Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
A Tropical Odyssey in Central America
Belize City - Colón
Dates:
9/1/2026
to
19/1/2026
days
nights on board
Flight from Cancún to Belize City + transfer from the airport to the port
On this 11-day cruise aboard Le Champlain, you will sail the Caribbean Sea discovering the lush landscapes of Central America, exploring the region’s historical cities to learn more about their history, sharing with the local populations and creating unforgettable memories.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, dive into incredible Mayan history from Santo Tomás de Castilla, as you discover the pyramids and sanctuaries of the Quiriguá archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Puerto Limón, sail along the labyrinthine canals of the Tortuguero National Park, in the heart of a tropical forest featuring fascinating fauna and flora, or discover traditional cocoa growing in a Ngöbe village on the island of San Cristóbal, from Bocas Del Toro.
During your odyssey aboard Le Champlain, expect to hear birdsong and see dense tropical forests and the intertwined roots of mangrove burgeoning with life. On the Rio Dulce, aboard small local boats, discover gorges shaped by the river opening onto lush vegetation, a haven of peace for many birds, such as cormorants, egrets and pelicans. Another little-known and pristine paradise, in Honduras, La Ensenada invites you to discover a unique ecosystem, at theLancetilla Botanical Garden, the largest tropical gardens in the Americas. In Puerto Limón, the Puerto Vargas Reserve, in the Cahuita National Park, is home to exuberant wildlife, including howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, sloths, coatis, agoutis... mere steps away from idyllic beaches.
Fans of swimming and immaculate landscapes will not be left out either. In the Caribbean Sea, on the little volcanic island of Providence, a former buccaneer hideout off the coast off Nicaragua, make the most of the abundant turquoise waters and beaches fringed with coconut trees to immerse yourself in the gentleness of the Caribbean. Off the coast of Isla Utila, the Water Caye islet unfurls its stretches of white sand along an azure sea, truly an invitation to lose yourself in thought and relax.
From one port of call to the next, you will also be able to seize the opportunity to share unforgettable moments with local communities. In Santo Tomás de Castilla, the Garifuna community will welcome you with a unique performance of traditional dance and music aboard the ship. In Panama, on the Bocas del Toro archipelago, famous for its rich underwater and terrestrial biodiversity, you will learn about a different history, that of the country’s largest indigenous community, the Ngöbe-Buglé.
Ref : BC354 - EC090126
Your itinerary
Uncover the secrets of Central America during a cruise exploring six countries, featuring verdant scenery and cultural discoveries. Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during...
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Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Included in your cruise
To make sure things run smoothly, PONANT has included certain elements before and after your cruise as part of the price.
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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LE DUMONT-D'URVILLE
LE SOLÉAL
15/1/2025 to the 26/1/2025
- New
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
6/3/2025 to the 21/3/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
6/12/2024 to the 17/12/2024
LE BORÉAL
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- Uncover the secrets of Central America during a cruise exploring six countries, featuring verdant scenery and cultural discoveries.
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- Between the sea, lagoons and mangroves, explore this natural setting where contemplation and serenity mix with the discovery of abundant and extraordinary biodiversity.
- Ports of call in Bocas del Toro, to explore the mangrove and discover the local communities.
- Discover the Mayan city of Quiriguá, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Encounter the local populations and discover their traditions, including Panama’s largest indigenous community, the Ngöbe-Buglé.
- The idyllic islet of Water Cay and its turquoise waters.
- Thanks to the presence of our experienced team of naturalist-guides, you will learn more about the mysteries of this infinitely rich region and experience unique moments on snorkelling trips, hikes or visits using local transport.
- Landscapes: palm-fringed beaches, blue lagoons, heavenly islands, mangroves, tropical rainforests, coral reefs, rich seabed, rivers, canals.
