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The Panama to Ecuador Cruise is no longer operating. Click to our Panama small ship cruises and land adventures for current trips.

M/V Sea Voyager’s longest itinerary includes many rarely visited areas, making it a not-to-be-missed expedition of discovery. Travel through the Panamá Canal, an engineering marvel of locks and lakes, to cross the Central American land bridge from the Atlantic to the Pacific. After setting sail, become immediately immersed in the continuous biological corridor, the Chocó-Darién region, one of the world’s most biodiverse, which stretches from Panama southward. The scenery of pristine rainforest descending into beautiful gray sand beaches is spectacular. Continuing south to Colombia and Ecuador, marvel at the many unique ecosystems in the national parks and off-shore islands that include jungle, marshlands, mangroves and beaches. The area also attracts distinctive seabirds and migrating whales that swim up from Antarctica between September and December.

Embark on a unique itinerary that brings you to the center of the unspoiled wilderness of the Chóco-Darién Region and down the sublime Pacific coast to rarely-visited ecological and cultural treasures.

*Post Cruise Options are available to a Rainforest Lodge in the Andes or the Amazon in Ecuador.

Day 1 - Panamá City to Colón

Fly into Panama City. Its contemporary and cosmopolitan flavor contrasts with its 500-year-old history, mostly visible in the historic quarters. Meet at the airport and time depending enjoy an afternoon visit to Casco Antiguo - which was built in 1673 as a walled city to protect against pirate attacks like the one that destroyed the original settlement in 1671, and is now a World Heritage site. Board a coach for Colon to meet up with the M/V Sea Voyager, whose Captain, crew and expedition staff will welcome us on board and brief us on our upcoming expedition.

Accommodations: to be announced
Included Meals: n/a

Day 2 - Panamá Canal Transit

Inaugurated in 1914, the Panamá Canal has been named one of the seven wonders of the modern world. Begin our transit of the Panamá Canal on the Atlantic side at the Gatún Locks, a three-stage lock, rising rapidly to the level of Gatún Lake. Once through the lake, progress through the canal, finally reaching Miraflores Lake. Begin the descent via the two-stage Miraflores Locks to bring us back down to sea level on the Pacific side. It is vastly different to transit the Panamá Canal on a small ship, and now is the moment to travel along this waterway between two oceans as has been done for almost a century.

Accommodations: Sea Voyager
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 3 - Darién Jungle

Set sail for the lush rainforest of the Darién jungle, one of the world's most biodiverse regions, surrounded by the Sierra de Jungurudó Mountains. Darién National Park, declared a World Heritage site in 1981, is the largest in Central America and includes five distinct life zones. The people of the Darién jungle are the semi-nomadic Wounaan and Emberá, who often decorate their bodies with black geometric tattoos. Their dugout canoes can navigate every stream and they still use blowpipes for hunting. Birding walks offer a good chance of seeing weaver birds, Yellow-bellied Great Kiskadees, Red-cheeked Woodpeckers, macaws and the elusive Harpy Eagles, plus many other species. Mammals in the forest may include tapirs, sloths, capybaras and anteaters. Use small boats to look for birds, butterflies and mammals on our way to visiting an Emberá village for a closer look at their traditions and culture.

Accommodations: Sea Voyager
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 4 - Bahía Cupica/Bahía Solano

Today arrive at Bahía Solano, located on the remote and virtually inaccessible northwestern Pacific coast of Colombia. The Gulf of Cupica is laced with a multitude of ocean bays formed by the uneven descent of the Baudó Mountains, all fringed by a jungle of great biodiversity. Explore this terrain - dense, lush and threaded with hidden waterfalls - on foot and by Zodiac for the opportunity to get close to the local flora and fauna, including whales and dolphins. Stunning multi-colored sunsets are another reward.

Accommodations: Sea Voyager
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 5 - Utría Cove National Park

Utría Cove is very narrow and long, and is completely surrounded by jungle that provides habitat for more than 300 bird species, including the greatest variety of bats in Colombia, and many species of frogs of a variety of colors. Walking its paths, the cove can appear like a still pool in the middle of the ocean. Explore mangroves, cross streams and enjoy the many waterfalls. Our guides introduce us to the migratory birds that visit the park and the exotic plant life. Mammals in the park include ocelots, pacaranas, agoutis, deer, wild pigs, silky anteaters and sloths. Along the way, also visit communities of the Emberá, who developed their guiding beliefs and rules from their relationship to the rivers, animals and mountains.

