Panama Canal Cruises: Excursions

Explore the heart and soul of Mazatlan; be amazed by Mexico´s ancient culture and Post-Hispanic era. Your tour will begin by stopping at Vigia Hill for a perfect view of the world’s highest natural Lighthouse, offshore islands and Mazatlan’s scenic coast line. Then, ride through the city’s historic center for a visit to the 19th-century cathedral. Take a short drive to see the famous cliff divers. Next, enjoy a show at Spectaculare Theatre, the history of Mexico with a semblance of the Mayan rituals and their prophecies combined with the most representative folkloric dances. After the show, you’ll have some free time to shop at the Golden Zone. Note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. A complementary drink will be offered at the show venue. less

Drive though Ponta Delgada heading northeast along the pleasant roads bordering agricultural areas, stretching across the island to Ribeira Grande. Ribeira Grande has a distinct Portuguese influence. Visit some of the most significant monuments of the city and taste some local liquors at a liquor shop. Drive on the mountain road to Lagoa do Fogo, a road with many bends, skirting the mountain all the way up like an enormous whirl. On your way up, stop and walk to Caldeira Velha, a little botanical garden with a waterfall and a small hot spring. The drive continues to Pico da Barrosa Mountain, to see nice views of the Fire Lake. Stop at the belvederes to admire not only the beautiful quiet lake, but also the landscape of the surroundings. Return to Ponta Delgada along the new road, descending towards Remedios da Lagoa. Upon arrival to a pineapple plantation, learn about the process of cultivating and marketing this fruit. Note: Tour involves approximately 0.3 mile (500 meters) of walking on uneven ground, gravel and cobblestone. The liquor shop in Ribeira Grande,Caldeira Velha hot spring, pineapple plantation and restrooms are not wheelchair accessible. Tour order may vary but all mentioned sights will be covered. Visibility from all scenic outlooks is dependent upon the weather and therefore cannot be guaranteed. less

Take a journey for approximately 45 minutes to the ancient ruins of Izapa. From it’s beginnings as a small village, Izapa grew into the region’s most influential cultural and commercial center with a population of possibly up to 10,000 people. Izapa brought together many of Mesoamerica’s ancient cultures and many believe it may be the site of origin of the sacred Mayan Calendar; although, much study remains to be done in order to unlock these secrets. Next, travel by bus to Chocolate Discovery, where you’ll be able to see how the cocoa beans are transformed into chocolate right at the main square. Also, you’ll see and sample the local cuisine, as well as see a variety of local handcrafts and exotic flowers of the region. Local dances and marimba players will be sharing their skills with lively performances. After a stop at the local historic church, you will be on your way back to your ship. Note: Guests should wear a hat and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. less

This combination excursion gives you the opportunity to ride a historical train that has been in service for more than 50 years and participate on a scenic ride through rural countryside and tropical fields. Afterwards, board your motorcoach en route to the Tarcoles River where you’ll go on a boat and explore the spectacular natural scenery this river has to offer. The river and mangroves attract many types of bird wildlife such as toucans, spoonbills, herons, egrets, jacanas, pelicans, scarlet macaws, iguanas and crocodiles. Upon your return enjoy some live marimba melodies and enjoy a delicious buffet of seasonal fruits and tropical refreshments. Enough time will be provided to select crafts made by local artisans before returning to your ship. Note: This excursion might operate in reverse order. Please wear casual clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and bring a camera and raingear. Wildlife sightings while common cannot be guaranteed. Advance notice is needed for guests in wheelchairs; motorized scooters cannot be handled, only foldable wheelchairs. The type of walking required is along even roads and compact gravel trails. A free bird guide will be provided at the beginning of the river cruise, which will allow participants to identify any feathered creatures seen along the way. less

Discover beautiful Mazatlan in a two-passenger mini-Rhino. See various sites that the ordinary tourists cannot see; this is a perfect vehicle to drive on the narrow streets of the Historic District. Before starting the tour, you’ll receive a brief orientation and safety instructions from your guide. Start by visiting the Cathedral, Machado Plaza which is considered to be the heart of the historic district as well as the Opera House and its museum. Next, stop at the Diver’s site for an amazing cliff diver’s show; continue driving north along the ocean front boulevard towards New Mazatlán. Here, enjoy the scenery and views of ‘Puerto Viejo Bay’, beaches and islands. Upon arrival to the Rhino’s base camp in the Golden Zone, you’ll have time for some shopping before returning to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and weigh no more than 250 lbs. Drivers must be 18 years old and present a valid driver’s license to the tour operator. Price is per mini Rhino. Only one person needs to book the tour. Pregnant women and guests with back/neck injuries may not participate on this excursion. Closed-toe shoes are required. less