Some of the world’s best cruising is in Costa Rica!
We discovered paradise as we cruised the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica on the World’s Best Small Cruise Ship Line, Windstar Cruises. Our small luxury yacht, Star Breeze, was able to get into hidden coves and private beaches where big cruise ships can’t get to. On previous trips, we’ve traveled inland throughout Costa Rica on some bumpy roads, and definitely prefer seeing Costa Rica by water.
Our week included zip lining through the Corcovado Rainforest, exploring Manuel Antonio National Park to find sloths and cappuccino monkeys, and taking long walks on palm lined pristine beaches.
On board, we learned about the flora and fauna of Central America from our ship’s naturalist. Local dancers and musicians entertained us at each port. The ship’s Executive Chef Budhi presented culinary delights and healthy choices. We managed to stay in shape at the fitness center, and took a few pilates and yoga classes, which were complimentary.
This cruise has a little bit of everything – adventure, culture, history & a lot of fun! Not to mention spectacular Pacific sunsets!!
Sharing our itinerary and highlights from the best cruise in Costa Rica below.
Our Itinerary from Panama to Costa Rica
Portobelo, Colon:
A small village with a history. Only a 10 minute walk into the town to see the main church, little shops, and some UNESCO World Heritage sites including the ruins from the Spanish colonial fortifications – Fort San Lorenzo. We departed Portobelo to enter the 48-mile Panama Canal.
Panama Canal:
Celebrating its 100th year, with almost 1 million vessels passing through the canal. Our Star Breeze ship went through the locks, as we learned about the incredible history of how the canal was built, and how ships pass through this formidable canal. It takes approximately 6-8 hours to pass through the canal from end to end. Considered to be one of the “World Wonders” and most stunning feats of engineering– a must on the best cruise in Costa Rica!
Private Island Event at Isla Parida:
Windstar Cruises makes each cruise extra special with a complimentary onshore event that gives an in-depth and authentic local experience. Our surprise event took place at a private island in Panama called Isla Parida. Guests had their own private beach cabanas, and some signed up for massages on the beach, while others went water skiing and played other water sports. The Chef arranged for an incredible buffet with a fantastic BBQ on the beach! There was even a giant paella pan with delicious seafood. A day full of sun, relaxation & fun!
Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica:
We anchored off the coast of the Osa Peninsula in the Golfo Dulce. Some guests went to visit the small village of Puerto Jimenez, while others went fishing, and many of us enjoyed the sports platform on the back of the cruise ship where you can kayak, waterski, paddle board, and relax.
Bahia Drake, Costa Rica:
On the north side of the Osa Peninsula is Bahia Drake, with miles and miles of beautiful palm lined coastline with sandy coves and rocky outcrops. There were several excursions to choose from, and we decided to go on the canopy tour and zipline through the Corcovado Rainforest. Such a fun stop on our Costa Rica cruise.
Quepos, Costa Rica:
Quepos is named after the native Quepo Indians who once inhabited this area. This town is the gateway to one of Costa Rica’s smallest national parks, Manuel Antonio National Park. We walked through the park and saw several sloths resting high up in the trees, and families of cappuccino monkeys swinging through the lower trees. We took a break and swam the Pacific waters of a beautiful white sandy beach, and returned to the town.
We highly recommend this cruise “Passage through Panama & Costa Rica” with Windstar Cruises!
Book a reservation with Windstar Cruises, and cruise on a luxury yacht at an affordable price. Although you’ll share your yacht with 212 other passengers, there will be moments when you’ll feel as if you’re the only one on the yacht.
Favorite meal of the Cruise? 80% of the guests selected this dish, and Executive Chef Budhi shares his secret recipe: Click here to find out!
Travel Acknowledgements:
Global Adventuress thanks Windstar Cruises for hosting us on this cruise.
Windstar Cruises has been recognized by Conde Nast Traveler as No. 1 worldwide in the Reader’s Choice Awards “Top Small-Ship Cruise Line.” With voyages to 50 nations, calling at 150 ports from the Greek Isles, the Baltics, Italy, Europe, Caribbean and Tahiti. This luxury small cruise ship line offers a “private yacht” experience with less than 300 passengers on each ship. It’s perfect for a Costa Rica cruise.
Amanda Graham, PR Director of Windstar Cruises shares, “Our yachts are large enough to pamper and entertain you, yet small enough to tuck into tiny harbors and hidden coves that others can’t reach.”
In 2015, Windstar Cruises has expanded their fleet with yachts Star Legend and Star Breeze. Now, guests can choose from three sailing yachts – Wind Surf, Wind Star, and Wind Spirit carrying just 148 to 310 guests, and three all suite power yachts Star Pride, Star Breeze, and Star Legend with 212 guests each.