- Wildlife: howler monkeys, white-headed monkeys, raccoons, sloths, otters, agoutis, armadillos and porcupines, multicoloured fish, tropical birds including the toucan, green ibis, frigate bird, yellow-crowned night-heron and the boat-billed heron.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
9 January 2026 - Belize City
Embarkation 9/1/2026 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 9/1/2026 at 6:00 pm
Belize City is the former capital and the country’s largest town. Located on the Caribbean Sea, this lively little town symbolises the fusion of British, Spanish and Maya cultures. The departure point for flights over the Great Blue Hole and the barrier reef, it’s also the ideal gateway for discovering the treasures of Maya architecture: in the heart of the jungle, the grandiose and mysterious ruins of temples and palaces at the Lamanai and Xunantunich sites await you. Another unmissable experience: a trip to the mouth of the Belize River: with a little luck and care, you’ll get a glimpse of manatees, dolphins, crocodiles, iguanas and many aquatic bird species.
10 January 2026 - Dulce River
Arrival 10/1/2026 early morning
Departure 10/1/2026 early evening
In the waters of the Rio Dulce flows a part of the Caribbean soul. Lanchas, the motor boats that travel along the river and the Caribbean Sea, are the only way of reaching this small, welcoming town with no overland access to the rest of the country. Here, you are in Garifuna country: the inhabitants, descendent from Jamaican slaves, perpetuate their culture through oral tradition and ceremonies. Garifuna music, which is lively and sounds similar in some respects to reggae, and Garifuna dance, to the beat of drums, have both been classified by UNESCO as “Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”.
11 January 2026 - Santo Tomás de Castilla
Arrival 11/1/2026
Departure 11/1/2026 early evening
A port city located in the north-east of Guatemala, on the coast of the Amatique Bay, Santo Tomás de Castilla offers exceptional access to the fabulous Mayan archaeological site of Quiriguá. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981, this place takes you back in time, deep into a décor of ruins and vestiges from the 8th century.
12 January 2026 - La Ensenada
Arrival 12/1/2026 early morning
Departure 12/1/2026 mid afternoon
Lying on the Honduran shores, the small community of La Ensenada will charm you with its gentle way of life and breathtaking landscapes. Make the most of a timeless moment to go and meet the local population and learn more about their day-to-day lives and their customs. The mangrove, a unique ecosystem teeming with life, will also reveal itself to you with the possibility of a river cruise aboard a local boat.
13 January 2026 - Water Caye, Isla Utila
Arrival 13/1/2026
Departure 13/1/2026 late afternoon
The Bay Islands archipelago is home to stunning cays, sheltered coral islets with warm, crystal-clear turquoise waters. Off the island of Utila, the white-sand beaches lined with palms and coconut trees and the reefs of the deserted islet called Water Caye offer a picture-postcard setting that will delight fans of swimming and snorkelling.
14 January 2026 - At sea
Arrival 14/1/2026
Departure 14/1/2026
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
15 January 2026 - San Andrés and Providencia archipelago
Arrival 15/1/2026 early morning
Departure 15/1/2026 midday
The Isla de Providencia, an insular Colombian territory near the coast of Nicaragua, is part of the Archipelago of San Andrés. Nicknamed the “flower of the ocean”, its clear and warm waters and lush tropical forests are surrounded by legends and stories of pirates. The beauty of its underwater life has earned it the title of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You’ll be able to discover the island’s natural riches during a walk or while snorkelling. The Isla de Providencia offers an enchanted interlude and the serenity of balanced and preserved nature, home to pretty and colourful houses.
16 January 2026 - Puerto Limón
Arrival 16/1/2026 early morning
Departure 16/1/2026 early evening
We’re pretty sure the little coastal town of Puerto Limón will completely win your heart. It is located on the Caribbean sea. Just beyond the harbour, Playa Bonita creek opens its arms to a haven of beauty rimmed by clear blue waters and shaded by giant peach-palms. If you wish to explore the lush green areas in the town, it’s worth taking a stroll through the lemon groves that give Puerto Limón its name. You’ll have all the time in the world to mosey around the streets scattered with multicoloured wooden makeshift stalls. These makeshift bars with their raffia roofs offer fresh juices blended just for you.
