 Cruise & Freighter Travel Association P.O. Box 580188 - Flushing, NY 11358 Toll Free: 800-872-8584 - E-mail: info@travltips.com |
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Cruise & Freighter Travel Association P.O. Box 580188 - Flushing, NY 11358 Toll Free: 800-872-8584 - E-mail: info@travltips.com |
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Panama Canal & Costa
Rica - Between Two Seas
Panama to Costa Rica: Dec. 28, 2009;
Jan. 15, Feb. 8, Feb. 26, Mar. 16, Apr. 3, Nov. 8 & Dec. 27,
2010
Costa Rica to Panama: Dec. 19, 2009;
Jan. 6, Jan. 30, Feb. 17, Mar. 7, Mar. 25, Oct. 30 & Dec.
18, 2010
Cradled between two continents
and two seas lies a land as wild and primeval as any on earth.
Protected in this tiny isthmus are more species of wildlife and
flora than any other place on the planet. Volcanoes seethe, cloud
forests flourish and turquoise bays, once hideouts for pirates,
teem with marine life. Sail the beautiful pristine beach and jungle
river-lined coastline between the San Blas Islands and Manuel
Antonio National Park, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, taking
nature walks and exploring by inflatable craft along the way.
Venture into national parks and conservation areas teeming with
wildlife, and visit remote communities where locals live, colorful
and proud, in their ancient ways.
The narrow link of land that connects North and South America is unique on earth, and our small-ship voyages offer unparalleled access to the animals, plants and indigenous people who call this region home. On the 100-guest Pacific Explorer, you'll visit ports of call and remote landings the big ships pass by. And with a limited number of fellow travelers, your experience both on board and ashore is up-close, casual, and very personal, whether you're meeting the Emberá Indians in Panama's Darién Jungle or seeking wildlife in a Costa Rican jungle. Our Zodiac inflatable excursion crafts take you right to remote bays and deserted shorelines, close enough to the water to trail your fingers in the sea as you watch for blue-footed boobies, red-billed oystercatchers, and magnificent frigate birds.
On the edge of Panama's Darién Jungle, you step from a Zodiac launch onto a huge gnarled root in the streambank. A tattooed man, the headman of the Emberá village, welcomes you ashore with a smile and a handshake. Thanks to our expert Costa Rican naturalists and local contacts, you're given a true insider's view of this magical world. Come with us on your own voyage of discovery to this beautiful tropical wonderland.
Itinerary:
Day 1 - Arrive In Panama - Transfer from the Panama City Airport to Colón on the Caribbean coast to board the Pacific Explorer. D
Day 2 - Portobelo - Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1502, this was once one of the richest ports of the Spanish Main until plundered by Henry Morgan in 1668. Enjoy a guided walk in Portobelo and a special performance from Kuna Indians as they pass on their customs through dances and chants. Panamanian crafts, which include the richly embroidered molas handcrafted by the Kuna, can be purchased in the local market. Visit an old Spanish fort and, tides permitting, explore a mangrove forest of the Duarte River by small craft. BLD
Day 3 - Panama Canal - Come eye-to-eye with one of the most acclaimed engineering marvels in the world, which employs over 9,000 workers. The canal is over 50 miles long with a minimum depth of 41 feet. Transiting the Panama Canal is an unforgettable experience, especially aboard a small ship like the Pacific Explorer. BLD
Day 4 - Darién Jungle - Visit a remote Emberá village tucked away on the coast of the Darién Jungle. The Emberá people open their homes and hearts to welcome Cruise West friends. You will laugh with them, dance with them, and take away cherished lifetime memories. BLD
Days 5 & 6 - Coiba National
Park - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Coiba National Park consists
of 38 islands surrounded by pristine waters. Its abundant sea
life makes it one of the top snorkeling locations in the world.
For bird watchers, 147 species of birds can be found in Coiba
National Park. Our open exploration during these two days may
include snorkeling and kayaking at Granito de Oro Island, Coiba
Island or Rancheria Island, a visit to the prison ruins at Coiba
Island (Panama's version of Devil's Island) and guided nature
walks at the south end of Coiba, relatively untouched by humans.
