Costa Rica & Panama cruises with Cruise West

Day 1: Upon arrival in San Jose, Costa Rica you will be met and transferred to the Pacific Explorer.  Maneuverable and versatile, the 100 guest Pacific Explorer is the perfect way to travel in casual comfort.  The intimate vessel is staffed by friendly, knowledgeable, English-speaking Costa Rican Naturalists with an American cruise coordinator.  All cabins are air-conditioned with ocean view and private bathroom.  Delicious international cuisine with central American specialties is prepared daily using only the freshest fruits, vegetables, meats and fish. D

Day 2:   Manuel Antonio National Park: Naturalists lead walks to outstanding wildlife viewing.  There are over 100 mammal species and 180 species of birds here. Watch for monkeys, iguanas, agoutis, sloth, and the rare white ibis. BLD

Day 3:  Corcovado National Park: Discover Costa Rica's pristing rainforests, populated by a number of endangered species, including puma, tapir, poison dart frogs, crocodile, and jaguar. BLD

Day 4: Golfo Dulce: Explore a mangrove forest by small craft or kayak, if the tide allows, and stroll through the beautiful gardens at Casa Orquideas or "Orchid House."   See, smell, taste, and touch a wide variety of beautiful ornamental plants. Note: If the tide does not allow us to go up Rincon River, then we will visit Caña Beach, which is a private reserve and rescue and rehabilitation center for scarlet macaws. BLD

Day 5:   Isla de Coiba: Pristine waters, abundant sea life and over 15 species of coral surround the islets of Isla de Coiba National Park.  Enjoy a day of island snorkeling and kayaking. BLD

Day 6:   Darien Jungle: Visit a remote Emberá village tucked away on the coast of the Darién Jungle.  The Emberá villageers open their homes and hearts to welcome Cruise West friends.  You will laugh with them, dance with them, and collect memories for a lifetime. BLD

Day 7:  Panama Canal and City: Drive up the Panama Canal and return transit of the canal by day boat through the most exciting parts, an unforgettable experience, especially aboard a small ship. In the afternoon, visit Panama City to shop at local handcraft and souvenir shops. BLD

Day 8:  Disembark: Transfer to the Panama City Airport for your return trip home. B

Extension for the 9 night Itinerary:

Day 7:   Panama Canal Transit: Transiting the Panama Canal is an unforgettable experience, especially aboard a small ship like the Pacific Explorer.  Note: international maritime law gives priority to large vessels.  The Pacific Explorer will be assigned transit based on that criterion and may transit the Canal at night, an exciting and impressive alternative to typical daytime passage. BLD

Day 8:    Portobelo: Sleepy Portobelo was once one of the richest ports of the Spanish Main, until plundered by Henry Morgan in 1671. BLD

Day 9:   San Blas Islands: Step ashore at a Kuna Indian village, which nearly overflows a tiny island. At an uninhabited island nearby, crystal-clear waters tempt you in for snorkeling. BLD

Day 10:   Disembark and transfer from Colon to the Panama City Airport. B

PRICE:          
Available upon request                  
Based on the lowest cabin category, upgrades are available

Prices valid through October 31, 2009