Fly Stay Cruise - 27 Day Pacific to Atlantic: LA to New York via the Panama Canal
This package includes international airfares and flights will be added to your booking at no additional cost.
Enjoy an exceptional-value holiday that seamlessly combines return flights, pre- and post-cruise hotels and/or tours with a cruise—removing the stress of planning so you can enjoy every moment from departure to return.
Make the most of your cruise and travel independently, with everything organised for you. Your international flights, pre-cruise stay, and cruise are organised so all you have to do is relax and enjoy your time at sea. Of course, there is the option of extending your tour if you don’t want to head straight to the airport upon disembarkation.
Our Leisurely tours are designed for a relaxed travel experience, they feature longer stays in each destination and ample free time. Unpack, unwind, and explore at your own pace with minimal early starts or hotel changes.
✓ Return international flights
✓ 20-night Panama Canal cruise sailing from Los Angeles to New York onboard Norwegian Bliss, visiting the USA, Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Jamaica and the Bahamas
✓ 2-night pre-cruise stay at 4-star hotel in Los Angeles
✓ 3-night post-cruise stay at 4-star hotel in New York
✓ New York Hop-On, Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus
✓ 9/11 Memorial entry tickets
✓ One World Observatory entry tickets
✓ Cruise gratuities included
✓ All onboard dining, entertainment and port charges
Inspiring Bonus Value
Exclusive fly-stay-cruise package savings
Full coast-to-coast voyage from Los Angeles to New York with no internal flights required
2-night 4-star stay in downtown Los Angeles before your cruise
3-night New York stay with included sightseeing
Cruise gratuities included in your fare
Onboard Bundle Package
Upgrade to an all-inclusive package from only $1,180 per person, including a drinks package, WiFi package, US$50 shore excursion credit per port per stateroom and two speciality dining experiences onboard. Sail with Norwegian Cruise Line and enjoy award-winning freestyle cruising, world-class dining and unforgettable destinations from the Pacific to the Atlantic.
Sail coast to coast from sun-soaked Los Angeles to vibrant New York onboard Norwegian Bliss, taking in colourful Mexican beach towns, Costa Rican rainforest, the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, colonial Cartagena and the warm shores of the Caribbean, before three nights exploring the energy of the Big Apple.
Today your journey begins as you depart Australia on your included flight to Los Angeles. Thanks to crossing the International Date Line, you arrive in Los Angeles on the same calendar day as your departure. Upon arrival, make your way to your accommodation for a two-night stay at the Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown by IHG. Set in the lively heart of downtown Los Angeles, your hotel places you within easy reach of LA Live, Grand Central Market, the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the city's celebrated Arts District. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax after your journey or begin exploring the city at your own pace.
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the dynamic neighbourhoods of downtown Los Angeles. You may wish to browse the historic stalls of Grand Central Market, walk the iconic Broadway theatre district, take in a show at LA Live or visit The Broad and MOCA contemporary art museums. For something different, head up to Griffith Observatory for sweeping views over the city, or take a short ride to Olvera Street for a taste of LA's Mexican-American heritage. Return to your hotel and enjoy your final evening before embarking on your cruise tomorrow.
Today, check out of your hotel and transfer to the World Cruise Center in San Pedro to embark Norwegian Bliss, your home for the next 20 nights. After settling into your stateroom, take time to explore the ship's facilities including a wide variety of restaurants, lounges, entertainment venues and relaxation spaces before sailing from Los Angeles later today. Your cruise fare conveniently includes onboard gratuities. Guests also have the option to upgrade to a premium package, which includes a drinks package, a WiFi package, US$50 shore excursion credit per port per stateroom and two speciality dining experiences onboard, creating a more all-inclusive cruising experience.
Enjoy a relaxing first day at sea as Norwegian Bliss sails south along the Mexican coastline. Take advantage of the many amenities onboard. Relax by the pool, attend onboard entertainment, enjoy world-class dining or unwind while admiring sweeping ocean views from the deck.
Today your cruise arrives in Cabo San Lucas, the sun-drenched resort town at the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula. The ship anchors offshore and tenders guests to shore. You may choose to relax on Medano Beach, browse the lively marina, catch a glimpse of the famous El Arco rock formation or join an optional excursion to nearby Todos Santos.
Another relaxed day at sea as the ship sails towards Acapulco. Enjoy the onboard dining options, take a fitness class, treat yourself at the spa or grab a sunlounger and soak up the Pacific sunshine.
Today your cruise arrives in Acapulco, Mexico's original Pacific resort city, known for its sweeping bay, lively waterfront and year-round sunshine. You may choose to take in the famous cliff divers at La Quebrada, wander the historic centre or join an optional excursion to explore the surrounding area.
Enjoy a full day at sea as the ship continues south towards Guatemala. Norwegian's Freestyle Dining means you can choose where and when to eat, with no fixed seating times.
Today you arrive in Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala's main Pacific port and gateway to some of the country's most rewarding sights. Optional excursions provide opportunities to visit the colonial city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site framed by volcanoes, or explore the surrounding coffee-growing highlands.
