Pacific Coastal Cruises: Excursions

Embark on an open-air gondola ride with a bilingual naturalist guide to safely glide you through a living backdrop of giant trees, hanging gardens, waterfalls and lush green landscapes. Panoramic ocean views and common sightings of wildlife that thrive in the canopy will introduce you to this unique transitional forest. This is also one of the few areas in Costa Rica where you can occasionally see spectacular scarlet macaws majestically soaring above the treetops or sitting in one of the trees. To complete your rainforest experience, visit the Serpentarium, a medicinal plant Garden and Heliconias Gallery. You’ll also have a chance to pass though a snake exhibit set in the tropical rainforest. Enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to your ship. Note: Wear light clothes, closed-toe shoes. Bring rain gear and insect repellent. less

Begin your adventure by taking a deluxe drive to the Guanacaste flat lands while enjoying the beautiful passages surrounded by trees and cattle fields. Once at the operation base, you’ll have time to change and get ready to paddle after being briefed on safety procedures. Float down the Corobici River and enjoy its great scenery and wildlife. This classic floating trip is perfect for birdwatchers and nature lovers. As you raft along this tranquil river, you might spot one of the more than 300 species of birds from the nearby Palo Verde National Park. The more commonly seen birds are ospreys, kingfishers, cormorants, and blue, tiger and boat-billed herons. Other wildlife in the area includes otters, howler monkeys, white-faced monkeys, anteaters, iguanas and many other lizards. At the conclusion of your trip, a native-style lunch will be served. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age, weigh less than 270 lbs. and be in good health. Bring a towel, sunscreen and an extra set of clothes if desired; tour may get you wet. less

Discover the ultimate dolphin adventure by spending an exciting day (approximately 6 hours) working beside the trainers. You’ll gain an insight and understanding of the basic skills needed to care for and train dolphins and sea lions through practical hands-on experience, while being an active member of the team of marine mammal experts. You’ll be in close contact with the dolphins and sea lions throughout the day – both in the pool and poolside - while assisting trainers in every aspect of their work. This is a fun-filled, one-of-a-kind adventure. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age. A light lunch from the snack bar is included. Do not wear jewelry or sunscreen lotion as it may be harmful to the animals. Please bring your swimsuit and a towel. less

This trip combines a 27.7 mile White Pass Railway ride with a 4 to 6 mile round-trip wilderness hike toward Denver Falls, in lush old growth forest. After a 22 mile bus ride, your rail journey will be broken into two parts, before and after the hike. This world renowned railway adventure carries you through the scenic White Pass complete with waterfalls, rushing rivers, trestles, and tunnels as you trace the trail of '98. This southbound trip offers outstanding views from Inspiration Point and other locations along the route. After disembarking at Denver Station, your professional guides will lead you through the glacially carved valley full of dense, old growth forest.

The trail traces the raging East Fork of the Skagway River, meeting it intermittently and providing excellent photo opportunities. Be alert, and keep your camera close, as the remote valley is home to bears and other wildlife. From the depths of the river valley, gaze at the magnificent craggy peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains that make this valley deeper than the Grand Canyon. Your narrated hike will introduce you to the flora, fauna and history that make the region unique. Hiking through the pristine Tongass National Forest with 1,000 year old trees with photo stops by the river and Denver Falls will highlight this perfect mix of exercise and natural beauty. After the hike, continue with your return train ride to Skagway.

Note: Participants must be at least 9 years of age. Dress in layers and wear walking or athletic shoes. Lunch and snacks provided.

Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Madre Mountains, San Sebastian's remote location and historic appeal have made it one of Mexico's last great getaways. This former mining town is a world away from typical resorts and ordinary tourist attractions. Your San Sebastian land expedition begins with a 90-minute drive by air-conditioned van from Puerto Vallarta to the 17th century mining town of San Sebastián. As the road weaves through the mountains, you'll enjoy fantastic scenery and typical scenes of rural Mexican life, making the journey both breathtaking and relaxing. Enjoy a typical lunch before your walk through town. Once in San Sebastian, wander around in this very peaceful town, which has changed so little in hundreds of years. Come across a quaint cobblestone plaza lined by dignified white buildings, a classic Porfirian bandstand, an 18th century church dedicated to San Sebastián and many old world Haciendas. San Sebastián is a living museum untouched by time, and an experience that is difficult to surpass. Note: Bring comfortable shoes and clothing, insect repellent, sunscreen and cash. We recommend you bring a light sweater. less