Accommodations: Sea Voyager
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 6 - Malaga Bay, Colombia

Take the Zodiacs to explore the area that was designated as Uramba National Natural Park and watch for humpback whales, one of 12 marine mammal species that may be observed in the region (between June and October more than 1,000 humpback whales calve here). The 136-square- kilometer Malaga Bay forms part of the Chocó region, which stretches down the western part of Colombia and Ecuador, from the Pacific Ocean to the Andes Mountains, and has one of the world's highest concentrations of fauna and flora. Nearly 90 percent of the 60 species of amphibians in Malaga Bay are endemic to the region, as are 45 percent of the 114 reptile species. There are 148 species of saltwater and freshwater fish, 25 species of sea and beach birds, 141 species of mollusks, 99 species of crustaceans, four different kinds of mangroves and 400 species of trees.

Accommodations: Sea Voyager
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 7 - Gorgona Island, Colombia

The hilly island of Gorgona is located 50 kilometers away from the Colombian Pacific coast; its cloud-shrouded mountain overlooks deserted beaches and the open ocean. The first inhabitants were Indian tribes, who left petroglyphs and stone statues. Francisco Pizarro landed on Gorgona in 1537, and it became a hideaway for pirates during that era. The country of Colombia used it as an Alcatraz-like prison; some prisoners penned splendid poetry about their experiences there. In 1985, it was named a National Natural Reservation Park for its unique ecosystem and exceptional biodiversity. Explore this great location for birding, snorkeling and diving.

Accommodations: Sea Voyager
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 8 - Sanquianaga River National Park, Colombia

The park has the highest concentration of shorebirds and seabirds on the Colombian Pacific coast, as well an impressive variety of amphibian species. Located in southern Colombia, the park is formed by the deltas of rivers that flow to the Pacific Ocean. The terrain is made up of flatlands, delta islands with mangroves, sandy beaches and jungle. It has a very fragile ecosystem and a great many animals and plants are dependent upon its conservation. Our guides lead nature walks to explore the terrain; Zodiacs help to view mangroves that circle the delta islands. Also visit local native communities.

Accommodations: Sea Voyager
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 9 - Manglares Majagual & San Lorenzo, Ecuador

Crossing into Ecuador, stop briefly at seaside San Lorenzo, which is surrounded by verdant jungle. Take a Zodiac excursion to Manglares Majagual (Mangrove Forest) to glide among the world's tallest coastal mangroves: the estimated 100-year-old trees reach 130-165 feet tall. The landscape is striking because the aerial roots have grown on the sea surface, creating a mud-silt shoreline. The dense tangle of prop roots make the trees appear to be standing on stilts above the water, and allows the trees to handle the daily rise and fall of tides. Mangrove forests are among the most threatened ecosystems on earth because local citizens and their governments tend to discount the importance of what they do for a region, especially if there is a strong push to develop the oceanfront land they occupy. Keep eyes open for the amphibious species sometimes called the "four-eyed fish", the anableps. Each of its two eyes is double-lobed, which allows it to see both above and below the water line as it is swimming. The village of San Lorenzo is notable for its interpretation of Marimba music (using the xylophone) and festivals that feature the dance of the Esmeraldas. Marimba schools teach a diverse repertoire of dances, and local dancers are known for their masterful blending of rhythm, music, seduction and color.

Accommodations: Sea Voyager
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 10 - Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve, Ecuador

Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve is mainly a mangrove forest which includes the world's tallest mangrove swamp. The Reserve has five types of mangrove communities: true (which covers 98 percent of the area), red, white, jeli and black (which is more tolerant to salinity). The mangrove roots touch marshes, ponds and beaches to form a unique ecosystem that serves as an aquatic nursery for many species while protecting the land from the ravages of tides and flooding. The region is known for a variety of shellfish, fish, oysters, shrimp and the dramatic blue crab, which constitute an important part of the diet of the Awá and Chachi communities. The variety of plant and animal life is astounding! Explore the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the mangroves, dry forests, estuaries, marshland and shoreline. There is the possibility of venturing out at night to see the nocturnal creatures that inhabit the area.

