Cruise West Itinerary"Gems of Costa Rica"From mangrove lagoons to hill forest, white-sand beaches to exuberant jungle, this cruise takes you to the best of Costa Rica's natural wonders. Recommended for:
Cruise Highlights
The ShipCruise 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 ItineraryDay 1 Arrive in San JoseTransfer from the San José Airport to the Pacific Explorer at Los Sueños Marina. After a warm welcome on board, step out on deck as your cruise begins and the ship ventures out to sea. Day 2 Curu Wildlife Refuge and Tortuga Island At Curú, a 207-acre private wildlife sanctuary, you will see wildlife in 5 distinct habitats, from mangrove lagoons to hill forests. Three miles of shoreline are dotted with tiny coves and 3 white-sand beaches. Just 2 miles offshore, Tortuga is a picture-perfect tropical isle. There will be time for snorkeling, swimming, and sea kayaking. Day 3 Corcovado National Park This 100,000-acre sanctuary is home to an abundance of endangered wildlife. Nearly 350 species of birds live in Corcovado. Inflatable excursion craft carry you ashore for a bird-watching walk. Day 4 Isla de Coiba Some of the richest waters and spectacular tiny islets of Central America’s Pacific Coast are found here. Expert staff provide snorkeling lessons and help you discover the stunning diversity of the most extensive coral reef in the region. Day 5 Golfo Dulce On a remote shore of the “Sweet Gulf,” explore a mangrove forest by inflatable craft or kayak, if the tide is right. Step ashore at Casa Orquideas botanical garden, a 90-acre treasure whose abundance of ornamental tropical flora attracts a multitude of birds and butterflies. Day 6 Drake Bay and Cano Island Named after Sir Francis Drake, who sailed here in 1579, Drake Bay remains remote from the modern world. You may motor by inflatable craft up the Agujitas River, to swim in cool waters looking up at the forest canopy. Continue to Caño Island, 10 miles offshore. You’ll hear about the extraordinary pre-Columbian stone spheres that were found here. The coral reef snorkeling off Caño Island is spectacular. Day 7 Manuel Antonio National Park The most popular national park in Costa Rica is one of the highlights of your cruise. Delight in exploring long strands of magnificent white-sand beach, backed up by an exuberant jungle sheltering hundreds of fascinating plant species and rare wildlife. Opportunities today include a canopy walk or a Quepos city tour. After lunch on the Sun Deck, prepare for an afternoon of leisure time on the beach. Day 8 Transfer Disembark at Los Sueños Marina and transfer to the San José Airport. Cost of This Trip7 Night tripThe least expensive cabin costs: $314 per person per night The most expensive stateroom costs: $500 pp pn |
