Costa Rica & Panama Coastal Expedition Cruise
Discover the wild beauty of Costa Rica and Panama on a small-ship adventure featuring lush rainforests, remote islands and a memorable Panama Canal transit. Hike, snorkel and explore in search of colorful wildlife while experiencing the region's remarkable biodiversity.
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea lies Costa Rica and Panama, where verdant rainforests are alive with rare flora and fauna, tropical islands are primed for exploration, and the Panama Canal awaits your once-in-a-lifetime crossing. Take a journey where you will hike through lush jungle, watching for colorful macaws and hummingbirds, and capricious squirrel monkeys in the canopy above you. Investigate the multi-colored coral reef by snorkel. Navigate the beautiful and secluded island coves by skiff. As the voyage unfolds, you’ll find yourself thriving through adventure, relaxation, and eye-opening experiences.
The Safari Voyager is home base for discovering a world of breathtaking beauty. Active explorations for various activity levels can be made by kayak, paddleboard, snorkel and skiff in impossibly brilliant turquoise blue waters.
Transit the 48-mile-long Panama Canal as you journey between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, then explore the incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica and Panama. Discover pristine national parks and a protected wildlife refuge, hike through lush tropical rainforests in search of howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, white-faced capuchins and sloths, and snorkel the crystal-clear waters of Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with marine life. This small-ship adventure offers access to remote peninsulas, hidden coves and off-the-beaten-path jungles that few travelers ever experience.
Read on for details about this Costa Rica adventure cruise, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Costa Rica cruises and Costa Rica trips.
Costa Rica & Panama Coastal Expedition Cruise Itinerary
This Costa Rica and Panama adventure cruise operates between Costa Rica and Panama, embarking in Liberia or Colon depending on your departure date. Included airport transfers make it easy to explore the Pacific coast’s unique wildlife, stunning beaches, tropical fjords and lush rainforest.
Welcome to the land of pura vida. Upon arrival at Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, transfer to the marina to board your vessel. Settle in, meet the crew, and enjoy a welcome dinner and route talk.
Your adventure begins in remote Murcielago Bay, part of Santa Rosa National Park. Accessible only by boat, this area invites exploration by skiff or snorkel. There will also be opportunities for guided hikes nearby. Enjoy scenic islands and vibrant underwater life far from the crowds.
Santa Elena Bay is known for its rich marine life including tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs. Kayak pristine waters, snorkel over vibrant reefs, or hike scenic trails in the surrounding area.
Discover the diverse wildlife of Curu Wildlife Refuge, home to monkeys, exotic birds, butterflies, and crocodiles. In the afternoon, enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, or relaxing at a beach party near beautiful Isla Tortuga.
Visit Isla San Lucas, once home to Costa Rica’s most notorious prison and now a national park. Tour preserved prison structures, hike forest trails, and kayak scenic coastlines. Later, stroll Puntarenas’ Paseo de los Turistas boardwalk, admire local landmarks, shop, and immerse yourself in coastal culture.
Experience the wild beauty of the Osa Peninsula near Corcovado National Park, one of the most biologically rich places on Earth. Hike Drake Bay’s rugged coast and watch for monkeys, reptiles, birds, and migrating humpback whales. Cool off with snorkeling or a refreshing river swim.
Explore Golfo Dulce, one of only four tropical fjords in the world and a birding paradise. Kayak or skiff alongside mangroves and lush rainforest shorelines, spotting endemic wildlife in this biodiversity hotspot. Explore Saladero Preserve, a beautiful area where palm trees line the crystal-clear water.
Today, you will be heading south and crossing into the waters off the coast of Panama. Your captain will take you to remote islands inside Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a beautiful snorkeling spot. Hop in the water with your expedition team and discover the colorful world beneath the surface.
The Darien Gap is a well-known region that connects North and South America. It is a roadless stretch of dense rainforest, swamps, and mountains. We will anchor near Punta Alegre for a day of exploration by kayak, skiff, and hiking ashore.
