Panama Canal Cruises: Excursions

Visit the Montserrat Children’ Home, an orphanage created in 1982 by Fray Casiano de Madrid. Here, you’ll be welcomed by one of the sisters and children. Your tour guide will serve as interpreter as you are given an explanation of the programs carried at the home. You’ll meet and partake with the children as you learn about their daily duties, games and programs. These children are brought up with good values and manners which can be applied to their future adult lives. The home was operated by a group of young ladies who later became the Congregation of Missionary Sisters of the Assumption. Today, they provide comprehensive care to dozens of children from the ages of one through 18 and aim to give them the best possible quality of life. Next, visit the orchid’s farm, located in the small village of Miramar. Here, you'll learn about the orchid’s habitat, their means of cultivation, blooming and how they are prepared for export. Your guide will acquaint you with the country’s history, politics and culture while you admire the northern countryside and landscape. Costa Rica is a blessed country with year-round spring weather, and the exuberance of its flora has given it the name of Garden of the Americas. Enjoy tropical fruits buffet and refreshments before heading back to your ship. Note: Tour sequence may vary, this is a donation tour. Part of the proceeds will go towards helping the children’s of the orphanage. less

The deluxe catamaran sail and snorkel with lunch will be the highlight of your holiday! Sail on a modern catamaran over the crystal clear waters of the Roatan National Park Protected Reef System. Roatan is one of the last places in the world with a vibrant living reef system with lots of beautiful reef fish and living corals. As you sail in this area, you'll witness the beautiful, clear waters and when your Captain picks up a mooring, you'll be able to experience the beauty of this underwater world. After about one hour of snorkeling in these warm waters, you'll be invited aboard to partake in a delicious buffet lunch of rotisserie roast chicken, Roatan rice, pasta salad, cabbage salad and fresh fruit salad. Along with your lunch and after snorkeling, the Captain will open the complimentary bar so you can enjoy the free rum of your choice. Note: Participants cannot weigh over 315 lbs. and must be at least 21 years of age to consume alcohol. less

After a brief tender ride to Belize City, you’ll board a motor launch for a guided tour of the Old Belize River. On this scenic waterway, look out for crocodiles, howler monkeys, iguanas and other wildlife. Some 20 miles upstream, you’ll disembark at The Olde River Tavern for a tasty Belizean lunch and refreshments. From here you’ll then travel by road to Belize's famous wildlife habitat, the Belize Zoo. This facility is home to the endemic species of the region that are cared for in their natural environment behind protective fencing. Note: Animals in the zoo are not in cages but protected by fences. The zoo is not recommended for wheelchairs, walkers or canes, as it has loose gravel paths. Boats are exposed to the elements. less

Start your adventure with a stop at the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show. Here, hardy lumberjacks bring to life Alaska’s colorful forest history with an action packed competition in the partially covered and heated outdoor arena. Cheer on your team of World Champion lumberjacks in events such as chopping, sawing, tree climbing and much more. Next, board your coach and enjoy a narrated scenic drive to rustic Herring Cove. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a naturalist who will guide you along improved trails into the dense forest, for a chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat. The sanctuary borders the Tongass National Forest. Stroll through tall stands of hemlock, spruce and Alaska cedar, stopping at viewing areas to photograph this natural wonderland. See old-growth trees and a multitude of plants in this lush rainforest. The forest trail leads to an elevated boardwalk overlooking Eagle Creek where, during spawning season, salmon runs attract eagles, bears, seals and shorebirds. Bears and seals feed on the salmon while eagles and other birds wait for the scraps. Mink, marten and wolves also frequent the area. Seasonal changes in the ecosystem result in varying levels of animal sightings. Watch and listen to nature’s symphony in this spectacular setting. Next, meet and feed Alaska reindeer and take pictures with these gentle creatures. Watch a master Native carver at work on totem poles, walk through the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company sawmill, and photograph bald eagles up close at the Alaska Wildlife Foundation exhibit. Browse through the General Store and enjoy a snack at the end of the hike before returning to your cruise ship pier. Note: Wheelchair access may be limited – for details, please consult your Shore Excursion staff before booking. Wear comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and are more frequent in midsummer. Please note that there may be a short wait prior to the Lumberjack Show. Time can be spent on your own or in the rustic company store located at the Lumberjack Show. Tour may operate in reverse. less

This excursion guarantees excellent eagle viewing. Majestic totems and a waterfront clan house demonstrate the historical native culture at Totem Bight State Park. Get a close-up view of Guard Island Lighthouse. Enjoy a short narrated drive through Ketchikan en route to meet your Captain and Alaskan crew. Board your vessel, where you’ll hear professional narration, while you munch on salmon spread, cheese, crackers, fresh fruit, and cookies. Hot chocolate, coffee, tea, water, or soft drinks are all free. Relax in the heated main cabin or experience the open-air observation deck. Observe the areas of harvest and ancient old growth, and learn of the historical and modern uses of this very special temperate rainforest and its complex ecosystem. Cruise by historic Ward Cove Cannery and Loggerville, Alaska’s only 'floating town.' One half of this tour features the Revillagigedo Island waterfront; with its homes of the local 'rich and famous,' while the remainder explores the remote Guard Island and primitive Gravina Island. Binoculars are provided for your use. Eagles, of course, are guaranteed and we usually see harbor seals and abundant moon jellyfish. Whales, deer, blue heron and a variety of gulls and sea birds are also common. Note: We recommend you bring a warm, rainproof jacket to wear on the observation deck. For more details about this tour please visit: http://www.eaglesncl.com
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Cabo Dolphins encounter program allows you to delve into the world of the bottle-nosed dolphin without entering deep water. The specially designed shallow platform allows you to get 'up close' to a dolphin during this 20-minute program. Meet your highly experienced trainer who will educate you about the dolphin’s anatomy and physiology. Dolphins will slide gracefully onto the platform and allow you to hug, pet and play with them while exploring their beautiful sleek bodies. Enjoy feeding and dancing with your dolphin and receive a big fishy kiss! This dolphin encounter program is perfect for all ages or non-swimmers. Note: Participants must be at least 3 years of age. Children 3-7 years of age must be accompanied by a participating adult. No infants allowed. Please inform the Shore Excursion staff if you have any infants taking the tour as they will need a ticket to check in at the facility. Guests are not allowed to bring their cameras; there will be professional photographs taken onboard. Guests with disabilities must visit the Shore Excursion Desk for more information. Women who are between 3-7 months pregnant will be able to participate on the tour. less