BLD
Day 7 - Golfo Dulce - Take a guided tour through the beautiful gardens at Casa Orquideas or "Orchid House." Casa Orquideas is a private botanical garden cultivated by long-time local residents, who have lovingly landscaped this homestead for over 20 years. They have amassed a wonderful collection of tropical fruit trees, bromeliads, cycads, palms, heliconias, ornamental plants and more than 100 varieties of orchids. See, smell, and touch a wide variety of beautiful ornamental plants and taste some unusual fruits. In the afternoon take a walk in search of wildlife. Look for toucans, monkeys and maybe even a snake. If you prefer a quiet afternoon on your own, stay onboard and relax on the Sun Deck. BLD
Day 8 - Corcovado Conservation Area - Discover the Corcovado Conservation Area, a pristine rainforest, populated by a number of endangered species including puma, tapir, poison dart frogs, crocodile, jaguar, and marine turtles. It is home to the largest population of scarlet macaws in Costa Rica. Close to 400 species of birds have been seen here. There are also around 140 mammals and over 500 species of trees. Giant trees draped with vines and lianas and supported by massive buttress roots tower over the forest floor. Corcovado is inundated with nearly 20 feet of rain a year and is technically known as a very humid tropical lowland rainforest. Guided hikes will be offered, of varying degrees of difficulty. Lunch is a picnic on the beach, weather permitting. BLD
Day 9 - Manuel Antonio National Park - This park was created in 1972 and consists of 3 magnificent white-sand beaches that are backed by a jungle sheltering hundreds of fascinating plant species. Naturalists lead walks to outstanding wildlife viewing. There are over 109 mammal species and 184 species of birds here. Watch for monkeys, iguanas, agoutis, sloth, and the rare turquoise cotinga. Manuel Antonio offers well-maintained trails where you can explore the jungle on your own or join a walk with one of our naturalists. You may wish to see the small shopping area, relax on the white-sand beach or take a swim. BLD
Day 10 - Arrive Los Sueños / San José - Disembark in Los Sueños and transfer and transfer to the San José Airport for your flight home. B
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Cocos Island - Round
trip from San Jose
Jan. 24 & Apr. 12, 2010
Dive into adventure with a rare
visit to Cocos Island, a breathtaking tropical paradise off the
coast of Costa Rica. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is off the
beaten path of most cruise lines, but offers rich rewards to its
rare visitors. Caverns rumored to hold pirated Incan treasure,
the world's largest population of hammerhead sharks, 90 species
of birds and outstanding kayaking and snorkeling are just a few
of the attractions. Said to have been the inspirations for both
Jurassic Park and Treasure Island, Cocos Island lures adventurers
with its wildlife-rich waters, gorgeous scenery and tales of hidden
plunder. The jewel of the Costa Rican park system, Cocos Island
was once called "the most beautiful island in the world"
by Jacques Cousteau and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 1 - San Jose/Los Suenos - Arrive in San Jose, capital of Costa Rica, and transfer to the resort city of Los Suenos where you'll board your ship, Pacific Explorer. As we depart for Cocos Island, bid adieu to the everyday world and prepare for a week of adventure. D
Day 2 - At Sea - Cocos Island lies about 300 miles off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica between the mainland and the Galapagos Islands. As we make our way there, you'll have a chance to settle into your home on the Pacific Explorer. The ship holds just 100 guests and all staterooms offer ocean views. During the passage, our onboard Enrichment Program will enlighten you about various aspects of your upcoming destination.
Cocos Island was discovered in 1526, and was a popular stopover for pirates and whalers to take on fresh water, firewood and coconuts. It's said to be the largest uninhabited island in the world at about 10 square miles, although there are a few "temporary" residents. A handful of Costa Rican Park Rangers live here to oversee the island and the twelve miles of water around it that are also protected. Tourists are only allowed ashore with the approval of the park rangers, and no one is allowed to stay overnight or collect any of the island's flora or fauna. Just think: you will be one of just a very small number of people who have ever set foot on this pristine oasis in the Pacific. BLD
Day 3 - Explore Cocos Island -
As we approach Cocos Island, you'll notice the rugged landscape
topped by four peaks often obscured in clouds. An emerald evergreen
forest coats the island right down to the water line, punctuated
by over 200 streaming waterfalls, some plunging great distances
into the beautiful cobalt sea. "A very charming Place, and
delightful to several of the Sense at once." That's what
Lionel Wafer, a surgeon on the ship Bachelor's Delight, had to
say when he visited Cocos Island in the late 1600s. His name has
been given to one of the two best landing beaches on the island,
and we'll spend part of our day here at Wafer Bay. Depending on
the tide, you may notice a tunnel or deep cave on the north side
of the bay as we enter. It's visible both above and below the
water level, but the strong surges make it impossible to enter.
