Panama and Costa Rica by Sea: The Natural Wonders of Central America – with Smithsonian Journeys

12 Jan 2028
7 Nights
Le Bougainville
South America
View Itinerary

ITINERARY

The provincial capital of Colón, beside the canal's Atlantic entrance, is named for the Spanish-language surname of Christopher Columbus, though the Americans called it Aspinwall in the 19th century.. The city was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad and named Aspinwall for one of the railway engineers. Following completion in 1855, Colon gained in importance, which was furthered by the plans for an isthmian canal. During the time of the French canal attempt, a fire in 1885 burned the city nearly to the ground and left thousands of people homeless. Colon was rebuilt in the architectural style then popular in France. Buildings from that era plus the ones constructed by Americans between 1904 and 1914 are still in use today, although the majority is on the verge of collapse. In addition to its importance as a port, Colon boasts the world’s second largest duty-free zone, known as Zona Libre, which is contained in a huge fortress like, walled-off area with giant international stores. However, most of the merchandise is sold in bulk to commercial businesses throughout the country.

The San Blas archipelago is located off the Caribbean coast, east of Colon, and is made up of 365 islands that range in size from tiny ones with a few coconut palms to islands on which hundreds of Kuna Indians live. Only about fifty are inhabited. The Kuna rule the San Blas Territory with internal autonomy, and have tightly preserved their language and cultural traditions over the centuries despite influences from European colonies. In addition to their own language, Spanish is widely spoken and many men work on the mainland, but live on the islands. Women wear costumes with unique designs based on local themes, geometric patterns, and stylised fauna and flora. The island of El Porvenir is one of the main seats of government for the Kuna Indians. Many Kunas from the other islands came to settle on El Porvenir, bringing with them their traditional arts and crafts, including the famous molas. These intricately hand-sewn designs are made by the women of the tribes as part of their blouses and dresses. With the increased tourism, molas are now a favoured souvenir and craft item for visitors.

Explore Ship

Quepos allows tourists to experience a once in a lifetime nature experience in Manuel Antonio National Park without leaving any of the familiar amenities behind. The close proximity of the park, located just 4.3 miles (7 km) to the south, and a wide array of services makes Quepos the perfect place to visit for those who wish to explore this enchanting area. The amenities available include everything from banks, restaurants, hotels, gift shops, bakeries, bars, a hospital, supermarket and even a post office. The area was once dependent on banana plantations which used to line the surrounding area. After disease infiltrated the harvest, interest transferred to African Palms as the prominent crop. Now, tourism has deemed itself the major economic factor, contributing to just about everything in the area. Quepos lures in many tourists for its fantastic sport fishing. In fact, some have come solely to participate in this world class experience and have never left, but besides sport fishing, many other activities are available. Exploring this maze of wetlands by boat is amazing but not the only way to see crocodiles, monkeys, herons, raccoons and more. This small paradise has the perfect balance between nature and the comfort and facilities someone might need.

This town is not on the Nicoya Peninsula, but rather on Costa Rica's mainland. It is best known as a cruise-ship port and launching pad for ferries heading southeast to the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula and for cruises sailing out on the Gulf of Nicoya. Puntarenas is also a major fishing port with a lively fish market. The town’s reputation suffers from the unimpressive parts you see from your car as you roll through town on the way to the ferry dock. But the town has a lot of character off the main drag, thanks to its illustrious past as an affluent port town and principal vacation spot for San José's wealthy, who arrived by train in the last century. Once the port was moved and roads opened to other beaches, Puntarenas's economy crashed, but it's making a comeback. Sitting on a narrow spit of sand—punta de arenas literally means "point of sand"—that protrudes into the Gulf of Nicoya, the town boasts a beautifully groomed, wide Blue Flag beach with views of the Nicoya Peninsula and spectacular sunsets, along with a public swimming pool, the San Lucas Beach Club, and a marine-life museum. Ticos arrive by bus and car to enjoy the beach and stroll the Paseo de los Turistas, a beachfront promenade lined with tree-shaded concrete benches and seafood restaurants. Crowds of locals, called porteños, cruise by on bicycles, the town’s most popular form of transport.

Day 1

Colón

12 Jan 2028

Colón

Portobelo

13 Jan 2028

Portobelo

Day 3

San Blas Islands

14 Jan 2028

San Blas Islands

Panama Canal Transit

15 Jan 2028

Panama Canal Transit

Day 5

Balboa (Panama City)

16 Jan 2028

Balboa (Panama City)

Day 6

At Sea

17 Jan 2028

At Sea

Day 7

Quepos (Puerto Quepos)

18 Jan 2028

Quepos (Puerto Quepos)

Puntarenas

19 Jan 2028

Puntarenas

This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

Explore Le Bougainville

Le Nautilus

At the back of deck 4, you will find a gourmet restaurant complete with wine cellar, offering French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy a menu crafted by the Ducasse Conseil teams at the gourmet restaurant. At Nautilus as well as Céleste, the freedom of a generous buffet blends with the elegance of table service: your chef offers you a selection of expertly prepared hot dishes, accompanied by carefully chosen fine wines by your sommelier.

