Costa Rica’s Pure Life Adventure Cruise

Your adventure begins in the remote and scenic Murciélago Bay, part of Santa Rosa National Park. Accessible only by boat, this area provides opportunities for immersion into the natural wonders of Costa Rica, far away from crowds. Hikes of various difficulties, water sports and snorkeling will be available. The area is known for its natural beauty, dotted with small islands such as Isla Colorada and Isla San José.

In the Curú Wildlife Refuge, at the southeastern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, the local wildlife is abundant and diverse. There is a possibility to see exotic birds, deer, howler and spider monkeys, as well as frogs, butterflies and even the occasional crocodile, this is a haven for nature lovers. In the afternoon, there may be time for a beach party or kayaking. The vibrant waters near Isla Tortuga offer opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Explore one of the world’s only tropical fjords, Golfo Dulce, a true biological treasure. Known as a birding paradise, this vibrant tropical Pacific rainforest is home to toucans, hummingbirds and a kaleidoscope of other bird species, hidden among lush tropical vegetation like bromeliads, heliconias and ginger plants. Golfo Dulce, one of only four tropical fjords on the planet, offers incredible biodiversity. You’ll have the chance to explore its mangrove forests, some of the healthiest Pacific tropical rainforests in Central America, by kayak and skiff. The lower saline conditions of the ‘Sweet Gulf’ contrast with the Pacific Ocean, thanks to an underwater mountain at its entrance and the heavy rainfall from rivers like the Rio Esquinas, which feeds one of the largest mangrove systems in the area. As you venture through this botanical wonderland, you’ll encounter mischievous monkeys, vibrant butterflies and more, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.

The wild, untouched Osa Peninsula, near Corcovado National Park, is rich in wildlife and considered one of the most biologically intense places on Earth. We’ll hike along Drake Bay’s rugged coast, keeping an eye out for some incredible wildlife including various monkey species, reptiles and colorful birds. Marine life is abundant as well, and you might even see humpback whales—some of which migrate here from Alaska. Enjoy a river swim or snorkel as an added bonus. Osa Conservation Area is home to the country’s largest national park, Corcovado.

Discover the captivating history of Isla San Lucas National Park, home to Costa Rica’s most infamous maximum-security prison, which operated from 1873 until its closure in 1991 after evolving into a model penal colony. The prison’s legacy is immortalized in the internationally acclaimed book La Isla de los Hombres Solos (“God Was Looking the Other Way”), written by a wrongly accused inmate whose story led to an investigation and his eventual release after 30 years. Today, visitors to Isla San Lucas can explore the preserved prison facilities, enjoy easy hikes, kayak along the coast, and take in stunning views of the mainland, all within a lush tropical dry forest just five miles from Puntarenas.

In Puntarenas, Costa Rica’s first commercial port and capital of the largest province, you can stroll along the Paseo de los Turistas, a scenic two-mile boardwalk overlooking volcanic black-sand beaches. The city is rich in history, featuring landmarks such as the Catedral de Nuestra Señora del Carmen, the oldest church in the province, dedicated to the patron saint of sailors. Here, you can immerse yourself in local culture, shop, and enjoy a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

Your northernmost stop is Santa Elena Bay, renowned for its rich marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles and coral reefs. Located in Santa Rosa National Park, one of the oldest ecosystems in the Americas, this area offers pristine white-sand beaches and a variety of water activities. You can kayak, snorkel, or embark on a hike through the surrounding landscapes. End the day with the captain’s dinner and a farewell photo slideshow to relive the highlights of your week’s adventures.

After breakfast on board, bid farewell to your crew and fellow passengers. You’ll transfer to Liberia Airport for your flight home, taking with you memories of an unforgettable Costa Rican adventure.