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Central America – From the Costa Rican Coast to Baja California (Roald Amundsen)

Central America – From the Costa Rican Coast to Baja California (Roald Amundsen)

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Description

Join us on an expedition cruise to the Pacific coasts of Central America, taking in less-visited cities in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Mexico, and finishing in California’s San Diego. Along the way, we’ll visit some of the best beaches and local communities, see a range of wildlife above and below the water, practice yoga on board, and discover the region’s rich and diverse culture.

Trip Name
Central America – From the Costa Rican Coast to Baja California (Roald Amundsen)
Days
15
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 140 metres Passenger Capacity: 530 Built: 2019 In 2019, Hurtigruten adds a brand new ship to its fleet: the MS Roald Amundsen. The state of the art vessel features new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that will reduce fuel consumption and show the world that hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible. MS Roald Amundsen is the first of two hybrid ships Hurtigruten will add to its fleet over the next few years, cutting emissions by sailing with electrical propulsion. Hybrid technology, combined with the advanced construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board will reduce fuel consumption and CO2-emissions on the ships by 20 percent. The build of these two ships represents the largest single investment in the history of Hurtigruten.  The future of shipping will be silent and emission free. MS Roald Amundsen will lead the way towards an even more sustainable way of traveling. Sailing on electrical power is not only a great benefit for the environment, but it will also enhance the impact of experiencing nature for the guests. The ship will be specially constructed for voyages in polar waters and serve as a comfortable basecamp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way. Facilities on board One of the most eye-catching exterior design features of the ships will be the two-level indoor/outdoor Observation Deck wrapped around the top of the ships’ raked bow. In a vast area behind it, you’ll find the core of the onboard experience: Amundsen Science Center.   Packed with state of the art technology and high tech gadgets such as touch screens and science equipment, the immersive edutainment area will be the place guests and staff/crew meet, mingle and create a deeper understanding for the areas they explore. The flexible venue will feature lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more. The area, featuring large windows, will also be the onboard HQ for Hurtigruten’s hand picked Expedition Team.   The stunning scenery will be reflected in a rich and comfortable interior design. Scandinavian materials from nature, such as granite, oak, birch and wool will be used to create relaxed and stylish cabins and public areas. All cabins are outside, 50 % will have private balconies, aft suites will feature private outdoor Jacuzzis with spectacular views.  MS Roald Amundsen will feature three restaurants inspired by Nordic and Norwegian heritage: Aune Main Dining, named after the Norwegian ship chandler and polar expedition supplier Tinus Aune. Fredheim - the ships’ informal and social meeting place – named after a 1900s hunting station on Svalbard. Lindstrøm, a speciality restaurant named after Adolf Lindstrøm, the favorite chef of the Norwegian polar heroes. Artwork on board When the world’s first hybrid powered expedition ship embarks on her maiden voyage, every piece of art on board will be handpicked by HM Queen Sonja of Norway’s art foundation - the Queen Sonja Print Award. Read more about the exciting collaboration here.  