Wafer Bay is home to the larger of two ranger stations on the
island. We'll go ashore here and you'll have your choice of two
activities-either a guided walk, or a Zodiac tour to the caverns
with bird watching along the way. Cocos Island is actually the
top of a submerged volcanic mountain range. It's never been linked
to a continent so the flora and fauna here either developed indigenously
or arrived long-distance from the Americas. Its rocky nature is
apparent in the roots of the giant fig trees, which arch in the
air like mangrove roots, unable to find much purchase in the rocky
ground. The bird life here is prolific with some 90 species, but
because the island is so "young"-just a few million
years old-only three of these are endemic: the Cocos Flycatcher,
Cocos Cuckoo and Cocos Finch. As we walk, we may be accompanied
by curious white terns-dove-like white birds known as Espiritu
Santo, or the Holy Ghost bird. These volcanic origins also account
for many of the caves found both above and below the water line.
If you choose to explore the island's caverns, keep your eyes
open for glittering gold. It's speculated that pirates hid tons
of stolen Incan treasure here, although more than 300 treasure-hunting
expeditions have failed to turn up the loot. In the afternoon
we'll head to Chatan Beach. If you like, you can go kayaking or
snorkeling in the waters where Jacques Cousteau once spent two
months making a documentary. Butterfly and damselfish are just
a few of the species that can be seen roaming the reef for food.
Due to the cold Humboldt current, the unique meeting point between
deep and shallow water and the freedom from pollution, the coral
reefs here are very healthy. As a result, "feeder" species
have proliferated, attracting large pelagic species. Divers come
from all over to dive with the world's largest population of hammerhead
sharks, as well as whale sharks, nurse sharks, white- and black-tipped
sharks, manta rays and eagle rays, pilot whales, orcas, dolphins,
green turtles, hawksbill turtles, olive Ridley turtles and more.
The area is also home to 300 species of fish including large numbers
of marlin, sailfish and yellow fin tuna. Not surprisingly, the
area has been named one of the top 10 scuba diving spots in the
world. BLD
Day 4 - Explore Cocos Island - This morning you have two options: go ashore for a guided walk to Chatan Bay or take a Zodiac tour in the caverns with bird watching along the way. The smaller of the two ranger stations is located at Chatan Bay. This is also where you'll find a rather unique "guest book"-hundreds of inscriptions chiseled in boulders dating from the late 18th to the 20th century. The oldest dates to 1846. Take a few minutes to photograph the inscriptions if you like. Among its many claims to fame, Cocos is the only oceanic island in the eastern Pacific region that has tropical moist forests and cloud forests. Admire the native flora as we walk-the many different types of Epiphytes as orchids, tree ferns, and stunted iron trees named for their dense wood. Cocos Island is a baby by geologic standards. As such it's only developed a handful of endemic species-two species of lizard and three birds. There are no native mammals (although pigs, feral cats, deer and rats have all been introduced). No frogs, amphibians or snakes either. In the afternoon we'll head over to Chatan Beach where you can go snorkeling or kayaking in the pristine waters. While snorkeling, be aware of the curious nature of the hammerhead sharks, which sometimes will follow the Exploration Leader on his or her ascent after free diving. While the hammerhead is the most sought-after prize to see on trips to Cocos, there are many other species of shark present as well. During the night the ship will reposition to Rio Genio. BLD
Day 5 - Explore Cocos Island - Early visitors thought there must be a lake on Cocos that fed all the many streams that turn into gorgeous waterfalls throughout the island, but none has been found (although parts of the island remain "uncharted" even to the rangers who live here). Wherever they come from, the rivers nourish their own little ecosystems, and this morning you'll have a chance to explore that of Rio Genio, including possible sightings of great blue heron and great egrets. We'll also stop by Wafer Bay House, the main park ranger station. If you prefer, you can spend the morning again exploring the caverns and birdlife of Cocos. In the afternoon, you may choose to go snorkeling and kayaking in the small islands around Cocos. Many species of seagoing birds nest and roost here. As we leave the island, you'll have a chance to observe the majestic waterfalls that drop dozens of feet from the cliffs on the windward side of the island. After dinner, enjoy a Farewell Latin Party on the sundeck. BLD
Day 6 - At Sea - Today is a day of leisure as we make the transit back to the mainland. Visit with your new friends or dive into that novel you've been too busy to read all week. BLD
Day 7 - Los Suenos/San Jose - This morning you'll disembark
and transfer to San Jose for your return flight. If you have time,
you might want to explore San Jose a bit before your departure.
San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica, situated high in the Central
Valley between gorgeous green volcanic and tectonic mountain ranges.
