Departs: 4:00 PM
Los Angeles, a sprawling Southern California city, is famed not only for its influence on the entertainment industry but also for its diverse cultural offerings and sunny coastline. Highlights include the Getty Center, where art and stunning architecture meet in an expansive hilltop setting, and the historic Griffith Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the city and beyond.
For those disembarking mid-morning, a stroll through the vibrant streets of Santa Monica or a visit to the eclectic Venice Beach Boardwalk provides a perfect slice of local life. Both are excellent spots to enjoy the quintessential SoCal sun, sand, and surf, complete with shops, street performers, and seaside eateries.
Arrives: 11:00 AM Departs: 7:00 PM
Cabo San Lucas is the sunny resort town on the tip of Mexico’s Baja California. This colourful small town is known for its excellent big-game fishing, great diving spots and challenging surf waves. Ships will anchor offshore in Cabo San Lucas bay and tender guests to shore.
Top things to do in Cabo San Lucas:
- catch the sunset at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
- snorkel the coral reefs along the Sea of Cortez
- relax on Medano beach
- explore nearby Todos Santos
Arrives: 12:00 PM Departs: 9:00 PM
Puerto Vallarta, nestled on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is famed for its vibrant arts scene and stunning natural beauty. The city balances quaint, traditional Mexican charm with the sophistication of a modern resort town. Art enthusiasts are drawn to the numerous galleries along its cobbled streets and the iconic sculptures that line the Malecón, a seaside promenade.
The area is encircled by lush jungles and clear blue waters. Beaches like Playa Los Muertos offer sunbathing and water sports, while nearby, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens provide a tranquil escape with native flora and fauna. For an authentic taste of local life, the Olas Altas Farmers Market showcases crafts, food, and music, enriching any visit to Puerto Vallarta.
Arrives: 7:00 AM Departs: 6:00 PM
Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala’s principal Pacific Ocean port, is a gateway to some of the country’s most captivating attractions. While primarily a launch point for nearby destinations, its proximity to key sites allows visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of local culture and history swiftly. From here, the colonial beauty of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and stunning volcano views, is easily accessible (approx. 1hr15m drive - 90 km/56mi away).
For those interested in the natural beauty of Guatemala, the surrounding area offers activities such as visits to coffee plantations in the highlands where the unique, aromatic beans are cultivated. Additionally, the coastal town of Monterrico is within reach, known for its black volcanic sand beaches and as a nesting ground for sea turtles, making Puerto Quetzal a strategic starting point for exploring Guatemala’s diverse landscapes.
Arrives: 7:00 AM Departs: 6:00 PM
Puntarenas beckons with its rich tapestry of lush landscapes making it a vibrant spot for adventure and relaxation. This coastal city is a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering thrilling activities like zip-lining and river rafting amidst its natural parks, and is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts eager to spot sloths, scarlet macaws, and capuchin monkeys in their natural habitats.
The city's history is as rich as its landscapes, from its indigenous roots to its emergence as a vital coffee exporting hub. Today, Puntarenas thrives with cultural landmarks such as the Casa de la Cultura and the Marine History Museum, blending educational experiences with natural exploration. Whether it's wandering through the Paseo de los Turistas, visiting the NATUWA Macaw Sanctuary, or exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Puntarenas offers a unique blend of cultural and ecological wonders for every traveller.
Port:Puerto Caldera
Puerto Caldera's cruise terminal is approximately 23 kilometers (about 14 miles) from the city of Puntarenas, around 30 minutes away. For transportation, you can opt for taxis, which are readily available at the port, or consider an organized shore excursion to maximize your visit. A must-see is the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, offering a glimpse into the country's diverse flora and fauna.
Arrives: 7:00 AM Departs: 9:00 PM
Panama is a cosmopolitan, dynamic city, where the modern and the traditional come together to create a cheerful and relaxed atmosphere. Three main sections make up the city, the historical ruins of the 16th century called Panama Viejo, the 17th century Spanish Colonial Casco Viejo and the modern skyscraper city.
Top Things to Do in Panama City:
- explore Portobelo National Park
- watch ships pass through the Panama Canal
- shop until you drop at the Duty-Free Zone
- ride a vintage train on the Panama Railway
The Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering, links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating global maritime trade. Stretching approximately 80km/50mi, this intricate waterway features three locks - Miraflores, Pedro Miguel, and Gatun - that elevate and lower vessels to overcome the variation in sea levels.
The Miraflores Locks' visitor center offers an insightful experience, allowing observers to witness massive ships navigating the locks. The Gatun Locks, a crucial part of the canal, showcase the impressive process of raising and lowering water levels to enable the passage of ships.
Traversing the Panama Canal provides a firsthand glimpse into the intricate operations that have shaped international shipping for over a century.
Arrives: 10:00 AM Departs: 6:00 PM
Cartagena is a feast for the senses, with its consistently warm air, bright colours, history and nightlife. Filled with legends, romance and splendour, the walled city features Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and cultural sites. Ships will dock at this port.
Top Things to Do in Cartagena:
- join a walking tour through the city
- visit the Rosario Islands
- explore the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- visit the chocolate or emerald museums
- wander the streets of Old Town and the Plaza Santo Domingo
Arrives: 6:00 AM
Known as the 'cruise capital of the world', Port Miami is is considered to be the world’s busiest cruise ship port. Whether arriving or departing, aboard your cruise liner you can take in the superb view of the Miami skyline.
This multicultural city where the sun rules supreme is more than just a cruise port. Visitors from all over the world enjoy Miami’s famous Art Deco buildings, family-friendly zoos and romantic palm tree-lined streets filled with fantastic restaurants. Don’t forget about the white sandy beaches and year-round warm weather, perfect for relaxing before or after your Caribbean cruise from Miami.
Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.
