Panama Canal: Costa Rica & Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata (or officially known as San Felipe de Puerto Plata) is the ninth largest city in the Dominican Republic and the capital of the province of Puerto Plata. For spectacular city views, take a ride up the Pico Isabel de Torres mountain which stands over 2,600 feet high. History buff? Visit Fortaleza San Felipe, which was built in the 16th century and served as a prison under the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo. Or head to the Amber Museum, a museum filled with a unique collection of valuable Dominican amber which is semiprecious tree sap that has hardened for millions of years capturing many fossils of plant and insect life.

Founded in 1521, San Juan's picturesque cobblestone streets, plazas and chapels reflect its Spanish heritage. But the second oldest city in the Americas also boasts fine beaches, lush rainforests, verdant mountainsides, imposing forts and a lovely tropical climate. Looking for a cruise to San Juan? Read all about why you should cruise from San Juan.

The quaint harbor town of Fredriksted welcomes you to the beautiful island of St. Croix. Calm, clear and warm waters rife with seahorses and other unique marine life make Fredriksted home of the best dive sites on the isle. Some of them just steps from our ship. For those who’d rather stroll, the original city grid of seven streets by seven streets remains intact, making for a lovely journey of history through architecture. You’re guaranteed not to get lost while you explore points of interest that include examples of original Danish colonial as well as Victorian residences from the town’s rebuilding in the late 19th century. Still, some might prefer to lead their afternoon with a lunch of lobster bisque or any of the other delicious examples of the taste of St. Croix. Looking for a cruise to St. Croix? Check out our selection of Caribbean cruises.

A mecca for outdoor enthusiasts with thriving coral reefs and rain forest preserves. Explore the world's only drive-in volcanic crater at Sulfur Springs. Visit the Diamond Botanical Gardens and Falls and the Morne Coubaril Estate.

Scarborough is your gateway to a true island paradise. Whether you’re hoping to do it all — or nothing at all—your ideal day in The Caribbean awaits you on Tobago. Outdoor enthusiasts can journey into the lush rainforest comprising the island interior where you can encounter a wide range of animals, hike to a tumbling waterfall and enjoy bird watching. Explore an underwater wonderland on a snorkeling or diving expedition where you may encounter sea turtles and other colorful marine life. Visit historic sites in and around Scarborough or choose to slow things down, way down, unwinding on a picturesque beach — all the while enjoying the rich culture and festive music of Trinidad and Tobago. This is, after all, where the steel drum originated!

The capital of Grenada is as foot-friendly a city as they come. In the heart of the city is bustling Market Square. Once used for slave trading and political rallies, today you’ll find farmers and vendors selling the fruits of their labor – literally. From fresh, local produce, herbs and spices such as nutmeg, ginger and cocoa to original arts & crafts. There’s also no shortage of history here. Built in 1704 by the French, Grenada’s National Museum is one of the oldest structures in town. Then there’s historic Anglican Church constructed in 1825. If you prefer discovering treasures of a tropical kind, you’ll find the perfect little paradise at St. George’s Harbour.

Incredibly white sands and cobalt blue seas make the small island of Aruba a popular destination. In the bustling freeport town of Oranjestad, sherbet-colored Dutch colonial buildings, draped in bougainvillea, oleander and hibiscus are simply picturesque. Small, but informative museums relate the island's history.

Admire the stunning bays of Santa Marta and popular beaches. Explore the ancient cultures of the Taironas who occupied the land thousands of years ago. Stroll over to the Cathedral and admire its beautiful architecture and learn about its history.

The old walled city of Cartagena reflects a turbulent history of conquistadors and pirates. Climb "las murallas" for an unforgettable view of the harbor. Shop for emeralds and leather goods along the cobblestone streets of this enchanting city.

Sail into the Caribbean seaport of Colón and grab a good spot on deck so you can take in the view. What a picture it is. Behold the Atlantic Ocean entrance to the famous Panama Canal. Born from a desire to get to California (and its Gold Rush) as fast as possible, this industrious town was the last stop on the 19th century Panama Railroad. It’s now home to Canal Zones, U.S. military bases and of course, beauty.

Puerto Limón is known for its multi-cultural community and a festive annual carnaval celebration. In recent years the area has become even better known as must-see stop for eco-tourists. The region's unique geography and neo-tropical climate combined with abundant rainforests make for one of the most naturally diverse "biospheres" in the world. And you can take advantage of national parks and reserves in all directions from Limón. Pay close attention when you dock as many guests have reported seeing peaceful sloths lumbering in the trees right in port!

Experience one of the world's best short cuts! Journey 40 miles through the Panama Canal for an unforgettable experience. Witness first-hand one of the world's manmade short cuts that has changed travel and the transport of goods worldwide.

Peppered with classic French and Spanish architecture, you can roam as far as your eyes can see in decadent Fuerte Amador. And be sure to make your way through Panama’s verdant rainforests, visit secluded villages, and purchase handmade crafts in the city. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, sample a tamal de olla, a local specialty containing chicken with corn-stuffed cornmeal, vegetables, olives and raisins.