tall ship cruise costa rica

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Wonders and wildlife of Costa Rica and Panama by tall ship

What we love: Costa Rica and Panama are renowned for their incredible beauty and biodiversity. Exploring them by ship means seeing far more highlights than you would otherwise.

Journey down the west coast of Central America on a splendid vessel that evokes the romance of a grander age. Over a week-long exploration, you'll first get to know Costa Rica, sailing into the shimmering turquoise bays that hold a bounty of exotic marine life. Onshore adventures offer the chance to see the lush mangroves and gorgeous lagoons and hear the calls of monkeys in the rainforests.

As Star Clipper sails south to Panama, you'll stop at two paradisiacal islands, Coiba Island and Parida Island. Both are celebrated for their white-sand beaches, lapped with jade-hued water, and are the perfect place to snorkel.

You'll then return to Costa Rican waters to find a shady palm on the exquisite beach of Tortuga Island, or take an exhilarating canopy tour to spot wildlife, from the tiniest insects and colourful birds to lively monkeys and the region's peccaries. Yet perhaps the very best of Tortuga Island is beneath the surface of the clear waters, where you might catch sight of a manta ray and tropical marine life.

The voyage aboard Star Clipper is part of what makes this holiday particularly special, where your day at sea on the itinerary can be spent relaxing on the Sun Deck or taking a dip in one of the ship's two swimming pools. You may also have the chance to help the crew sail, help unfurl the sails, or even steer the ship.

Your cabin is welcoming and cosy, but there are options to upgrade if you'd like more space. Typically, guests spend most of their time in the ship's shared spaces, including the convivial restaurant and the piano bar. Or you can spend time quietly relaxing.

Reasons to book

Visit remote tropical islands

Sail in style

Plenty of inclusions

A bounty of wildlife

Adventure abounds

Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere

Price includes.

• Return flights from London Heathrow to San José with British Airways
• One night pre-cruise stay in a four star hotel in San José on a B&B basis
• All transfers
• All port charges
• Seven-night full board cruise onboard Star Clipper

Availability

You'll fly from London to San José and spend the night in a four-star hotel in Costa Rica's capital

Puerto Caldera is a gateway to Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. Visit the Paseo de los Turistas promenade near the beach with its many bars and restaurants. You'll board the ship and find your cabin before the ship sails for Quepos.

Quepos serves as the gateway to the Manuel Antonio National Park. If you decide to stay local, there's an authentic Costa Rican feel to Quepos, with streets that are easy to navigate on a stroll.

Golfito is Costa Rica's southern port town, famous for its bananas. It's the perfect location for surfing at Pavones and sport-fishing. Other activities include horseback riding, kayaking, and trips to nearby mangrove forests.

Coiba Island lies 30 miles off the south coast of Panama. It's the largest of the 38 islands that make up the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The surrounding waters support the eastern Pacific's second largest coral reef, which makes scuba diving particularly rewarding. You can spot whale and tiger sharks, manta and eagle rays and large schools of fish.

Golfo de Chiriqui on Parida Island is home to a national marine park that protects 25 islands and 19 coral reefs. It's home to howler monkeys, nesting sea turtles, and 280 recorded bird species. To explore, you can snorkel, surf, kayak, or take a fishing trip.

Today, the wind transports you back to Costa Rica, with an entire day on the ocean. Relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck. Or you may enjoy the chance to climb the rigging or have a go at steering the ship.

Isla Tortuga is often considered the most beautiful island in Costa Rica. Isla Tortuga is a tropical paradise with giant coconut palms framing powder-soft white sand beaches lapped by crystal clear turquoise waters. You can play beach volleyball, rent a kayak, swim, or take a trip on a glass-bottom boat. If feeling adventurous, you can ride a zip line as part of a canopy tour.

You'll arrive back at Puerto Caldera, where you'll disembark and transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home to London.

Accommodation

Star Clipper

Traditional tall ship with 36,000 feet of billowing sails

The elegant Star Clipper was launched in 1992 and is a replica of the traditional clipper ships of the 19th-century, without sacrificing the modern comforts of today's luxury liners. With only 166 guests, life aboard is blissfully relaxed, much like travelling on a private yacht.

On board, the interiors hark back to the golden era, with plenty of polished mahogany and brass. In addition to the main dining room, there is also the Piano Bar, as well as the lively Tropical Bar, used for all manner of activities. The two small plunge pools are perfect for those days spent at sea, and there's always a fantastic programme of entertainment, fitness classes and workshops to keep guests busy.

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Star Clippers’ Cruise Along Panama and Costa Rica: What to Expect

By Heidi Sarna

January 8, 2024

Heidi Sarna is the co-founder of QuirkyCruise.com , a guide to small-ship cruising .

For more than 30 years, Star Clippers has offered small-ship cruising in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and other regions aboard a trio of sailing tall ships inspired by the speedy clippers of the 19th century.

I recently spent a week aboard the four-masted, 166-passenger Star Clipper vessel as it cruised westward along the Pacific coast of Central America from Balboa, near Panama City, to Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica .

The ports along this route are showcases for nature walks and beaches. 

The setting for my favorite beach day: Panama ’s Isla Iguana , where we snorkeled, swam in the teal-blue sea, and walked along a trail to the other side of the island. We caught sight of iguanas, scads of tiny white beach crabs, and, off to the side of the path, a crater left by one of the bombs the U.S. government tested in the area during the mid-20th century. 

On beach days, the crew brings a few kayaks and paddleboards ashore for passengers to use at no extra charge.

In Costa Rica, we signed up for guided walking tours of two nature preserves near the coast:  Piedras Blancas National Park and the larger, better-known Manuel Antonio National Park . 

We saw two- and three-toed sloths doing their slow-motion moves up in the trees as well as howler and white-faced Capuchin monkeys and tropical birds including the yellow-throated toucan. Guides carried high-powered telescopes on tripods to assist us in spotting the wildlife. 

Sailing Vibes

For many passengers, being aboard a traditional clipper ship is as important as the ports—and it’s the sailing experience that keeps a lot of customers coming back. One cruiser told me she was on her 15th Star Clippers cruise; I myself was on my sixth.

The ship’s 16 sails were raised (via electric winches) whenever conditions were right to run with the wind. Generally, that happens anywhere from 25% to 50% of the time. Otherwise, the vessel relies on engine power in order to stay on schedule. 

Whenever sails were raised on my voyage, the schmaltzy theme song from Ridley Scott’s adventure movie 1492: Conquest of Paradise was broadcast to set the mood. A core group of passengers always remained on deck to watch the world go by through the web of rigging. 

Once or twice per cruise, interested passengers are invited to don harnesses and climb the masts to reach the crow’s-nest nearly 60 feet up. 

Alternatively, you can ask to descend into the bowsprit netting at the front of the ship for the novelty of lying above the sea and getting some good photos from a unique perspective. If you’re lucky, you’ll glimpse dolphins and sea turtles swimming near the hull.

Another tempting visual opportunity: Once per cruise, tenders take out anyone interested to photograph the ship under full sails.

Onboard Meals, Service, and Amenities

Our Category 2 cabin was 129 square feet with wood and brass trim. The majority of the ship’s cabins are similar (though a bit smaller) and each also has portholes, a compact bathroom, a desk and stool, and a surprisingly adequate closet.

Open seating is the rule at mealtimes, with breakfast and lunch offered buffet style. At dinner, you’ll get a menu with several options for each course. Highlights: sea bass with asparagus, filet of pork with applesauce, crab cake with aioli, lobster tail, and delicious desserts such as apple crumble. 

Before dinner each day, we enjoyed prosecco (at just €3.50 a glass) at the Tropical Bar on the deck. A decent bottle of wine at dinner will set you back about €25. (On Star Clippers cruises, meals are included but alcohol, excursions, and spa services cost extra. Note that prices on board are in euros, but, as on most other ships, you can pay with a credit card at the end of the voyage, so it's not necessary to have cash on hand.)

There were only about 80 passengers on the cruise I took. If the ship was closer to its maximum capacity of 166, the restaurant would definitely feel tight. 

Up on deck you’ll find two small pools and a massage hut where you can get an excellent €60 massage (I booked twice). 

As this was dubbed a “yoga cruise,” a daily guided yoga class took place on deck each morning. Some of the line's yoga cruises (though not this one) offer a second daily class later in the day. 

In the way of entertainment, the ship has a library with a small selection of books and, after dinner most nights, the Tropical Bar hosts simple events such as a crew-and-passenger talent show and a pirate-themed dress-up party.

Onboard irritants were few, save for the Wi-Fi (I never encountered a clear explanation for how to log on) and the frequently disorganized tender service used to get passengers from the anchored ship to shore. It seemed like the tender crew were all new and often that no one was in charge.

Still, Star Clippers’ traditional-style tall ships provide a special experience combining adventure and comfort that’s hard to match. I look forward to planning my seventh cruise on a clipper sometime soon. 

Central American cruises operated by Star Clippers start at $4,570 per person. For more information, go to StarClippers.com .

