Panama Canal Cruises: Excursions

This experience allows for an intimate glimpse inside one of the most important aspects that defines Costa Rica as the strongest nation in all of Central America. Coffee cultivation has been the primary source of income for many Costa Rican families since the turn of the 19th century. You’ll visit a 670-acre cooperative farm owned by more than 2,300 farmers of who 60% are women. Each member contributes almost 10 acres of land to the coop. The coffee that they cultivate and produce is sold directly to one of the largest coffee companies in the world, Starbucks. This coffee is also purchased by Rainforest Alliance, an organization that focuses on the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development. You’ll experience first-hand the coffee roasting process and have the chance to sample the flavorful brewing. Also see how the coffee beans, also known as cherries, are picked, sorted, peeled, fermented and sun-dried. Learn many interesting facts that will change your appreciation for this highly consumed beverage. Feel free to browse the selection of hand-made souvenirs before heading to the town of Sarchi. A photo-stop will be made at the largest oxcart monument ever built and stop at the factory that made it; see the ancient water wheel that propels most of the machinery they use to cut and saw the wood. Note: Minimum amount of walking over even surface and some steps. For wheelchair restricted customers, advance notice is required. Motorized scooters cannot be handled, only foldable wheelchairs. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat and bring a camera and a light jacket. less

We are proud to introduce Cozumel's first world-class championship golf course for those traveling to Cozumel. Cozumel Country Club is a Jack Nicklaus-designed, 18-hole championship golf course. The course totals 6,847 yards from the back tees and has a fully-stocked pro shop. The club offers a package that includes transportation, shared golf cart and greens fees. Note: Golf clubs are not included. less

Salsa making has never been so much fun. Enjoy a hands-on cooking experience, where you’ll learn to make not one, not two, but seven authentic salsas. Follow along as two dancing chefs instruct you on how to make a variety of salsas such as fiery red salsa, Oaxacan guacamole, pico de gallo and a Rompope dessert salsa. You’ll also learn how to make an authentic margarita and a frozen strawberry margarita. And if you’re hungry, no worries! You'll be trying your culinary creations with tasty cheese quesadillas, chicken taquitos and corn chips. If you’re thirsty, that’s covered too. You’ll have the opportunity to try an assortment of drinks, including all-you-can-drink lime and strawberry margaritas, Jamaica tea (hibiscus herbal tea) and bottled water. Then, once you have mastered your cooking skills, your dance instructor will have you moving and swinging to the sounds of salsa music. The tour takes place at a four star beach front resort, with stunning views and direct access to the beach. After class, you’ll have the choice to relax on the beach, enjoy one of the hotel's pools, rent snorkel gear or enjoy the superb reefs of the Chankanab National Park. So put on your chef hat and polish those dance shoes, because this tour has it all. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and must be 21 years of age to drink. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or those with back, neck or heart problems. Ground Transportation provided to and from ship. less

This exciting tour combines a “whales guaranteed” cruise with Alaska’s finest wilderness salmon bake. Following a motorcoach ride to scenic Auke Bay, you’ll board a waterjet-powered vessel specially designed for wildlife viewing. Relax in the warm, comfortable cabin, surrounded by large windows, as you ply the island studded waters of Stephens Passage. This area is world-renowned as a favored summer feeding ground for humpback whales. Once whales have been sighted, your skilled Captain will maneuver the vessel to allow exceptional viewing and photographic opportunities, as these graceful giants slowly arc their massive tail flukes into the air. Don’t forget your camera, and be sure to bring a warm jacket to wear on the topside observation deck.

The whales are often close enough to hear them breathe! An onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of the humpback whale and other wildlife you may encounter, including killer whales, Steller sea lions, Dall's porpoise, harbor seals, bald eagles and more. The operators of this tour guarantee you'll see a whale. If not, you’ll receive a $100 cash refund as you disembark the vessel. Don’t anticipate a refund; in the past 10+ years, whales have been sighted on every tour!

Then take a leisurely break from cruising to step ashore at Orca Point Lodge on beautiful Colt Island and enjoy a feast that includes fresh grilled wild Alaska salmon, chicken kabobs, corn on the cob, rice pilaf, coleslaw, fresh hot rolls and desserts. The lodge offers peaceful seclusion with modern comforts in a remote wilderness setting. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and take a stroll along the beach before boarding the vessel for your return cruise to Auke Bay.

Note: Dress warmly and bring a rainproof jacket to wear on the vessel observation deck and for enjoying the natural environment at Orca Point Lodge. Complimentary-use binoculars and souvenir route guides are provided. Participants must be able to walk a distance of 40 to 50 feet to embark and disembark the vessel. less

Travel into the Sierra Madre Mountains towards Argovia Plantation and Estate for your authentic temazcal experience. Upon arrival, you’ll be given a complimentary drink and educational information about the history of the Temazcal and its importance in ancient cultures. A safety briefing will be provided before your sweat bath. After your Temazcal experience, you’ll be applied a clay facial mask, which you will rinse off short after. Lastly, refresh yourself with a snack, taste some coffee or shop at the local stores before returning to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age. Guest should wear a hat and comfortable shoes. There will be some time to change clothes, if needed, prior to and following the bath. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. Participants must be in good health and sign a waiver release form. The maximum age recommended for participants is 70 years of age. less