Panama Canal Cruises: Excursions

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

See the best of Cartagena with a tour of the city accompanied by local guide experts. Your first stop will be a view of the imposing military fort of San Felipe de Barajas situated outside the walled city and considered to be the most outstanding feat of Spanish military engineering in the New World. You'll then continue to the historic Colonial city characterized by its walls which took 194 years to be completed. These immense walls enabled Cartagena to defend itself from the numerous attacks of English pirates and other invaders. You’ll be able to walk through Spanish Colonial architecture, some of the best preserved in South America with its imposing merchant’s houses, narrow streets, flower bedecked balconies, civic buildings and beautiful churches. The city is dotted with many squares and public spaces which are now home to sidewalk cafes and restaurants where locals and visitors relax and enjoy the magic of this city. Your next stop will be Bocagrande, which in contrast with the old city is modern with high rise apartment complexes, hotels and restaurants, a great place for visitors. You’ll then have a brief stop for shopping at the Pierino Gallo shopping center famous for its wide variety of jewelry shops. Note: There is a 30 minute continuous walk-in old town. Bring comfortable attire, hat and sun block. 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

Experience Puerto Vallarta in all its glory. Travel along the main highway to Old Town, along the city’s cobblestone streets for a stop at City Hall and the Cathedral of the Lady of Guadalupe. Pass the elegant area of Conchas Chinas on your way to the southern end of town. Finally, stop at a charming restaurant for a complimentary beverage before heading to Old Town for some shopping. You’ll be assigned a time to rejoin your coach for the return trip to your ship. You may choose to stay in town on your own or return to your ship. Note: Short pants are not permitted in the cathedral. less

Take an approximately 45-minute boat tour along the very tip of the longest, most desolate and perhaps the most beautiful peninsula in the world. Explore pristine beaches, towering rock formations and the famed Los Arcos, a dramatic natural rock monument that arches starkly out of the sea. A complimentary beverage will be served on board while you listen to an enlightening narration by J.M. Cousteau about the underwater life, the colorful history of Baja California and its fragile ecology. You’ll soon see that Cabo San Lucas lays claim to miles of unspoiled beaches, little coves and impressive hotels. less