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

19 Feb 2027
7 Nights
Le Lapérouse
South America
View Itinerary

ITINERARY

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.

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.

Explore Ship

"The remote Darien Jungle has one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. It is also one of the world’s top ten birding sites, with the colourful Crimson-collared Tanager, Chestnut-fronted Macaws, and Snow-bellied Hummingbirds found here. Mammals include tapirs and Black-headed Spider Monkeys. In this roadless stretch of forest, rivers provide the best access. Visitors to the Darien Jungle are rare with fewer than 1,000 tourists visiting each year. The Embera are one of several indigenous groups that live here in relative isolation offering ornate handcrafted baskets and carvings for sale in their traditional villages."

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.

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.

Day 1

Puntarenas

19 Feb 2027

Puntarenas

Quepos (Puerto Quepos)

20 Feb 2027

Quepos (Puerto Quepos)

At Sea

21 Feb 2027

At Sea

Day 4

Darién National Park

22 Feb 2027

Darién National Park

Fuerte Amador

23 Feb 2027

Fuerte Amador

Day 6

Panama Canal Transit

24 Feb 2027

Panama Canal Transit

Day 7

San Blas Islands

25 Feb 2027

San Blas Islands

Colón

26 Feb 2027

Colón

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 Lapérouse

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- Le Nemo

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.

Excursions

There are many ways to see the world. But to truly discover it? Unexplored shores, authentic encounters, iconic wildlife... Our experts imagine the most beautiful travel stories for you.

Unforgettable moments

Holding your breath to better perceive that of a distant whale, stepping foot on Antarctica for the first time, watching through binoculars the passage of a polar bear in the Arctic, marvelling at the splendour of the Mediterranean architectural heritage... Moments of pure emotion as time seems to suspended.

Unique exchanges

Share the art of living, wisdom and hospitality of communities with strong ancestral traditions. Exchanges about their philosophy in connection with the environment are an endless source of teachings.

Explore further

Navigating close to the almost inaccessible coasts of Greenland, exploring the confidential shores of Oceania, reaching the most remote seas of Antarctica, taking new paths in the Mediterranean or Northern Europe: our experts are constantly seeking new travel experiences to offer you.

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.

The Theatre

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

Music and dance

Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts or ballets at sea or on land: musical cruises and dance cruises offer privileged experiences, in small groups, alongside prestigious partners, such as Radio Classique or the Paris National Opera and talented artists of international renown.

Art and literature

Share high-quality moments and attend conferences by curators from national and international museums, women and men from the world of culture, renowned writers, actors and philosophers. They discuss their passion during conferences or private visits. Experience the opportunity to open up to new perspectives.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Open Bar

From the moment of boarding, unlimited drinks are included at any time of the day. A drink with friends at the bar, a refreshment upon returning from an excursion, or quietly on the balcony of your cabin: enjoy a wide selection of beverages (mineral water, soft drinks, cruise wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea).

The offer does not include premium alcoholic beverages listed on the bar menu.

The Spa

Onboard our ships, in the heart of an intimate and privileged environment with the ocean as your backdrop, discover a new way to enjoy the Spa experience.

In association with SOTHYS™ Paris, we are offering you a selection of expert face and body treatments. The “savoir-faire” and expertise of our hair professional partner DAVINES® will be able to satisfy all your expectations.

The Gym

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

The Hairdressing Salon

Each product has been crafted using the most advanced cosmetic technologies and natural ingredients. Developed and packaged while minimising the environmental impact, Davines® products are inspired by the Sustainable Beauty ideal, an inseparable unit between Beauty and Being. During your cruise, treat your hair to a unique beauty experience. Our expert stylist will do an in-depth analysis of your hair and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

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 Lapérouse Cabins & Suites

Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
A private 43 ft² 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
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Lower Decks Balcony Stateroom

Details

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

A private 43 ft² 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
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
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
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Prestige Suite

Details

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 (Suite Prestige deck 6)
Priority boarding (Suite Prestige deck 6)
Butler service (Suite Prestige deck 6)
A fruit basket every day (Suite Prestige 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
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Privilege Suite

Details

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

Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival
Butler service
A fruit basket every day
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair
A bathroom with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window

Included in all staterooms

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

Deluxe Suite

Details

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

On Decks 3, 4, and 6, a private 6m² balcony with two armchairs; on Deck 5, a private 43 ft² balcony with two armchairs
On Deck 3, a panoramic glass door and porthole; on Decks 4, 5, and 6, 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
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
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
Butler service
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
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