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Sail with the Family in Costa Rica on Star Clippers

Posted on February 4, 2023 February 2, 2023 Author Chris Owen

Anyone who’s planned a family vacation knows the challenge of finding options that appeal to everyone. Enter  Star Clippers , the authentic tall ship company that welcomes families to experience the thrill of sailing together on onboard their fleet of modern clipper ships. When paired with a family-friend destination like Costa Rica—one that offers plenty of opportunities to explore nature and embrace adventure together—a Star Clippers journey turns a vacation into an ideal family getaway.

From the thrill of sailing on a tall ship to the incredible nature to be found in this small country, there are plenty of reasons families love Star Clippers’ sailings in Costa Rica, including:

Getting Wild

Star Clippers calls on small ports, giving guests more time to explore the exceptional natural offerings in Costa Rica. Animal lovers will want to visit the magnificent Manuel Antonio National Park where trails lead from white-sand beaches into the rainforest, and where three-toed sloths hang from cecropia trees, troops of squirrel monkeys call to one another, and nearly 450 species of bird flit between the treetops and fill the air with their songs. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, zipline canopy tours send guests flying through the lush rainforest high in the canopy.

Spectacular coral reefs and more than 800 miles of coastline make Costa Rica a paradise for snorkelers. Star Clippers’ water sports program allows guests to borrow snorkeling equipment for the duration of the sailing, which they can use to their hearts content. When Star Clippers calls on Isla Tortuga, guests can spend the day on the sandy beach surrounded by tall coconut trees, or dive beneath the waves to spot angelfish, porcupine fish, spotted eagle rays and many more tropical beauties that call these waters home.

Living Like a Sailor

Kids and adults alike can experience life on a working sailing ship through a variety of fun and educational nautical programming including helping the crew raise the sails. During each sailing, the crew offer classes in traditional knot tying and navigation during the day, and when night falls guests gather on the top deck to learn how to navigate with the help of the stars. Guests after bragging rights can climb nearly 100 feet above the deck to get an incredible view from crow’s nest. And guests who want to relax in Star Clippers style can spend the day in the bowsprit netting—a hammock-like area stretching forward of the bow suspending guests over the ocean—for one of the most unique and ways to experience sailing.

Kids Sail Free

Star Clippers knows that taking the whole family on vacation can get expensive, which is why children under the age of 18 can now sail free with Star Clippers on select sailings. To help families create a truly multi-generational trip, grandparents can also enjoy 10% off the cost of their sailing. Offer includes several Costa Rican itineraries in 2023 and 2024 and is valid on new bookings made by March 31, 2023. Offer is valid for residents of North, Central and South America only.

For more than 25 years, Star Clippers has been introducing travelers to the thrill of modern tall ship sailing to remote ports in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Central America. The company operates three of the world’s largest and tallest sailing vessels:  Star Clipper  and  Star Flyer  are traditional clipper ships with modern amenities carrying 166 guests each, while the 227-guest  Royal Clipper  holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest and only five-masted, full-rigged sailing ship in service today. All three ships have expansive teak decks, swimming pools, informal dining, convivial tropical bars on deck and piano lounges.

For more information, applicable restrictions and to make a booking, contact your travel agent, or call 800-442-0551 or visit  www.starclippers.com .

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Luxury Latin America

Cruising on a 21st Century Clipper Ship to Central America

By Buzzy Gordon

A cruise line that can boast a repeat–to–first–time passenger ratio of 65% must be doing something right. And indeed, a voyage hugging the Central American coastline while sailing aboard the “tall ship” Star Flyer offers the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.

I was all set to snicker: the loudspeaker called all interested passengers on deck to raise the first sail of the voyage. Sounded like a summer camp activity to me, but I played along and took my place in the line of people grabbing hold of the thick rope. When the music started playing, I let out a chuckle at what promised to be a hokey stunt.

Then a funny thing happened: we began pulling the rope, as the stirring notes of the soundtrack of the movie 1492: Conquest of Paradise filled the balmy evening air. It was actually hard work, and watching the sail ascend the mast afforded a feeling of accomplishment. The triumphant music came alive, transporting all of us as the sail began to catch the wind. No sooner had the recorded music faded away than the ship’s captain began playing a majestic tune on the bagpipes. The romance of a moment shared by hundreds of adventurers over the centuries—setting sail on the sevens seas in a classic clipper ship—was captured. It was to set the tone for a week during which the cares of the world were to slip away.

This kind of camaraderie is a hallmark of a cruise on the ship the size of the Star Flyer: with a maximum capacity of 170 passengers, and a crew-to-passenger ratio of 2:1, there is a superior level of personal service. At the same time, the vessel is large enough to enable variety that would not be possible on even the largest of yachts.

Fine Dining and Excursions

For example, there may be only one dining room, but it is spacious enough to accommodate all passengers in one seating—including a buffet loaded with delicacies imported from Europe, the home of Star Clippers, whose headquarters are in Monaco. The fleet’s menus have been designed in consultation with Chef Jean-Marie Moulien—who has been awarded 3 stars by Guide Michelin—while the wine lists are compiled by Sommelier Brice Falluel (2 Michelin stars). Luncheon buffet themes change from day to day, while dinner is a la carte, offering meat, fowl, fish and vegetarian options every night. (In the rare event that a scheduled entree might not appeal, you can always order steak or pasta.)

Cocktails and a fine selection of international beers are served up in two bars: the casual Tropical Bar outdoors, and the elegant indoor Piano Lounge. Hors-d’oeuvres accompany cocktail hour every evening before dinner; and in true cruise-ship tradition, a midnight snack is offered up nightly.

Fortunately, there are enough activities to burn all those calories. The ship carries a complement of tenders and zodiacs. The former ferry passengers to reefs and shore excursions, while the latter zip water skiers around the placid ocean. Additional water sports include snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking.

During the Star Flyer’s 6–day cruise I was on, no fewer than 11 shore excursions were offered, highlighting what eco–tourism superstar Costa Rica has to offer: encounters with nature. Costa Rica boasts some 9,000 plant species, 850 bird species, and 10 percent of all mammals on earth, plus unusual species of frogs and reptiles.

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Luxury Latin America is an online magazine offering detailed reviews of the best hotels and resorts in Mexico, Central America, and South America. We also feature articles based on the best tours and adventure excursions in the Americas, as well as luxury real estate stories on vacation and retirement living.

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What it’s like to explore Costa Rica on a traditional tall ship

Star clipper returns to central america after a nine-year absence. sue bryant was one of the first to board.

I am standing on the edge of a ravine in an incense-scented spa pavilion that’s open to the elements. “Hold the railing, close your eyes, breathe deeply and listen,” says Mauren, the therapist at Amor Arenal rainforest lodge. The sounds intensify: shrieking monkeys, birds whooping and whistling in the canopy, the whisper of the wind, a river rushing hundreds of feet below. Mauren massages my knotty shoulders and I feel a strange rush of emotion before going into a deep meditation. When she tells me to open my eyes, it’s as though all my senses have shifted up a gear, the emeralds and greens of the rainforest more brilliant than anything I have ever seen.

My time at Amor was a brief but blissful taste of “pura vida”, the catch-all phrase loved by Costa Ricans to express happiness, optimism and a sense of living life to the full – and by the tourist board as a marketing slogan. I was here to sail the Pacific coast on the tall ship Star Clipper, but two days in the mountains before the cruise showed a different face of this lush Eden.

Costa Rica is compact, a bit bigger than Denmark and a little smaller than Croatia, so getting around by car is easy, apart from the jams of juggernauts and recent mudslides from an excess of rain. That aside, the drives were beautiful, hydrangeas with flowerheads the size of footballs blooming by the roadsides, bromeliads and strangler figs clinging to tree trunks, and when we stopped, hummingbirds whistling in the trees. It was strawberry season and roadside shacks were piled high with them.

I hiked to the top of Poas, one of the country’s five active volcanoes. Embarrassingly short of breath at the summit at 8,848ft, I looked down into one of the world’s most acidic crater lakes, sulphurous clouds billowing out of fissures in the rock. There was a visit to the Doka Estate, too, a sustainable coffee plantation owned by the Vargas family since 1940, where I had a go at the back-breaking job of picking beans, stopping to admire the vintage, British-made machinery that separates and peels them.

Swapping the cloud forest and highlands for the steamy heat of the coast at last, I headed to the straggling seaside town of Puntarenas, where the four-masted, 360ft, 170-passenger Star Clipper was waiting, ripe with the promise of a week of swashbuckling adventure. Star Clipper had just returned to Costa Rica after an absence of nine years, and I was on one of the first cruises.

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The company’s ethos is to travel under sail as much as possible, minimising fuel consumption. In no time we’d pushed off the dock, all 88 passengers gathering on deck as the crew unfurled 36,220 sq ft of sail. An orange full moon hung in the sky as Captain Basica Ante set a course south, close to the border with Panama, before heading north towards Nicaragua. The ship’s theme song, Conquest of Paradise by Vangelis, boomed across the deck.

At Golfito, one of my favourite ports of the week, the air was so humid it felt liquid. Jungly cliffs plunged straight into a turquoise sea. Brown pelicans followed the ship before returning to their nests in the treetops — they have to nest as far as possible from their biggest predator, the boa constrictor.

I joined a dolphin-watching expedition arranged by the ship (£115), speeding along the forested coastline. We came across a pod of bottlenoses hunting lunch, chasing a shoal of needlefish. The fish skittered across the surface while the dolphins worked as an efficient team to herd them and then lunge. In between mouthfuls they came to greet us, swimming right alongside the boat, leaping out of the water in showy formation, five abreast.

