Explore and book Princess Cruises 15 NIGHT Panama Canal CRUISE on the Caribbean Princess departing from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida on Mar 19, 2022 and ending in Panama Canal, Panama on Apr 3, 2022 Sail to Puntarenas, Costa Rica, San Francisco, California, Fuerte Amador, Panama, Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Cartagena, Colombia, Panama Canal, Panama

Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida

Known as the "Venice of America" due to its expansive canal system, Fort Lauderdale is a major U.S. cruise port. With its golden beaches, artsy districts, and proximity to the Everglades, it's both a starting point for many Caribbean journeys and a destination in its own right.

Cartagena, Colombia

A colonial gem on Colombia's Caribbean coast, Cartagena boasts historic forts, cobblestone streets, and vibrant culture. With its mix of history and tropical beauty, it's a must-visit when cruising South America.

Panama Canal, Panama

This engineering marvel connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Cruising through the Panama Canal offers a unique perspective on its locks, surrounding rainforests, and importance in global maritime trade.

Fuerte Amador, Panama

Located at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, Fuerte Amador offers stunning skyline views of Panama City and access to Central American rainforests and indigenous cultures.

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

A springboard to Costa Rica's tropical wonders, Puntarenas offers lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and scenic Pacific coastlines. Whether it's zip-lining or bird-watching, cruisers can enjoy a taste of pure nature.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Dolphin Swim
Whale Watching
Sail & Snorkel Fiesta
Superman & Zipline Adventure
Wild Canyon UTV Expedition
Scuba Diving
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Médano Beach
El Arco (the Arch) & Lover's Beach

San Francisco, California

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge welcomes you to San Francisco, a city of hills, cable cars, and diverse culture. Explore the historic Alcatraz, vibrant neighborhoods, and waterfront cuisine. A cruise to this Californian gem promises a mix of urban buzz and serene bay views.

15 NIGHT Panama Canal CRUISE

Central America

Europe

Pacific

South America

The Caribbean Princess offers a relaxed yet fun cruising experience, catering to a wide range of interests with activities from trivia and art lectures to live music and comedy shows, emphasizing a blend of cultured and lighthearted entertainment. The ship underwent significant refurbishments in 2019, enhancing staterooms, adding new dining options, and introducing the OceanMedallion system for a more convenient onboard experience. Noteworthy for its family-friendly amenities like the Reef Family Splash Zone, the vessel also provides serene adult-only areas such as the Sanctuary, ensuring a balanced atmosphere that caters to both those seeking lively engagement and quiet relaxation.

Experience Old World charm in the vibrant Piazza, featuring panoramic views, boutiques, and gourmet coffees at the International Café.



The Piazza 

Experience the exhilaration of shooting hoops on the Sports Court as the sun sets over the ocean, offering both basketball and volleyball. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just looking for some friendly competition, there's nothing quite like playing sports at sea.



Sports Court

Discover the ultimate onboard shopping experience at The Shops, consistently recognized as the best by Porthole magazine. Browse a fantastic selection of luxury brands like Swarovski and Chanel, as well as local crafts and souvenirs, all with everyday tax-free savings of up to 30%.



The Shop of Princess

Test your golf skills on the ocean-view nine-hole putting course, then play like a pro on world-famous courses in the golf simulator.



Princess Links

Dive into the thrilling world of the Casinos, offering everything from gaming lessons to prize tournaments. Whether you're a fan of blackjack, Texas Hold 'Em, or roulette, our tables follow Vegas rules for an authentic and entertaining experience.



Vegan Style Casino

Dive into the world of art with the extensive gallery, art history lectures, and lively Champagne Art Auctions—all at no extra cost.



Art Gallery & Auction

Make a splash at the Reef Splash Zone, a haven for families with interactive water fun and a laid-back Game Zone, where kids and adults alike can enjoy refreshing drinks and endless laughter in a vibrant, family-friendly setting.

