov 10, 2026
Eastern & Western Caribbean
MSC Cruises
Sails Nov 12, 2026
An Extended Journey through Caribbean Beauty & Ocean Stillness
Explora Journeys Cruises
Sails Nov 17, 2026
Best Of Mittelamerika - Ab/Bis La Romana
TUI Cruises
Sails Nov 20, 2026
Karibik & Mittelamerika ab Dominikanische Republik
AIDA Cruises
Sails Nov 21, 2026
Cartagena is the most-visited port on Panama Canal and Central America itineraries, a UNESCO World Heritage walled city of pastel colonial mansions, flower-draped balconies, and old stone ramparts. Most cruisers spend the day in the Old Town, browsing emerald shops and climbing the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the hilltop fortress above the city, before the ship heads for the canal.
The average high temperature in Cartagena during December is 88°F, with a low of 76°F.
Cartagena typically sees 4 days of rain in December. Dry season returns — peak Panama Canal cruise season.
For a December cruise to Cartagena, you should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, and sun protection.