Built after the colonial period, it's always been pretty modern
and forward looking. Thanks to profits from the coffee industry,
this was the second city in the Americas to install electricity.
It has its quirks though. Even though the city has a million people,
there is no home mail delivery and there are no street addresses
here, or anywhere else in Costa Rica for that matter. People navigate
by landmarks. Enjoy your visit, and your flight home. B
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Mexico's Sea of Cortes
- Whales and Wildlife - Round trip Cabo San Lucas
Dec. 19, Dec. 26, 2009; Jan. 2, Jan.
9, Jan. 16, Feb. 27, Mar. 6, 2010
Over 140 million years ago the
Baja peninsula began to move slowly away from the mainland, forming
the Sea of Cortés - the planet's newest sea. On this journey,
we'll explore this region, where more than 900 species of fish,
one-third of the world's species of whales and dolphins, hundreds
of varieties of birds and thousands of species of marine animals
flourish. Let our beautiful small ship take you to breathtaking
destinations and unforgettable experiences. Each of our Sea of
Cortés breathtaking destinations has an exceptional wonder
all its own. Isolated coves, pristine waters. Playful sea lions,
dolphins and whales. Remote islands, exclusive wildlife and historic
missions. Desert beauty and remarkable sunsets. Let our beautiful
small ship take you away to the world you've dreamed of...Cruise
West's Whales & Wildlife cruise on the Sea of Cortés.
Cruise through one of the most biologically diverse marine areas on earth. Kayak and swim with sea lions, snorkel with hundreds of fish and get up-close with gray whales. See cactus-clad desert islands and remote, centuries-old mission towns. Stand on the deck as hundreds of dolphins welcome us into their midst. Swim with playful sea lions in their home waters. Kayak over gently flapping butterfly rays and schools of sergeant majors. And go ashore on islands that are home to both plants and animals found nowhere else in the world.
The turquoise waters here are so impossibly brilliant and crystal clear that floating on the surface can be disorienting, like walking into space with nothing but air below you. Nearby shores are rimmed with white-sand beaches and cacti. And idyllic towns still echo with mission bells of a bygone era. To explore this extraordinary place is to know firsthand how small the human presence on earth truly is.
Itinerary:
Day 1 - Arrive in Cabo San Lucas - Transfer from Los Cabos Airport to your ship at Cabo's inner harbor. Begin your Sea of Cortés cruise at sunset, to enjoy evening scenery and cruising. D
Day 2 - Isla Espiritú Santo - This 23,383-acre island near La Paz is centered in one of the most biologically diverse marine areas in the world and is a major environmental success story. Several plants and animals are found nowhere else in the world, including the blacktailed jack rabbit and antelope squirrel. John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts, who jointly wrote "Sea of Cortez" and "The Log of the Sea of Cortez" explored this island's tide pools at two places, a sandy stretch at the south end of the island and a coral-head environment at Bahía San Gabriel. Take a guided walk among the tangle of exotic cacti, or swim, snorkel, and kayak the crystal clear sea here that supports 900 species of fish. No need to bring snorkel gear or wetsuits as gear will be provided to you. BLD
Day 3 - Whale Watching - This whole day is spent pursuing up-close viewing of marine life. The Sea of Cortés is home to huge schools of common and bottle-nosed dolphins, as well as humpback, minke, fin, and blue whales. In the shallow lagoons of Baja's Pacific shore, hundreds of gray whales annually congregate to calf most reliably from mid-January to mid-March. When our local contacts tell us the whales are present, we'll cross the peninsula by motorcoach to the Pacific side. There board an outboard-equipped panga to observe the grays, who have migrated some 6,000 miles from Alaska's Bering Sea to mate, give birth, and rear their young. When whales are not present in Bahía Magdalena, we will use our maneuverable small ship to search for whales and other marine life in the Sea of Cortés. BLD
Day 4 - Island Exploration - Guided by the weather and tides, visit one of the beautiful and special islands of the Sea of Cortés on a day full of island exploration and nature appreciation. Isla Coronado's volcanic cone rises above the horizon. There will be time to kayak, hike, beachcomb, snorkel, swim or relax on the beach. Isla San Francisco and Isla San José offer excellent snorkeling and kayaking opportunities wind permitting. And look for dolphins in the cove. BLD
Day 5 - Loreto - Founded in 1697, Loreto's Nuestra Señora
de Loreto Mission was the original "mother" church from
which all the other California missions were founded along El
Camino Real, eventually leading as far north as Sonoma, California.
