Panama Canal Cruises: Excursions

Southeast Alaska’s rich logging history springs to life in this thrilling display of woodsman skills. The world’s best lumberjacks, as seen on ESPN, go head-to-head, competing in exciting events such as chopping, sawing, relay races, log rolling, and more for the title of "Bull of the Woods." You’ll even see the most death-defying event the sport has to offer, the breathtaking speed climb. Your colorful host will referee this rowdy competition and tell the tales of the often hostile work environment found in the Tongass Rainforest. You’ll be comfortable in covered and heated grandstands that are just a short walk from the cruise ship pier. Experience the local wildlife . . . the Alaskan Logger. . . in this rip-roaring good time celebration of a bygone era. Note: Wheelchair access may be limited - for details, please consult your Shore Excursion staff before booking. For more details about this tour please visit: Great Alaskan Lumberjack Showwww.alaskalumberjackshows.com less

Explore the essence of Mexico at a pace set to match your riding ability. On 21-gear, full-suspension bikes, this beautiful, yet dusty ride, passes fruit plantations and rustic towns with an enormous diversity of vegetation. Your experienced guide will make sure that you are properly outfitted, point out the sights and answer all your questions. During your ride the tour will be followed by a relief vehicle in radio contact with your knowledgeable guide at all times. Then you’ll head back to the hacienda to explore before you rejoin the transportation back to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age, weigh no more than 220 lbs. and a minimum height of 5 feet. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required. Mandatory helmets are provided, along with elbow, knee and wrist protection. Snacks are available at your own expense at the Hacienda. less

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

Start with a panoramic drive to view of the San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, situated outside the walled city. This monumental fort is considered to be the most outstanding feat of Spanish military engineering in the new world. After a quick drive through the narrow streets of the walled city, you’ll continue along the coastline to La Boquilla fisherman village. Embark on a leisurely canoe ride through the mangrove tunnels across the Swamp of the Virgin. Visit the mangroves at La Cienaga de Juan Polo, where a great diversity of birds such as Kingsfisher, White heron, Common Laura, Pink Spatula and Pelicans live. Relax as you enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna that encompasses this fascinating eco-system. Note: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring sunscreen and a hat. The last portion of this tour is a canoe ride only; guests do not get to paddle the canoe. less

Discover the Mexican countryside on horseback. Arrive at Hacienda Dona Engracia where your guide will conduct a short orientation, then match each rider with a horse that suits his or her ability. Riding along the Mascota River, you’ll pass through quaint little villages, viewing local scenery and vegetation. Wear a swimsuit under your riding clothes because if conditions permit, you may enjoy a swim on horseback or relax at the hot springs. Then you’ll head back to the hacienda to explore before you rejoin the transportation back to your ship Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age, weigh no more than 220 lbs. and in good physical condition. Wear long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. During certain times of the year, the river rises and forces the tour to follow the mountain trail, cancelling the swim. Snacks are available at your own expense at the Hacienda. less