This 8-day Central America adventure cruise departs from Balboa, Panama, to Puntarenas, Costa Rica. The waters of San Jose Island are considered to be among the best deep-sea fishing grounds in the world due to their abundance of tropical game species. Then, spend a few days at sea exploring islands and participating in Star Clipper's activities while being transported to stunning ports. Head to Islas Tortugas, which stands as the most beautiful island in Costa Rica. Your voyage culminates in the Costa Rican port city of Puntarenas.
Highlights
Visit the epicenter of the Caribbean yachting world
Swim & snorkel at the calm and breathtaking Pearl Islands
Spend an afternoon enjoying Isla Tortuga’s palm-shaded beaches
Discover diverse tropical ecosystems while exploring via kayak and on foot
Along the piers of Balboa, the port marking the Pacific terminus of the Panama Canal, you'll see yachts from all over the world. Balboa was built to house the American administrative headquarters for the Canal and many of the buildings are handsome examples of the American colonial style of the early 1900s.
San Jose Island is the second largest in the Pearl Islands. It's located just 90 kilometers from Panama City in the Gulf of Panama. The waters of San Jose abound in tropical game fish and are considered among the best deep-sea fishing grounds in the world. They host an abundance of tuna, black marlin, coberra, red snapper, lobster, shrimp, and giant oysters. Coconut palms and wild sugar cane pepper the irregular coastline. There are also a stunning array of beaches to be found that vary in color from coral white to ebony black and golden.
Iguana Island is a natural attraction of the Azuero Peninsula offering the only white sand beach in the region and beautiful clear waters. Accessible only by boat and Inhabited by rare birds, purple and red crabs, and of course iguanas, it's considered to be a wildlife refuge. It is great for snorkeling and you may spot more eels, rays, and turtles swimming in the warm waters. There is also a hiking trail that you can follow where you can see nesting birds.
Day 4: Marine Park Golfo de Chiriqui | Parida Islands, Panama
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 that 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.
Golfito is Costa Rica's southern port town. It was built on bananas – the United Fruit Company moved its regional headquarters here in the '30s and remained until its departure in the 1980s. Today it acts as a gateway to visitors who wish to surf at Pavones or take part in sport-fishing. There are plenty of other activities on offer including horseback riding, kayaking, and trips to nearby mangrove forests.
The small busy town of Quepos serves as the gateway to the Manuel Antonio National Park. Although the rapid rise in ecotourism has meant that Quepos has been descended upon it, has largely retained its authentic feel. There is a good restaurant scene, the streets are easy to navigate and the locals are friendly.
Isla Tortuga is widely regarded as the most beautiful island in Costa Rica. With giant coconut palms framing powder-soft white 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 on a glass-bottom boat. However, if you are feeling adventurous you can ride the zip line as part of a canopy tour.
Day 8: Puntarenas, Costa Rica | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Puntarenas is a cruise port that is also a gateway to Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. Visit the Paseo de Los Turistas promenade near the beach with its many bars and restaurants.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$1,560
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Category 6
Located on the Commodore Deck, this inside cabin features upper/lower berths and a bathroom with shower.
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Category 5
Located on the Clipper & Commodore Decks, this inside/outside cabin features a raised double bed, two lower beds, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
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Category 4
Located on the Commodore Deck, this outside cabin features two lower beds, double bed, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
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Category 3
Located on the Clipper & Commodore Decks, this outside cabin features two lower beds, double bed, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
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Category 2
Located on the Clipper Deck, this large outside cabin features two lower beds, double bed, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
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Category 1
Located on the Main & Sun Decks, this deluxe deck cabin features two lower beds that can convert to a double bed, minibar, marble-lined bathroom with whirlpool bath, and cabin doors that open onto the deck.
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Owner's Cabin (Double)
Located on the Clipper Deck, this deluxe outside cabin features a double bed, sitting area, minibar, and marble-lined bathroom with whirlpool.
Notes
Single supplement: A single supplement fare is available at 150% of the published cruise fare for categories 2-6 during the season in which passengers are traveling. It is available at 200% for category 1 cabins, Deluxe Suites, and Owner's Suites. Single space is capacity controlled.
Children's rate: Savings may be available for children under 18 years when traveling with a full-paying adult on select sailings and subject to availability. Contact us for details.
Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!