A relaxed day at sea as the ship sails towards Costa Rica. Take advantage of the time onboard to enjoy the entertainment, dining and leisure facilities at your own pace.
Today you arrive in Costa Rica. The ship docks at Puerto Caldera, around 30 minutes from the coastal city of Puntarenas. Costa Rica is famed for its lush rainforests, wildlife and adventure activities, with options ranging from gentle walks along the seafront to full-day excursions inland to the cloud forests or wildlife reserves.
Another day at sea as you make your way towards Panama. With the Panama Canal transit just two days away, take some time to settle in and prepare for one of the most memorable days of the cruise.
Today you arrive in Panama City, where modern skyscrapers rise alongside Spanish colonial ruins. The ship docks at the Pacific Cruise Terminal, with shore excursion options including the historic Casco Viejo old town, the Miraflores Locks visitor centre and the rainforest-fringed Panama Canal Railway. With a late evening departure, you'll have a full day and into the evening to explore.
Today is the highlight of your cruise. Norwegian Bliss enters the Panama Canal and begins the full daylight transit between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, an 80-kilometre journey through three sets of locks: Miraflores, Pedro Miguel and Gatun. Find a spot on deck early and watch as the ship is raised and lowered through the locks, sailing past the lush Panamanian jungle and across Gatun Lake. Fascinating commentary is provided onboard throughout the day.
Today your cruise arrives in Cartagena, Colombia's most beloved coastal city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Step ashore to discover a walled colonial old town of cobbled lanes, brightly painted buildings and flower-draped balconies. You may choose to visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, wander Plaza Santo Domingo or simply soak up the rhythm of this lively Caribbean city.
Today is the highlight of your cruise. Norwegian Bliss enters the Panama Canal and begins the full daylight transit between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, an 80-kilometre journey through three sets of locks: Miraflores, Pedro Miguel and Gatun. Find a spot on deck early and watch as the ship is raised and lowered through the locks, sailing past the lush Panamanian jungle and across Gatun Lake. Fascinating commentary is provided onboard throughout the day.
Today your cruise arrives at the historic port of Falmouth on Jamaica's north coast. Set between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, Falmouth is known for its 19th-century Georgian architecture and as a launchpad for some of Jamaica's most popular sights, including Dunn's River Falls and the Martha Brae River. Spend the day exploring on your own or join a shore excursion.
A leisurely day at sea as the ship sails towards Norwegian's private Bahamian island. Enjoy the pool decks, browse the onboard boutiques or treat yourself at Mandara Spa.
Spend the day at Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas. White sand beaches, turquoise water and a relaxed island vibe make this the perfect day in the sun. Tender ashore from the ship to enjoy a beachside lunch, take a swim in the calm waters or simply relax on the sand before sailing on this evening.
Today the ship calls at Miami, Florida's most colourful coastal city. With the ship docked from morning until late afternoon, you'll have time to step ashore and explore. You may wish to stroll along Bayside Marketplace, take in the Art Deco architecture of South Beach's Ocean Drive, browse the colourful murals of Wynwood Walls or simply enjoy the warm Florida sunshine. Return to the ship for a late afternoon departure as Norwegian Bliss sets sail north towards New York.
Enjoy a relaxed day at sea as the ship sails north along the eastern seaboard of the United States. With the cruise drawing to a close, this is a perfect day to enjoy the pool decks, take in a final show or treat yourself to a meal at one of the speciality restaurants.
Your final full day onboard Norwegian Bliss. Take time to enjoy the ship's facilities one last time, indulge in a Mandara Spa treatment, settle your onboard account and pack your bags ahead of arrival into New York tomorrow morning.
Your cruise concludes today as Norwegian Bliss sails into New York Harbor. After breakfast onboard, it is time to disembark in the heart of one of the world's most iconic cities. Make your way to your hotel in the heart of Times Square, perfectly placed for exploring the city on foot. The remainder of the day is at leisure to settle in and begin discovering the energy of the Big Apple.
Today, set out to discover New York at your own pace with your included Hop-On, Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by open-top bus. With multiple loops covering Uptown, Downtown and Brooklyn, the tour brings you within easy reach of the city's most famous landmarks including Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State Building, Fifth Avenue, Greenwich Village and the Brooklyn Bridge. Hop off whenever something catches your eye, then jump back on the next bus to continue exploring.
With your day of sightseeing self-paced, you'll have plenty of opportunity for shopping, dining and discovering the neighbourhoods of Manhattan. You may wish to take in a Broadway show this evening or enjoy a meal at one of the city's many celebrated restaurants.
Optional Activity: 15-Minute New York Helicopter Flight
See New York from a thrilling new perspective on an optional 15-minute helicopter flight over the city skyline. Lift off from the Manhattan heliport and soar above iconic landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building and Central Park. With huge windows and panoramic views, this is one of the most memorable ways to take in the scale of the Big Apple.
