traveler wearing a hat paddleboards in front of a costa rica small ship with puffy clouds above
people kayak on a sunny day in costa rica with a small ship anchored behind them and jungle in the distance
small ship cruise travelers on a costa rica jungle tour with thick green foliage around them
sloth relaxing in the costa rica jungle on a sunny day with green foliage in the background
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$6500USD
Starting At
8
Days
Jan
Sep
Oct
Dec
Central America Costa Rica Cruise

Unveiled Wonders: Costa Rica & Panama Canal Cruise

Experience national parks, wildlife refuges and deserted beaches on this 8-day Costa Rica and Panama small ship cruise that sets sail aboard the intimate 66-guest Safari Voyager. You’ll explore off ship by skiff, hike, paddleboard, snorkel and kayak.

Highlights include transiting the 48-mile-long Panama Canal connecting the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean, snorkeling the crystalline waters at Panama’s Granito de Oro and visiting a butterfly- and flower-rich botanical reserve. In both Panama and Costa Rica, wildlife abounds. Explorations in lush jungles and pristine islands are prime opportunities to spot two- and three-toed sloths, howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, iguanas, whales, squirrel monkeys and white-faced capuchins.

After a day of exploration, relax on the luxurious Safari Voyager while taking in the panoramic views of Costa Rica and Panama’s awe-inspiring natural surroundings. The 66-guest M/V Safari Voyager offers a luxury option for small ship cruising in Costa Rica and Panama. She is a leader in expedition functionality and features the most advanced skiff launching platform among her sister ships: Safari Voyager, Safari Explorer and Safari Endeavour. She is also specifically built to handle the humidity and heat that can challenge lesser-designed vessels. 

This small ship cruise route covers the entire Pacific coastline of Panama and most of Costa Rica’s, making it one of the best ways to cruise the region. It’s also our most active adventure cruise option exploring both Costa Rica and Panama.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Costa Rica cruises and Costa Rica trips.



Itinerary

Unveiled Wonders: Costa Rica & Panama Canal Itinerary

The 8-day Unveiled Wonders: Costa Rica & Panama Canal Cruise travels southbound, beginning in San Jose, Costa Rica, and ending in Panama City, Panama.

A red line on a map of Costa Rica and Panama shows the path of the Safari Voyager Unveiled Wonders cruise between San Jose and Panama City.
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Day 1
Embark San José, Costa Rica

Welcome to Costa Rica, the land of pura vida! On arrival in the capital city of San José, be greeted at the airport and transferred to the hospitality suite before boarding the ship and meeting the enthusiastic crew.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Curú National Wildlife Refuge

At the southeastern tip of Nicoya Peninsula—in the tangled mangroves of Curu—the cycle of life is everywhere. Local residents include everything from exotic birds and deer to army ants, snake-eating frogs and hungry crocodiles. So step carefully while crossing the swinging bridge. Land crabs shift in and out of their burrows with such force it’s enough to make the earth move. A hike on the Finca de Monos trail is prime monkey viewing. Off shore, the vibrant, turquoise waters near Isla Tortuga offer inviting opportunities to snorkel, kayak and stand-up paddleboard.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Osa Conservation Area

Adventure lies around every bend in the isolated, wild Osa Conservation Area, home to the country’s largest national park, Corcovado. The area is known for its diverse plant and animal species—2.5% of the entire planet’s biodiversity is found here—including all four of Costa Rica’s monkeys, tree frogs, caimans, anteaters, scarlet macaws, coatis and 16 different species of hummingbird. Explore this vast area putting feet to trail on an invigorating hike through the jungle. At the end of the day, enjoy the sunset with a tropical beverage during cocktail hour and retell stories of the day with your fellow travelers.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Golfo Dulce

Golfo Dulce is a birder’s paradise. Explore this tropical preserve exploding with vibrant color. From bromeliads, ginger plants and heliconias, to toucans, hummingbirds, mischievous monkeys and fluttering butterflies, there’s a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and tastes in every tree and bush you pass on your walking tour. In Golfo Dulce, which separates Oso Peninsula from the mainland, explore the rare flora and fauna of mangroves by kayak and skiff.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Granito de Oro, Coiba National Park, Panama