17 January 2026 18 January 2026 - Bocas del Toro
Arrival 17/1/2026 early morning
Departure 18/1/2026 late afternoon
Heavenly stretches of beach with opalescent sand, virgin rainforest, traditional houses in flamboyant colours... the Bocas del Toro Archipelago welcomes you in a gentle, typically Caribbean atmosphere. Anchored to the north-west coast of Panama, this lush and wild Eden is composed of nine main islands surrounded by thousands of verdant islets. Boasting a rich biodiversity, this lost paradise is home to the only national marine park in Panama: Isla Bastimentos. This stunning reserve protects an exceptional marine ecosystem composed of a rich coral reef, more than 200 species of colourful fish, and a population of bottlenose dolphins that live here permanently. On Isla Popa, meet the Ngöbe-Bugle, an indigenous community of Panama that still lives according to its ancestral traditions.
19 January 2026 - Colón
Arrival 19/1/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 19/1/2026 at 8:00 am
Colón is the second largest city in Panama, at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Colón is today an important port, and the free trade zone created in 1953 contributed greatly to the development of the city. Colón was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts through the isthmus of Panama; the city rapidly overshadowed the older Caribbean ports of Panama when the canal opened.
Escapade along the Dulce River
Sail along the Dulce River for a unique moment in a bewitching tropical environment. Leaving the shores of Livingston, let yourself be enveloped by an atmosphere of wild tranquillity and a natural symphony that seem to belong to another world. As you glide gently along the river’s peaceful waters, the noises of civilisation will fade away, giving way to the soft lapping of the waves against the boat’s hull. The wide and imposing river winds its way through a dense canopy of tropical jungle, where many bird species live, such as cormorants, egrets and pelicans. The leaves of the trees, like sparkling colour charts of green, sway gently in the light breeze. The tangled and mysterious roots of the mangrove plunge into the clear water, creating a natural labyrinth.
At times, the local boat passes near small coves where the water, a deep emerald colour, is edged by giant ferns, mahogany trees and cliffs. The quiet grandeur of the river, the diversity of its flora and fauna, and the bewitching atmosphere of this region make each instant a moment of discovery and contemplation, a real return to the roots of nature.
-
Participants must be in good physical condition. We recommend you wear comfortable water shoes, protect yourselves from the sun and bring mosquito repellent and water from the ship. This moderate excursion is not recommended for people with back problems.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Maya archaeological sites in Quiriguá
Dive into Maya history and fall under the spell of one of the era’s largest and most influential cities: Quiriguá, between ancestral legends and UNESCO World Heritage Site archaeological ruins.
Tucked away in the heart of the luxuriant Izabel jungle, Quiriguá, a veritable break in time, will plunge you into a setting of ruins and vestiges dating back to the 8th century. As you stroll the paths of this archaeological site, the bewitching sounds of nature will envelop you and seem to whisper forgotten legends. The colossal sculpted stelae, the largest in the Maya world, stand proud, defying time and telling epic stories of kings and gods, such as King K'ak' Tiliw Chan Yopaat. As for the royal palaces, the only marble-covered ones in Meso-America, these show the city’s strategic importance in the political Maya world of the era. Each glyph engraved on these monuments resonates like a distant echo of ceremonies and sacrifices. In Quiriguá, each step will take you into a mystical past, where art, spirituality and astronomy combine to unveil the secrets of a fascinating and enigmatic world.
-
This excursion involves walking on uneven paths. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes, bring mosquito repellent and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Lancetilla Botanical Garden
Surrender to the serenity and tranquillity of Latin America's largest botanical gardens: Lancetilla. As soon as you enter the gardens, you will find yourself enveloped by a symphony of colours and fragrances. Each path will take you to discover rare and majestic exotic plants. The giant bamboos whisper ancient secrets, while the radiantly beautiful orchids vie with each other in terms of elegance. At a pond, multicoloured butterflies and tropical birds dance in pure air, creating an atmosphere of absolute serenity. The impressive cedar trees and majestic palm trees form a shaded canopy, offering a cool and soothing refuge. Each step in this sanctuary of biodiversity is an invitation to discovery and contemplation, a vibrant homage to the splendour of nature. The Lancetilla Botanical Garden is more than a garden, it is an unforgettable sensorial escape, a hymn to natural beauty.