A museum adjacent to the mission displays artifacts and paintings
from Baja's colonial era. Stroll the streets and plazas of this
picturesque seaside village, capped by a wine and cheese reception
in a lovely downtown courtyard featuring homemade cheeses, local
fruits and wines and a talented local singer to entertain you.
Optional Shore Excursions (may be reserved once onboard
the ship):
Ceviche by the Sea - Learn Mexican culinary techniques
and savor the results immediately! This opportunity takes place
at Loreto's El Canipole restaurant, surrounded by Mexicana decor.
Learn to shape a personal tortilla - round, oval, or triangular
as you please - then bake it on a traditional comac. Mix ceviche
(seafood "cooked" by marinating in lime juice) and savor
a host of other Mexican specialties as well, including chicharrones
en salse verde, refried beans, pico de gallo salsa and guacamole.
Your choice of soda, Mexican beer or a margarita is also included
in this lunchtime option.
San Javier Tour - Nestled in a valley high in the
Sierra de la Giganta mountains, the mission village of San Javier
is one of Baja's secret treasures. You drive by air-conditioned
van on largely gravel roads along one of Baja's most scenic interior
drives, an original stretch of the old Camino Real. Stop in Las
Parras, a natural oasis, to learn about desert agriculture and
irrigation. You will also visit Los Cuevos Pintos to see some
original Baja rock art paintings. Visit the village of thatched
roof, stone and adobe houses surrounding Baja California's best
preserved Jesuit Mission Church, Mission San Francisco Xavier
de Vigge-Bloundo. Originally founded in 1699, the current mission
building was completed in 1758, and shelters centuries-old bells,
statuary and splendid gilded retablos. The original mission fathers
brought irrigation and orchards to the valley. Many of the varieties
of grapes, olives, figs, oranges and lemons now grown throughout
California are descended from Padre Juan de Ugarte's original
plantings here at San Javier. You will take a nature walk along
a dry riverbed, and learn about harvesting fruit in an oasis.
A homestyle Mexican lunch is included at a local restaurant. Snacks
and water will be provided in the van. BLD
Day 6 - Los Islotes & Isla Partida - Los Islotes is a steep seamount punctured by sea caves. Blue-footed boobies reside on the cliffs, and a large colony of California sea lions haul out on the rocks below. Weather permitting, swim and snorkel as the female sea lions and their curious young pups float about you in the sea. Continue to Isla Partida nearby, to hike the island's rugged canyons, kayak up-close to rock-walled headlands, or just relax on the beach. In the sheltered cove of Ensenada Grande, where the silky sandy bottom shelves out very gradually for hundreds of feet, gentle waves lap onto the mangrove-backed beach. BLD
Day 7 - La Paz - Today, your ship ties up at the central waterfront of Baja California Sur's capital and largest city, which was founded in the 1530s. Explore the shops, gelaterías , and the miles-long waterfront malecón or promenade. A host of options will be available and you will have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive fiesta, complete with Mexican music, and dancers. Later, depart La Paz to sail overnight to Cabo San Lucas. BLD
Day 8 - Disembark In Cabo San Lucas - After breakfast,
disembark and transfer to the Los Cabos Airport. B
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Pacific Explorer - Maneuverable and versatile, the 100-guest Pacific Explorer is the perfect way to travel in comfort throughout your Central American adventures. The intimate vessel is staffed by friendly, knowledgeable, English-speaking Costa Ricans, with an American Exploration Leader. All cabins are air-conditioned with private baths and showers. Delicious international cuisine with Central American specialties is prepared daily using only the freshest fruits, vegetables, meats and fish.
 Deluxe |
 AAA - AA |
 A |
|
Spirit of Endeavour is one of Cruise West's fastest overnight vessels, allowing for maximum flexibility while en route. The decor is sleek, stylish, and quietly elegant with light wood accents and artistically etched glass. The Explorer Lounge features expansive picture windows, a lending library, plus cozy banquettes and conversation circles for getting to know your fellow travelers. Every stateroom features a wide picture window or porthole, private facilities, and phone service. The Lounge and Dining Rooms are equipped with wireless Internet and email access. And when it's time to go outside, guests enjoy ample outside space on 3 decks.
 Deluxe |
 AAA |
 AA |
 A |
Call TravLtips for color brochure: Toll Free: 800-872-8584
11/18/09
This web page is not a promotional brochure nor is it an offer of space. All information contained herein, including rates, is subject to change and correction. Space is always based on current availability at time of booking.