Today, you will continue our exploration of the Darien Gap with a visit to a native village. You will take a beautiful skiff tour up a river lined with mangroves to reach your destination: Embera Village. Here, there are no roads, plumbing, or electrical grids. Villagers raise their children in the culture with near complete isolation from the modern world. You will learn all about their way of life through dancing, singing, and storytelling.
Arrive at Taboga Island, also known as the “Island of the Flowers.” You will have free time to explore this picturesque Panamanian town or take a ridge hike with your guides for fantastic views of Panama City, the Gulf of Panama, and the Canal zone. The island is an excellent spot for birding, as it supports significant breeding colonies of brown pelicans, as well as other resident birds. Later today, sail into the sunset and experience one of the top bucket-list destinations on Earth: the Panama Canal. Marvel at the engineering and human tenacity that went into constructing this landmark while enjoying dinner with your fellow guests.
Explore the Guna Yala Islands, a collection of 378 tropical islands known for their white sand beaches, clear waters, and rich cultural traditions. Visit uninhabited islands and local Kuna native villages, meet the welcoming Kuna people, and learn about their famous handmade Molas. Spend your days swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, playing beach volleyball, and relaxing on the beach, or just enjoy the beauty of this remote island paradise.
You will go back in time today as you explore an isolated Spanish fort that was constructed in the 16thcentury onward. Over time, it was attacked and reconstructed, and today it survives as ruins. You will have the opportunity to explore the village on your own, or your guides will offer kayak and skiff tours to see the area from the water. Your night will end with a Captain’s Dinner and a slideshow recapping your trip.
Enjoy a final breakfast before disembarking the ship. Transfer to the Panama City Airport for your flight home.
Included
Accommodations aboard vessel; onboard meals; premium wine, beer and liquor (excludes super-premium wines); non-alcoholic beverages; group transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embarkation/disembarkation day; entry fees to national parks/preserves; all from-the-vessel activities and equipment; exclusive activities and shore visits; wellness amenities; presentations by onboard expedition/heritage guides and guest experts; taxes and port fees.
Exclusions
Airfare to and from your home city; discretionary gratuities to vessel’s crew; travel insurance and insurance of any kind; optional excursions and land tours; excess baggage charges; items of a personal nature.
Payment & Cancellation
For bookings made on or after October 1, 2025
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of 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. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
121 days or more – 50% of deposit
120 to 91 days – 50% of total trip cost
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
For bookings made up to September 30, 2025
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 days or more – 100% of deposit (transferable to a Future Travel Certificate)
90 to 61 days – 67% of total trip cost
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
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 Costa Rica and Panama Coastal Expedition Cruise itinerary operates between Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR), and Panama City, Panama (PTY). Plan flights to arrive in Liberia by 1:30pm on Day 1 of the itinerary and depart Liberia no earlier than 12:00pm noon on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether you are looking for moderate activity or vigorous, extended and challenging outdoor pursuits, the crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, morning yoga and stretching, land treks and wildlife observation. Snorkeling gear and wetsuits are available, along with a limited quantity of hiking poles. To ensure availability and fit, we encourage you to bring your own gear.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy at 150-175% of the per-person listed rate; special triple-occupancy rates may also be available in select cabins. Call AdventureSmith for more details, as availability and rates vary by ship and cabin category.
Families & Children
Kids 8 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 7 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval. Save $500 per child, ages 8 to 17, with the exception of holiday departures. Children under 18 years old traveling with a third party of legal age (grandparent, aunt/uncle, etc) require a special consent document by Mexican Migration Law.
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.
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The 66-guest M/V Safari Voyager (formerly the Sea Voyager) is a 174-foot vessel offering a comfortable basecamp for travelers wishing to experience a Central America small ship cruise. She is a leader in expedition functionality and features the most advanced skiff launching platform among her sister ships Safari Explorer and Safari Endeavour. She is also specifically built to handle the humidity and heat that can challenge lesser-designed vessels.