- This excursion involves walking on uneven and sandy paths. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. This activity is not suitable for persons with disabilities.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Cahuita National Park
Fall under the spell of the captivating nature and exceptional panoramas of the Puerto Vargas Reserve, in the heart of the Cahuita National Park. This protected area is edged with coconut trees as far as the eye can see, as well as a calm sea with crystal clear waters and coral reefs. There is very rich fauna in this natural sanctuary, including howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, raccoons, sloths, otters, coatis, agoutis, armadillos and porcupines. As for the marshes, these are home to exceptional birdlife, such as green ibises, green kingfishers, yellow-crowned night herons and frigatebirds, among others.
-
This excursion involves walking on uneven paths. We recommend you wear light clothing, comfortable walking shoes and protection from the sun. This excursion is not recommended for people with physical difficulties, as it involves walking. Camera, umbrella and rain poncho are highly recommended.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.The Tortuguero Canals by boat
Considered as the Amazonia of Costa Rica thanks to the intense tropical forest that surrounds them, the Tortuguero Canals will unveil their unique landscapes, where flora and fauna are happily intertwined.
During your exploration aboard a local boat, you will observe the ballet of this lively ecosystem - in which orchids, water lilies, a multitude of bird species, monkeys, lizards, sloths and toucans all thrive - and admire the spectacle of lush jungle infinitely reflecting upon the water of these navigation channels.
-
This excursion involves walking around 100 metres (330 feet) as well as some steps. We recommend you wear light clothing and comfortable shoes, apply sun cream, use mosquito repellent, and bring a hat or a visor and sunglasses. The order of visits is subject to change. Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed. It is forbidden to feed or touch wild animals and to use the flash when taking their picture.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Ngöbe village and chocolate plantation
In the traditional village of San Cristobal, discover the many cultural riches of the Ngöbe community, before setting off to explore a traditional chocolate plantation in the heart of the jungle. Back in the village, it will be time to roll up your sleeves and learn the art of chocolate making and all the secrets of how these delights are produced.
-
This excursion involves walking around 1 kilometres (0.6 miles) on uneven and sometimes steep ground. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Bocas Del Toro, from island to island
A small preserved paradise along the Costa Rican border, the Bocas Del Toro archipelago unveils lush and wild nature, featuring idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters where you may admire fascinating fauna. See for yourself from island to island, between Dolphin Bay, Coral Cay and Zapatilla Cay.
During a boat excursion, discover the mangrove in Dolphin Bay, go snorkelling in the incredible Coral Cay, explore Zapatilla Island and its wild beaches, part of the Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, before you return to Coral Cay to enjoy lunch by the sea in a local restaurant.
-
We recommend you wear suitable shoes for water-based activities, as well as a swimming costume and sunscreen.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Ngöbe village and chocolate plantation
In the traditional village of San Cristobal, discover the many cultural riches of the Ngöbe community, before setting off to explore a traditional chocolate plantation in the heart of the jungle. Back in the village, it will be time to roll up your sleeves and learn the art of chocolate making and all the secrets of how these delights are produced.
-
This excursion involves walking around 1 kilometres (0.6 miles) on uneven and sometimes steep ground. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Bocas Del Toro, from island to island
A small preserved paradise along the Costa Rican border, the Bocas Del Toro archipelago unveils lush and wild nature, featuring idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters where you may admire fascinating fauna. See for yourself from island to island, between Dolphin Bay, Coral Cay and Zapatilla Cay.
During a boat excursion, discover the mangrove in Dolphin Bay, go snorkelling in the incredible Coral Cay, explore Zapatilla Island and its wild beaches, part of the Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, before you return to Coral Cay to enjoy lunch by the sea in a local restaurant.
