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Cebaco Island

Costa Rica: A Wild Paradise

Panama City roundtrip - Example 9 Day Cruise aboard SH Vega
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Set sail on a 9-day adventure aboard the SH Vega, exploring the natural and cultural wonders of Costa Rica and Panama. Discover vibrant biodiversity at the Biomuseo or visit the historic districts of Panamá Viejo and Casco Viejo in Fuerte Amador, the gateway to the Panama Canal. Explore the diverse ecosystems of Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio National Park in Quepos, ranging from rainforests to pristine beaches. Wander through lush forests and mangroves at Curú Wildlife Refuge, encountering exotic wildlife, and relax on the secluded Playa Quesera, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. In Golfito, venture into the dense rainforests of Piedras Blancas National Park, home to rare and diverse wildlife. Discover Cebaco Island, a hidden gem with unspoiled beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Experience a cultural encounter in the Darien Jungle with the indigenous Emberá tribe and learn about their traditional way of life.
Darrien JungleGolfito MangroovesPiedras blancas boat billed heronCuru Howler MonkeyCebaco Island
Highlights
  • Discover Fuerte Amador's historic roots in Panama City’s coastal setting
  • Sail through Panama Canal, a marvel of modern engineering and history
  • Meet Embera tribe in Darien Jungle’s remote wilderness
  • Dive at Cebaco Island's coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Fuerte Amador, Panama City

Arrive at the airport and head to the hotel via the group transfer to your hotel. Relax, and spend the overnight here preparing for your adventure.

*Pre/Post hotels and flights are always subject to change until the Travel Documents are provided.

Day 2: Fuerte Amador, Panama City | Embark

Fuerte Amador, the Panama Canal's Pacific terminus, lies at the end of a mile-long manmade causeway, built from the canal's waste materials. Nearby, Frank Gehry's colorful Biomuseo showcases Panama's biodiversity. Miraflores Locks' visitor center tells the story of this legendary waterway. A short taxi ride away, modern Panama City has evolved around its two historic centers: the conquistador-era Panamá Viejo and 17th-century Casco Viejo.

Day 3: At Sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea allows you to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to the library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of the onboard lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from the onboard professional photographers.

Day 4: Quepos

The lively town of Quepos serves as a gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica's top attractions. The park offers diverse landscapes, including mountains, mangrove forests, lagoons, beaches, and vibrant rainforests. With over 350 species of birds and over 100 species of mammals, the Perezoso trail provides opportunities to spot wildlife, such as scarlet macaws, toucans, hawks, armadillos, and sloths who hide in the guarana trees.

Included Excursion

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

Day 5: Curu Wildlife Refuge | Playa Quesera

Curu Wildlife Refuge in Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula has diverse trails through forests, mangroves, and beaches. Part of a sustainable farm, it has 232 bird species, including parrots, woodpeckers, and scarlet macaws, and hosts howler and capuchin monkeys. The refuge also aids sea turtles like the Pacific ridley, hawksbill, and green sea turtles through an eco-project focusing on artificial reef and coral restoration in Curu Bay.

Included Excursion

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
  • Curu 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
Part of Curu Wildlife Refuge on Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Quesera counts as one of the country's best beaches. This secluded spot with views of Isla Tortuga stands out with its white sands, aquamarine waters, rugged rock formations, and swaying palms with tropical birds such as scarlet macaws overhead. Kayakers regularly ply the waters in this tranquil paradise.

Day 6: Golfito, Golfo Dulce

The deep and well-sheltered Golfo Dulce, or ‘Sweet Gulf’, borders the Osa Peninsula’s eastern shore. The northeast section of the gulf is part of the 35,000-acre Piedras Blancas National Park, a stunning tract of rainforest that used to be part of Corcovado, and still protects the same amazing biodiversity. As you explore the lush rainforest here, you’ll come face to face with some of the tallest trees in the world, you’ll also come across pretty waterfalls and perhaps also toucans, macaws, anteaters, sloths, howler monkeys, and more.

Included Excursion

Calathea Botanical Garden
  • Discover a magical place where you will learn about the wonderful world of tropical plants
  • Try to spot colourful birds, and enjoy the large number of species living in the garden
  • Learn about the biodiversity of the region
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

Day 7: Cebaco Island

Cebaco Island, a private island in the Gulf of Montijo off Panama's coast, captivates nature lovers. Verdant forests host diverse flora and fauna, while pristine beaches line the coast. The island's marine life thrives, showcasing vibrant fish in coral reefs, graceful rays in the depths, and majestic sea turtles navigating with unhurried grace.

Included Excursion

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
Snorkeling 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

Day 8: Darien Jungle

The authentic Embera tribe lives in the Darien Jungle and rarely receives outside visitors. They rely on the jungle, using its plants for food, medicine, and clothing. This is a unique opportunity to meet the indigenous people and discover their local customs. This visit offers an immersive look at an ancient culture still thriving in the Panamanian wilderness.

Included Excursion

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)

Day 9: Fuerte Amador, Panama City | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Fuerte Amador, the Panama Canal's Pacific terminus, lies at the end of a mile-long manmade causeway, built from the canal's waste materials. Nearby, Frank Gehry's colorful Biomuseo showcases Panama's biodiversity. Miraflores Locks' visitor center tells the story of this legendary waterway. A short taxi ride away, modern Panama City has evolved around its two historic centers: the conquistador-era Panamá Viejo and 17th-century Casco Viejo.

Ship/Hotel

SH Vega

SH Vega
SH Vega Club Lounge
SH Vega Club Lounge

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$2,780 2-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
SH Vega Suite OceanViewOceanview
Oceanview D4
19 m2, Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
SH Vega Suite OceanViewOceanview
Oceanview M4
19 m2, Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Balcony
Balcony D5
28 m2, Located at the forward and aft of the ship, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or double bed bedrooms with a living room area, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6m2 balcony
Balcony
Balcony M5
28 m2, Located at the center of the ship, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or double bed bedrooms with a living room area, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6m2 balcony
Balcony
Balcony D6
28 m2, Located on deck six, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or double bed bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6m2 balcony
SH Vega SuitePremium suitePremium Suite
Suite
44 m2, Our Suites features a super king bed and separate living room with and a soothing flame-effect fireplace a luxurious ensuite bathroom, and a 12 sq.m. private balcony.
SH Vega Suite PremiumSH Vega Suite PremiumPremium suitePremium Suite
Premium Suite
49 m2, Our grandest suites feature a super king bed and separate living room with and a soothing flame-effect fireplace a luxurious ensuite bathroom, a spacious walk-in wardrobe, and a 12 sq.m private balcony.
Included
  • 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Room Service 
  • Wifi
  • Coffee, tea, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages available 24-hours per day
  • Lecture programs by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
  • Onboard gratuities & port taxes
  • Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka and use of rubber boots in Polar Regions.
  • Group return transfers from the airport to the cruise port (via our included accommodation where applicable)
  • One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel or onboard
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • We recommend every traveler to take out a travel cancellation insurance, travel interruption insurance and a travel health insurance policy with an assumption of the return transport costs of repatriation

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen

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