Grill Restaurant

In a relaxed atmosphere, the grill restaurant located on deck 3 welcomes you for breakfast and buffet lunches as well as themed dinners.

Room Service

Whether you want to fully enjoy your cabin for breakfast, savor a peaceful snack in the middle of the day, or have your meal in complete privacy, room service is at your disposal. Treat yourself to a moment of indulgence and enjoy a diverse menu available at any time of day and night.

Explorations

Because your desires for escape are many, we offer a range of explorations, each promising unique experiences. Timeless, Discoveries, or Expeditions: each collection offers a distinct and tailored approach, allowing you to experience your chosen destination as closely as possible.

Timeless

Preserved and authentic towns and villages, iconic or more secluded sites… Discover the cultural and gastronomic riches of your destination through the eyes of inspiring local guides and your onboard lecturer, experts in the regions visited.

Timeless: your experiences

Disembarkation at the dock or by tender, excursions by air-conditioned bus or local transport, depending on the destinations
One excursion per day and per stopover, accompanied by local guides
Optional paid excursions, available depending on the port of call, to further explore the destination
Lectures led by expert guides or distinguished guests
Activities supervised by Kids Club staff for children aged 4 to 13, depending on departure times.

Discoveries

Explore your destination in all its facets: cultural, natural, historical or even gastronomic… Each itinerary is designed to offer you the best of your stopovers thanks to the expertise of local guides or naturalist guides, depending on the destination.

Discoveries: your experiences

Disembarkations at the dock, by tender or Zodiac, excursions by air-conditioned bus or local transport, depending on the destination
One activity per day and per stopover, accompanied by local guides or naturalist guides
Optional paid excursions, available depending on the port of call, to further explore the destination
Lectures given by tour guides, naturalist guides, or distinguished guests

Shipments

Sail to the most secluded shores on the planet. An all-inclusive immersive experience, co-created with local communities, accompanied by a team of naturalist guides passionate about the world's wildlife, flora, and cultures. These experts share their knowledge through inspiring onboard lectures, Zodiac excursions, walks or hikes in small groups, and opportunities to connect with peoples whose traditions are thousands of years old.

The program for all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months before departure. Booking takes place approximately two months before departure.

Experts by your side

Captains, expedition leaders, experienced naturalist guides, lecturers, wildlife photographers, personalities from the world of art, science, culture and gastronomy... Experts share their passions with you on board or on land.

Captains

Your captain is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of your journey on board. An expert in navigating polar or tropical waters, their announcements punctuate your day. And when wildlife appears on the horizon, do not hesitate to accept their invitation to join the outer decks for magnificent observations. Gala dinners are also unmissable opportunities to meet your captain and share with them your passion for travel.

Expedition leaders

Alongside the captain, the expedition leader conducts your exploration. They supervise the team of naturalist guides, ensure the safety of the proposed experiences, and adjust the highlights of your journey according to the navigation conditions, to reveal all the riches of these fascinating ecosystems.

Photo ambassadors

During some trips, having renowned photographers on board offers you the unique opportunity to participate in workshops, and conferences, and receive personalised advice to enhance your images.

Activity guides

Scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, polar hiking on foot or snowshoes, cross-country skiing, dog sledding... Whether it's for an introduction or to deepen your practice, experience immersive activities led by certified guides, ambassadors of local cultures and communities.

Guests and partners

Dancers, musicians, writers, journalists, researchers, adventurers... Experts and prestigious partners share their passion, whether it is artistic or scientific.

Speakers

Art historians, journalists, ethnologists, naturalists... Every journey is a unique opportunity to learn more about the regions visited.

The Hydraulic Platform

Deck 2
Much easier onboard access than on any other cruise ship
Easier disembarking and embarking by Zodiac when participating in expeditions
Swimming and bathing in the sea and various nautical sports, such as kayaking and paddle-boarding

The Observatory Lounge

Library, internet space, bar, occasional live entertainment, terrace: enjoy a 180° panorama of the horizon from the observatory lounge.

Swimming pool

With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is perfect for relaxing in the sun. From the marina platform, embark on your sea excursions or water activities in complete tranquility.

The Main Lounge Room

Tea room, bar, live music, dance floor, terrace: the main lounge is an essential meeting place throughout your journey.

Theatre

Comfortably seated, you can attend conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as enjoy a variety of shows, concerts and performances by professional dancers and musicians.

When the night comes alive

Concerts, dance performances, or film screenings: every night on board is a promise of wonder and sharing of emotions.

Boutique

An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique offers an exclusive shopping experience with a wide range of technical and casual ready-to-wear and equipment, with or without PONANT personalization. It also features unique souvenirs to extend the journey back home, as well as jewelry, accessories and luxury items. Opening hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.

The Blue Eye

Located below the waterline of the ship, the Blue Eye is an innovative underwater lounge. Its design, inspired by the beauty of cetaceans, pays tribute to oceanographic environments.

Excursion Reception and Office

If you have not made a pre-booking before your cruise, you can book your excursions on board during one of the daily opening times of the excursion desk (timetables available in your daily program). It is only possible to pre-book one excursion per port day. If you would like to book a second excursion on the same day, please contact the excursion desk to check availability.