Sail through the islands of Coiba National Park, making a stop at the postcard-perfect Granito de Oro islet. Offering a little bit of everything despite its small size, Granito de Oro has volcanic outcroppings at either end of this tiny landmass and a dense, mini-jungle in the center that connects with a dreamy white sand beach. Snorkel among abundant marine life in a place named one of the world’s top 10 diving sites, kayak around rocky outcroppings and lounge on the warm sand. Hop to the park’s main island for a stretch of the legs on a trail through untouched tropical jungle. Mantled howler monkeys, crested eagles and four turtle species call Isla Coiba home.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Captain's Choice

Start with fresh-brewed coffee and guided stretches. As always, the hardest part is picking what to do. Your guides know the trails and help you spot monkeys, hummingbirds and towering balsa trees. Or slip into the water for a kayak or snorkel. Or, just kick back in a hammock under swaying palms. Then it’s cruising time. Settle into a comfy lounge chair and take in the views.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Marine Life Search & Panamá Canal

The diverse islands and islets in the Gulf of Panamá are all unique, and on your last day, it’s captain’s choice as you cruise among them. Enjoy superb bird watching of hundreds of avian species on a skiff exploration. And watch for mobula rays flying across the water. Later, transit from ocean to ocean along the 48-mile Panamá Canal (time varies depending on when the lock authority gives the final go ahead for your evening transit). Join your shipmates on deck for a toast as the canal lights up and the temperature subsides. With great engineering and human tenacity, the Panama Canal took over 75,000 workers to build. Celebrate this unforgettable voyage with a special farewell dinner, and then join the expedition team for a slideshow highlighting the week’s adventures.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Disembark Panamá City

After an early breakfast, bid goodbye to the crew. Make a stop at the Agua Clara Visitor Center. Take in the views of Lake Gatun and the newly expanded locks. Then transfer to the airport for the flight home or to begin a hotel stay.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Onboard meals; onboard spirits, wine, beer; non-alcoholic beverages; transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embark/disembark days; entry fees to national parks/preserves; all from-the-boat adventure activities and equipment; wellness amenities: fitness equipment and yoga mats.

Exclusions

Port taxes and fees of $731 per person; round-trip airfare; passport and visa expenses; baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (strongly recommended); excess baggage charges and any telecommunications charges; optional excursions and land tours; gratuities.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $750 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 days or more – 50% of deposit
119 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 46 days – 50% of total trip cost
45 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’ Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The 8-day Unveiled Wonders: Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise begins in San Jose (SJO), Costa Rica, and ends in Panama City (PTY), Panama. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to San Jose by 11:00am on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Panama City no earlier than 2:00pm on Day 8. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, skiff riding, snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding, and all equipment, including hiking poles, is included in the cruise rate. Wellness amenities such as fitness equipment, yoga mats and massage are also available aboard.

Room Configuration

In addition to any listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy at 150-175% of the per-person listed rate; special triple-occupancy rates may also be available in select cabins. Call AdventureSmith for more details, as availability and rates vary by ship and cabin category.

Families & Children

Kids 8 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 7 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval. Save $500 per child, ages 8 to 17, with the exception of holiday departures. Special notarized consent documents and birth certificates for minors under the age of 18 may need to be presented to exit Panama.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Reverse Unveiled Wonders: Costa Rica & Panama Canal Itinerary

The 8-day Reverse Unveiled Wonders: Costa Rica & Panama Canal Cruise travels northbound, beginning in Panama City, Panama, and ending in San Jose, Costa Rica.

A red line on a map of Costa Rica and Panama shows the path of the Safari Voyager Unveiled Wonders cruise between San Jose and Panama City.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Panama City, Panama

Welcome to Panama! Be warmly greeted at the airport and transferred to the Bristol Hotel hospitality area. Board the Safari Voyager, meet the crew, and prepare to experience one of the top bucket-list destinations: transiting from ocean to ocean along the 48-mile Panama Canal. Join fellow shipmates on deck for a toast as the canal lights up and the temperature subsides. A story of engineering and human tenacity, the Panama Canal took over 75,000 workers to build it. What a way to kick off the week!