Safari Voyager Review
AdventureSmith Explorations' Safari Voyager review includes a detailed description of the small ship, including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our expedition cruise experts have been aboard the Safari Voyager firsthand. Please read our Safari Voyager ship review below then contact us to compare the Safari Voyager with other small cruise ships and yachts offering Baja cruises and Costa Rica cruises.
The Safari Voyager was built in 1982 by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Maryland, with specifications that enable her to handle the humidity and heat of Central America, which can challenge lesser-designed vessels. A seamless extension of her cruise destinations, the ship and her mostly Costa Rican or Panamanian crew exude pura vida (pure life). Her most recent renovation, a $15 million upgrade in 2016, included structural changes to accommodate the kayak launch platform, a new galley, new electrical and air conditioning systems, new carpet, soft goods and local art throughout the ship.
Common Areas Aboard Safari Voyager
Three public decks offer breathtaking views, and during the heat of the day, a window-lined, air-conditioned lounge provides refuge and offers an uncompromised 270-degree view with seating for all 66 guests. The lounge's full-service bar offers complimentary refreshment including liquors, wine and microbrews. Other features include an elegant dining room and a DVD/book library on the Cabin Deck featuring 8 floor-to-ceiling windows, plush furniture and handcrafted decor. The Observation Deck's Sun Deck area offers an al fresco public space with fitness equipment and lounge chairs. Please note: Safari Voyager is equipped with limited internet connectivity; instead, enjoy the opportunity to disconnect. Cell phone reception may be available when the ship is in more populated areas; a satellite phone is available (added cost) for emergencies.
Dining Aboard Safari Voyager
The dining room, located on the Main Deck seats all 66 guests in a casual open seating atmosphere. The skilled chef offers unique and delicious creations for every meal, and mixed-meal plates are an option for the indecisive eater. Weather-permitting, meals will be served outside on the Sun Deck. Breakfast is served buffet-style while lunch and dinners are plated, three-course affairs. Early risers are treated to coffee and muffins. Self-serve coffee and tea is available early in the morning, through the day and into the night. Buffet breakfasts give guests the flexibility to enjoy healthy and delicious options on a flexible schedule between activities and wildlife sightings.
Activities Aboard Safari Voyager
Every day provides new opportunities to go off-vessel. An aft EZ Dock launch platform provides convenient access into and out of adventure activity vessels. The small ship is outfitted with a fleet of double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and inflatable skiffs, in addition to snorkel gear and hiking poles. Hydrophones for listening and an underwater camera for viewing allow guests to connect with the underwater environment from the comfort of the ship. The onboard wellness program with fitness equipment and yoga mats (including daily sunrise yoga classes) allows guests to rejuvenate and relax between activities. The open bridge policy encourages interaction with the captain and crew as they discuss navigation, itinerary and logistics.
Crew & Guides Aboard Safari Voyager
Safari Voyager's professional and service-oriented crew creates a casual-yet-attentive atmosphere. Local guides teach about the wildlife, history and culture of each visitor stop. During the daily sunset cocktail hour, guides brief guests on the next day's activities, offering various options, including casual walks to strenuous hikes, that suit a variety of activity levels as well as nightly presentations after dinner. On select departures, onboard expert naturalists and guides are complemented by guest hosts in the fields of ornithology, photography, marine biology, wine and wellness, among others.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Safari Voyager
Generously-sized stateroom categories include 8 Navigator, 14 Trailblazer, 3 Pathfinder, 2 Admiral, 4 Jr Commodore Suites and 1 Commodore Suite. In some categories, single and triples can be accommodated. All Safari Voyager cabins feature turndown service, wide panoramic view windows above the waterline, individually controlled air conditioning, generous storage and closet space, handcrafted artwork representative of the Central American communities she visits, desk and chair, iPod/MP3/4 docking station, TV/DVD player, binoculars, reusable water bottles. speaker from which to privately take-in nightly presentations if desired, private bath with shower, hair dryer, bathrobes, and conditioning shampoo and body wash.
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The Safari Voyager small ship carries her guests in comfort and style. All cabins are above the waterline with large picture windows. An elegant dining room, library and ample deck space make this ship ideal for comfortable and adventurous small ship cruising.
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