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 The Many Charms of ‘Chepe’
This capital city, affectionately known as ‘Chepe’, offers several parks and museums to explore. Tour art galleries in Barrio Amón and dine out at top restaurants in Barrio Escalante before spending the night at your hotel. Arrange to arrive early for a Pre-Programme to a beautiful resort close to Manuel Antonio National Park.
Day 2 - Day 2 Wildlife Spotting along Tárcoles River
After breakfast, we join a boat tour on the Tárcoles River. The mangrove forests here nest over 250 different bird species, including the scarlet macaw. Safe aboard the boat, you might also get good views of wild crocodiles on the riverbanks, some up to 15-feet long. We continue to Puntarenas where MS Roald Amundsen awaits.
Day 3 - Day 3 Southern Pacific Beaches
This once sleepy fishing village is known for its crescent-shaped bay, rolling green hills, fresh seafood restaurants, and laidback surfer lifestyle. Relax on the beach, visit a 1500-year-old petroglyph near the river or hike to Cristo de la Misericordia, a 25-metre-tall statue that promises picturesque views over the town and beach.
Day 4 - Day 4 Leon: Artistic and Sophisticated City
An hour’s shuttle bus from Puerto Corinto is the former capital of Nicaragua, Leon. Immerse in history at the Museo Histórico de la Revolución and walk the city’s revolution-related street murals. Visit Basílica de la Asunción, the largest cathedral in Central America, and go up to the roof for views of the city and surrounding volcanos.
Day 5 - Day 5 White sands, blue waves… and coffee
Originally a Mayan village, Acajutla has developed into El Salvador’s main port for exporting coffee. Visit Los Cabanos beach for great seafood and friendly locals. The 157km-long coral reef is also a perfect location for snorkeling and other water activities. In the distance, there are views of Izalco Volcano, once known as the ‘Lighthouse of the Pacific’.
Day 6 - Day 6 A City Founded on Coffee and Cocoa
After souvenir shopping at the port’s crafts market, we take a 30-minute shuttle bus to cosmopolitan Tapachula. Thanks to the region’s premium coffee and cocoa plantations, Mayan, Mestizo, and Spanish cultures have merged with immigrant German, Chinese, and French influences. Visit lively Parque Hidalgo which enjoys views of 4100-metre-high Volcán Tacaná to the north.
Day 7 - Day 7 Bays National Park
With its nine scenic bays, 36 pristine beaches, sheltered coves, and rich marine life including four sea turtle species, it’s easy to see why Huatulco has become a haven for ecological tourism and sustainable snorkelling. Hike through protected forest to a deserted beach or visit a coffee plantation for a tour on how this ‘liquid gold’ is produced.
Day 8 - Day 8-9 Serenity at Sea
Days at sea can be spent in full relaxation mode, attending interesting lectures delivered by the Expedition Team, and enjoying the fresh sea air out on deck while keeping a look-out for wildlife. You can also still keep active by taking advantage of our Yoga and Wellness programme. There are early morning 1-mile walks on deck and special stress-releasing stretching sessions. Join workshops on how to achieve physical and mental wellbeing by unblocking barriers to your internal energy, or let our massage therapists work their magic to soften any aches and strains.
Day 9 - Day 10 Enticing Mexican Resort City
Based along Bahía de Banderas, Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico's premier coastal destinations. The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is an endearing downtown landmark while the boardwalk at El Malecón features sculptures created by local and international artists. Bargain hunt at the two large public markets or drop in at the botanical gardens and zoo.
Day 10 - Day 11 At Your Leisure
As we continue along the Mexican Pacific coast, spend this sea day at your leisure. Take advantage of the many onboard facilities, relax and meditate with a yoga workshop, or join in on lectures as we recap our voyage so far and prepare you for the days to come.
Day 11 - Day 12 Land's End in Baja California
Situated at the southern tip of Baja California where the Sea of Cortés meets the Pacific Ocean, Los Cabos peninsula is a mixture of desert and coastal landscapes. Visit Playa del Amor at Land’s End where arching rocks form the photogenic El Arco. You might also see cardón cacti, caracara birds, sea lions, rays, and sharks.
Day 12 - Day 13-14 Relax Onboard
Enjoy two more pleasant days at sea as we make our way further north. The Expedition Team will recap the voyage before we arrive at our final destination of San Diego. Spend time on deck looking for birds or dolphins following the ship. If weather allows, we will continue our yoga and meditation programme out on deck.
Day 13 - Day 15 America’s Finest City
San Diego is described as `America’s Finest City´ thanks to its laid-back vibe, more than 60 beautiful beaches, the museums of Balboa Park, the Latin-inspired food and architecture, and possibly America’s best weather. We highly recommend booking a Pre-Programme to explore more of what this city and its surroundings offer before returning home.
Day 14 - Please Note:
Hurtigruten offers unique expedition cruises to some of the most remote and pristine waters of the world. As with all expeditions; nature prevails. Weather, and ice and sea conditions, sets the final framework for all Hurtigruten’s operations. Safety and unparalleled guest experiences are at all times our top priorities. All our indicative itineraries are continuously evaluated for adaptions, whether this is due to constraints the elements unexpectedly presents – or exciting possibilities nature and wildlife offer. That is why we call it an expedition.

Trip Dates

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Inclusions

    • Visit a mix of Central America’s colourful coastal local cities and communities
    • Spot exotic wildlife such as dolphins, turtles, sharks, rays, crocodiles and macaws
    • Get to know the region’s rich indigenous culture plus its colonial history
    • Enjoy onboard yoga and meditation classes with a professional instructor

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