-
We recommend you wear suitable shoes for water-based activities, as well as a swimming costume and sunscreen.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Le Champlain
Like the rest of the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Le Champlain successfully manages to subtly combine the desire to explore the remotest regions of the planet with the comfort and privacy of a cosily intimate ship.
To the innovative and environmentally friendly equipment are added elegant design and a unique atmosphere in keeping with the whole PONANT universe. Your dream of a cruise onboard a cosily intimate ship is thus made possible through the combination of an authentically genuine voyage experience together with discreet luxury.
Decks
Flight from Cancún to Belize City + transfer from the airport to the port
For your serenity, PONANT selects a flight and organises the transfer between the airport and the port. This package is included in your cruise fare.
Embarkation day: Cancún/Belize City
Flight Cancun/Belize City.
Approximate flight duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.
Transfer to the port and embarkation.
This programme includes:
- Flight Cancún/Belize City selected by PONANT in economy class.
- Transfer and services mentioned in the programme.
- English-speaking assistance.
This programme does not include:
- Tips.
- Personal expenses.
- Any other service not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- Flight included in the programme is as of today, operated in economy class.
- For passengers in transit in Cancún, we recommend staying one night in Cancún before the flight to Belize City.
- Programme and flight schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
Excursions included
During your journey, enjoy an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. Whether this is the visit of an emblematic museum or a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an activity in the heart of nature or a tasting of local products, or one of many other highlights, you will benefit from a careful selection of activities throughout your itinerary.
Pre-bookings will open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests will be processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Escapade along the Dulce River
Sail along the Dulce River for a unique moment in a bewitching tropical environment. Leaving the shores of Livingston, let yourself be enveloped by an atmosphere of wild tranquillity and a natural symphony that seem to belong to another world. As you glide gently along the river’s peaceful waters, the noises of civilisation will fade away, giving way to the soft lapping of the waves against the boat’s hull. The wide and imposing river winds its way through a dense canopy of tropical jungle, where many bird species live, such as cormorants, egrets and pelicans. The leaves of the trees, like sparkling colour charts of green, sway gently in the light breeze. The tangled and mysterious roots of the mangrove plunge into the clear water, creating a natural labyrinth.
At times, the local boat passes near small coves where the water, a deep emerald colour, is edged by giant ferns, mahogany trees and cliffs. The quiet grandeur of the river, the diversity of its flora and fauna, and the bewitching atmosphere of this region make each instant a moment of discovery and contemplation, a real return to the roots of nature.
-
Participants must be in good physical condition. We recommend you wear comfortable water shoes, protect yourselves from the sun and bring mosquito repellent and water from the ship. This moderate excursion is not recommended for people with back problems.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Maya archaeological sites in Quiriguá
Dive into Maya history and fall under the spell of one of the era’s largest and most influential cities: Quiriguá, between ancestral legends and UNESCO World Heritage Site archaeological ruins.
Tucked away in the heart of the luxuriant Izabel jungle, Quiriguá, a veritable break in time, will plunge you into a setting of ruins and vestiges dating back to the 8th century. As you stroll the paths of this archaeological site, the bewitching sounds of nature will envelop you and seem to whisper forgotten legends. The colossal sculpted stelae, the largest in the Maya world, stand proud, defying time and telling epic stories of kings and gods, such as King K'ak' Tiliw Chan Yopaat. As for the royal palaces, the only marble-covered ones in Meso-America, these show the city’s strategic importance in the political Maya world of the era. Each glyph engraved on these monuments resonates like a distant echo of ceremonies and sacrifices. In Quiriguá, each step will take you into a mystical past, where art, spirituality and astronomy combine to unveil the secrets of a fascinating and enigmatic world.
