Pacific Coastal Cruises: Excursions

Las Caletas was once the private home of the famous film director John Huston, who considered it one of the most beautiful places in the world. Today, Las Caletas is an exclusive tropical beach hideaway where you can enjoy an extraordinary day of sun, fun, and adventure. This lovely beach was named by Trip Advisor as one of the top 4 secluded beaches in the World for 2012. Only accessible by sea, this well-secluded nature preserve stands out against a steep, jungle-clad backdrop of tropical forest in an isolated cove on the southern shores of Banderas Bay. As you cruise towards this tropical paradise aboard a first-class catamaran, you'll enjoy the most fantastic coastal scenery that Puerto Vallarta has to offer. Once arriving at Las Caletas, you can choose between pure relaxation or gentle exploration in the unspoiled natural setting of this tropical beach hideaway. If relaxing is on your personal agenda, you can kick-back on the beach, relax in the shade on a comfortable hammock, or indulge in a therapeutic body massage or facial at the hilltop Spa (additional charge). As you relax and unwind, the gentle lapping of the surf on the private golden beach beckons you to take a closer look at the calm, clear waters of this isolated cove. Throughout the day, bilingual eco-guides offer snorkeling and kayaking tours giving everyone a chance to explore in a fun and relaxed way. On land, you can take a Paella cooking lesson, discover the prolific flora and bird life on a free guided nature walk through the jungle, orchid gardens and interactive parrot center. For the youngest explorers (4-11) there is the kid’s adventure camp with zip lines, a climbing wall, animal encounters and an exciting donkey ride. Note: Tour includes moderate walking on uneven surfaces and numerous steps. Please wear your swimsuit underneath comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen, a hat and a towel. less

Experience the real Jamaica in our zebra-striped safari Jeeps. We’ll take you up to the highest viewpoint, Murphy Hill (2,000 feet above sea level) to look down upon Ocho Rios, the cruise ship pier, the Blue Mountains, and, on a clear day, Cuba. You’ll pass through small villages, where you’ll learn the history of old churches and see local marketplaces. During this tour, you’ll visit one of Jamaica’s largest estates, observing a working cattle station and a small coffee plantation. Taste and learn about our fruits and Jamaica’s great history. The highlight of your tour will be the Dunn’s River Falls, where you can climb the 600-foot cascades. Get Wet! Enjoy! Yeah Mon! You have just seen the best Jamaica has to offer. Note: Participants must be at least 6 years of age and weigh no more than 300 lbs. This tour is not recommended for guests with heart, neck/ back problems or pregnant women. Tour sequence may vary. less

Your day begins with a scenic drive to Palmares County. Along the way, a knowledgeable guide will provide you with fascinating information regarding Costa Rica's culture and history and give you the chance to ask questions. Once in Palmares, you’ll see Costa Rica’s most fascinating churches, and will have the opportunity to visit them and learn of their uniqueness. Your next stop will be Doka Estate, located at an altitude of 4,500 feet above sea level. This beautiful estate and coffee plantation was declared a historical and architectural heritage site by the Costa Rican Government. Your guide will relay the magic of coffee from seed to cup. Enjoy a typical buffet at La Cajuela restaurant surrounded by beautiful gardens with mountain views. You’ll have free time to visit souvenir shops and take home some special coffee products. Your last stop will be La Garita, a magnificent botanical garden featuring a learning greenhouse, flower showroom and a bird area of scarlet macaws, blue and gold macaws and cockatoos. Note: Wear comfortable shoes, long pants and a light jacket; bring sunscreen and sunglasses. less

This excursion combines the charm of both old and new Mexico. Begin with a drive through the Marina Vallarta area and a stop at the small village’s local church. Continue to Hacienda Dona Engracia, one of the finest tequila factories in the area for a first-hand look at the manufacturing process of tequila and some free time to explore the grounds of this working hacienda. A short shopping stop will be made on the way into the center of Puerto Vallarta where you can walk along the popular Malecon, visit the Cathedral of our Lady of Guadalupe and see Old Town City Hall, while taking in fantastic views of the waterfront and the charm of the cobblestone streets. You may choose to stay in town on your own or return to your ship. Note: Short pants are not permitted in the cathedral. Tequila samples are only given to guests 21 and older. less

Enjoy a countryside drive along the coast to one of the most picturesque places in Jamaica, the 'Land of Wood and Water', for a unique Jamaican experience. See the lifestyles of rural and urban Jamaica en route to the Martha Brae rafting village. Upon arrival, and after you are greeted with a welcome tropical drink, stroll the beautiful lawns and visit the herb garden, which is a presentation of Jamaican herbs that are famous for their medicinal and healing properties, prior to embarkation. Picture yourself on a bamboo raft built for two, gliding slowly down a river that meanders gently through whispering groves of bamboo and ferns, as you listen to the chatter of birds and the soft chop-chop of the raftman’s pole. As your raft makes its way pass shaded banks and dappled sunlight, the raft Captain will tell you the legend of 'Matibereon' as the mild river breeze washes over you. Float along the river and relax in an atmosphere of tranquility on the three-mile journey before arriving at the Rafter’s Rest, where the bus awaits for the return trip to Ocho Rios. Note: Participants must not weigh more than 280 lbs. less