Later a storm broke. Rain fell in sheets, all visibility gone. A small river flowed through the alfresco Tropical Bar, the ship’s main gathering place, while thunder rumbled around distant hills. After the deluge we ventured out for sailaway, the celebratory moment of departure. The crew in yellow oilskins valiantly raised the sails, which released small cascades of rainwater as they unfurled. A double rainbow arched across the dark sky.

The reward for the rain was a spectacular sunset, the like of which I’d never seen. Layer upon layer of clouds glowed deep orange, the sea blood-red long after the sun had slipped below the horizon.

Those who travel with Star Clippers, of whom more than 60 per cent are repeat guests, are there for the sailing as much as the destination. So a day at sea is a much-loved part of every itinerary. Some passengers harnessed up and climbed the mast for a bird’s-eye view from the crow’s nest high above the deck. Others joined Kirby, the ship’s excellent musician, to sing sea shanties in the bar, fuelled by mid-morning bloody marys.

The sea, though, was flat and the air heavy. The sails flapped in a desultory manner. A passenger said accusingly to the captain: “You said today was going to be a proper sailing day.” Looking slightly taken aback, he replied: “Yes, but to have proper sailing you must have proper wind.”

● 10 amazing things to do in Costa Rica ● Best places to see wildlife in Costa Rica

After dinner I wandered up to the aft deck and gazed into the velvety blackness. The only sound was the gentle swishing of the ship’s wake. I decided to try Mauren’s meditation technique.

I held the railing, closed my eyes, took a few deep breaths and listened. Gradually I realised that the splashing of the wake had become louder, accompanied by whooshing sounds. I opened my eyes. A pod of dolphins was following the ship, their grey backs reflecting the light of the stars, their shadowy forms clearly visible just under the surface, the water almost luminescent where they had jumped and landed with a splash. I watched them in absolute joy.

When the dolphins had moved on, I wandered up to the White Night deck party. Lights in red, blue, white and green were projected onto the sails and people were dancing around the pool. Suddenly a wind whipped up, filling the sails, imbuing Lionel Richie’s smoochy Stuck on You with an air of comedy as white dresses billowed in the breeze and the ship heeled to one side, causing the dancers to canter across the deck. Here was that proper wind for Silly Statement Man.

To make the most of a Costa Rica cruise you need to book excursions. The beaches and towns where the ship docks are not destinations in themselves, just gateways to the country’s superb national parks and adventures such as whitewater rafting and ziplining.

Bahia Potrero and Bahia Culebra in the north, for example, are dreamy-looking bays of forested headlands, bobbing yachts and sparkling sea, but the sand is fine and grey, so the water is cloudy and there is no snorkelling.

I booked a river-rafting trip (£84) from Culebra, drifting down the Corobici River in a sturdy rubber dinghy, the drenching from the rapids a welcome relief in the steamy heat. In between rushes of adrenaline as we careered over the rapids, often sideways, the river was blissfully peaceful. Capuchin and howler monkeys watched from the trees. Enormous iguanas with spiny crests and striped tails basked on trees and rocks. Coatis — bandit-faced, racoon-like creatures — foraged in a field. Crocodiles, 8ft long, lay on the banks, so I resisted the temptation to jump in for a cooling dip.

There was a party vibe on board as people made new friends, with jolly gatherings in the Tropical Bar that seemed to go on all day. My favourite activity during the time we were at sea, though, was to clamber over the bowsprit (the pointy bit extending from the ship’s bow) to the trampoline-like nets strung either side, and sink into the netting, gazing up at the intricate rigging and down at the ship’s prow, piercing the greeny-blue water.

One afternoon I stayed in the net until the sun burnished the water in gold and the sky was streaked with tangerine. A solitary sea turtle drifted right underneath me, minding its own business.

Pura vida indeed.

Sue Bryant was a guest of Swiss Travel (swisstravelcr.com) and Star Clippers. Seven nights’ full board from £1,430pp (starclippers.co.uk). Fly to San Jose

Meet the team

Experts from the Times Travel team will be at Destinations: The Holiday and Travel Show in London, which takes place February 2-5 at Olympia ( destinationsshow.com ). Subscribers to The Times can claim two complimentary tickets (a booking fee of £1.50 per ticket applies) using the code TIMES+ when booking here

Related articles

Tall Ship Cruise: Costa Rica & Panama

Discover beautiful destinations on board a splendid ship, as you sail on Star Clipper for an eight-night cruise of Central America's west coast. You'll call at ports in Costa Rica and Panama, both known for their biodiversity, wonderful wildlife and lush landscapes. Discover Puntarenas, Quepos - which acts as a gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park - and Golfito in Costa Rica. Cruising off the coast of Panama, Star Clipper will stop at two stunning islands - Coiba Island and Parida Island. Both are well known for their white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and coral reefs, with snorkelling and scuba diving popular pursuits. Arriving back in Costa Rica, there will be time to explore the paradisical Isla Tortuga, before returning to Puntarenas. While on board, you'll have the unique opportunity of helping the crew sail, unfurl the sails, or even steer the ship, should you wish. With only 166 guests on board, Star Clipper is wonderfully relaxed and you could catch the sun and scenery from the deck, or take a dip in the plunge pool.

Reasons to book

Tall Ship Cruising

Adventure Awaits

Call at stunning islands

Price includes.

• Return flights from London Heathrow to San José with British Airways
• One night pre-cruise stay in a four star hotel in San José on a B&B basis
• All transfers
• All port charges
• Seven-night full board cruise onboard Star Clipper

Availability

You'll fly from London to San José and spend the night in a four-star hotel in Costa Rica's capital

Puerto Caldera is a gateway to Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. Visit the Paseo de los Turistas promenade near the beach with its many bars and restaurants. You'll board the ship and find your cabin before the ship sails for Quepos.

Quepos serves as the gateway to the Manuel Antonio National Park. If you decide to stay local, there's an authentic Costa Rican feel to Quepos, with streets that are easy to navigate on a stroll.

Golfito is Costa Rica's southern port town, famous for its bananas. It's the perfect location for surfing at Pavones and sport-fishing. Other activities include horseback riding, kayaking, and trips to nearby mangrove forests.

Coiba Island lies 30 miles off the south coast of Panama. It's the largest of the 38 islands that make up the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The surrounding waters support the eastern Pacific's second largest coral reef, which makes scuba diving particularly rewarding. You can spot whale and tiger sharks, manta and eagle rays and large schools of fish.

Golfo de Chiriqui on Parida Island is home to a national marine park that protects 25 islands and 19 coral reefs. It's home to howler monkeys, nesting sea turtles, and 280 recorded bird species. To explore, you can snorkel, surf, kayak, or take a fishing trip.

Today, the wind transports you back to Costa Rica, with an entire day on the ocean. Relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck. Or you may enjoy the chance to climb the rigging or have a go at steering the ship.

Isla Tortuga is often considered the most beautiful island in Costa Rica. Isla Tortuga is a tropical paradise with giant coconut palms framing powder-soft white sand beaches lapped by crystal clear turquoise waters. You can play beach volleyball, rent a kayak, swim, or take a trip on a glass-bottom boat. If feeling adventurous, you can ride a zip line as part of a canopy tour.

You'll arrive back at Puerto Caldera, where you'll disembark and transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home to London.

Accommodation

Star Clipper

Traditional tall ship with 36,000 feet of billowing sails

The elegant Star Clipper was launched in 1992 and is a replica of the traditional clipper ships of the 19th-century, without sacrificing the modern comforts of today's luxury liners. With only 166 guests, life aboard is blissfully relaxed, much like travelling on a private yacht.

On board, the interiors hark back to the golden era, with plenty of polished mahogany and brass. In addition to the main dining room, there is also the Piano Bar, as well as the lively Tropical Bar, used for all manner of activities. The two small plunge pools are perfect for those days spent at sea, and there's always a fantastic programme of entertainment, fitness classes and workshops to keep guests busy.

Brought to you by

For general information, click here.

To view TS Tours’ supplier’s terms and conditions click here .

Costa Rica & Panama Tall Ship Charter: Rockstar Adventures

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Overview For Rockstars

Rockstar Adventures presents the Star Clipper and the Central American Pacific Coast – an exotic ship for adventurous travelers in an exotic locale.

Three night Opening Act in San Jose and Arenal Volcano Area Per Person

Our three night Opening Act Costa Rican jungle experience is a great way to start your wet and wild Pacific Coastal cruise.

The 3-night Opening Act includes:

• Transfer from airport to hotel in San Jose
• One night accommodations at the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen including taxes and porterage
• Transfer from San Jose to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
• Two nights accommodations at the Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa including taxes and porterage
• Three breakfasts
• Meal voucher to be used toward two meals at Tabacon Resort
• Unlimited entrance to Tabacon Hot Springs
• Rockstar Meet & Greet
• Free time to add optional spa treatments
• Transportation from La Fortuna to Puntarenas to board ship on day of embarkation

Full payment due at booking.

Feb 10 Meet & Greet at the Costa Rica Marriott

One-Night Opening Act in San Jose with Transfer to Port Per Person

Our one night Opening Act in San Jose, Costa Rica is a great way to start your wet and wild Pacific Coastal cruise.