The Reef Splash Zone 

Dive into cinematic bliss at Movies Under the Stars, the expansive poolside theater, treating you to top-notch entertainment day or night, including blockbuster films, electrifying concerts, and live NFL action, all under the open sky.



Movies Under the Stars 

Experience a night of dancing under the stars with hot music, cool cocktails, and a neon-lit dance floor aboard this gleaming, ultra-modern cruise spot 15 decks above the sea, offering panoramic views and an inviting atmosphere for socializing.


Skywalkers Nightclub

Enjoy an acclaimed wine selection at Vines, named one of the "Best Wine Bars at Sea" by USA TODAY, paired with complimentary gourmet delicacies.


Vines Wine Bar

Dance the night away at Club Fusion with themed parties, live performances, and karaoke contests.



Club Fusion

Join "Good Spirits" on a global journey, discovering extraordinary people and locally-sourced ingredients for unique cocktail creations, led by skilled bartenders who immerse you in each region's culture.


Good Spirits at Sea

Experience the timeless charm of afternoon tea aboard this cruise. Savor a selection of teas or coffee, served by white-gloved waiters in an elegant setting, complemented by freshly prepared finger sandwiches, cookies, and cakes.








Afternoon Tea  

Indulge in complimentary soft serve ice cream on deck, or treat yourself to handcrafted ice cream sandwiches and refreshing iced coffees at Coffee & Cones, the perfect way to cool off and satisfy your cravings while enjoying the ocean breeze.



Coffee & Cones

Discover the International Cafe in the Piazza, offering delectable treats 24/7 from breakfast parfaits to grilled paninis, along with specialty coffees and teas, ensuring a delightful culinary journey throughout your cruise.



International Café

Elevate your dining experience with the handcrafted Gourmet Burgers, including the iconic Princess Burger and Triple Smoked Burger, or delve into the newest addition, Street Tacos, a Princess exclusive. Dive into classic Hot Dogs and loaded fries boasting tantalizing flavors such as chili cheese and bacon & cheese.


The Salty Dog Grill

Savor the acclaimed "Best Pizza at Sea," as endorsed by USA TODAY, crafted in authentic Neapolitan style and baked fresh onboard. Indulge in traditional favorites like margherita and pepperoni, alongside daily specials, promising an irresistible slice—or two—of Italian perfection.


The Slice

Delight in a diverse array of dining options, from designer pancakes for breakfast to family comfort foods for dinner, featuring handcrafted sandwiches, regionally-inspired dishes, and customizable pasta, alongside fresh fruit and salad choices throughout the day.



World Fresh Marketplace

Indulge in the epitome of luxury onboard with a private balcony dining experience featuring a delectable multi-course meal, including lobster tail and steak, served by attentive waitstaff, ensuring a romantic and unforgettable culinary journey at sea.



Ultimate Balcony Dining 

Immerse yourself in Italian culinary magic at our transformed specialty restaurant, with fresh handmade pasta daily and the flavors of Chef Angelo Auriana's hometown, Bergamo, showcased in a rustic-modern ambiance.


Steamers Seafood

Embark on a culinary journey inspired by Italian family recipes in the transformed specialty restaurant. Enjoy handmade pasta courses and Northern Italian flavors by Chef Angelo Auriana in a modern rustic setting.



Sabatini's Italian Trattoria

Dive into a family-style seafood dinner experience with attentive service, featuring Black & Blue Mussels and Classic Clams “Steamers.” Enjoy complimentary breakfast and lunch options or opt for additional seating at World Fresh Marketplace.


Planks BBQ

Discover the elegance of Crown Grill, named among the "Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses" by USA TODAY, offering premium aged beef and fresh seafood in a rich wood décor and theater-style kitchen for an intimate and delicious dining experience.


Crown Grill

Indulge in an unforgettable culinary journey at The Chef’s Table, hosted by the ship’s executive chef, featuring an extravagant multi-course dinner perfect for special occasions, complete with a personalized menu and photo with the chef.


Chef's Table Experience

Dive into cinematic bliss at Movies Under the Stars, the expansive poolside theater, treating you to top-notch entertainment day or night, including blockbuster films, electrifying concerts, and live NFL action, all under the open sky.


