Panama Canal Cruises: Excursions

Board your air-conditioned transportation for the approximately 45-minute drive to the infamous mud volcano. On the way to the volcano, pass by the imposing San Felipe de Barajas Fortress situated outside the walled city. Here, you’ll have the opportunity enjoy a panoramic view of the old city. Upon arrival at the mud volcano an orientation to the rustic facilities will be provided. A mud volcano is created by natural gases emitted by decaying organic matter underground. As the mud is pushed upwards by the gas, it deposits and hardens above ground and forms what appears to be a huge anthill. As more mud oozes out and spills over the edge it grows in size, gradually forming what you can see today: a miniature 50-foot volcano with a rich, creamy, mud crater at the top. If you have never been in a mud volcano before, then the initial feeling of mud on your skin is unusual to say the least. When you feel like you are about to become one with the earth, just climb back down the staircase and stroll down to the nearby freshwater lake where you can wash the mud off. Note: The temperature of the mud is very warm to hot, therefore those who are susceptible to heat must not participate on this tour. It's said that the mud has healing properties; however the truth to this statement is not proven. To reach the top of the mud volcano where the pool of mud is located, requires the negotiation of numerous, steep steps. Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel and adequate sun protection. less

For the snorkeling enthusiast, this tour combines two of the best areas in the emerald waters of Huatulco. From the pier area it is a 10-minute sail to La Entrega Beach, while a site briefing is given. There you’ll enjoy 45 minutes of snorkeling in the calm, translucent waters of the area and be amazed at the variety of marine life seen on the coral reef. Next is a 20-minute trip to Cacaluta Bay, which some locals call King's Beach because it was the favorite of King Juan Carlos I of Spain on his 1993 visit to Huatulco. Along the way, you’ll pass by the spectacular blowhole and Organo and Maguey Bays. Snorkel another 45 minutes from the boat in the passage between the island and beach, an outstanding pristine place with white coral and rocks. Note: Participants must be at least 16 years of age and in good physical condition. Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel and sunscreen. You’ll be required to sign a waiver release form in order to participate. Some light current might be present. Participants should be able to get in and out of the boat by ladder. Depending on weather, water clarity and sea conditions, the above itinerary may vary and/or the stop at Cacaluta could be changed to an alternate site. All dives will be from the boat with no beach snorkeling. There are no showers on the boat. less

Board your Zodiac, skippered by an experienced eco-guide. After a brief safety lecture and orientation, take an exhilarating ride to Land’s End, past Lover’s Beach, the sea lion colony and the famous arch. Your first snorkel site will be at Chileno Cove, approximately 20 minutes along the coast. After re-boarding your Zodiac, you’ll head over to Santa Maria Cove for your second snorkeling. The transparent waters at both coves team with colorful fish, including Moorish idols, puffers and Cortez angelfish. You’ll spend approximately 45 minutes at each site. After your snorkel experience, your Zodiac transports you back to the tender pier. Enjoy the incredible view heading back into the harbor with a view of your ship, Land's End and the coastline of Cabo. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and weigh no more than 250 lbs. The snorkeling sites may be altered due to weather and water conditions. This tour is not for pregnant women or guests with knee, neck, back or heart problems, as the ride can be rough. A signed waiver is required. Snorkeling is from the boat and guests must climb small aluminum ladder to get back into boat. Wear your swim suit and bring a towel. Sunglasses and sun protection are suggested. All snorkel equipment, safety vest, instruction, supervision and bottled water/soft drinks are included. Wetsuits are not included. less

Estimated at over 5 million years old, the Green Grotto Caves is the first historic cave worldwide to receive the Green Globe 21 certification, a global affiliation working with travel and tourism companies and communities to develop and maintain good environmental practices. The caves are characterized by coastal limestone and feature a series of interconnected passageways and chambers, light holes, stalactites and stalagmites, as well as two lakes. Their most striking features are rock formations and the small 'grotto' lake at the innermost cavern. Take a 3/4-mile guided stroll through a maze of exquisite dripstone formations and learn about the sensitive eco-system found within and around the caves. See limestone formations that have been christened after the individuals they resemble, including Abraham Lincoln, Freddie Krueger and the cartoon character, Scooby Doo among others. Your guide will demonstrate the cave’s musical stones and be sure to toss a coin in the wishing well before your departure. A refreshing beverage is provided at the end of the tour. On the return drive to Ocho Rios, you’ll visit Dunn’s River Falls. Climb the spectacular 600-foot waterfall at Dunn’s River Falls and then shop for souvenirs in the center of town before returning to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 4 years of age and be at least 3 feet tall to climb the falls. This is a walking tour and visitors will be guided through areas that are paved, with uneven surfaces, gravel and rocks. Visitors need to be sure footed and must be able to bend to negotiate small access ways. Slippery when wet caution signs are posted through the caves as a reminder to visitors. There are 62 steps throughout the tour. All visitors are fitted with a sanitary helmet liner and hard helmet and offered a spray of mosquito repellent prior to the start of the tour. The Dunn’s River Falls are the highlight of Jamaica and tend to be very congested. All guests participating in a tour that visits the falls should wear foot protection that can get wet. River socks are available for rent at the falls. The rocks at the falls are slippery. Climbing the falls is optional and at your own risk. Participants who do not wish to climb the falls may enjoy the small beach at the base. The walk to the beach is on a slope with many stairs, therefore participants should be in reasonably good health. less

A local guide will take you on a moderate hike through the forest, fields and wetlands where Lewis & Clark's Corps of Discovery survived. At the end of your hike you'll be on the site of their Winter Fort that the corps used in 1805. The visitor center by the fort will educate and inspire you. See a replica of the fort and be guided through the Interpretive Center. Watch educational films about their incredibly journey. Stop by the gift shop for a souvenir of your visit. Note: Participants must be at least 10 years of age and a maximum of 80 years of age and in good physical condition. Hiking time: 1 hour and 45 minutes. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction. less