Costa Rica & The Panama Canal
Explore Costa Rica and Panama aboard the 100-guest National Geographic Quest. Transit the legendary Panama Canal and visit Barro Colorado with Smithsonian scientists and expert National Geographic guides. Hike, kayak, swim and snorkel.
Few places offer such exuberant, colorful and diverse nature as in the tropics of Costa Rica. This 8-day Costa Rica & the Panama Canal journey offers intimate exploration of Costa Rica’s lowland rainforest, pristine waters and rambunctious wildlife, as well as transits the famous Panama Canal.
The Panama Canal, stretching more than 50 miles and traversed by some 14,000 ships each year, is one of the most celebrated human achievements on the planet. Because cargo ships tend to pass through the canal during the day, small cruise ships enjoy evening or nighttime transits, when the canal is dramatically lit. A full day on Gatún Lake, the flooded lake between the Panama Canal’s two lock systems, offers an educational visit to Barro Colorado Nature Monument in Gatún Lake, where scientists have worked at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute since 1923. Discover why Panama’s natural beauty and biological diversity rivals Costa Rica’s.
On this Costa Rica and Panama small ship cruise, explore famous national parks and wildlife reserves, including a privately-owned tropical garden. Walk rainforest trails, home to capuchin and howler monkeys, three-toed sloths, green iguanas and colorful hummingbirds. Swim and snorkel Panama’s famed Isla Coiba. Kayak along wildlife-rich, remote coastlines. Go horseback riding on the beach. Relax with all the comforts and intimacy of small ship cruising.
The 100-guest National Geographic Quest expedition vessel is home base and ideal for travelers seeking small ship adventure, professional naturalist guides and activities for all levels. In addition to the eastbound itinerary, this Costa Rica and Panama Canal small ship cruise also operates westbound. Contact an Adventure Specialist for more details.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Costa Rica cruises and Costa Rica trips.
Eastbound Costa Rica & the Panama Canal Itinerary
The eastbound Costa Rica & the Panama Canal cruise begins in San Jose, Costa Rica and ends in Panama City, Panama.
Upon arrival in San José, Costa Rica, transfer by land to Puerto Caldera and embark the ship.
Anchor off the Osa Peninsula to see some of the most pristine lowland rainforest on the Pacific coast. In the environs of Corcovado National Park, swim in waterfall pools, take an optional horseback ride (added cost) on the coast or trek through the rainforest for a chance to see three species of monkeys: howler, spider and capuchin.
Alternatively, we will take Zodiacs into the forest, cruising along a jungle river that is shrouded by a thick canopy harboring iguanas, monkeys, myriad bird species and beautiful blue morpho butterflies.
Enter the mangrove-fringed Golfo Dulce, along the southwestern edge of Costa Rica, as your nimble expedition ship takes you into the remote upper reaches of this placid bay. Head inland to meet and share with inspiring local families living in remote communities and working with cocoa, hearts of palm and sugar cane. Hike in mature rainforest, kayak in peaceful waters and explore by Zodiac, scanning the jungle treeline for a dazzling array of avifauna, including golden-hooded and Cherrie’s tanagers, yellow-throated toucans, fiery-billed aracaris and crimson-fronted and orange-chinned parakeets. Take in a kaleidoscope of tropical color with bromeliads, heliconias and orchids set against the verdant green.
Go ashore on the western side of the bay in the pristine waters of Playa Blanca on the Osa Peninsula. By special arrangement, visit with the Latin American Sea Turtles (LAST) Association and hear presentations by the staff at LAST including a talk by the dedicated researchers working so hard to positively impact sea turtle conservation.
The first stop in Panama this morning is at the remote Isla Coiba, one of the many islands of Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once a penal colony, the island has long been protected and is accessible by special permit only. Among its many endemic species are the Coiba Island agouti and the mantled howler monkey, as well as four varieties of sea turtle. Discover rich marine life while snorkeling, go kayaking or hiking, try stand-up paddleboarding or simply relax on the beach.
Today, explore the tiny islets of the Gulf of Panama by Zodiac or kayak. Search for frigatebirds, brown pelicans, neotropical cormorants and brown boobies. Set sail for the Panama Canal this afternoon. Stretching more than 50 miles, the canal was a colossal engineering feat completed in 1914. It is still traversed by some 14,000 ships every year. As cargo ships tend to pass through the canal during the day, your ship will most likely begin its crossing at night, when the canal is dramatically lit.
Today, choose hikes and Zodiac cruises at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute facility on Barro Colorado Island, or take a boat ride to the mouth of the Chagres River and hike on the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center trails. This evening, continue through the complex lock system of the canal. By special arrangement, National Geographic Quest will anchor in Gatún Lake near the Barro Colorado Nature Monument overnight.
After breakfast, disembark in Colon and transfer to the airport in Panama City for the flight home.
Included
Accommodations aboard ship; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leaders, naturalist staff, expert guides and a ship’s doctor; park fees; use of kayaks and snorkeling equipment; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.