-
This excursion involves walking on uneven paths. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes, bring mosquito repellent and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Lancetilla Botanical Garden
Surrender to the serenity and tranquillity of Latin America's largest botanical gardens: Lancetilla. As soon as you enter the gardens, you will find yourself enveloped by a symphony of colours and fragrances. Each path will take you to discover rare and majestic exotic plants. The giant bamboos whisper ancient secrets, while the radiantly beautiful orchids vie with each other in terms of elegance. At a pond, multicoloured butterflies and tropical birds dance in pure air, creating an atmosphere of absolute serenity. The impressive cedar trees and majestic palm trees form a shaded canopy, offering a cool and soothing refuge. Each step in this sanctuary of biodiversity is an invitation to discovery and contemplation, a vibrant homage to the splendour of nature. The Lancetilla Botanical Garden is more than a garden, it is an unforgettable sensorial escape, a hymn to natural beauty.
- This excursion involves walking on uneven and sandy paths. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. This activity is not suitable for persons with disabilities.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Cahuita National Park
Fall under the spell of the captivating nature and exceptional panoramas of the Puerto Vargas Reserve, in the heart of the Cahuita National Park. This protected area is edged with coconut trees as far as the eye can see, as well as a calm sea with crystal clear waters and coral reefs. There is very rich fauna in this natural sanctuary, including howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, raccoons, sloths, otters, coatis, agoutis, armadillos and porcupines. As for the marshes, these are home to exceptional birdlife, such as green ibises, green kingfishers, yellow-crowned night herons and frigatebirds, among others.
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This excursion involves walking on uneven paths. We recommend you wear light clothing, comfortable walking shoes and protection from the sun. This excursion is not recommended for people with physical difficulties, as it involves walking. Camera, umbrella and rain poncho are highly recommended.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.The Tortuguero Canals by boat
Considered as the Amazonia of Costa Rica thanks to the intense tropical forest that surrounds them, the Tortuguero Canals will unveil their unique landscapes, where flora and fauna are happily intertwined.
During your exploration aboard a local boat, you will observe the ballet of this lively ecosystem - in which orchids, water lilies, a multitude of bird species, monkeys, lizards, sloths and toucans all thrive - and admire the spectacle of lush jungle infinitely reflecting upon the water of these navigation channels.
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This excursion involves walking around 100 metres (330 feet) as well as some steps. We recommend you wear light clothing and comfortable shoes, apply sun cream, use mosquito repellent, and bring a hat or a visor and sunglasses. The order of visits is subject to change. Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed. It is forbidden to feed or touch wild animals and to use the flash when taking their picture.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Ngöbe village and chocolate plantation
In the traditional village of San Cristobal, discover the many cultural riches of the Ngöbe community, before setting off to explore a traditional chocolate plantation in the heart of the jungle. Back in the village, it will be time to roll up your sleeves and learn the art of chocolate making and all the secrets of how these delights are produced.
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This excursion involves walking around 1 kilometres (0.6 miles) on uneven and sometimes steep ground. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.Bocas Del Toro, from island to island
A small preserved paradise along the Costa Rican border, the Bocas Del Toro archipelago unveils lush and wild nature, featuring idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters where you may admire fascinating fauna. See for yourself from island to island, between Dolphin Bay, Coral Cay and Zapatilla Cay.
During a boat excursion, discover the mangrove in Dolphin Bay, go snorkelling in the incredible Coral Cay, explore Zapatilla Island and its wild beaches, part of the Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, before you return to Coral Cay to enjoy lunch by the sea in a local restaurant.
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We recommend you wear suitable shoes for water-based activities, as well as a swimming costume and sunscreen.
More details about this activity will follow.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger. Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.DISCOVER PANAMA CITY (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of two days to discover the richness of Panama City's historic centre, to visit the monumental canal and the famous locks opening the passage to gigantic ships from coast to coast. This programme will be an ideal conclusion to your cruise.
Day 1 – Colón/Panama City
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will depart the pier by coach for Gamboa (approximately a 1h drive).
You will first do a boat trip through the Panama Canal waterways to visit the islands that once upon time were mountains and were created when the area was flooded to form the Gatun Lake. You will also visit the orchiderarium, butterfly house, fresh water aquarium and snake house.
Lunch in a local restaurant.
