We are wanting to go through - not partial - the Panama Canal but only have 9 days. We were thinking of flying into Panama, going through canal, and on to Costa Rico. Is this doable? Suggestions on cruise line that would do this are appreciated or any other information!

First of all I am not aware of any cruises where you embark from Panama.
Secondly even if that exists it's not a full transit crossing. That would be starting in say Mexico or California and disembarking in say Florida or vice versa.
9 days may be too short for a full transit crossing. Our was 10 days starting in Acapulco and ending in Ft. Lauderdale.

Rats! I was afraid of that because I can't seem to find much. I did see something from Windstar from Colon to Puerto Caldera - is that a partial transit?

Hmm. I did not think of Windstar so I looked at their website and yes I think you have a winner. It looks like it starts on one coast, traverses the PC and ends up in CR so yes that looks like a full transit to me. I would call them to be sure but I do think so.

Good luck!!

Thanks! Have you heard about Uncruise? trying to compare the it to Windstar but I can't find anyone who has been on either.

I have not but I saw this on cruisecritic.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2432740

You can also gets a ton of reviews there on Windstar too.

Thank you very much. I appreciate you taking the time to help me out. I will go to the link soon!

My pleasure. Also look into the uncruise website too. Their ships are small so you will not get the mega ship experience but for some that's fine. It all depends on what floats your boat. No pun intended of course. .

We are not into mega cruise ships ... we have been on several and did enjoy but realize now we are ready for different experience. Hoping to get into river cruising next!

To each their own. We like the bells and whistles on the mega ships but its not for everyone. Not to dissuade you but sometimes river cruises turn into partial bus trips as river water levels can be low. Just FYI.

Never thought of that ...

Neither did I until I read about it here.