PONANT Studio

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return. Meet them on DECK 5 (DECK 6 on the PONANT Explorers ships) at the photo/video area, where you can also order souvenir pictures and videos.

Open Bar

From boarding and throughout the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served freely and at any time of the day. Some premium alcoholic beverages listed on the menu are not included in the Open Bar.

The Spa

In partnership with SOTHYS™ and Davines®, the spa offers a wide range of treatments, massages, hairdressing services, as well as a hammam and a fitness room perfect for self-care and well-being.

The Gym

The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views.

The Hairdressing Salon

Provided in partnership with KÉRASTASE® and L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL®, the hairdressing salon offers a complete range of top quality treatments designed to strengthen, nourish and reinvigorate hair's shine and brilliance. Our stylists are available to serve all your styling, highlighting, colouring, cutting and tailored hair advice needs.

The Kids Explorers Club

During your cruise, PONANT EXPLORATIONS offers a program of activities dedicated to children, from 4 to 13 years old on our entire fleet.

A team of experienced facilitators on board offers daily manual activities, educational workshops, board games, introductory meditation sessions, and much more, as well as content specific to each itinerary and the number of participants.

Kid Explorers have the opportunity to extend this experience on land with the possibility of enjoying a tailor-made excursion, swimming outings, walks and scavenger hunts.

This program of activities will be offered to children every day. (The exact times will be communicated to you by the activity leaders.)

To best meet your needs, the schedule is adapted to your cruise itinerary. For more information, please contact the entertainment team beforehand.

The program of entertainment and activities is communicated daily in the logbook.

A welcome kit with gifts is offered to each child on board.

Le Bougainville Cabins & Suites

Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

A private 4m² balcony with two armchairs
Depending on the stateroom, either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door
One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A chaise lounge
A bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
Dressing room with shelves and closet
110V American / 220V European
Dressing table and hairdryer
Direct line telephone
2 ADA stateroom
24-hour room service
Electronic safe
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Inclusive Wifi internet

Lower Decks Balcony Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

A private 4m² balcony with two armchairs
Depending on the stateroom, either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door
One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A chaise lounge
A bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
Dressing room with shelves and closet
110V American / 220V European
Dressing table and hairdryer
Direct line telephone
2 ADA stateroom
24-hour room service
Electronic safe
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Inclusive Wifi internet

Owner's Suite

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

A private 430 ft² terrace with hot tub and lounge area with 2 deck chairs, sofa, and armchair
Two sliding panoramic windows
A bathroom with shower, spa bathtub, and smart mirror
Butler service
A one-hour treatment per person (for 2 people) in the wellness area, including body and facial treatments
A private return transfer
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit on arrival
A fruit basket every day
A living room with a convertible sofa into a double bed, armchair, and TV
One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
Dressing room with shelves and closet
110V American / 220V European
Dressing table and hairdryer
Direct line telephone
2 ADA stateroom
24-hour room service
Electronic safe
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Inclusive Wifi internet

Privilege Suite

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
A private 86 ft² balcony with two armchairs
Sliding panoramic window
Butler service
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
A fruit basket every day
Champagne and fruit on arrival
One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A lounge area with chaise lounge and armchair
A bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
Dressing room with shelves and closet
110V American / 220V European
Dressing table and hairdryer
Direct line telephone
2 ADA stateroom
24-hour room service
Electronic safe
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Inclusive Wifi internet

Prestige Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

A private 86 ft² balcony with four armchairs
Two sliding panoramic windows
Champagne and fruit on arrival (Prestige Suite deck 6)
Priority boarding (Prestige Suite deck 6)
Butler service (Prestige Suite deck 6)
A fruit basket every day (Prestige Suite deck 6)
One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A living room with a convertible sofa into a king-size or two single beds, armchair, TV, and a courtesy sliding door
Two bathrooms with showers

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
Dressing room with shelves and closet
110V American / 220V European
Dressing table and hairdryer
Direct line telephone
2 ADA stateroom
24-hour room service
Electronic safe
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Inclusive Wifi internet

Deluxe Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

Suites on Deck 6 have a 32 ft² private balcony with two armchairs Suites on Deck 5 have a 43 ft² private balcony with two armchairs Suites on Decks 3 and 4 have a private 64 ft² balcony with two armchairs
Suites on Deck 3 have a panoramic glass door and porthole; suites on Decks 4, 5, and 6 have a sliding panoramic window
One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
An armchair and sofa
A bathroom with shower
Champagne and fruit on arrival for suites on Decks 5 and 6

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
Dressing room with shelves and closet
110V American / 220V European
Dressing table and hairdryer
Direct line telephone
2 ADA stateroom
24-hour room service
Electronic safe
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Inclusive Wifi internet

Grand Suite

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
A private 344 ft² terrace with two deck chairs and a dining table for four people
Two sliding panoramic windows
A bathroom with shower and spa bathtub
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Butler service
Champagne and fruit on arrival
A fruit basket every day
One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A living room with a convertible sofa into a double or single bed, armchair, and TV

Included in all staterooms