You will continue your day with a sightseeing tour of Panama City. You will be taken first to Miraflores locks, the so-called “Eighth Wonder of the world”. Panama Canal is one of the most celebrated human achievements on the planet. Upon arrival at Miraflores Visitors Centre, you will visit the exhibition halls and learn about the Panama Canal’s history, its impact on international trade, how it works, its close relationship with nature and the Canal Expansion. From one of Miraflores observation terraces, you will be able to watch the lock gates open and close as vessels begin or end their transit, and you may observe transiting vessels from a distance of only a few meters while you learn about the various operations of the Panama Canal (cannot be guaranteed depending on Panama Canal timetable).
You will then discover the turbulent past of Panama City, in Casco Antiguo (or Casco Viejo) which is the historic part and the cultural gem of this vibrant metropolis. After the destruction of the first Panama City by pirate Henry Morgan, Casco Antiguo became the second Panama City. It was established around 1673 by French colonialists, the Catholic Church and other settlers. This is where much of the impressive colonial and Baroque architecture remains today. The modern, cosmopolitan areas of Panama City add a third layer to this historically rich city. You will get the chance to explore on your own the neighbourhood of Casco Antiguo with its colonial style government buildings, old churches and grand plazas. Casco Antiguo has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997.
You will be transferred to the Hilton 5* hotel.
Check-in and dinner at leisure.
Day 2 - Panama City
Breakfast at the hotel.
Late check-out is included until 6 pm.
Day at leisure.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in of the PONANT selected flight, or any other flight (please make sure to previously communicate your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
The Hilton Panama 5* is a few steps away from the ocean front walkway, and two blocks away from the Financial District. Guest rooms offer views of the Panama Bay and the Pacific Ocean. They feature contemporary design and modern amenities including Wi-Fi access and a HDTV. You will find at your disposal a fitness centre, a spa and a top roof pool.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation in Ocean View room at Hilton Hotel 5* (or similar) including breakfast.
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Late check-out until 6 pm.
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Lunch as described in the programme with beverage package (mineral water + 1 glass of wine or 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea).
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Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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Services of a local English-speaking guide.
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Hospitality desk at the hotel, the day of your departure.
Your programme does not include:
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Dinner on Day 1.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Personal expenses.
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Visa if necessary.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note :
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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As respecting the environment is important to us, we highly recommend you take your filled Ponant water bottle with you after your cruise, so you can use it on shore and avoid the use of plastic bottles whenever it is not strictly necessary.
Contact of your hotel:
Hilton Hotel
Balboa Avenida & Aquilino de la Guardia
Panama City, PANAMA
Telephone: + 507 280 8000
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$1,030
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.CULTURAL AND NATURAL HERITAGE OF PANAMA (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of four days to discover the richness of Panama City's historic centre, the natural beauties and visit the Gehry Museum of Biodiversity, not forgetting the monumental canal and the famous locks opening the passage to gigantic ships from coast to coast. This programme will be an ideal conclusion to your cruise.
Day 1 – Colón/Panama City
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will depart the pier by coach for Gamboa (approximately a 1h drive).
You will first do a boat trip through the Panama Canal waterways to visit the islands that once upon time were mountains and were created when the area was flooded to form the Gatun Lake. You will also visit the sloth sanctuary, orchidarium, butterfly house, fresh water aquarium and snake house.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
After lunch and a transfer to Panama City, you will visit the Old Panama Ruins, first European city built in the Pacific coast of the Americas.
You will then be transferred to the hotel Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo 5*.
Check-in and dinner at leisure.
Day 2 - Panama City
Breakfast at the hotel.
You will start your day with a sightseeing tour of Panama City. You will be taken first to Miraflores locks, the so-called “Eighth Wonder of the world”. Panama Canal is one of the most celebrated human achievements on the planet. Upon arrival at Miraflores Visitors Centre, you will visit the exhibition halls and learn about the Panama Canal’s history, its impact on international trade, how it works, its close relationship with nature and the Canal Expansion. From one of Miraflores observation terraces, you will be able to watch the lock gates open and close as vessels begin or end their transit, and you may observe transiting vessels from a distance of only a few meters while you learn about the various operations of the Panama Canal (cannot be guaranteed depending on Panama Canal timetable).
