Pacific Coastal Cruises: Excursions

This tour combines the best St. Maarten has to offer, both on land and beneath the ocean's surface. Depart Philipsburg on the Dutch side of the island, and drive up the eastern side to the second largest town in St. Maarten - Grand Case. Here you’ll board a semi-submarine for an approximately 45-minute narrated tour of the coral reefs surrounding Creole Rock. The highlight of the trip is when a diver is surrounded by schools of fish and green spotted moray eels. Back on shore, your tour continues to the French capital of Marigot, where you’ll have time to explore this attractive port city with its sidewalk cafes, open-air market and duty-free shops. Note: Participants must be able to walk approximately 100 feet and negotiate 7 steps into hull of boat. less

Set course on a delightful two-hour coastal cruise to admire breathtaking landscapes, miles of unspoiled beaches and private secluded coves, while sipping unlimited rum, margaritas, tequila, beer and soda. Enjoy the view of impressive developments as you cruise along the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific coastline. Cruise by the famed Los Arcos area, where a dramatic natural rock arches starkly out of the sea at the very tip of the longest, most desolate and beautiful peninsula in the world. Cruise by a sea lion colony and the idyllic Lover’s Beach - one of the few beaches in the world that share two seas - before heading back into the marina. Note: Available from September through mid-December and from April through May only. Sightings are frequent, but not guaranteed. less

Depart the pier to La Popa Monastery, located on top of a hill overlooking Cartagena. This monastery was built at the beginning of the 17th century and houses a Colonial museum and a chapel dedicated to Virgen de la Candelaria, patron saint of Cartagena. Next, make a photo stop at San Felipe Fortress. This castle defended the city from many attacks and withstood the bloodiest assault from the British Admiral Vernon. Then, proceed to the Old City where you’ll walk approximately five blocks in the Colonial part of the city. Once at Bolivar Plaza, you’ll find Saint Peter Claver Church, the cathedral and the Inquisition Palace. After your walk, drive through the modern part of the city to a rest stop at the Pierino Gallo Plaza, for refreshments and some shopping. Afterwards, you’ll visit Pastelillo Fort, constructed in the mid 1700's. This is home to one of the most exclusive restaurants in town, Club de Pesca. Located in a corner of the 300 year old fortress, the restaurant overlooks Cartagena's marina and has a view of the walled city. At this elegant setting, take in the surroundings while enjoying a delicious Caribbean appetizer with a contemporary touch. Note: Bring comfortable clothing and shoes. less

A great way to get acquainted with Huatulco is enjoying its historic heritage and traditions. Delight all your senses with the rhythm of the music and dance. Come and take this wonderful journey without leaving Huatulco. You’ll enjoy five traditional dances of the most representative states of the country: "Jarabe Tapatio" from Jalisco, the land of Tequila & Mariachi, located on the west part of the country. "La Bamba" from Veracruz, place of warm and welcoming hosts located in the baisin of the Gulf of Mexico. "Polkas and Tamboras" from Sinaloa and Chihuahua, millenial states in northern Mexico, and "La Guelaguetza" from majestic Oaxaca. During the party the performers wear multicolored clothes and regional jewels offering gifts to their guests symbolizing the meaning of these cultural dances. At the end of this folkloric fiesta, you will know the real taste of Mexico. less

At the end of the Land’s End boat Tour (previously described), you’ll be escorted to a waiting vehicle for an approximately 15-minute non-guided drive through town to Sunset Da Giorgio’s restaurant. Its spectacular location atop the cliffs at the far end of the bay provides an unforgettable view of Land’s End, its famed arches and your ship, at anchor in the bay of Cabo San Lucas. There you’ll have ample time to enjoy a complimentary beverage, take pictures or just relax and enjoy the view. Continuous taxi shuttles will whisk you back to the pier for last-minute shopping on your own. less

A short drive from Dutch St. Maarten brings you to one of the trendiest beachfront restaurants at Orient Beach, in French St. Martin. Critically acclaimed as the French Riviera of the Caribbean, the beach offers more than one-and-a-half miles of white-sand fringed by coconut palms and sea grape trees. A welcome rum punch or soft drink is served upon arrival and a delicious lunch, including a beer, wine, soda or mixed drink, is served at tables on the beach. Lounge chairs are complimentary and umbrellas are available for rent. Note: Orient Beach is a European-style, clothing-optional beach. A credit card is required for water sports equipment rental. Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel. less