Panama Canal Cruises: Excursions

Victoria is one of the most picturesque cities in North America, and exudes Old World charm and a distinctively British flair. This tour will show you the heart and soul of why so many visitors from around the world come each year to the City of Gardens. Starting at Ogden Point you’ll head into the residential neighborhoods, complete with manicured lawns, abundant flowers of all shapes and sizes, and million dollar views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountain range. Pass some of the highlights of Victoria, including views of Craigdarroch Castle, all that remains of the stately Dunsmuir estate. The tour will conclude at the Inner Harbor, the centerpiece of Victoria. This is the home of the Royal BC Museum, numerous street performers, craft vendors, food stalls, the BC Parliament Buildings, and the world famous Fairmont Empress Hotel. Note: Order of sights may vary. less

The city and cruise port of Victoria are steeped in old world charm. With its manicured lawns and impressive displays of gardens and hanging baskets adorning the streets, on this one hour excursion you’ll see why Victoria is nicknamed the “City of Gardens”. At the cruise terminal you’ll board your trolley, drawn by two magnificent draught horses. Get cozy in your seat and feel free to wrap yourself in the provided blanket.

Your journey will take you past the gorgeous historical homes, located between the cruise terminal and the downtown inner harbor. Enjoy the lively narration of your guide as they “giddy up” and “whoa boy” this tour through town! You’ll see the largest park in Victoria, as well as the famous Empress Hotel, and the British Columbia legislative buildings, commonly referred to as the Parliament buildings. Sit back and relax as you’re carried by real horsepower back to the ship.

Note: This is an open-air vehicle and we recommend you bring a jacket. Guests will need to navigate two steps to board the trolley and due to safety concerns, wheel chairs, walkers, strollers and scooters must be left at the departure location.

Enjoy a short drive to Dolphin Cove, where you are met by our friendly hostesses and given a complimentary drink. There you will participate in a brief orientation and then enter the world of nature’s most fascinating creatures; The Dolphins. Get to know the animals as you interact with them in deep water. Experience the thrill of "riding” the dolphin belly to belly. Dance, sing, play and even enjoy a kiss or two. You will then be escorted to The "Pearly" white sandy beach at Dolphin Cove where you will find excitement, fun and games. The Caribbean's best kept secret, Dolphin Cove's exclusive, private "Pearly White Sandy Beach" is surrounded by tropical vegetation. Relax to the sounds of the Caribbean Music while you enjoy Unlimited Rum Punch and food. Fun, games and entertainment - complimentary beach chairs. Take a plunge in the crystal clear Caribbean Sea and indulge in the warmth of the sun. Relax and enjoy all the wonders of Dolphin Cove. Watch the dolphins at play in their natural habitat, the Caribbean sea. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the lush tropical jungle and get an up close experience with our beautiful and friendly birds, snakes and iguanas. Mingle with and feed the colorful free flying lovebirds in the bird aviary. Interact with exotic sea creatures in the touch tank display. Enjoy a hands-on experience on how to make unique pottery at Wassi Arts at Dolphin Cove. Watch in amazement as a local wood carver makes ordinary pieces of wood come to life. Visit "Little Port Royal" a replica of Jamaica's most famous pirate "Haunt" and witness pirates roaming through town. Browse through the largest gift shops of any attraction in Jamaica, stocked with the widest range of dolphin souvenirs; visit our jewelry store and craft market for locally hand crafted items. View the rambunctious and hilarious shark show and watch the stingrays in their lagoon as they gracefully glide by. Sample the world famous Blue Mountain Coffee and liquors at our very own. Have your hair braided and watch our local fashion show. Learn about our Jamaican culture and enjoy the amenities. Shuttle buses are available at 10-minute intervals to return you to the ship and optional shopping at your convenience. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and weigh no more than 250 lbs. less

Costa Maya is home to the 2nd largest coral reef system in the world and offers much to explore beneath the surface of the sea. A short transfer from the pier you’ll find the colorful Mayan fishing village of Mahahual and a beautiful beach where you will begin your adventure. Board your glass-bottom boat and head out over the iridescent waters of the Caribbean. Take in the panoramic view of colorful coral reef formations and tropical fish as you travel over a beautiful reef area. Once you admire the reef from above, jump in and follow your certified guide past colorful fish and coral formations on an inspiring snorkel tour. The small group size ensures personal attention so you can relax and discover the wonders of the underwater world with your helpful guides nearby. Afterwards you may either return directly to the ship with your tour or choose stay in downtown for shopping and return on your own at a later time on your own expense. less