The One-Night Opening Act includes:

• Transfer from airport to hotel
• One night accommodations including breakfast, taxes and porterage
• Free time to add a Rainforest Jungle adventure
• Transportation from hotel to ship on day of embarkation

Cost of 1-night Opening Act will be added to your total and will be due at final payment.

* rate is per person based on double occupancy

Rainforest Extravaganza

Drive through Esquipulas Rain Forest (about 50 miles) to a private nature reserve. Here you will hike among tropical jungles and a refuge to see many wildlife species. Your ears will be filled by the sound of birdsong, and you may see Toucans, hummingbirds as well as monkeys and other small mammals.

After this unforgettable encounter with nature, you will learn a bit more about Costa Rica and it's most important crop: coffee.

A traditional Costa Rican Casado lunch is included.

Activity level is moderate.

85€ Per Person Excursion cost will be added to your shipboard account to be paid on board.

Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes

Minimum 12/ Maximum 18 participants

• Only one excursion per day can be booked due to fluctuating excursion departure times.
• Departure times of the tour are mentioned on the daily program of each port.
• Cancellation and changes are possible until the booking deadline mentioned in the library or your daily program. After the booking deadline, 100% cancellation fee will be charged.
• You will be able to sign up on board if there is space available.
• All information concerning excursions is correct at the time of printing. However, Star Clippers reserves the right to make changes, which will be relayed to passengers during the Cruise Director's onboard information sessions. Last updated tour descriptions are available in a file at the library.
• By adding this excursion to your booking, you give Rockstar Adventures the right to add your name to the excursion list and take full responsibility to abide by Star Clippers' cancellation policy.

Savergre River Floating Adventure - Closed for PreBooking - Space Available to Book Onboard

Drive 1 1/2 hours through rural towns and plantations to the town of Santo Domingo where you will take a 2-hour floating river adventure. Your guide will give you a briefing before you begin your rafting journey. The scenery and wildlife along the Rio Savengre are ledgendary; you will enjoy beautiful landscapes and plentiful wildlife.

This activity requires participation and is considered strenuous. A max weight of 235 lbs and swimming experience is required.

Activity level is strenuous.

100€ Per Person Excursion cost will be added to your shipboard account to be paid on board.

Duration: 5 hours

Minimum 12/ Maximum 24 participants

Titi Canopy Tour

Imagine yourself soaring high above the jungle floor as you zip line through the treetops amidst some of the most beautiful flora and fauna of the Costa Rican rainforest.  You will fly for a mile over the jungle canopy suspended on solid steel cables attached to your personal high-tech lightweight harness. During the journey you will stop and rest at 16 strategically located platforms nestled in the trunks and branches where you will most likely see wildlife. The sheer exhilaration of the zip line is unlike anything you have ever experienced.

95€ Per Person Excursion cost will be added to your shipboard account to be paid on board.

Maximum weight is 235 lbs.

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

Minimum 15/ Maximum 30 participants

Golfito Park & Village Experience - Closed for PreBooking - Space Available to Book Onboard

Explore one of Costa Rica's most famous wildlife reserve accompanied by a professional guide. The park is spectacularly beautiful and peaceful. The wildlife park has over four species of monkeys, 300 bird species, 139 species of mammals, and 200 species of amphibians and reptiles. There are also numerous species of orchids, Heliconias and ferns.

On the return trip there will be some sightseeing of a village and the famously mysterious stone spheres. 

The nature walk is over rocky and uneven trails that could possibly be muddy.

Minimum 15/ Maximum 32 participants

Gulfo Dulce Dolphin Watch & Swim Stop - Closed for PreBooking - Space Available to Book Onboard

Head out to the most biologically intense area on earth (according to National Geographic) where large groups of dolphins, sea turtles and manta rays swim in the clear blue tropical water, putting on an amazing show. During the cruise around the bay, an experienced naturalist guide will provide informative commentary for you to learn about the marine life. Other possible sightings may include six different species of turtles, large schools of tuna, marlin and sailfish.

Note: This excursion requires a wet landing and is weather and tide dependent.

Activity level is easy.

130€ Per Person Excursion cost will be added to your shipboard account to be paid on board.

Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes

Minimum 15/ Maximum 35 participants

Ocean Kayak Adventure

Are you ready to accept the challenge of Star Clipper's Ocean Kayak adventure?

You will kayak through Golfito's main bay and mangrove estuary seeing a vast variety of sea birds and marine life before heading out to the open waters of the gulf. A stop at a local fishing village will allow time for a swim stop on a remote beach.

110€ Per Person Excursion cost will be added to your shipboard account to be paid on board.

Duration: 3 hours

Minimum 12/ Maximum 14 participants

Curu Private Reserve - Closed for PreBooking - Space Available to Book Onboard

This is one of Costa Rica's most scenic coastlines with beautiful white sandy beaches, tiny coves and transparent waters. Your guided walking tour will introduce you to the wide variety of wildlife that thrives here in this forest preserve including capuchin and howler monkeys, sloths and anteaters.

Activity is moderate.

55€ Per Person Excursion cost will be added to your shipboard account to be paid on board.

Duration: 2 hours 

Minimum 15/ Maximum 40 participants

10:00am Transfer from Star Clipper to San Jose Airport - Closed for Prebooking - Space Available to book onboard

Transfer from Puntarenas to San Jose International Airport upon disembarkation. Please schedule flights 2pm or later.

8:30am Transfer from Star Clipper to San Jose Airport - Closed for Prebooking - Space Available to book onboard

One-night encore in san jose with transfer - per person.

Our one night Encore in San Jose, Costa Rica is a great way to stay a little longer and add to your adventure.

The Encore includes:

• Transfer from cruise port to hotel
• Transportation from hotel to airport on day of flight

Cost of 1-night Encore will be added to your total and will be due at final payment.

Nothing scheduled for this day, click ALL to see everything

• Outlook / iCal

10 Feb 2023

11 Feb 2023

For those who are flying in and transferring directly from San Jose International Airport to Puntarenas. Viator offers private one way transfers starting at $106 per mini van.

Click this link to book your one way transfer direct: 

https://www.viator.com/tours/San-Jose/Arrival-Private-Transfer-San-Jose-Airport-SJO-to-Puntarenas-by-Minivan/d793-40380P335?pid=P00007112&uid=U00007558&mcid=58086

It is recommended that your flight arrives in SJO by 2pm. 

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.

12 Feb 2023

13 Feb 2023

14 Feb 2023

Coiba Island, Panama. Coiba Island lies 30 miles off of the south coast of Panama. It is the largest of the 38 islands that make up the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has 1,450 plant species and it's rain forests are home to hundreds of different animals. The surrounding waters support the eastern Pacific's second largest coral reef, which makes scuba diving particularly rewarding. You can spot whale and tiger sharks, manta and eagle rays and large schools of fish. The island also has a fascinating history as it was once a penal colony and was largely isolated for the past century.

15 Feb 2023

Golfo de Chiriquí is home to a national marine park with an area of just over 147 sq km, protecting 25 islands and 19 coral reefs which host abundant wildlife. It's home to howler monkeys, several types of nesting sea turtles and 280 recorded bird species. You can snorkel, surf or kayak in the calm waters or take a big game fishing trip.

16 Feb 2023

A full day at sea to experience what ever your heart desires. Dance in the warm sun with a cool breeze skimming your bare skin. Soak up the sun with or without swimsuits by one of the pools while sipping tropical drinks.  Or climb the rigging to the crow's nest or even have a go at steering the ship. The evening will include a Rockstar party! 

17 Feb 2023

Isla Tortuga is widely regarded as the most beautiful island in Costa Rica. With giant coconut palms framing powder soft whitte sand beaches that are lapped by crystal clear turquoise waters, this really is a tropical paradise. You can also play beach volleyball, rent a kayak, swim, or even get a ride of a glass-bottom boat. However if you are feeling adventuous you can ride the zip line as part of a canopy tour.

18 Feb 2023

YOU'RE NOT DOING

Invoice and Terms & Conditions

• All meals on board the ship
• Use of watersports equipment; snorkel, kayak, sailing dingies; and windsurfing boards
• Authentic sailing experience with full crew
• Meet and Greet
• Rockstar Parties
• Rockstar Backstage Pass
• Star Clipper onboard entertainment
• Four hours of free shipwide WiFi per person
• Taxes, gratuities, and fees of $379 per person

Prices Exclude

• Alcohol except where designated
• Transfers to and from the airport
• Onboard purchases
• Airfare to and from the port

Travel Insurance Protection Travel insurance protection is highly recommend and will cover cancellation penalties if you have to cancel due to medical reasons to you or immediate family members. This coverage also includes trip interruption, lost or delayed luggage and emergency evacuation plus more. Ask for details!

Terms & Conditions

Payment schedule is as follows: Your first payment of $1500 per person of your total is due by May 15, 2022 After May 15, 2022 all payments become non-refundable. Final payment is due by August 31, 2022.

CATEGORY 6 - INSIDE CABIN

• Upper/lower berths
• Bathroom with shower
• Average cabin dimensions - 8m2

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Star Clippers

History, review, itineraries, ships, deck plans, news.