Movies Under the Stars

Experience the magic of the Princess Theater, the grandest venue yet, boasting dazzling performances amidst plush seating and cutting-edge lighting, ensuring an unforgettable show every time.


Princess Theater

Immerse yourself in the magical world of The Secret Silk, a spellbinding production brought to life by Jim Henson's Creature Shop and directed by Broadway star John Tartaglia, offering an evening of enchantment and revelation as secrets unfold before your eyes.


The Secret Silk

Be enchanted by Bravo, A Regal Celebration, where classic opera meets contemporary hits in a dazzling extravaganza, featuring breathtaking sets, a 13-piece orchestra, and brilliant performances that span generations, ensuring an unforgettable night of timeless music.


Bravo

Step into the elegance of Encore, a glamorous evening inspired by Princess Cruises' top-rated show Bravo!, boasting captivating music, opulent costumes, and stunning sets, directed by Danny Teeson and featuring the talents of renowned musical artists and creatives.


Encore

Set sail on a mesmerizing journey with Fantastic Journey, an innovative stage production by Princess Cruises, blending cutting-edge technology with live performances and aerial artistry, promising an unforgettable fusion of music and visual spectacle.


Fantastic Journey

Experience the thrill of The Voice of the Ocean aboard this cruise, featuring live performances, charismatic judges, and blind auditions, where you can witness guests competing and help crown the next singing sensation, adding excitement to your voyage.


The Voice of the Ocean

Unwind with laughter as top comedians, seen on Comedy Central and late-night TV, deliver uproarious entertainment, accompanied by your favorite cocktails and fellow guests.


Top Headliner Comedians

Indulge in a plethora of entertainment options, from live performances to cocktail demonstrations, all conveniently located just steps away on your cruise adventure.


Street Entertainers in the Piazza

Dive into a diverse musical landscape aboard, from reggae by the pool to enchanting string quartets in the Piazza, ensuring every musical taste is catered to.


Live Music Abounds

Experience a myriad of holiday festivities, from Halloween to Hanukkah, complemented by beloved traditions like pumpkin carving and Atrium snowfall aboard a Princess ship.


Holiday Celebrations at Sea

Prepare to be amazed by world-class illusionists and magicians, showcasing mind-bending tricks and illusions that will leave you spellbound throughout your voyage.



World-Class Magicians & Illusionists

Dive into the world of art with the extensive gallery, art history lectures, and lively Champagne Art Auctions—all at no extra cost.


Experience captivating Princess productions, crafted by top directors and choreographers, offering a journey to exotic realms through dazzling stage sets and talented casts, bringing Broadway classics and original numbers to life on the high seas.


Original Musical Productions  

Delight in a diverse musical landscape aboard this cruise, from cover bands to classical strings, ensuring every musical taste is met – whether you're tapping your toes, singing along, or dancing the night away in the vibrant nightclub atmosphere.






Music and Dancing  

Unwind and socialize at the chic teen lounge, featuring late-night movie screenings, dance classes, video game tournaments, and sports competitions. From the red carpet Rock the Boat party to mocktail mixology, teens can enjoy an array of exciting activities tailored just for them.



The Beach House (13-17)

Enjoy peace of mind while you explore or indulge in a romantic evening, knowing our Youth Centers offer engaging activities for children aged 3 to 12 at just $5.00 USD per hour per child.


Parents Night Out

Delight in the whimsical wonders of the forest-themed kids' world, where even the tiniest travelers can unleash their creativity through dance, movie nights, art projects, and friendly Lego competitions, ensuring endless fun for ages 3 to 7.






The Treehouse (3-7)

Make a splash at the Reef Splash Zone, a haven for families with interactive water fun and a laid-back Game Zone, where kids and adults alike can enjoy refreshing drinks and endless laughter in a vibrant, family-friendly setting.