You will then discover the turbulent past of Panama City, in Casco Antiguo (or Casco Viejo) which is the historic part and the cultural gem of this vibrant metropolis. After the destruction of the first Panama City by pirate Henry Morgan, Casco Antiguo became the second Panama City. It was established around 1673 by French colonialists, the Catholic Church and other settlers. This is where much of the impressive colonial and Baroque architecture remains today. The modern, cosmopolitan areas of Panama City add a third layer to this historically rich city. Casco Antiguo has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997.
You will continue with the visit of the Mola Museum that opened in 2019. It was created to give relevance to the ancient culture of the Guna people represented in the mola. The mola is an indigenous textile art sewn into panels with complex designs, beautiful colours and multiple layers using a reverse appliqué technique that identifies the Guna community in Panama, you will enjoy beautiful display of many pieces at this small one floor quaint museum.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
After lunch, take part to a private Mola workshop with a Guna woman and artisan who through her art safeguards the traditions of her people and pays tribute to their culture, inspired mainly by the biodiversity of Panama. The workshop has a duration of 2 hours, starting with the history and meaning of the Molas in Panama, and continuing with the project that consist in the creation of a handkerchief.
Walk back to the hotel.
Time and dinner at leisure.
Day 3 - Panama City
Breakfast at the hotel.
Start your day at the Biomuseo, also called the Gehry’s Museum in honour of its world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. The building is designed to recall the creation of the isthmus of Panama which linked two continents and changed the planet’s biodiversity forever. The event that would change natural history for both continents occurred around three million years ago. Species from both continents mingled as northern animals went south and southern animals went north. The Biomuseo’s 4,000 square metres describe the country’s rich biodiversity.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
Continue with the Agua Clara Locks is the largest project at the Canal since its original construction that created a new lane of traffic along the Canal through the construction of a new set of locks, doubling the waterway’s capacity, be a witness of this major undertaking by visiting the New Observation Centre of the Canal Expansion.
The new Observation Centre of the Canal Expansion, located in Colon Panama, is a park style concept based on open platforms and roofed terraces, built in an area of four hectares, 400 visitors, simultaneously, will be able to enjoy in this new centre, the construction of the new locks of the Panama Canal in the Atlantic, at the same time, from its privileged location, visitors see the majestic Gatun Lake, where ships continue their transit through the waterway.
Way back to your hotel, time and dinner at leisure.
Day 4 - Panama City
Breakfast at the hotel.
Late check-out is included until 6 pm.
Day at leisure.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in of the PONANT selected flight, or any other flight (please make sure to previously communicate your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
The Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo 5* is located in the heart of the Casco Antiguo of Panama City, a UNESCO protected site and declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations. It enjoys a privileged location facing the sea, facilities that blend historical heritage with modernity and impeccable service. It is an architectural beauty, built in the Bay of Panama City with important buildings around such as the National Theatre, the San José del Altar de Oro Church and a few minutes from the Biomuseo. The hotel features 3 restaurants and cafés, 2 bars and the largest outdoor pool deck in Casco Antiguo.
Your programme includes:
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3-nights accommodation in Ocean View room at Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo 5* (or similar) including breakfast.
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Late check-out until 6 pm.
-
Meals as mentioned in the programme.
-
Beverage package during meals (mineral water + 1 glass of wine or 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea).
-
Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
-
Services of a local English-speaking guide.
-
Hospitality desk at the hotel, the day of your departure.
Your programme does not include:
-
Dinners.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Visa if necessary.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note :
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
-
The Miraflores Locks Visitor Center is under renovation and may not be open during your visit.
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This programme involves walking on uneven and paved terrain, walking uphill in the Old Town.
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This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Contact of your hotel:
Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo
Calle Primera Oeste, San Felipe, Casco Viejo
0843 PANAMA CITY
PANAMA
Telephone: +507 302-4300
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$2,880
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.