•   Fleet
•   Review
•   Itinerary
•   News

Star Clippers fleet

Golden horizon, royal clipper, star clipper, review of star clippers.

Star Clippers Ltd (starclippers.com) is a Sweden-based ( Monaco -headquartered) company and "tall sailing ship cruise" travel brand with a fleet of three luxury motorized sailing yachts. All vessels are fitted with computer-controlled sails in addition to the diesel engines.

The company's current fleet includes Star Clipper (4-masted barquentine/1992-built), Star Flyer (4-masted barquentine/1991-built), Royal Clipper (5-masted ship/2000-built). The brand's newest vessel (under charter) was planned to be Flying Clipper (now Golden Horizon) . However, the 5-masted sailship (2019-built) was instead chartered to Tradewind Voyages UK.

The "tall ship cruise" company officially started operations in 1991, since when provides 5-star luxury (private yacht-like) vacation travel product and services to its sophisticated clients, with ~60% customer repeat rate. Founded by Mikael Krafft, Star Clippers Ltd now owns and operates the world's largest full-rigged sail ships. Star Clippers flag-states are Malta (registered in Valletta ) or Luxembourg - unlike large cruise liners which are usually flagged Panama or Bahamas.

Each of the Star Clippers ships has an aft-located marina platform that is lowered (when the ship is anchored) to serve the company's complimentary scuba diving and water sports activity program. The marina also serves the passenger tendering operations in areas without port infrastructure and facilities (piers, quays, wharves, terminals). When the ship is anchored (at sea), passengers are disembarked via tender boats or Zodiacs (inflatable high-speed boats also used for landings). Each ship has 2-3 outdoor swimming pools (on Sun Deck) which are filled with seawater and open only if weather permits. All the clippers are fully stabilized and with two bilge keels (on both sides of the vessel) to reduce rolling.

The ship's dedicated Water Sports staff assists and guides passengers on water-based activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, banana boating, sunfish/dinghy (sailboat) sailing, kayaking, water skiing, windsurfing. Onboard pre-scheduled on each cruise activities (also provided complimentary to all cabin category passengers) include outdoor aerobics and yoga classes, swimming pool (sundeck), deck BBQ parties, talent nights, crew show, fashion shows, local (itinerary/ports-based) entertainment (live folkloric performances by local artists boarding the yacht).

Above-deck lookout stations (mounted on each mast) are equipped with safety rails and comfortable lounge seats to allow passengers 360-degree observation. Access to these stations is via climbing the masts - with supplied safety vests and dedicated deck crew supervision and assistance.

Shore excursions are optional and cost extra (not cruise fare inclusive). Optionally can be also booked pre-cruise and/or post-cruise tours in both homeports (departure ports) and non-port cities. Cruise line's vessels can be also privately chartered. Ship charter deals are with unique (customized) itineraries and tailor-made activities both onboard and ashore.

Onboard purchases can be made in cash, with travellers checks or via international credit cards ( Visa, American Express, Mastercard) and will be added to passenger's invoice (debited in EUR). Cash or travellers check payments require a EUR 300 deposit. Gratuities (onboard tipping) is not included in the fares (suggested EUR 8 pp per day).

Company's provided cruise documents also include luggage tags, which must be filled out with passenger's name and attached to his/her bags before checking in. Bringing alcoholic beverages on the ship is forbidden. Ashore-purchased alcohol (in call ports) will be taken at the gangway (upon reboarding the ship), stored and returned upon debarkation.

All staterooms are fitted with twin beds (convertible to a double Queen bed), smart HDTV (with DVD player), satellite phone, electronic safe box, dressing table with an armchair, en-suite bathroom (WC, washbasin, shower, hairdryer), 110V flat plugs (for a deposit, adapters can be borrowed from the Reception Desk) and 220V European plugs (on the 5-masted ships).

During summer, Star Clippers cruises as itineraries visit some of the best-known coastal destinations in Europe's Mediterranean, including the Italian and French rivieras, Balearic Islands (Spain), Adriatic Sea's Dalmatian Coast (Croatia), Greece, Turkey. European homeports include Civitavecchia-Rome , Venice , Cannes , Piraeus-Athens ,

During winter, the fleet is deployed in regions like Caribbean (Central America) and Southeast Asia. Star Clippers Caribbean homeports include Bridgetown Barbados and Philipsburg St Maarten Island . In Asia, the company homeports in Phuket Thailand , Singapore , Benoa Bali-Indonesia .

When seasonally chnaging the regions, the cruise line offers ship relocation (repositioning) Transatlantic crossings or Suez Canal transits on longer but low-priced voyages (RepositionCruises.com).

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, Star Clippers canceled all Asian cruises with pre-scheduled departures in 2020 March 21, 2020, through August 2021.

Operations restarted in 2021 on August 3 (Royal Clipper/Mediterranean from Piraeus-Athens), August 7 (Star Flyer/Mediterranean from Athens) and November 20 (Star Clipper/Southeast Asia).

All affected bookings received full refunds in FCC (future cruise credit) available for rebooking.

Itinerary of Star Clippers

During summer, Star Clippers cruises as itineraries visit some of the best-known coastal destinations in Europe's Mediterranean, including the Italian and French rivieras, Balearic Islands (Spain), Adriatic Sea's Dalmatian Coast (Croatia), Greece and Turkey. European homeports include Civitavecchia-Rome , Venice , Cannes , Piraeus-Athens ,

During winter, the fleet is deployed in regions like the Caribbean (Central America) and Southeast Asia. Star Clippers Caribbean homeports include Bridgetown Barbados and Philipsburg St Maarten Island , In Asia, Star Clipper's homeports in Phuket Thailand , Singapore , Benoa Bali-Indonesia .

When seasonally changing the regions, the cruise line offers ship relocation (repositioning) Transatlantic crossings or Suez Canal transits on longer but low-priced voyages (RepositionCruises.com).

itineraries 2023-2024 (Mediterranean)

For those seeking an extensive and effortlessly curated vacation experience, Star Clippers offers a series of "Grand Voyages" ranging from 13 to 19 days. These voyages grant travelers the opportunity to explore a diverse array of exotic ports across multiple Mediterranean countries, all while indulging in the authentic ambiance of a tall sailing ship.

The leisurely pace of these signature Grand Voyages ensures ample time for in-depth exploration of ports both prominent and hidden. This unhurried approach enables guests to immerse themselves in the allure of ancient ruins, savor panoramic vistas, and relish the culinary treasures of the region. These extensive itineraries encompass a remarkable spectrum of destinations, encompassing the quaint islets of Greece to the vibrant, cliffside hamlets that grace the Italian coastline.

Star Clippers presents this opportunity across all three of its genuine sailing vessels throughout the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

A captivating example is the 19-night journey aboard the  Star Flyer , commencing from  Valetta (Malta)  and culminating in  Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Canary Islands) . The voyage encompasses ports in Malta, Italy, Spain, and Morocco, before transitioning to the Atlantic crossing. The highlights include the picturesque island of  Gozo  in Malta,  Palma in Mallorca  with its splendid Gothic cathedral, Motril in Spain with its stunning beaches, and the vibrant Tangiers.

For an immersive exploration of the Greek isles, Star Clippers offers a 14-night round-trip sailing from  Athens (Piraeus) , encompassing ports in both the Northern and Southern Cyclades, along with Turkey. This journey traverses islands like  Skopelos  and  Skiathos , recognized from the famed Mamma Mia series. The romantic ambiance of  Spetses  unfolds through its beautiful beaches and winding cobblestone pathways, while the historical significance of  Patmos  is underscored by its association with the apocalyptic revelations of St. John the Divine. A stopover in  Kusadasi, Turkey , opens the door to a tour of the ancient Ephesus ruins.

The  Royal Clipper 's 14-night  Venice  to  Rome  voyage embarks along the Adriatic, unfolding with stops along the captivating Croatian coastline. The itinerary offers a day in  Kotor, Montenegro , renowned for hosting one of Europe's most breathtaking harbors, enveloped by towering mountains.  Taormina in Sicily  boasts historic charm and captivating vistas, perched on the shoulders of Mount Etna. The journey continues along Italy's western coast, punctuated by visits to smaller ports such as  Ponza  and  Palmarola , before culminating in Rome.

For over two decades, Star Clippers has been an ambassador of modern tall ship sailing, offering travelers access to remote ports across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Indonesia, and the Far East. The company operates three of the world's largest and tallest sailing vessels:  Star Clipper  and Star Flyer, traditional clipper ships equipped with modern comforts and accommodating 170 guests; and the Royal Clipper, an awe-inspiring five-masted, full-rigged sailing ship that can host up to 227 guests, holding the prestigious Guinness World Record for its unique stature. All three vessels feature extensive teak decks, swimming pools, relaxed dining venues, convivial tropical bars on deck, and inviting piano lounges.

Star Clippers related cruise news

Star Clippers announces Grenada as new homeport for Star Clipper

Star Clippers has unveiled plans to designate Grenada as the new homeport for its 166-guest Star Clipper during a series of upcoming sailings in...

Star Clippers expands Caribbean itineraries with homeporting in Grenada

Grenada, renowned for its scenic beauty and warm hospitality, has been chosen as the latest Caribbean home port for Star Clippers, an esteemed tall...

