Founded in 1519 by the Spanish as their first city on the Pacific coast of the Americas, Panama City is strategically sited near the Pacific end of the Panama Canal. Explore sites around Panama City, including Casco Viejo, the city’s old quarter, where narrow cobble-stoned streets are lined with historic buildings; the Reina Torres de Arauz Anthropological Museum, with displays of pre-Columbian artifacts; and the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, where you can enjoy a front row seat as massive ships pass through the lock chambers.

Transfer to Colon, on Panama’s Caribbean coast, to embark Le Boréal and set sail.

This archipelago, consisting of over 370 islands and cays, is known for its natural beauty, colorful reefs, and for the hospitality of the indigenous Kuna people. Enjoy a nature hike with stunning seascape views and visit a Kuna village.

Founded in 1533, Cartagena served as the major trading port for the conquistadors. Its historic, walled center is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your walking tour of Cartagena includes the Cathedral, the Palace of the Inquisition, the Fortress of San Felipe, and La Popa monastery. The Guillermo Pineres Botanical Garden, just outside the city, showcases protected local forest, natural springs, and a variety of fauna including howler monkeys, sloths, and the mariamulata, Cartagena’s official bird. View a recital at the Bellas Artes School of Arts.

Enjoy Le Boréal’s amenities as you sail to Willemstad, Curacao.

Your exploration of Willemstad begins with a walking tour of Punda, the oldest part of the city. A derivation of the Dutch word “punt” or “point”, the Punda was established in 1634. Continue along the picturesque waterfront of Handelskade with its Dutch gables and pastel colors; the Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere; the Maritime Museum, detailing the nautical history of Curacao; and the famous “floating market” where merchants from Venezuela sell fruit and vegetables. There is time to browse and shop before the second recital, at the Hotel Avila.

Enjoy Le Boréal’s amenities, onboard lectures, and the third recital as you sail to Castries, St. Lucia.

With its dense, green, rainforest-covered peaks rising from the turquoise Caribbean, St. Lucia is home to a dazzling array of vivid tropical flowers and 33 endemic bird species. Devote your time on this magical island to leisurely discovery of the luscious fruits, blooming flowers, thriving plants, shade trees, and waterfalls for which it is famous.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.