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Marine Life Search

Cruise through the diverse islands and islets in the Gulf of Panama. Hosting hundreds of avian species have binoculars handy for superb bird watching. Look for a silvery glint streaking across the water—it could be mobula rays taking flight. This evening, as the ship sails farther away from civilization, you can almost chart your course by the stars.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Granito de Oro & Coiba National Park, Panama

Sail through the islands of Coiba National Park, making a stop at the postcard-perfect Granito de Oro islet. Offering a little bit of everything despite its small size, Granito de Oro islet features volcanic outcroppings at either end of this tiny landmass and a dense, mini-jungle in the center connect with a dreamy white sand beach. Named one of the world’s top 10 diving sites, this stop features snorkeling among abundant marine life, kayaking around rocky outcroppings and lounging on the warm sand. Hop to the park’s main island for a stretch of the legs on a trail through untouched tropical jungle. Mantled howler monkeys, crested eagles and four turtle species call Isla Coiba home.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Captain's Choice

Wake up in paradise. Start with fresh-brewed coffee and a little limbering up with guided stretches on deck. As always, the hardest part is picking the “what.” The guides know the trails and help you spot monkeys, hummingbirds and towering balsa trees. Slip into the drink for a kayak or snorkel or just kick back in a hammock under swaying palms. Then it’s cruising time. Settle into a comfy lounge chair and take in the views.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Golfo Dulce

A birder’s paradise, Golfo Dulce offers a tropical botanical reserve exploding with vibrant color. From bromeliads, ginger plants and heliconia to toucans, hummingbirds, mischievous monkeys and fluttering butterflies there’s a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and tastes in every tree and bush on this walking tour. In Golfo Dulce, which separates Osa Peninsula from the mainland, explore the rare flora and fauna of mangroves by kayak and skiff.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Osa Conservation Area

Adventure lies around every bend in the isolated, wild Osa Conservation Area, home to the country’s largest national park, Corcovado. The area is known for its diverse plant and animal species—2.5% of the entire planet’s biodiversity is found here—including all four of Costa Rica’s monkeys, tree frogs, caimans, anteaters, scarlet macaws, coatis and 16 different species of hummingbird. Explore this vast area putting feet to trail on an invigorating hike through the jungle. At the end of the day, enjoy the sunset with a tropical beverage during cocktail hour and retell stories of the day with your fellow travelers.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Curu National Wildlife Refuge

It’s the last day, and it’s a big one. At the southeastern tip of Nicoya Peninsula, in the tangled mangroves of Curu, the cycle of life is everywhere. Local residents include everything from exotic birds and deer to army ants, frog-eating snakes and hungry crocodiles. Step carefully while crossing the swinging bridge, you don’t want to land on the menu! Land crabs shift in and out of their burrows with such force it’s enough to make the earth move. Although you might not make it on the Killer Trail, a hike on the Finca de Monos trail is prime monkey viewing. They are everywhere. Off shore, the vibrant, turquoise waters near Isla Tortuga offer inviting opportunities to snorkel, kayak, and paddle board. Cap off the week with a celebratory farewell dinner, and then join the expedition team for slideshow highlighting the week’s adventures.

Accommodations

Safari Voyager

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Disembark San Jose, Costa Rica

Enjoy an early breakfast aboard and say adios to the crew. Upon arrival at the port, be transferred to San Jose to connect with your flight home or begin hotel stay or land tour.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Onboard meals; onboard spirits, wine, beer; non-alcoholic beverages; transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embark/disembark days; entry fees to national parks/preserves; all from-the-boat adventure activities and equipment; wellness amenities: fitness equipment and yoga mats.

Exclusions

Port taxes and fees of $731 per person; round-trip airfare; passport and visa expenses; baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (strongly recommended); excess baggage charges and any telecommunications charges; optional excursions and land tours; gratuities.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $750 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 days or more – 50% of deposit
119 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 46 days – 50% of total trip cost
45 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’ Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The 8-day reverse Unveiled Wonders: Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise begins in Panama City (PTY), Panama, and ends in San Jose (SJO), Costa Rica. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Panama City by 11:00am on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart San Jose no earlier than 12:30pm on Day 8. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, skiff riding, snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding, and all equipment, including hiking poles, is included in the cruise rate. Wellness amenities such as fitness equipment, yoga mats and massage are also available aboard.

Room Configuration

In addition to any listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy at 150-175% of the per-person listed rate; special triple-occupancy rates may also be available in select cabins. Call AdventureSmith for more details, as availability and rates vary by ship and cabin category.

Families & Children

Kids 8 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 7 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval. Save $500 per child, ages 8 to 17, with the exception of holiday departures. Special notarized consent documents and birth certificates for minors under the age of 18 may need to be presented to exit Panama.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Sep 30 - Oct 07, 2023
Safari Voyager • 8 days
From $6500USD
Per Person
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Dec 28 - Jan 04, 2024
Safari Voyager • 8 days
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From $6500USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Safari Voyager

The Safari Voyager small ship carries 66 guests in comfort and style. All cabins are above the waterline with large picture windows. An elegant dining room, library and ample deck space make this ship ideal for comfortable and adventurous small ship cruising.