Star Clippers unveils “Grand Voyages” to exotic ports in the Mediterranean

For those seeking an extensive and effortlessly curated vacation experience, Star Clippers offers a series of "Grand Voyages" ranging from 13 to 19...

Star Clippers opens bookings for all cruises until March 2025 on their 3 tall sailing ships

Star Clippers is now accepting bookings for all sailings until March 2025 on its three majestic tall sailing ships. New destinations available for...

Star Clippers lifts COVID vaccine mandates for cruise passengers

Star Clippers announced a new set of health & safety protocols with regard to the prevention of COVID for their fleet of tall clipper ships. The...

Tradewind Voyages UK cancels all Golden Horizon cruises in the Mediterranean (May-October 2022...

Tradewind Voyages, the UK-based operator of the tall-sail ship Golden Horizon, canceled all sailings through October 2022 as it pursues a...

Tradewind Voyages pauses Golden Horizon ship due to EU's sanctions against Russia

The UK-based operator of the tall ship Golden Horizon, Tradewind Voyages, has decided to suspend sales as sanctions against Russian entities had...

Port Bastia (Corsica France) welcomes a double call with tall-sail cruise ships Royal Clipper and...

Port Bastia (Corsica Island, France) welcomed a double ship call with Star Clippers' Royal Clipper and Ritz-Carlton's Sea Cloud. Both tall-sailing...

Star Clippers restarts cruises with all 3 ships in the Mediterranean

The tall-ship sailing company Star Clippers resumed its full sailing program for the first time in 2+ years with its all 3 yachts operating in the...

Star Clippers opens bookings for Costa Rica cruises through Winter 2024

Star Clippers opened bookings for its new Costa Rica 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 winter itinerary programs. The company is now offering a “Triple...

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Costa Rica and Panama

A brand new tall ship voyage under full sail showcasing the outstanding natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Costa Rica and Panama

Cruise Only 7 nights from £1485pp

• Description

Price Includes

• Dates & Prices

Discover the incredible scenery and wildlife of Costa Rica and Panama on this exciting new tall ship sailing cruise.

Visit the pretty harbour town of Quepos, gateway to the diverse flora and fauna of Manuel Antonio National Park, before cruising to tranquil Golfito, nestled within a beautiful bay. The Golfito National Wildlife Reserve is simply breathtaking.

Explore UNESCO-listed Coiba in the heart of Coiba National Park, and the serene Gulf of Chiriqui National Marine Park off the Pacific coast of Panama. Its islands, reefs and mangroves are home to a rich diversity of marine life. Last but by no means least is Tortuga Island, one of the the islands which make up the Islas Negritos Biological Reserve, located off the Nicoya Peninsula.

S632 Operated by Star Clippers

Costa Rica and Panama Itinerary

Day 1 - puerto caldera (costa rica), day 2 - quepos, day 3 - golfito, day 4 - coiba island (panama), day 5 - marine park golfo de chiriqui - parida island, day 6 - at sea, day 7 - islas tortugas (costa rica), day 8 - puerto caldera.

The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary to suit wind and weather conditions.

• 7-night full board cruise
• Complimentary tea, coffee and water
• Use of ship’s watersports and snorkelling equipment
• We can arrange flights, transfers and hotel stays to suit

Price Does Not Include

• Flights and transfers - please contact us for a quote
• Port Charges
• Optional excursions

2025 Departures £ price per person based on 2 people sharing

Price information.

• Guaranteed Single - from £1850 - £1965
• Third Person - from £660 to £705
• Port Charges - £135pp
• Please note prices are updated regularly from a third party price feed and may fluctuate from those shown. Please contact us for latest prices
• Prices shown usually include all available discounts

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• Monday - Friday: 9am to 5pm
• Saturday: 10am to 4pm
• Phone: 01756 706500
• Email: [email protected]
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Why this new sailing ship may be the ultimate way to explore Costa Rica and Panama

Editor's Note

Just a handful of passengers are awake as our giant three-masted sailing ship, Sea Cloud Spirit , chases the sunrise into Costa Rica's remote Golfo Dulce — one of the most eco-diverse bays on the planet. But for those early risers, it's a treat.

From the soaring, 136-passenger vessel's teak-lined top deck, we watch as the rising sun lights up the fjord-like bay's pristine and primeval shoreline — a verdant patchwork of palm-lined beaches, dense mangroves and twisty rivers.

It is a prelude to a day of adventure. After the ship anchors early off the tiny coastal town of Puerto Jimenez, we are soon zipping to shore in a tender boat to spread out in search of wildlife.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Some of us head off on a nature walk to a crocodile-filled lagoon. Others board a catamaran searching for dolphins. Still others, like me, ride a van into the rainforest looking for the elusive sloths that call this region home.

At the recently opened La Perica Sloth Garden, we find them in droves, along with capuchin monkeys, scarlet macaws and other iconic denizens of the Costa Rica jungle.

It is, in short, a classic day of exploring the Golfo Dulce region and the wildlife-rich Osa Peninsula that makes up its north shore.

It's also wonderfully different from the outdoorsy experiences we had just the day before in and around Costa Rica's more northerly Manuel Antonio National Park and what we will see tomorrow as we head south to the 39 islands and islets that make up Panama's Coiba National Park.

On this 11-night Sea Cloud Spirit sailing down the coasts of Costa Rica and Panama, just about every day brings a new adventure, including — on many days — the experience of traveling under the power of nothing but the wind.

In addition to wildlife and nature experiences, there's also a daylight crossing of the Panama Canal — a chance to see one of the great marvels of human engineering up close.

The final day of the trip includes a visit with the indigenous Kuna people living in the remote San Blas Islands just off the coast of Panama.

It's the sort of diversity of experiences that is hard to arrange during a land-based trip to Costa Rica and Panama unless you have far more time than 11 days.

Propelled by the power of the wind

Sea Cloud Spirit, which Germany-based Sea Cloud Cruises unveiled in 2021, isn't the first cruise vessel to offer voyages focused on the coasts of Costa Rica and Panama. Small vessels operated by Windstar Cruises , Lindblad Expeditions, Star Clippers, Ponant and Aurora Expeditions also offer such trips.

Still, Sea Cloud Spirit may be the most intriguing ship to ply the route. Five decks high and nearly 500 feet long, it is a full-rigged, three-masted sailing vessel of the sort that hasn't been common on the world's oceans for more than a century.

As large sailing ships go, it's also particularly authentic in how it operates.

Related: Why Sea Cloud Spirit is a vessel you'll want to try

Sea Cloud Spirit is, notably, propelled by a massive, old-style array of 28 sails that are unfurled by hand by an enormous team of 19 deckhands — something you don't see on almost any other large sailing ship in the world.

Most other large sailing ships offering multiday cruises, such as the two sailing vessels Windstar Cruises sometimes deploys to Costa Rica and Panama (Wind Star and Wind Spirit), have automated sails that unfurl at the push of a button.

The result is a much different experience of coastal travel on Sea Cloud Spirit from the one you'll get from any other ship.

In addition to being sailed by hand, another differentiator for Sea Cloud Spirit when sailing the Costa Rica and Panama coasts is that it offers a more expansive exploration of the region than you'll generally get with other ships. Most of the small-ship cruise itineraries in the region are seven nights in length. Sea Cloud Cruises, by contrast, typically budgets 10 to 11 nights for Sea Cloud Spirit to cover the same territory.

Even under full sails, the vessel often only meanders down the coast at just three to five knots.

Call it the "slow travel" way to do the Costa Rica and Panama coasts.

Exploring the Pacific side of Costa Rica

Our sailing down the coasts of Costa Rica and Panama begins in the sleepy Costa Rica port town of Puntarenas, on the Pacific side of the country. But we don't stay there long.

Just hours after passengers arrive at the ship, which is tied up all alone at an otherwise empty dock, Sea Cloud Spirit sets off on a six-day exploration of Costa Rica's Pacific coast — a region known for ecotourism of all sorts, from spotting monkeys and colorful birds in national parks to zip lining through lush rainforests and horseback riding along unspoiled beaches.

After rounding Costa Rica's famous-for-its-surfing Nicoya Peninsula, Sea Cloud Spirit points northward toward the northwesternmost corner of the country near the border with Nicaragua.

It is here, after a day of cruising under full sails, driven by the power of the wind alone, that we land at Playa Panama — a secluded and quiet crescent of dark sand beach that serves as a gateway to nearby Palo Verde National Park.

After motoring to shore in Zodiac boats, many of the ship's passengers head to the national park for a boat ride through its marshlands in search of monkeys and crocodiles, as well as the many colorful birds for which it is known. Others visit a hacienda for horseback riding with the local cowboys and zip lining through the surrounding forests.

Related: The 18 best small cruise ships in the world

A handful of us, including me, sign on for a catamaran ride along the rocky coastline to a reef for snorkeling with colorful fish, margaritas on deck and spectacular sunset views over the ocean on the way back.

It is the sort of diverse outdoorsy pursuits that a vacationer could experience while staying at one of the area's resorts, such as the Four Seasons we passed on our way to our snorkeling site.

But unlike those land-based visitors, we would see a much wider array of Costa Rica's allures over the coming days.