The Reef Splash Zone

Let your little ones embark on a journey of discovery at the themed youth centers, crafted in partnership with Discovery, offering engaging activities and opportunities to make lifelong friends while exploring the wonders of the world.


Camp Discovery

Designed for active exploration and relaxation, the cozy center invites kids to discover sports activities and comfy hangout spots inspired by the great outdoors.


The Lodge (8-12)

Rejuvenate at the award-winning Lotus Spa, where you can indulge in top-notch treatments like aroma stone therapy massages and detoxifying ocean wraps. The attentive service ensures a pampering experience, from luxurious manicures to soothing pedicures.



Lotus Spa

Energize onboard with state-of-the-art fitness facilities offering ocean-view treadmills, spinning classes, weights, and an invigorating outdoor jogging track above the waves.



Lotus Spa Fitness Center

Retreat to luxury with the adult-exclusive Sanctuary—a serene top deck haven boasting plush furnishings, attentive service, refreshing beverages, and even private cabana massages.


The Sanctuary

Stay dedicated to your fitness routine even at sea with the onboard jogging track. Keep up your miles while enjoying the ocean breeze.







Jogging Track 

Sports Court 

Princess Cruises

Caribbean Princess

Board your air-conditioned transportation for a scenic drive through the Baja California desert terrain. The varied landscape and indigenous vegetation make for picturesque landscapes, and you'll want to keep an eye out for the outstanding Cardon Cactus, the giants from this desert and consider the world largest cactus.

A narrated catamaran cruise along the stunning Cabo coastline features taped commentary by Jean-Michel Cousteau on the area's ecology and points of interest. The highlight is El Arco, the majestic rock formation delineating where the waters of the Sea of Cortez meet the Pacific at Land's End. Thundering waves and strong ocean currents created The Arch, this magnificent natural landmark and iconic symbol of the area. Years ago, it was used by pirates as a hiding place where they could lie in wait to ambush the merchant ships heading for the west coast.

After a brief safety orientation, board your deluxe motorized catamaran and sail from the pier past Lover's Beach, a breathtaking secluded beach only accessible by boat. On one side lies tranquil Cabo San Lucas bay and on the other, the pounding waves of the Pacific are a dramatic sight to behold. Nearby, a loveable colony of sea lions make their home.

An unforgettable evening awaits aboard a 50-foot luxury sailboat. Settle in for a picturesque 2.5-hour sail into the golden light of a Cabo sunset. The cobalt blue waters of the Sea of Cortés stretch out before you. As you watch the sky change from pink to orange to fiery red, enjoy the sights that dot the shoreline, and snap a photo of the Cabo lighthouse that stands guard over the shore.

Saddle up for an exhilarating horseback ride along one of Cabo's stunning beaches. After a scenic drive along Baja’s famous Highway 1, meet your guide at a seaside horse ranch for a brief orientation before embarking on a peaceful caravan-style ride. Enjoy breathtaking views as you ride along the cacti-lined beach, with the striking contrast of desert landscapes and the azure Pacific. If visiting between January and March, you may even spot migrating whales before returning to the ranch for a refreshing beverage.

From the pier, board your two-level, motorized catamaran whale-watching vessel and set off in search of the gray, humpback, and blue whales that frequent the waters of Cabo San Lucas from December through March. An experienced onboard naturalist enhances the experience by providing commentary and answering questions. Cruise to Land's End, where the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez meet, see the spectacular natural landmark The Arch, and visit a sea lion colony where playful inhabitants can be observed.

Step back in time the moment you set sail on your pirate ship one of the only working wooden sailing ships on the Mexican Pacific Coast. Feel the wood planks beneath your feet and marvel at the cannons poking out of the gun ports.

Your full-day tour begins with a short walk southward along the Embarcadero, the eastern waterfront and roadway of the Port of San Francisco. You'll make your way to Alcatraz Landing, where you'll board the Alcatraz Ferry to Alcatraz Island. Upon arriving, a National Park Ranger will provide an introduction to the infamous Alcatraz Prison prior to beginning a self-guided audio tour through the jail's facilities.

