Panama Canal Cruises: Excursions

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

This exclusive opportunity combines Alaska’s favorite experiences, a flight on a De Havilland Beaver float plane, and dining on Alaskan Dungeness Crab! Your flight begins as you take off from the downtown Ketchikan cruise ship docks. This bustling Alaskan community will quickly be revealed below, along with panoramic views of the Tongass National Forest. Your flight will include the historic importance of the De Havilland Beaver float plane and the landmarks below! After 30 minutes of spectacular scenery, you’ll land at the remote, yet rustic and elegant George Inlet Lodge. Snack on smoked salmon as you learn about the colorful George Inlet Lodge and its epic journey across 90 miles of ocean to its current location. Sip white wine or Alaskan amber beer as your host entertains you with stories and knowledge of Alaska, Ketchikan, and so much more. Your feast will consist of a fresh romaine salad topped with homemade oriental-style dressing, followed by steamed baby red potatoes and Dungeness crab. A steaming hot second helping of crab will be by shortly. Last but certainly not least indulge in rich, smooth cheesecake smothered in Alaskan blueberries. A quick visit to the George Inlet Lodge gift shop is a must before you depart. You’ll disembark on the second half of your journey enjoying a narrated coach ride along the coastline back to downtown. On this coastal path, you’ll pass and learn about totem poles, a fish hatchery, and the coast guard station in Ketchikan. This is an exclusive experience incorporating the best Alaska has to offer. Note: Flight path is subject to change due to weather patterns. This tour may run in reverse. This tour is non-refundable. less

Begin with a scenic drive through downtown Puerto Vallarta, to a local tile factory for an introduction to the tile manufacturing process. Witness the forming, painting and firing of the ceramic, one of the many colorful items for which Mexico is famous for. You’ll have ample time to see the displays and purchase all the ceramics you can carry. Then, continue to the downtown area for some sightseeing and shopping. A short stop will be made on your way out to visit Hacienda Dona Engracia, one of the finest tequila factories in the area. Here you’ll have an opportunity to see a working ranch, learn about the tequila manufacturing process and enjoy a delicious homemade Mexican lunch. Visitors over the age of 21 will be invited to indulge in free samples of tequila. less

This experience allows for an intimate glimpse inside one of the most important aspects that defines Costa Rica as the strongest nation in all of Central America. Coffee cultivation has been the primary source of income for many Costa Rican families since the turn of the 19th century. You’ll visit a 670-acre cooperative farm owned by more than 2,300 farmers of who 60% are women. Each member contributes almost 10 acres of land to the coop. The coffee that they cultivate and produce is sold directly to one of the largest coffee companies in the world, Starbucks. This coffee is also purchased by Rainforest Alliance, an organization that focuses on the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development. You’ll experience first-hand the coffee roasting process and have the chance to sample the flavorful brewing. Also see how the coffee beans, also known as cherries, are picked, sorted, peeled, fermented and sun-dried. Learn many interesting facts that will change your appreciation for this highly consumed beverage. Feel free to browse the selection of hand-made souvenirs before heading to the town of Sarchi. A photo-stop will be made at the largest oxcart monument ever built and stop at the factory that made it; see the ancient water wheel that propels most of the machinery they use to cut and saw the wood. Note: Minimum amount of walking over even surface and some steps. For wheelchair restricted customers, advance notice is required. Motorized scooters cannot be handled, only foldable wheelchairs. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat and bring a camera and a light jacket. less