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central america: panama

Panama to Colombia Cruise

The Panama to Colombia expedition, aboard the small ship Sea Voyager, is a leisurely Caribbean Cruise with a focus on up close exploration of the nature and culture of this diverse coastline.

The cruise begins with a look at the modern Panama Canal and a walk along the paths used by pirates in Old Panama. As the Sea Voyager cruises through the San Blas archipelago, divide your time between the thriving Indian culture of the Kuna Yala and the stunningly beautiful environment they call home. This unspoiled paradise unfolds with scenes of breathtaking beaches, swaying palm trees, and timeless thatched huts. A visit to Colombia is characterized by islands with dramatic shorelines and opportunities to visit local villages. Hike, kayak, and snorkel to seek out wildlife, or opt to relax on unspoiled beaches. Reaching San Bernardo Islands, the only underwater park in Colombia, explore mangroves that protect the fragile coral reefs populated by a multitude of invertebrate species and colorful fish that swim through their habitat with the grace of a “corps de ballet.”

There are three options available for the Panama to Colombia cruise itinerary. The primary Panama to Colombia itinerary is detailed below. This trip also operates in reverse with a slightly different route taking you to Colon and ending in Panama City. The most exciting option is a 10 day cruise that includes a crossing of the Panama Canal. The Panama Canal crossing cruise only occurs only twice each year when the Sea Voyager transits from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean. Call our Sea Voyager cruise experts for help choosing the cruise that is right for you.

Day 1 - Panama City, Panama

Your Sea Voyager expedition begins Panama City, Panama. Fly into Panama City and overnight in a local hotel.

Accommodations: Hotel El Panama or similar
Included Meals: n/a

Day 2 - Colon, Panama

Spend the morning visiting Gatun Locks to view the Panama Canal and witness the movement of ships through one of the most strategically important areas in the world. Wander through Casco Antiguo - built in 1673 and known now as "Colonial Panama." Transfer to Colon where you are welcomed aboard the M/V Sea Voyager and begin the Panama to Colombia Cruise along the Caribbean Coast.

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

Days 3-5 - San Blas Islands, Panama

Spend two days exploring the San Blas Islands and the nearby Panamanian coastline. Visit local communities to meet the Kuna Yala and observe their way of life. Each afternoon, sojourn on an uninhabited island.

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

Day 6 - Capurgana and Sapzurro, Colombia

Capurgana is known for its unspoiled and remote beaches, and Sapzurro is a beautiful coastal village near the Panamanian border which features rainforest that tumbles from the hillside down to the sea. Here, you have a choice of hiking, kayaking, birding, snorkeling and visiting both remote villages.

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

Day 7 - Isla Fuerte, Colombia

Isla Fuerte is a small island located off the Coast of Cordoba. It is characterized by dark sand beaches, an inviting shoreline, and has the widest range of pristine coral in the Colombian Caribbean. More than 80 species of birds and sloths are found in the forest regions beyond the beach. Gigantic Ceiba trees, considered one of the prettiest trees in Colombia can be found. There is an incredible variety of untouched corals offering incredible snorkeling and diving possibilities.

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

Day 8 - San Bernardo Island, Colombia s National Park

Situated in the Caribbean off the north coast of Colombia, boasts colorful coral reefs in shallow waters. San Bernardo Island protects underwater ecosystems, mainly coral reefs inhabited by a multitude of invertebrate species and a variety of fish whose movements and colors resemble ballet choreography. On the park's isolated islands, enjoy the chance to swim, snorkel, and kayak for observation of coral reefs in shallow waters, or go hiking to seek out wildlife.

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

Day 9 - Cartagena, Colombia

After breakfast disembark and make a short visit to Cartagena. Transfer to the airport for flights home or trip extension.

Accommodations: n/a
Included Meals: breakfast

Reverse Itinerary to Colon
Day 1 - Cartagena, Colombia
Day 2 - Santa Marta, Colombia
Days 3&4 - Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Day 5 - San Bernardo Island, Colombia
Day 6 - Capurgana and Sapzurro, Colombia
Days 7&8 - San Blas Islands, Panama
Day 9 - Colon to Panama City, Panama

Alternative 10 Day Itinerary with Panama Canal
Day 1 - Cartagena, Colombia
Day 2 - Santa Marta, Colombia
Day 3 - Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Day 4 - San Bernardo Island, Colombia
Day 5 - Isla Fuerte, Colombia
Day 6 - Capurgana and Sapzurro, Colombia
Days 7&8 - San Blas Islands, Panama
Day 9 - Panama Canal
Day 10 - Balboa, Panama City

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

Single/Triple Travelers: Single category cabins are available in staterooms 208 and 209 only. Add a third person to any double cabin fr $1290-$1855. Call our Sea Voyager experts for details.

Cost Includes: Accommodation 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: 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.

Arrival/Departure:This Panama small ship cruise begins in Panama City, Panama and ends in Santa Marta, Columbia or reverse.

On Southbound Cruises (Panama to Columbia) plan flights to arrive in Panama City, Panama (PTY) any time on Day 1. A pre cruise hotel overnight is included. Plan flights to depart Cartagena no earlier than 11:00am. A private transfer from the ship to the airport on can be arranged at an additional cost for travelers who wish to depart on earlier flights.

On Northbound Cruises (Columbia to Panama) plan flights to arrive Cartagena (CTG) no later than 1:00pm for a 4:00pm embarkation. Flights may also be booked into Baranquilla, Columbia (BAQ) arriving no later than 11:00am. Plan flights to depart Panama City, Panama (PTY) no earlier than 11:00am on Day 9. A private transfer from the ship to the airport on can be arranged at an additional cost for travelers who wish to depart on earlier flights.

On the Panama Canal Transit cruise hotel overnights may be required. Speak to our Sea Voyager experts to plan this trip.

If you purchase flights in conjunction with your Sea Voyager cruise then hotel transfers are included.

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.

For additional information and reservations, please contact us:

800-728-2875 | 530-583-1775 | fax 530-583-1711 | travel@AdventureSmithExplorations.com