Exclusions
Horseback riding; immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The eastbound Costa Rica & the Panama Canal cruise begins in San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO), and ends in Panama City, Panama (PTY). Embarkation time on Day 1 may vary based upon arrival of group flights from Miami, Florida (MIA). Disembarkation is after breakfast on the final day of the outlined itinerary; departure times may vary depending on group flights to Miami, Florida. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, morning yoga and stretching, land treks and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts. There is no special kids programming on this itinerary.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Select departures have the added benefit of visiting the Latin American Sea Turtles (LAST) Association on the Osa Peninsula. Assist researchers with data collection and hear presentations by the staff at LAST; including a talk by the head biologist who has dedicated her life to the conservation of these animals. At the end of the visit, be invited to participate in the release of rehabilitated, healthy turtles back into the Pacific—a truly poignant moment.
Westbound Costa Rica & the Panama Canal Itinerary
The westbound Costa Rica & the Panama Canal cruise begins in Panama City, Panama and ends in San Jose, Costa Rica.
Upon arrival in Panama City, transfer by land to Colón and embark the ship in the evening. Later, as the tropical night falls, the ship enters the Panama Canal at Gatún Locks. Crossing to the Pacific through this colossal engineering feat, a tribute to sheer human determination, has begun as the ship makes her way towards vast Gatún Lake.
By special arrangement, the ship will anchor in Gatún Lake near the Barro Colorado Nature Monument overnight. Today, choose hikes and Zodiac cruises at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute facility on Barro Colorado Island or take a boat ride to the mouth of the Chagres River and hike on the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center trails. This evening, continue through the complex lock system of the canal.
Today, explore the tiny islets of the Gulf of Panama by Zodiac or kayak. Here, hope to spot frigatebirds, brown pelicans, neotropical cormorants and brown boobies.
We begin our day at the remote Isla Coiba, one of the many islands of Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once a penal colony, the island has long been protected and accessible by special permit only. Among its many endemic species are the Coiba Island agouti and the mantled howler monkey, as well as four varieties of sea turtle. Discover rich marine life while snorkeling, or simply spend the afternoon exploring or relaxing on the beach.
Enter the mangrove-fringed Golfo Dulce, along the southwestern edge of Costa Rica, as the nimble expedition ship takes us into the remote upper reaches of this placid bay. Head inland to meet and share with inspiring local families living in remote communities and working with cocoa, hearts of palm and sugar cane. Hike in mature rainforest, kayak in peaceful waters and explore by Zodiac, scanning the jungle treeline for a dazzling array of avifauna, including golden-hooded and Cherrie’s tanagers, yellow-throated toucans, fiery-billed aracaris and crimson-fronted and orange-chinned parakeets. Take in a kaleidoscope of tropical color with bromeliads, heliconias and orchids set against the verdant green.
Go ashore on the western side of the bay in the pristine waters of Playa Blanca on the Osa Peninsula. By special arrangement, visit with the Latin American Sea Turtles (LAST) Association and hear presentations by the staff at LAST including a talk by the dedicated researchers working so hard to positively impact sea turtle conservation.
Anchor off the Osa Peninsula to see some of the most pristine lowland rain forest on the Pacific coast. In the environs of Corcovado National Park, swim in waterfall pools, take an optional horseback ride on the coast, or trek through the rainforest for a chance to see three species of monkeys—howler, spider and capuchin.
Disembark after breakfast in Puerto Caldera. Drive to the airport in San José for flights home.
Included
Accommodations aboard ship; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leaders, naturalist staff, expert guides and a ship’s doctor; park fees; use of kayaks and snorkeling equipment; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.
Exclusions
Horseback riding; immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The westbound Costa Rica & the Panama Canal cruise begins in Panama City, Panama (PTY) and ends in San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO). Embarkation time on Day 1 may vary based upon arrival of group flights from Miami, Florida (MIA). Disembarkation is after breakfast on the final day of the outlined itinerary; departure times may vary depending on group flights to Miami, Florida. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, morning yoga and stretching, land treks and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts. There is no special kids programming on this itinerary.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Select departures have the added benefit of visiting the Latin American Sea Turtles (LAST) Association on the Osa Peninsula. Assist researchers with data collection and hear presentations by the staff at LAST; including a talk by the head biologist who has dedicated her life to the conservation of these animals. At the end of the visit, be invited to participate in the release of rehabilitated, healthy turtles back into the Pacific—a truly poignant moment.
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Purpose built to cruise coastal waters, shallow coves and fast-moving channels, the 100-guest National Geographic Quest is a state-of-the-art, expedition vessel designed for supreme comfort and enhanced wildlife viewing. Spacious cabins, open decks and specialty exploration tools make her the ideal small ship for sailing in the waters of Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, California, Baja, Costa Rica and Panama.
Built in 2017 and designed with 50 years of expedition experience in mind, National Geographic Quest more than comfortably accommodates 100 guests in 50 cabins. Her twin expedition craft landing platform allows guests to get on and off the ship quickly to maximize on wildlife sightings. Created with a shallow draft, the Nat Geo Quest draws only nine feet of water, allowing her to sail into places where much larger ships cannot go. She joins her identical sister ship, the National Geographic Venture, in being among the most luxurious expedition ships to explore waterways worldwide.
