Panama Canal Cruises: Excursions

Enjoy Costa Mayas most popular beach club, where white endless beaches meet a tasteful modern style. A sure way to fully enjoy your beach day is by visiting this Caribbean getaway a short journey from the busy Costa Maya pier and its surroundings. Upon arrival, your host will give you a quick orientation of the areas and facilities available to you. This tour includes an open national bar, beach volleyball, beach chairs, animated beach party, beach games for children, kayaks. A beautiful restaurant, a souvenir store and additional water sports are available at extra cost, plus there’s great snorkeling straight off the beach. This is a one stop beach destination. A regular shuttle service lets you choose how long you wish to stay. Note: Restrooms/changing room facilities and freshwater showers are available. We recommend that you bring insect repellent. less

Your day of discovery begins when you board you air conditioned transportation. You’ll pass by buildings and homes featuring Colonial, Republican and Moorish styles and your guide explains the many influences that came to be in Cartagena. Your first stop will be 'Punta Icacos', near the fishing village of La Boquilla. Here, you’ll be greeted by local fishermen who earn a living by traditional means of fishing. These fishermen will explain the process of making, repairing and casting the nets, as well as provide a demonstration. You’ll even have the opportunity to learn the art of throwing the net if you wish or you can also sip on fresh coconut milk or coconut water while you watch your companions cast the net. On your way back to Cartagena your guide will provide you with more information regarding Columbian history including the "Vallenato". The Vallenato is a traditional type of music typically using an accordion, flute and drum. Next, stop at Rancho Grande where you’ll be greeted and entertained by your own band of Vallenato. Sample a traditional Columbian snack or "frito" if you whish before making your way to the Emerald Museum. Here, you’ll see craftsmen at work as well as learn the history and cultural importance of the precious stone. Then, visit the famous walled or Old City and Portal de Dulce, an area where local vendors sell the handmade Columbian candies, famous around the world. Take a sweet sample before continuing your walk through the Plaza de la Aduana and Simon Bolivar Square. Along the way your guide will point out areas of interest as well as information on the many churches, building and monuments before you begin your free time in the colonial city. Feel free to stroll along the beautiful streets, browse the many shops and admire the beautiful architecture and flower covered balconies before returning to your ship. Note: Bring comfortable shoes and casual clothes. Wear sunscreen. Participants must be able to stand and walk unassisted as well as easily navigate narrow pathways. The roads to the village can be bumpy. less

This comprehensive tour offers the highlights of Alaska's capital city including a visit to stunning Mendenhall Glacier. Board your deluxe coach and set off to explore a selection of Juneau's most memorable attractions in style as your driver/guide shares tales of Juneau's colorful past. Arrive at the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery and the staff will acquaint you with one of Alaska's most important species - the Pacific salmon. Be sure to check out the raceways with adolescent salmon and the various aquariums displaying the rich sea life of the region.

Next, travel to Glacier Gardens. Relax as a guide ushers you through the rain forest to the 800 foot level via motorized cart where you’ll have time to take in a canopy view of Gastineau Channel below and Douglas Island, Lynn Canal, Mendenhall Valley, and the Chilkat Mountains in the background. Your tour culminates with a visit to Mendenhall Glacier. The area offers several vantage points for viewing this stunning river of ice. Explore the visitor center to learn about this Ice Age wonder from the engaging exhibits and visiting with U.S. Forest Service staff.

Note: This tour operates under a special use permit issued by the U.S. Forest Service. Wheelchair access may be limited – for details, please consult your Shore Excursion staff before booking. less

Your sightseeing drive through rolling hills, high mountains, plains, valleys, and riverbeds is just part of the gorgeous landscape that make you think of paradise. Costa Rica’s topography is one of the world’s most diverse. You’ll start by heading east to Esparza, a town that has become one of the most picturesque in the Costa Rica’s Central Pacific region. The central park and its church are emblematic of Costa Rica’s hardworking rural towns. Local dancers will greet you at the park with colorful dresses and you’ll enjoy the masquerades and hand-made souvenir exhibitions while you learn about their traditions. Your scenic drive includes some stretches along the Pacific Ocean passing by mango and cashew plantations, farming areas and most certainly seeing some birds along the way, all examples of sustainable living. Take the opportunity to capture unique pictures for back home, while traveling down to sea level, admiring the most breathtaking views. Note: Wear comfortable shoes; bring sunscreen, a hat and light clothing. less