Heading south from Playa Panama, we spend another full day cruising along the Costa Rica coast under full sails before reaching Quepos, the gateway to another of Costa Rica's iconic eco-destinations: Manuel Antonio National Park.

Outings to the national park and other private reserves in the area are the order of the day here after we land by tender boat at the small dock in Quepos.

Not wanting to rise at the crack of dawn, as is required for the Manuel Antonio National Park tour, I instead choose an afternoon hike over swinging bridges and past tumbling waterfalls at a small rainforest preserve called Rainmaker Conservation Park.

It turns into a perfect day, partly because I sneak away from the tour group with one other tour member (with the guide's permission) to climb a too-steep-for-most trail to a spectacular series of hanging bridges. We have it all to ourselves.

The next day Sea Cloud Spirit brings us to Costa Rica's Golfo Dolce, mentioned above.

With the stops at Playa Panama, Quepos and the Golfo Dulce's Puerto Jimenez, we have visited all three major segments of the Pacific coast of Costa Rica — the north, middle and south — in just a few days.

While we only make short day stops in each area, it's a taste of the country that isn't available to the typical visitor who comes to Costa Rica for a week and stays in one location.

Off-the-beaten-path Panama

After six days along Costa Rica's Pacific coast, Sea Cloud Spirit drives southward into the waters off Panama, where our first stop is the cluster of 39 islands and islets that make up Panama's Coiba National Park.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the mostly uninhabited island group is known for its untouched rainforests and wildlife that exists nowhere else, such as the Coiba Island howler monkey. But for our purposes, it serves mostly as a place to stop for a beach day as we land by Zodiac at one of its many sandy beaches for snorkeling and sunning.

Unlike many of my Sea Cloud Spirit compatriots, I skip the snorkeling, scared away by a warning in the ship's daily planner about the occasional presence of plankton and jellyfish in the water that send out "stinging microscopic harpoons." But I find diversion in a small one-room national park visitors center just off the beach that goes into great depth on its flora and fauna.

It is here that I learned that the particular island where we landed, the island cluster's main island of Coiba, once served as a penal colony known for brutal conditions and the disappearance of political prisoners during the dictatorships of Panamanian strongmen Omar Torrijos and Manuel Noriega.

Two days later, after another full day of sailing down the coast, we get a second beach day with snorkeling at Mogo Mogo Island, part of another cluster of islands and islets off the Panama coast called the Pearl Islands.

Here, I brave the plankton and jellyfish stings to wade out past the rocky shallows to snorkel the edge of a coral reef teeming with foureye butterflyfish and honeycomb trunkfish.

Not only is the water crystal clear and the fish lovely, but it is an outing that I survive without a single strike from a stinging harpoon (several of my snorkeling companions, alas, do report such strikes, though they say it's not terribly painful).

The marvel of the Panama Canal

The next day of the trip brings an adventure of a different sort as Sea Cloud Spirit transits through the Panama Canal.

Passengers line the teak walkway in front of Sea Cloud Spirit's bridge early in the morning to watch as the vessel glides through Balboa Harbor near Panama City to the start of the canal at the Miraflores Locks.

It is the first of three sets of giant rectangular chambers that will lift the 4,228-gross-ton vessel up and over the Continental Divide to the Caribbean, and it is a sight to behold.

After we enter the first of the chambers, seven-story-high steel gates slowly swing shut behind us, and the basin begins filling with millions of gallons of water. At 1,050 feet long, the lock is roughly the size of three football fields — so long that a second cruise vessel, the 100-passenger Emerald Azzurra, fits into the chamber behind us.

More than 100 years after its construction by the United States, the 48-mile-long Panama Canal remains a marvel of modern engineering — and an alluring attraction for cruisers on trips to the region.

As passengers learn during an onboard lecture the day before our transit, thousands of workers toiled for a decade to carve the passageway out of the dense Panamanian jungle. In addition to building giant locks at both sides of the canal (near both the Pacific and Atlantic entrances), its builders had to construct what at the time was the world's largest dam along the Chagres River, which in turn created one of the world's largest man-made lakes.

Dubbed Gatun Lake, the 21-mile-long body of water makes up a significant part of the waterway vessels use to cross the country.

Sea Cloud Spirit spends much of the day crossing the canal from the Pacific to the Atlantic as the ship's onboard lecturer, Stephen Weston, offers a running narrative from the top deck.

The entire process of moving between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans takes just seven hours.

The indigenous people of San Blas

The final stop on this trip is the San Blas Islands, a sprinkling of several hundred mostly uninhabited spits of white sand and palm trees that rest off Panama's Caribbean coast.

Controlled by the Kuna, an indigenous people spread across three politically autonomous reservations in Panama and Colombia, the islands are mostly off-limits to tourists and undeveloped for mass tourism, as the Kuna like it. But the Kuna allow small groups of visitors, such as those aboard Sea Cloud Spirit, to visit occasionally.

Anchoring off the Kuna-inhabited island of Wichub Wala, we tender to a small dock to wander the sandy paths between the Kuna's bamboo and palm leaf huts, past the dugout canoes they use for fishing.

It is, for many passengers, an opportunity to purchase a souvenir from the trip that is hand-made and local, as the women of the village line the pathways hawking the colorful needlework panels called molas that they make both for their own use (traditionally, they sew them onto the fronts of their blouses) and for tourists.

Molas that we're told take weeks to make sell for about $15 to $20.

The brief visit to Wichub Wala also includes a short dance performance by the Kuna in their main square before we are back on the tender to the ship. It is a morning stop paired with an afternoon call at another sandy island for more snorkeling and swimming.

The trip ends the next morning in Colon on Panama's Caribbean coast.

Bottom line

A voyage along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and Panama on Sea Cloud Spirit is an intriguing way to see the highlights of both countries in a single trip.

One of the biggest passenger sailing ships ever built, Sea Cloud Spirit takes a go-slow approach to travel down the coast from Puntarenas, Costa Rica, to the Pearl Islands of Panama, followed by a daylight crossing of the Panama Canal to the Caribbean side of Panama. Along the way, it visits several of the most popular tourist areas in the two countries and offers passengers a relatively rare opportunity to experience the joys of sailing the region on a tall ship.

One caveat about the trips: Sea Cloud Cruises, which is based in Hamburg, Germany, has a big following in Germany, and its Sea Cloud Spirit sailings often are heavy with German speakers. That said, the vessel's onboard program is bilingual (the relatively rare number of announcements on board are made in German and English, and most of the staff speaks both languages). You'll likely find at least some English speakers among your fellow passengers.

For more details on what it's like on board, see TPG's first-look guide to Sea Cloud Spirit .

Ten-night Sea Cloud Spirit sailings to Costa Rica and Panama start at $9,530 per person, based on double occupancy. For more information, call 888-732-2568 or visit seacloud.com .

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Expedition cruising around the Hebrides

In association with TS Tours

11 days, from £4,829

Next departure Apr 20 2024

Upcoming departures Apr 30 2024, May 10 2024

Take a memorable island-hopping cruise around the Inner and Outer Hebrides

Island hop in the untouched Hebrides

Discover the best of the Scottish isles including the ‘whisky island’ of Islay and the famous Isle of Mull

Visit Bordeaux and the vineyards of the Medoc with Monica Galetti

In association with Uniworld

8 days, from £2,549

Next departure Apr 21 2024

Visit beautiful chateaux and sample delicious wines on this cruise of Bordeaux with top chef Monica Galetti

Discover Venice on a luxury cruise with Ian Botham and Rosemary Shrager

Upcoming departures Apr 21 2024

Cruise the Venice lagoon's pretty islands, enjoy after-hours access at Venice's most iconic places and meet Ian Botham and Rosemary Shrager

Cruise through Bordeaux and the Medoc vineyards with Monica Galetti

Taste the flavours of Bordeaux with visits to historic vineyards, beautiful chateaux and local farmers markets with top chef Monica Galetti

Sail Bordeaux and the Medoc wine region with Monica Galetti

Uncover the enchanting beauty and history of Venice with James Martin

8 days, from £2,775

Next departure Apr 28 2024

Upcoming departures Oct 6 2024

Cruise in luxury around fabulous Venice and the romantic Veneto region, with exclusive access to some of the city’s best landmarks and appearances from top chef James Martin

Discover the captivating beauty and history of Venice with James Martin

Upcoming departures Oct 16 2024

Cruise in luxury around Venice and the Veneto region, with exclusive access to Venice’s top landmarks and appearances from chef James Martin

Ride Canada's Rocky Mountaineer and cruise Alaska

13 days days, from £3,799

Next departure May 2 2024

Discover the best of Canada and Alaska by sea and rail with a coastal cruise and an iconic train ride

Visit the scenic isles of Scotland on a springtime cruise

6 days, from £1,049

Next departure May 3 2024

Voyage to remote Scottish islands with highlights including the Small Isles and the Holy Isle of Iona

Cruise the scenic isles of Scotland in spring

Join a voyage of discovery to remote Scottish islands with highlights including the Small Isles and the Holy Isle of Iona

See the isles of Scotland on a springtime cruise over the May Bank Holiday

Sail away on a voyage to Scotland’s remote islands, with visits to the Small Siles and the Holy Isle of Iona