One of America's most picturesque cities, San Francisco is famed for its cable cars, fog-enshrined bridge, 43 hills, a delightful mix of Victorian architecture and free-spirited charms, plus all the hustle and bustle of a world-class city. "The City by the Bay" has it all and isn't afraid to show it.

One of America's most picturesque cities, San Francisco is famed for its cable cars, fog-enshrined bridge, 43 hills, and delightful mix of Victorian architecture and free-spirited charms. The City by the Bay offers students of architecture a fantastic array of sights which exemplify the area's exciting and colorful history.

After boarding the boat at the Embarcadero, you'll set out across the eastern waterfront en route to Alcatraz Island. As you cruise under the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, you'll learn that in 1868, this island was the home of Fort Alcatraz, a military facility that was part of a three-point defense strategy for San Francisco Bay. In 1934, it was converted to Alcatraz Prison, a federal penitentiary. During the 29 years it was in use, the jail held such notable criminals as mobster kingpin Al Capone, Robert Franklin Stroud (the Birdman of Alcatraz) and George 'Machine Gun' Kelly. It's also been the setting for many films such as 'The Rock' with Sean Connery and Nicholas Cage, 'Escape from Alcatraz' with Clint Eastwood and 'The Birdman of Alcatraz' with Burt Lancaster.

Get a fantastic overview of the City by the Bay on this comprehensive bus tour featuring 16 of San Francisco's most beloved sights. Remain on the bus for a 2.5-hour fully narrated tour - or hop-on-and-off as you choose, exploring the attractions that interest you - your ticket is valid all day! The guided tour can be enjoyed live, with fascinating facts from your knowledgeable guide, or via a recorded commentary audio tour in English, Spanish, French, Brazilian, Portuguese, German, Korean, Japanese, Cantonese or Mandarin.

One of the best ways to get to know this amazing city is with comprehensive customized tours designed around your timetable and interests. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring along your camera to preserve everlasting memories.

Your half-day tour begins as you board your motorcoach for a scenic drive north along the Embarcadero, the eastern waterfront and roadway of the Port of San Francisco. You'll continue past the Cannery with its unique shops and restaurants, and Ghirardelli Square, once the site of the world-famous chocolate factory, now bustling with eclectic boutiques and cafés.

Fort Lauderdale's trendy boulevard features a multitude of delightful art galleries, eclectic boutiques and busy sidewalk cafés. Here, you will have 20-30 minutes to browse the many interesting shops, enjoy a refreshing beverage or simply wander around this bustling, sunny neighborhood, before heading aboard the charming "Carrie B" paddle-wheel boat for a relaxing cruise along Fort Lauderdale's stunning waterways.

Tour one of the world's most must-see sights in an airboat. With a flat bottom and large driving airplane propeller at the stern, the airboat is able to glide over the surface of the shallow waters with speeds of up to 50 mph. Stretching out over 1.5 million-acre, the Everglades is a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve established to preserve the biological diversity and resources of the Everglades ecosystems. Home to a unique mix of tropical and temperate plants and animals the park boasts over 700 plant and 300 bird species such as roseate spoonbills, egrets, and wood storks, as well as the endangered manatee, crocodile, and Florida panther.

Getsemani This colorful neighborhood lies just outside the fabled walls of Cartagena's celebrated Old City. Filled with cafés and brightly colored buildings, the area is a gathering place for artists and craftsmen.

The beautiful and historic city of Cartagena offers both a look back in history and a wonderful modernity. See all the key sights on an exhilarating Hop On – Hop Off excursion through Cartagena, Old City and New City. See the sights as you please, hop on and hop off at any of the 14 designated stops. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore as you wish: you can shop, have a relaxing lunch or explore a museum. The buses return to each designated stop approximately every 25-30 minutes. You'll be both entertained and informed with commentary in multiple languages

Departing from the pier, you will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide, pass by the traditional district of Manga to admire the beautiful houses of the Republican time on your way to Rafael Nunez House & Museum for enjoy a folk show with a professional ballet and visit the Antilles House where lived the four times President of Colombia, Rafael Nuñez, a photo stop at the largest Spanish fort in the New World -- Fort of San Felipe de Barajas, originally built in the 17th century, and snap pictures of the ancient towering walls and main entrance.