Accommodations: Sea Voyager
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 11 - Expedition Stop, Ecuador

Today enjoy an expedition stop along the Ecuadorian coast. The numerous bays and inlets provide us with a variety of exploration opportunities.

Accommodations: Sea Voyager
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 12 - Esmeraldas to Quito, Ecuador

Disembark at Esmeraldas and travel by coach over the Andes Mountains. Stop for lunch before arriving in Quito, the worlds second-highest capital, nestled amidst mountains and volcanoes. Transfer to hotel for the night.

Accommodations: Hotel to be announced
Included Meals: breakfast and lunch

Day 13 - Quito, Ecuador

Depart for the airport and fly home.

Accommodations: n/a
Included Meals: breakfast

Alternate 12 Day Itinerary
Day 1 - Panama City, Panama
Day 2 - Gatun Lake & Panama Canal Experience
Day 3 - Darien Jungle, Panama
Day 4 - Bahia Cupica/Bahia Solano, Colombia
Day 5 - Utria Cove National Park, Colombia
Day 6 - Malaga Bay, Colombia
Day 7 - Gorgona Island, Colombia
Day 8 - Sanquianaga River National Park, Colombia
Day 9 - Manglares Majagual & San Lorenzo, Colombia
Day 10 - Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve, Ecuador
Day 11 - Esmeraldas to Quito, Ecuador (hotel night)
Day 12 - Quito, Ecuador

Reverse 12 Day Itinerary
Day 1 - Quito, Ecuador (hotel night)
Day 2 - Quito to Esmeraldas, Ecuador
Day 3 - Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve, Ecuador
Day 4 - Manglares Majagual & San Lorenzo, Ecuador
Day 5 - Sanquianaga River National Park, Colombia
Day 6 - Gorgona Island, Colombia
Day 7 - Malaga Bay, Colombia
Day 8 - Utria Cove National Park, Colombia
Day 9 - Bahia Cupica/Bahia Solono, Colombia
Day 10 - Darien Jungle, Panama
Day 11 - Panama Canal Transit
Day 12 - Colon to Panama City, Panama

Notes on Itinerary: Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to weather conditions - and the wildlife we encounter. Flexibility is the key to the success of this expedition.

Included aboard Sea Voyager: All meals specified, experienced ship’s officers, crew and hospitality staff; expert on-board expedition staff, including the expedition leader; naturalists and destination guides with local knowledge to enhance your enjoyment of the areas visited; physician on board throughout the voyage; all sightseeing shore excursions throughout the trip, including gratuities to local guides and drivers, and national park admission fees, unless otherwise noted; snorkel gear (although if you have a particular size or personal preference, feel free to bring your own); kayak opportunities where conditions permit; transfers between airports/hotels and the ship on scheduled dates of ship departure and return, or as otherwise noted in travel documents; port charges and related fees of $53 per person.

Not Included aboard Sea Voyager: Air transportation travel, baggage, accident and medical evacuation insurance; airport departure taxes; trip extensions, pre- and post- cruise hotel accommodations, transportation, sightseeing, scuba diving; optional excursions and activities that are not specified as included in the cruise price; items of a personal nature, such as internet access, email, telephone, laundry, beverages and travel insurance; gratuities to ship’s crew at your discretion.

Cabin Configurations: Single category cabins are available in staterooms 208 and 209 only. Only category 3 cabins can accommodate triples. Call our Sea Voyager experts for details.

Children & Families: Children are welcome on board the M/V Sea Voyager and our itineraries are perfect for family travel. The intimate ship size, operation of Zodiac landing craft and unregimented atmosphere are adult in orientation – so there aren’t any arrangements for the care, supervision or entertainment of small children, other than what you yourselves, the parents, would undertake. You may need to bring a properly-fitting life jacket and mask and snorkel pending their size requirements for your child. We are unable to accommodate children less than two years of age. Any child under the age of eighteen must be accompanied by an adult over the age of twenty-one. In addition, if the adult accompanying this child is not a parent, a “Parental Consent Guardianship Form” must be signed by a parent or legal guardian and received by Sea Voyager Expeditions prior to sailing. Alcoholic beverages will not be served to passengers under age 21.

