Costa Rica & Panama

Board the Star Clipper in Puerto Caldera, the main cruise gateway to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, located 80 kilometers (50 miles) from the capital, San José. Before or after your voyage, consider adding an extension to Arenal Volcano or the Monteverde Cloud Forest, two experiences well worth the extra time.

Life aboard a Star Clippers ship offers a timeless, graceful way to explore, as the wind carries you smoothly toward the next destination. Pass the day stretched out on a lounger or cooling off in a pool on the top deck. For a taste of adventure, climb the rigging or ask for a turn steering the ship. Indoors, the comfortable lounges and the library offer quiet places to relax.

Nestled off the Pacific coast of Panama, Coiba National Park boasts a rich tapestry of biodiversity within its azure waters and dense rainforest. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this pristine sanctuary encompasses the largest island in Central America, Coiba Island, along with 38 smaller islands. A haven for marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and humpback whales, the park's coral reefs teem with vibrant fish species. On land, it shelters rare flora and fauna, including the endemic Coiba spinetail bird. Once a penal colony, its remote location has helped preserve its natural splendor, offering visitors a glimpse into a pristine ecosystem largely untouched by human development.

Golfo de Chiriqui 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.

Golfito is Costa Rica's most southern port town. It was built for bananas export when the United Fruit Company moved its regional headquarters here in the 1930s 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 other activities on offer including dolphin watch and kayaking 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.

Puerto Caldera is the cruise port that is the major gateway to Costa Rica's Pacific Coast, at 80 km distance from the capital San José. A cruise extension to the Arenal Volcano or Monteverde Cloud Forest is not to be missed.