Scotland's Highlands & Islands Seven-Night Yacht Experience

8 days, from £2,540

Next departure May 6 2024

Upcoming departures May 13 2024, Sep 2 2024, Sep 23 2024

Board a small ship to venture through the Caledonian Canal and explore the islands of Scotland’s western shore

Explore Scotland’s Highlands and islands by comfortable yacht on a seven-night cruise

8 days, from £2,449

Upcoming departures May 13 2024, May 27 2024, Sep 2 2024

Visit remote islands, fairytale castles and charming port towns over seven nights on small ship Lord of the Glens

Set sail on a glorious adventure along Croatia's beautiful coastline

8 days days, from £1,439

Next departure May 18 2024

Cruise on a boutique ship along the stunning Dalmatian coast and visit charming towns, picture-perfect islands and historic sites

Voyage on a boutique ship along Croatia’s sunny coastline

Set sail on a boutique ship to see picturesque coastal towns, serene islands, and historical wonders

Embark on a sailing adventure along Croatia's glorious coastline

Set sail on a voyage on a boutique ship to see picturesque coastal towns, serene islands, and historical wonders

Sail around the islands of Venice on this luxury river cruise

8 days, from £2,299

Next departure May 19 2024

Upcoming departures Jun 2 2024, Jul 14 2024, Aug 4 2024

Stay in a stateroom with a river view and enjoy exclusive access to the best landmarks in Venice and the wider lagoon

Cruise the islands of Venice with exclusive after-hours sightseeing

See the very best of this iconic floating city on the only luxury cruise line allowed to enter it

Cruise Scotland's Highlands & Islands with Carol Kirkwood

8 days, from £3,119

Next departure May 27 2024

Join TV’s favourite weather presenter, Carol Kirkwood, on a small-ship cruise around the Highlands and islands of Scotland

Sail to Scotland's Highlands & Islands with Carol Kirkwood

8 days, from £2,798

Explore the highlights of western Scotland on a small ship cruise, when you'll be joined TV’s favourite weather presenter, Carol Kirkwood

Explore Scotland's islands by yacht with Carol Kirkwood

Learn about the weather presenter’s Scottish heritage and discover Loch Ness, Loch Nevis, Iona and much more on this incredible private yacht experience aboard Lord of the Glens

Nature Walk at the Wildlife Refuge

• At the reserve your naturalist tour guide will introduce you to a variety of wildlife that thrives here, including up to 200 species of birds, capuchin and howler monkeys as well as lizards and spiders
• The easy trail in Curu contains Costa Rica’s first private National Wildlife Refuge and is an example of a successful sustainable development program
• Curú National Wildlife Refuge is managed sustainably to produce a profit and local employment, while also protecting its threatened and endangered forested habitats such as mangroves, tropical moist and dry forests, and coral reefs

Snorkelling with the Swan Hellenic Expedition Team

• Lookout for angelfish, octopus, stingrays, and spinner dolphins
• Enjoy the spectacular forest covered island with its has golden sand beaches and is surrounded by rich marine life

Skywalk in the Forest & Crocodile Safari

• Disvocer the forest below with three suspended cable bridges; each bridge stretches between 270 and 330 feet, and all skim the top of the spectacular rainforest, up to 126 feet above the ground
• Explore the Tarcoles River, near the Carara National Park. This area is known for its mangrove forests, holding within it four different species of mangroves: tea, black, red and white mangrove
• Enjoy a delicious Typical lunch and you will have some time that will allow you to browse and purchase some souvenirs to take back home with you

A Rainmaker Forest and Waterfalls

• Explore a peaceful place, surrounded by an untouched natural beauty that lies beyond the boundaries of your imagination
• Explore the rainforest on easy trails and suspended bridges along with lookout platforms allowing you to observe waterfalls and witness the rich biodiversity this unique site has to offer
• At the end of the walk a pristine waterfall pool will invite you to enjoy a refreshing dip if weather permits

Nature Walk & Beach at Manuel Antonio National Park

• The dense rainforest opens into small trails where your naturalist tour guide will acquaint you with all the information regarding the transitional forest
• This walk is by far one of the best in the Central Pacific, and a great opportunity to get closer to the forest
• After a short drive, your guided walk will lead you to the beach, where you will have time for sunbathing

Traditional Culinary Experience

• Experience a fun and informative tour of local cuisine; learn where the organic ingredients come from, how dishes are prepared, and how to recreate recipes at home
• Your guide will take you through the garden to pick out some finishing flavors, colors and textures for your meal
• Participate in the kitchen and experience the process of making corn tortillas by hand, exotic “ceviches” with plantain, rice cooked the old-fashioned way, chicken in a hearty tomato sauce, “picadillos” and more

Rainforest Extravaganza

• Visit a property that is filled with crystal-waters creeks and surrounded by giant trees that you can only find in tropical jungles a land of an outstanding number of species of birds and butterflies
• Enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful place, while you walk on easy trails

Piedras Blancas National Park

• Explore Piedras Blancas National Park, considered by many experts to have the best birdwatching in Costa Rica
• Enjoy a short sightseeing drive in the coastal area of Golfito
• Visit the mysterious stone spheres and the old train locomotive that was used in the 18th century to transfer the crops from the fields to the port

Dolphin Watch & Beach Scape

• Explore a place known by ¨National Geographic to be the most biologically intense area on Earth.... A place where large groups of dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays swim in clear blue tropical waters in an amazing show
• You will learn about the biological behavior and habits of the wildlife that you will spot, as you sail across the area
• If weather permits there will be leisure time, where you can enjoy and swim in the placid waters of a local beach

Ocean Kayak Adventure

• Birdwatchers will be delighted with the variety of seafowl that commonly includes pelicans, frigate birds, egrets, and more
• Keep your eyes open as sometimes pods of bottle-nosed dolphins stay in the area before or after their daily activities in the open waters of the gulf
• You will stop at a nice beach where you will take a break to relax and enjoy some nicely presented fresh fruits and snacks before returning to Golfito

Pre-Columbian Stone Spheres at a UNESCO site

• Visit Finca 6, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the four archaeological collections of unique stone spheres located in chiefdom settlements from the Pre-Columbian period (500-1500 CE)
• Discover a collection of stone spheres, between 0.7 m and 2.57 m (8.5 ft) in diameter, whose meaning, use, and production remain largely a mystery. The spheres are distinctive for their perfection, number, size, and density, and placed in original locations."
• After this amazing encounter with the past, replenish with a savory Costa Rican lunch before returning to the pier

Leisurely Beach Rainforest Nature Walk with your Expedition Team

• Discover the biodiversity of this true paradise Island
• Marvel at the breathtaking natural beauty and feel the serene atmosphere
• Spot some of the most beautiful birds in the world

Snorkelling Activities with your Expedition Team

• Enjoy the pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and the peaceful atmosphere.
• Be delighted by the vibrant underwater world surrounding Cebaco Island
• Explore the coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life

Exploring Embera Village with the Expedition Team

• Stop in the beautiful Darien region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the outskirts of Darien National Park
• Watch tattoo-covered locals perform traditional dances and admire their intricate jewelry
• Shop for souvenirs, such as carvings made from cocobolo wood and tagua nut (vegetable ivory)

Highlights of Panama City

• Take in the must-see attractions in Old Panama and Colonial Panama, its successor
• Visit to the Interoceanic Canal Museum, which is housed in the building that was the original headquarters for the French Canal building
• Observe landmark buildings featuring French and Spanish architecture

Small Boat Rainforest Expedition in the Panama Canal

• Try to spot incredible wild life as green iguanas three-toed sloths resting on tree branches, crocodiles, and ospreys in the hunt for peacock bass
• Admire the tropical scenery while driving to the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve
• Cruise massive Gatun Lake,passing by gigantic cargo ships transiting the waterway

Helicopter Tour of the Panama Canal

• Enjoy aerial views of the East and West banks of Pacific Canal Lock
• Have some impressive views of Panama City's skyline
• Fly over the entire Panama Canal

Flavors of Casco Viejo

• Have the chance to sample the famous ceviche, a delicious traditional dish prepared from raw fish
• Try an array of the best coffees from the Chiriqui Highlands
• Walk through the cobblestone streets of Casco Antiguo for a chocolate tasting experience

Snorkelling activities with your Expedition Team

• Encounter the local marine wildlife, including schools of tropical fish, barracudas, trumpet fish, and stingrays
• Observe every detail of the marine life and coral formations through these so clear waters
• Explore one of the most untouched coral reefs by mankind

Zodiac Cruising with Swan Hellenic Expedition Team

Comprehensive Cartagena City Tour

• Admire Cartagena from a hilltop fortress that offers a wonderful panoramic view
• Stroll through Cartagena’s atmospheric Old City
• Visit the Gold Museum

Mangrove Canoe Ride & Community Drumming Performance

• Visit La Boquilla Fishing Village
• Enjoy a folkloric presentation
• Learn about the traditions of the small villages

Colombian Coffee Experience with Rum Pairing

• Taste the best coffee of the word at Café San Alberto awarding coffee shop
• Taste some Colombian rums through the experience
• Learn about the Coffe Process and culture

Caribbean Culinary Experience

• Visit the iconic traditional Bazurto Market
• Learn about the Colombian Gastronomy and prepare your own Caribbean meal

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