Arrival/Departure:The Panama to Ecuador small ship cruise begins in Panama City and ends in Quito, Ecuador or reverse.

On Southbound cruises (Panama to Ecuador) plan flights to arrive Panama City, Panama (PTY) no later than 2:00pm for a 5:00pm embarkation. Travelers who arrive early, or plan a pre cruise hotel overnight (at additional cost), can include an afternoon visit to Casco Antiguo - built in 1673 and now known as "Colonial Panama" - and to the Miraflores Locks to view the Panama Canal and witness the movement of ships. On Southbound cruises plan flights to depart Quito, Ecuador (UIO) at any time on Day 13. You will disembark the Sea Voyager after breakfast on Day 12 and transfer with lunch 4-5 hours to your Quito hotel. A private transfer from the ship to the airport on can be arranged at an additional cost for travelers who wish to depart on Day 12. In this case plan flights to depart Quito, Ecuador no earlier than 4:00pm on Day 12.

On Northbound cruises (Ecuador to Panama) plan flights to arrive Quito, Ecuador at any time on Day 1. A pre-cruise hotel overnight is included. Disembark the Sea Voyager after breakfast on Day 12 and plan flights to depart Panama City, Panama (PTY) no earlier than 12:00pm on Day 12.

Payment and Cancellation Policy: To secure your reservation, an advance deposit payment of $250 per person is due at the time of reservation and is payable by credit card or check. Final Payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Once a reservation is secured by deposit and confirmed, the following cancellation policy and Per Person Cancellation Fees apply.

Number of Days Prior to Trip Departure Date
120 or more days: $150 per person administration fee
90 to 119 days: $250 per person fee
60 to 89 days: 25% of the per person trip cost.
30 to 59 days: 50% of the per person trip cost.
29 days or less: 100% of the per person trip cost.

No refund will be made in the event of no shows or cancellations made on the day of departure or for leaving a trip in progress for any reason whatsoever. Cancellation policies may differ for pre- and post- cruise extensions. See Terms and Conditions.

Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance with emergency medical evacuation coverage is required for this trip. Consider Travelex Select or Max policies to ensure the best level of coverage. Please note that you must purchase your Travel Insurance policy within 14 days of booking your trip for it to cover pre-existing medical conditions.


Accommodations Aboard: M.V. Sea Voyager comfortably accommodates 60 guests in air-conditioned, spacious stateroom cabins each well equipped, with an ensuite bath and lots of storage. The public rooms provide a variety of ways to enjoy your time on the water. Our spacious lounge, with full-service bar, is surrounded by large windows, so you can watch the passing scenery. In the dining room – or out on deck when weather permits – you enjoy healthy yet hearty meals prepared by our talented chefs. The library is stocked with books for you to enjoy and learn more about the region. Wifi internet access is available on board. Our devoted fitness room has exercise equipment that allows you to accomplish a strenuous workout, while enjoying the view through picture windows. Spa services are available on board, or if you prefer spending time outside, we have both open and covered decks with chairs and tables, and separate spaces where you can be part of a group or enjoy some solitary time.

Qualifications: This trip will be enjoyed by anyone who is in good health and leads an active life. Daily excursions from the boat will be made in Zodiacs. Trip members will take excursions to specific areas for wildlife observation. Hiking time for most landings will be a couple of hours roundtrip with lots of time to stop to study, photograph and enjoy the flora and fauna. Some landings are dry but many are "wet", requiring cautious footing on slippery rocks. The boat staff will be on hand to assist.

Extending Your Trip: Call AdventureSmith Explorations about the possibilities of combining trips to other regions of Costa Rica. We offer custom extensions to Manuel Antonio National Park, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Corcovado National Park, Tortuguero National Park, and many other great options.

General Information: This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations 'Terms & Conditions'. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A packing list, extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information is sent upon confirmation. We strongly recommend the purchase of Trip Insurance through AdventureSmith Explorations. If purchased within 14 days of sign-up, the pre-existing condition exclusion is waived.

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Call today.

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