Why Sail Aboard National Geographic Quest
Choose the National Geographic Quest to be immersed in nature and wildlife aboard one of the most purpose-built expedition ships in the world. Know you're traveling aboard an environmentally friendly ship, plus enjoy unique added features like better views from the bridge and windows made of premium glass with a straight tint to offer the clearest, most natural view possible. Plus, the experts and equipment on board provide the finest intellectual and educational experience of any small ship cruise. Find this ship among our vetted selection of luxury Alaska cruises, and trust her level of service extends to all her sailings worldwide.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the National Geographic Quest firsthand and can help you compare this expedition vessel to others offering Alaska small ship cruises, Costa Rica cruises, Panama small ship cruises, Pacific Northwest cruises, U.S. cruises, Canada small ship cruises and more. Read our dedicated National Geographic Quest Reviews written by two of our specialists, or consult this page further for a detailed description of the Nat Geo Quest, including the deck plan and a photo gallery of every cabin. Let us be your resource for finding small cruise ships worldwide.
Common Areas & Amenities Aboard National Geographic Quest
The Nat Geo Quest features a specially designed open bow and an observation deck for gathering to watch for wildlife or enjoying an evening cocktail. The open bridge on this ship is unique because it features comfortable spaces for guests to sit and enjoy a better vantage point than most bridges offer. Join the captain and officers while scanning the horizon with onboard binoculars or simply chat about sailing while sipping morning coffee.
The lounge has wraparound windows for an optimal view and features multiple high-definition screens for presentations. There is a small reference library with boardgames and cards. The sundeck has tables, chairs and lounge chairs. To ease the organization of embarkation and disembarkation for daily activities, there is a mud room with lockers to conveniently store boots and other gear. An elevator accesses all decks, and public restrooms are available on every deck. There is also a global market stocked with local artisan products. Special features aboard the National Geographic Quest include internet access and laundry service. A ship's doctor and video chronicler are also on board.
Nat Geo Quest offers internet access (one device at a time) via three tiers: time-limited complimentary "basic" internet, for app messaging, email and simple social media; time-limited "enhanced" internet, adding general web browsing and video conferencing capabilities; and "premium" internet, for unlimited access to all features under the "enhanced" plan. WiFi is satellite based and may not always be accessible in poor weather or extremely remote areas.
Dining Aboard National Geographic Quest
Meals are served in single seatings in the dining room with an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. When weather conditions allow, lighter fare may be served outside on the observation deck. During meals the expedition leader, naturalists and any guest speakers aboard will dine alongside guests. Food served aboard is fresh, local and sustainably sourced whenever possible. A variety of beverages are available for purchase including specialty wine by the bottle, cocktails and spirits. Next to the full-service bar is a 24-hour self-service beverage station with coffee, tea, soft drinks, beer, water, ice and snacks.
Activities Aboard National Geographic Quest
The National Geographic Quest carries expedition equipment including 8 landing crafts, 24 kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, a remotely operated vehicle, snorkeling gear and wetsuits, underwater video camera, video microscope and electronic charts. The 8 landing crafts were custom built by Zodiac Milpro and are the first and only Mark V Zodiacs constructed entirely in the USA. These boats are superior, military-grade construction, but customized with features like extra holds for passenger stability and topside treads to improve footing for stepping on and off. Guests will embark and disembark via custom-designed ladders to improve safety and ease of movement.
Also aboard the Nat Geo Quest is a wellness specialist, offering treatments in the LEXspa and leading morning stretches on the deck. There is also a unique floating massage platform for use in calm waters. The gym features an elliptical machine, treadmill, exercycle, handweights, machine weights and resistance bands.
Sustainability Aboard National Geographic Quest
The internal systems aboard the National Geographic Quest were built with the best available in the market. Advanced waste management and treatment systems exceed international standards. To lessen the need for fuel, she features a streamlined hull design and bulbous bow. Everything from the propellers to the engines have been specifically chosen to minimize vibration and improve fuel efficiency. Working in concert, these systems enable the vessel to use less fuel than many ships far smaller.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard National Geographic Quest
National Geographic Quest comfortably accommodates 100 guests in 50 outside-facing cabins. 22 of the cabins feature small balconies with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that bring in the spectacular views and ample natural light. 12 cabins connect via internal doorway access allowing families to combine their rooms. Every cabin has two portholes, a large window or balcony, WiFi access and temperature controls. Bathrooms are modern and stocked with botanically inspired hair products, soap and shower gel, plus a hairdryer. Every cabin has standard outlets and USB outlets for charging your camera gear or electronics, space for luggage storage and an Expedition Essentials Kit.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
Purpose built to cruise coastal waters, shallow coves and fast-moving channels, the National Geographic Quest is a state-of-the-art expedition vessel designed for supreme comfort and enhanced wildlife viewing.
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Ship Reviews from our Experts so You Know What to Expect
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Expert Aboard: Venture & National Geographic Quest Reviews
Learn from three AdventureSmith experts about identical sister ships Nat Geo Venture and Quest. Tips on choosing your cabin, what the food is like and why choose to sail aboard.
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