Your tour begins as you board your transportation for a scenic drive along the coastline to the town of La Boquilla, the mangrove area located on the eastern side of Cartagena. Here you'll board a canoe and relax as the captain poles you through the mangrove tunnels and across a shallow lake. This area is rich with waterfowl, so be sure to look for the colorful mangrove crabs and local and season birds, including Ibis, herons, pelicans and albatross. Wildlife sightings, while common, cannot be guaranteed.

Your tour begins as you board your transportation for a scenic 15-minute drive through the Manga residential area to Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas (Fort of San Felipe). En route, you'll witness "Republican" architecture and several mansions restored to their original splendor.

Colombia has the greatest diversity of bird life in the world, with more than 1,900 species, and the National Aviary displays many of its most important species in the eco-park's 17 acres. The facility, created for the study and conservation of myriad bird species, has more than 20 separate exhibits and an artificial lake to which hundreds of migratory birds gravitate.

Cruise Cartagena Bay on a beautifully appointed boat, where spectacular views are only the beginning. Guests are treated to a coffee tasting activity led by a local expert that will turn you into an ambassador of the Colombian coffee culture. Then, dig into a culinary experience hosted by a local chef that demonstrates the preparation of typical local dishes. A tasting of Cartagena's popular delicacies follows. The cruise brings passengers to the Old City, where you'll disembark to enjoy the sights.

Tour one of the world's most must-see sights in an airboat. With a flat bottom and large driving airplane propeller at the stern, the airboat is able to glide over the surface of the shallow waters with speeds of up to 50 mph. Stretching out over 1.5 million-acre, the Everglades is a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve established to preserve the biological diversity and resources of the Everglades ecosystems. Home to a unique mix of tropical and temperate plants and animals, the park boasts over 700 plant and 300 bird species such as roseate spoonbills, egrets, and wood storks, as well as the endangered manatee, crocodile, and Florida panther.

A sprawling four hectares, the Canal Expansion Observation Center is an expanse of parklands with terraces and both open and covered platforms that can accommodate 400 visitors. Take in panoramic views of magnificent Gatún Lake and the new waterway system, called New Panamax that accommodates larger ships. This massive undertaking, the largest project since the canal's original construction, is impressive and will have a direct impact on the global economy and international trade by doubling the waterway's capacity and increasing the size and scale of the vessels that can pass through its system. Visitors can watch an informational movie and peruse the photo gallery then climb to the top of the lookout, 60 meters above sea level. Built above the treetops, it affords sweeping vistas of the area's natural splendor. Nearby, adventurers can walk through a nature path that leads into the woods to admire the lush flora and fauna.

A comfortable, air-conditioned transportation greets you at the pier and your guided tour begins as you drive along the Amador Causeway to Panama Viejo (Old Panama). Founded in 1519, the city was a crucial port for treasure-laden Spanish ships. This scenic, yet acquainted excursion takes you to the ruins of the churches, colonial palaces, bridges and military buildings that attest to country's grand past.

Board your air-conditioned transportation for a scenic drive to the magnificent Chagres National Park. Your guide will share the area's history and culture and discuss the lives of the native people who call this lush rainforest home.

Board your air-conditioned transportation for a drive along Amador Causeway on your way across the isthmus to the boat landing on the shores of Gatun Lake. Here you board your tour boat to explore the lake up close. Created in 1907, Gatun Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. Journeying at water level inside the Panama Canal is an awe-inspiring experience. The powerful tankers and container ships are a sight to behold and this intimate view of the Gatun Lake canal system is something only a small boat can provide. As you make your way through the labyrinth of islands that dot Gatun Lake, the abundance of wildlife and the density of the rainforest immediately impress you.

