Cruise Travel Expected to Generate $20 Million for Panamanian Economy in 2005

Paradise, Pacific Princess, Norwegian Spirit, Pride of America, Silver Shadow, Insignia, MSC Opera and Disney Magic are some of the cruise liners expected to cross the Panama Canal this year and make calls at seaports in both oceans.

Officials from the Panama Tourism Institute (IPAT) believe cruise passengers coming to the Central American nation this year could spend as many as $20 million in purchases and services.

During the current cruise season, authorities hope to see scores of passengers landing on both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. IPAT estimates that some 173 vessels could dock in. Panama´s cruise season gets in full swing between the months of October and May.