Cruise West Itinerary "Coast to Canal"

Cruise West

"Coast to Canal" Costa Rica and Panama Canal

From the tropical rainforests to isolated beaches, from remote Native villages to the Panama Canal, this is a cruise for marine animal and wildlife enthusiasts.

Nearly every day of your cruise, small excursion craft allow you to explore forest-lined rivers, tiny islets, and bird rookeries on seaside cliffs - or, to just poke around the next headland to see what's there. Visit Corcovado National Park , where liana-draped trees roost nearly 300 species of birds, Isla de Coiba, where you'll snorkel with manta rays and puffer fish and Golfo Dulce with mangrove forests and the beautiful gardens at Orchid House. Transit the most exciting passage of the Panama Canal and visit a remote Embera village tucked away on the coast of the Darien Jungle. Also included is a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park where you'll delight in exploring long strands of magnificent beach backed by a jungle full of monkeys agoutis, three-toed slot hs and the rare white ibis.

Recommended for:

Guests interested in a personal, less-crowded eco-tourism adventure.
Travelers who like to choose their own activities as the mood strikes them-from hiking a tropical forest to lying on a beach.

Cruise Highlights

Explore the emerald reaches of the Darien Jungle
Search for the hundreds of species of mammals and birds in Manuel Antonio National Park
Visit the isolated Embera village full of warm, inviting people
Transit the most exciting parts of the Panama Canal, one of the modern Wonders of the World

The Ship

Cruise West's 100-guest Pacific Explorer is the perfect way to travel in comfort through your Central American adventures. The intimate vessel is staffed by friendly, knowledgeable, English-speaking Costa Ricans. All cabins are air-conditioned with private baths and showers. Delicious international cuisine with Central American specialties is prepared daily using only the freshest fruits, vegetables, meats and fish. All staterooms offer picture windows and private facilities.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 ARRIVE IN PANAMA
Transfer from the Panama City Airport to board the Pacific Explorer.

Day 2 PANAMA CANAL
Transit by day boat through the most exciting parts of the Panama Canal, an unforgettable experience, especially aboard a small ship. In the afternoon, visit Panama City.

Day 3 DARIÉN JUNGLE
Visit a remote Emberá village tucked away on the coast of the Darién Jungle. The Emberá people open their homes and hearts to welcome Cruise West friends. You will laugh with them, dance with them, and collect lifetime memories.

Day 4 GRANITO DE ORO
Pristine waters, abundant sea life and over 15 species of coral surround the islets of Isla de Coiba National Park. Enjoy a day of island snorkeling and kayaking.

Day 5 GOLFO DULCE
Explore a mangrove forest by small inflatable craft or kayak, if the tide allows, and stroll through the beautiful gardens at Casa Orquideas or “Orchid House.” See, smell, and touch a wide variety of beautiful ornamental plants.

Day 6 CALETAS BEACH
Discover Costa Rica¹s pristine rainforest, populated by a number of endangered species, including puma, tapir, poison dart frogs, crocodile, and jaguar on guided hikes.

Day 7 MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK
Naturalists lead walks to outstanding wildlife viewing. There are over 100 mammal species and 180 species of birds here. Watch for monkeys, iguanas, agoutis, sloth, and the rare white ibis.

Day 8 DISEMBARK IN COSTA RICA
Transfer from Los Sueños to the San José Airport for your return flight home.

Cost of This Trip

7 Night trip

The least expensive cabin costs:
$464 per person per night

The most expensive stateroom costs:
$628 pp pn

Where in the World Travel
A Villages travel agency
424 Bishopville Loop
The Villages, FL 32162
352-751-0621

SBI!