This morning, make your way to Lower Manhattan to visit the 9/11 Memorial. Set on the footprint of the original Twin Towers, the twin reflecting pools and surrounding plaza pay tribute to those lost on September 11, 2001 in a quiet and moving setting. Your included tickets give you entry to the Memorial.
Afterwards, head a short walk to One World Trade Center for your included entry to the One World Observatory. Rising above the Manhattan skyline, the observatory offers sweeping views in every direction, with interactive exhibits bringing the city's story to life as you ascend.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy more of New York's celebrated dining, theatre and museums. You may wish to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, walk the High Line elevated park or take in the views from the Top of the Rock observation deck.
This morning, check out of your hotel and make your way to the airport for your return flight to Australia. Your journey home will typically include a connection on the West Coast of the United States before continuing across the Pacific.
Return Journey to Australia
Please note: Due to crossing the International Date Line travelling west, your return journey to Australia spans multiple calendar days. Depending on your specific flight scheduling and connection times, your arrival back in Australia may fall on Day 28 of the journey rather than Day 27. Final flight times and arrival day will be confirmed prior to travel.
Your unforgettable journey draws to a close as you arrive back in Australia. Welcome home, having travelled along the Pacific coast, through the Panama Canal, across the Caribbean and into the energy of New York City. Please note that depending on flight scheduling, your arrival back in Australia may fall on the following day due to the International Date Line crossing.
Norwegian Bliss
Launched in 2018 and refurbished in 2025, Norwegian Bliss is a Breakaway Plus class ship offering a stylish and energetic cruising experience as you explore some of the world's most rewarding destinations. Guests can enjoy a wide range of dining venues, bars and lounges, live entertainment including Broadway-style productions, multiple pools and waterslides, an open-air observation lounge and spacious decks ideal for taking in panoramic ocean views. With Norwegian Cruise Line's famous Freestyle Cruising, you can dine when and where you choose, enjoy relaxed onboard experiences and tailor your cruise holiday to suit your travel style.
Guaranteed Cabin – What This Means for You
Your cabin is booked on a Guaranteed basis. This means you're confirmed in your selected cabin category (or higher), however your specific cabin number will be allocated by the cruise line closer to departure. You may receive an upgrade at no additional cost, but cabin location and deck cannot be requested. Rest assured, you'll enjoy all the features and inclusions of the category you've chosen, the exact cabin details will simply be revealed a little later.
Included Cabin Type – Inside Cabin
Inside cabins offer a comfortable and stylish retreat featuring two lower beds that convert to a queen-size bed, modern ensuite bathroom, sitting area and a range of thoughtful amenities designed for relaxation after a day exploring ashore.
Oceanview Cabin – from $1100 per person, twin share. Solo fare on application.
Oceanview cabins feature a large picture window allowing natural light and ocean views. Enjoy comfortable bedding, a well-appointed bathroom and ample storage space, creating a bright and relaxing environment during your cruise.
Balcony Cabin – from $2115 per person, twin share. Solo fare on application.
Balcony cabins offer your own private outdoor space where you can relax and take in coastal scenery and ocean views. Inside, enjoy
Payment Information
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
Cooling Off Period
This product is eligible for a 3 day cooling-off period.
Terms and conditions
Please review the terms and conditions here: Terms and Conditions
Starting Point
Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.
Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.
Arrival Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the airport to the hotel will be comfortable and hassle-free.
To make your way to your hotel from the airport, there are various connections by express train or limousine bus. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too.
In Case of Emergency
Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.
We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.
When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour.
Finishing Point
Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.
Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly.
Departure Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the hotel to the airport will be comfortable and hassle-free.
As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.
To make your way to the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Didi. If you're having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.
Accommodation
All hotels listed are subject to change; any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding requests cannot be guaranteed and are always on a request basis with the hotel.
Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $4,400.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with them and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
Itinerary Changes
Please note that as part of our commitment to constantly improving our passenger experience, there may be itinerary changes between the time of booking and when you travel. These changes are always made with your experience in mind and will be clearly communicated in advance if they affect your booking.
Trusted Travel Partner Tour
Your chosen tour will be operated by one of our trusted travel partners. These are meticulously crafted tours designed by established travel partners we know and trust. These tours offer a unique and exciting way to explore the world, packed with incredible sights and experiences
Documentation
Travel documentation is sent digitally 30 days before departure. No postal documents are issued. You must complete your cruise personaliser directly with the cruise line. We cannot complete this on your behalf. Visit the Know Before You Go section for guidance, and you will receive an email reminder when it is time to complete this.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here:
https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our tours. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-tour cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider.
We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international tours, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.
If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.
Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it.
Official Travel Advice
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:
Here is a help link to get you started:
In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:
By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.
Post-Tour Feedback
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability.
Terms and Conditions
For the full terms and conditions for Cruises by Inspiring Vacations, please see HERE.
This is a flight inclusive package.
This package includes international airfares and flights will be added to your booking at no additional cost. Select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’.
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
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