Pacific Coastal Cruises: Excursions

Your tour begins with a drive along the Embarcadero, by the Ferry Building towards Downtown San Francisco. Continue on to Union Square and then head toward the famous Nob Hill for a photo stop and a visit to Grace Cathedral. Continue to the Civic Center and view City Hall. Then it’s on to Chinatown for a Dim Sum lunch at one of Chinatown’s popular restaurants. After lunch, ride through the streets of North Beach, Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghiradelli Square and by the Palace of Fine Arts. A photo opportunity awaits at Vista Point, just across the world famous Golden Gate Bridge. Then it’s on to Golden Gate Park and Alamo Square (time permitting) before returning to your ship. less

Take a panoramic drive to the Caribbean School of Jewelry. Once at the school, your instructor will provide you with the tools and techniques to begin your jewelry making experience. You’ll learn to melt metals, laminar, make rings and the welding position. Work on a .925 sterling silver jewelry piece to make a single ring, a pendant, pair of earrings or bracelet chain. Your guide will comment on the history of making Colombian emeralds with a video showing the most important mines and how they are extracted and carved. Note: This tour is designed for those with minimum skills but much interest in learning about easy jewelry making techniques. At the end of the class, each participant will receive a diploma, DVD, an emerald specimen and the self-made silver jewelry. less

Take a scenic drive to the tropical forest area of Bijagual, which is located near the boundaries of the Carara Biological Reserve. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Pura Vida Botanical Gardens, one of the most spectacular private gardens in Costa Rica. See beautifully manicured gardens noticing that they are also bordered by one of the tallest waterfalls in the country. Pura Vida is home to over 60,000 flowering plants, including 60 varieties of heliconia, 10 varieties of ginger, and orchids. Look for butterflies, macaws, parrots, parakeets, toucans, kingfishers, birds of prey, and waterfowl. During the 1 1/2 hour guided walk along gravel trails, your guide will help you explore this incredible wonderland. Take in the ocean views in the distance as you meander through the walkways and see some wildlife. After the walk concludes, continue on for a few minutes to Villa Lapas Ecological Hotel, where fresh tropical fruits will replenish your energy. Then browse the gift shop for souvenirs before heading back to your ship. Weather permitting, a quick stop will also made at the Tarcoles River for crocodile observation. Note: Participants must be in good health. Those with severe walking or mobility issues should not participate, as there is required walking on gravel terrain with some inclines. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Bring a hat and camera. less

Victoria is one of the most picturesque cities in North America, and exudes Old World charm and a distinctively British flair. This tour will show you the heart and soul of why so many visitors from around the world come each year to the City of Gardens. Starting at Ogden Point you’ll head into the residential neighborhoods, complete with manicured lawns, abundant flowers of all shapes and sizes, and million dollar views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountain range. Pass some of the highlights of Victoria, including views of Craigdarroch Castle, all that remains of the stately Dunsmuir estate. The tour will conclude at the Inner Harbor, the centerpiece of Victoria. This is the home of the Royal BC Museum, numerous street performers, craft vendors, food stalls, the BC Parliament Buildings, and the world famous Fairmont Empress Hotel. Note: Order of sights may vary. less

Located in the west part of Costa Rica’s Central Valley is the scenic town of Sarchi. It is considered the home of Costa Rica’s best craftsmanship. Here, more than a century ago, primitive local artists began painting and decorating their traditional oxcarts in intricate and colorful designs. These powerful vehicles, hauled by teams of oxen, soon became the primary means of transportation throughout the nation. You’ll see how the hand-painted Costa Rican oxcart art has evolved into a brilliantly executed form of native artistic expression. You can also find an immense variety of local wood products, ranging from elaborated hand-made furniture to hand-carved doors. Leather goods and all kinds of souvenirs will be available for purchase. Lastly, make a brief stop at the little town of Grecia, famous for its historical metal church, Cathedral de la Mercedes. The church is painted in a deep dark red color and has a gothic style; its metal pieces were imported from Belgium in the 1890’s. Note: Wear light clothing, walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen. less