Deal

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires May 15th, 2023
Groups Of 6 Or More Save 10% On Select 2023 & 2024 Small Ship Cruises Worldwide

Choose from a variety of adventure cruises around the world and your group of 6 or more will receive 10% off.

Expert Review

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Tiffany Corbell • May 16th, 2017
Expert Review: Costa Rica & Panama Aboard Safari Voyager

An Adventure Specialist reviews her Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise. Dolphins at sunrise, snorkeling at Granito de Oro, transiting the Canal... read her highlights.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

Choose from a wide variety of other AdventureSmith Costa Rica trips to extend your journey, or opt for a pre- or post–cruise extension with your fellow passengers on this cruise.

The Arenal Volcano & Monteverde Rainforest Adventure is a pre- or post-cruise land tour through Arenal Volcano National Park and Monteverde. This tour provides opportunities for whitewater rafting the Sarapiqui River, learning about sugar cane processing, visiting a local school, tasting and touring at a coffee plantation, enjoying the cloud forest at Selvatura Park and hiking in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

The Gatun Lake & Historic Panama City Adventure is a pre-cruise or post-cruise escorted land tour that traverses Panama’s Gatun Lake, explores UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the ruins of Panama Viejo (the old city) and the historic district of Casco Viejo, and visits renowned architect Frank Gehry’s Biomuseum.

Add to Wishlist
6 Day Land Tour
Tropical Volcano & Cloud Forest Adventure

On this 6-day lodge-based trip, experience the exhilarating Costa Rica zip line tour at Arenal Hanging Bridges, soak in hot springs, see the Arenal Volcano and hike through the lush Monteverde Cloud Forest. Extend a small ship cruise or get in a quick vacation.

From $2195USD
Year Round
Add to Wishlist
9 Day Land Tour
Costa Rica Explorer

The Pacuare River, Arenal Volcano and the beautiful beaches of the Pacific, combine in this Costa Rica land tour that includes river rafting, guided hikes, hot springs, hanging bridges, zip lining, plus a free day to explore tropical Manuel Antonio National Park.

From $5265USD
Year Round
Add to Wishlist
9 Day Land Tour
Best of Panama

The 9-day Best of Panama land tour explores the Panama Canal and its natural and historic legacy. Zipline through cloud forest environments rich in flora and fauna, discover Chiriqui National Marine Park and experience thriving indigenous cultures.

From $3495USD
Jan Feb Mar Jul Oct Dec
Travel Guides

Planning Your Trip to Costa Rica

View All Travel Guides
Travel Essential • April 5th, 2020
How to Choose Your Costa Rica Cruise

When considering travel to Costa Rica, how should one choose their small ship cruise? Or instead opt for a land-based tour? This Costa Rica travel guide outlines the differences and similarities of exploring Costa Rica by land, sea or both.

Travel Essential • September 17th, 2015
Top 10 Reasons to Visit Costa Rica

From animals and beaches to its people and guides, our experts detail the best of Costa Rica. If you need another reason to visit Costa Rica, read this list.

Travel Essential • April 1st, 2020
7 Ways to Experience the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is a living monument that stretches over historical lands and has connected the seas for over 100 years. We've curated 7 ways to experience this engineering marvel by small ship cruise and land tour.

More to Explore

Trips You Might Also Like

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9 Day Land Tour
Costa Rica Coast to Coast

Traverse Costa Rica coast to coast on this 9-day land tour, exploring the rainforest of Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast. Home base on the Osa Peninsula and enjoy daily excursions guided by expert naturalists in search of wildlife.

From $5185USD
Year Round
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8 Day Cruise
Costa Rica & The Panama Canal

Explore Costa Rica and Panama aboard the 100-guest National Geographic Quest. Transit the legendary Panama Canal and visit Barro Colorado with Smithsonian scientists and expert National Geographic guides. Hike, kayak, swim and snorkel.

Special Offer
From $6820USD
Jan Feb Mar Nov Dec
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6 Day Cruise
Wild Costa Rica Escape: Guanacaste Cruise

Navigate the pristine coastline of Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region, on this 6-day voyage aboard the 100-guest National Geographic Quest. Discover tropical forests on foot, horseback, and soaring by zipline throughout wildlife-rich parks and preserves.

Special Offer
From $4190USD
Jan Nov Dec
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Unveiled Wonders: Costa Rica & Panama Canal Cruise

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