Board your air-conditioned transportation and drive to the Gamboa Rainforest Resort located at the mouth of the Chagres River. Here, you'll meet your tour boat for a cruise through the canal and the labyrinth of jungle covered islands located in Gatun Lake. The abundance of wildlife and the density of the rainforest immediately impress you. Your naturalist guide will orient you to the area, discuss the flora and fauna, and help you to spot the animals as they move through their natural habitats.

On the banks of the Chagres River and Panama Canal, the Gamboa Rainforest Resort is an enchanted hideaway offering a stunning eco-tourism experience. Enjoy ample time to explore the many exhibits devoted to the forest ecosystem, including the orchid gardenand butterfly display before boarding your aerial tram for the approximately 20-minute ascent through the forest canopy.

After the conquest of the Inca Empire in the 16th century, the Spanish tried to find a direct route for gold shipments to the Old World. The long and painstaking trek began on the Pacific coast, where gold was loaded onto mules and carried overland. Upon reaching Portobelo on the Atlantic Ocean the gold would be loaded onto ships bound for Spain. Centuries later, American schooners carrying trade around the world would make the 8,000 mile journey around Cape Horn, the southern tip of South America. Not until the 20th century would there be an easier way to traverse Panama.

Costa Rica really does have it all. Colorful towns, a vibrant history, friendly people and amazing countryside, all waiting to be discovered by the adventurous tourist. This half-day tour is a fantastic way to experience this laid-back paradise with the minimum of walking but with maximum fun.

Tucked in the picturesque rolling mountains of Naranjo, the 640-acre coffee plantation grows high-quality Arabica beans. The cooperative was established over 40 years ago, and it is composed of more than 2,500 farmers from throughout the region. During your tour of the plantation and processing plant, you'll learn how the organic coffee is grown, cared-for, harvested, and processed and may even see workers picking from the or taking care of the final process of preparing and packing the coffee for exporting purposes. After a visit to an authentic replica of a Costa Rican laborer house, you'll learn how cacao was toasted, grinded and turned into delicious chocolate by Costa Rican ancestors.

Your half-day of natural wonder begins when you board a comfortable transportation and sit back to watch the scenery go by on a one-hour journey to the Jungle Crocodile Safari. Along the way, take in lush vegetation and quaint villages as you travel countryside and coastal roads.

This unique tour, expertly narrated by a local guide, is an absolute must for bird watchers, conservationists and nature lovers. At Puntarenas pier you will board your air-conditioned transportation for the delightfully scenic drive to the mouth of the Tarcoles River, located near the Carara Biological Reserve. Here, you will board your covered river boat for an approximately two hour cruise along the stunning Guacalillo Estuary. Your friendly guide will provide a fascinating ongoing commentary as you glide along the waters of the estuary, world renowned for its rich bird life. This particular mangrove forest, one of the most important in the mid-Pacific Coast, is home to the endangered Scarlet Macaw.

This delightful day-long excursion will enthrall young and old as you discover the Costa Rican countryside, and the beautiful Corobici River, on a gentle, family-friendly rafting adventure.

Travel a route carved out of the lush jungle once used to transport the country's most valuable exports from the highlands to the coastal ports. Newly restored cars with large, picture windows offer captivating views of charming villages and some of the region's most spectacular countryside. To enhance the journey, your guide will entertain you with stories of the vintage train's early history and the obstacles facing the railroad's builders, who had to contend with rugged terrain and dense jungle.

Nestled within the Central Valley, San Luis is a cloud forest of intense natural beauty. All cloud forests are unique but are characterized by their extremely high humidity, receiving precipitation from the atmospheric clouds and mist. This abundance of moisture creates an incredible biodiversity, and visitors can explore this lush ecosystem on guided nature walks as well as on a series of suspension bridges which cover more than a half mile of the cloud forest. Each bridge spans between 95 and 253 feet and is 126 feet above the ground. As you traverse the area, you'll be entertained by tweeting birds as you pass an abundance of indigenous flora and fauna.

Cruisebound

15 NIGHT Panama Canal CRUISE