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Explore the Nature and Culture of Central America’s Pacific Coast

Explore the Nature and Culture of Central America’s Pacific Coast

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Description

Idyllic beaches and incredible biodiversity
Explore a coastline blessed with pristine beaches, bays and coves, providing a safe habitat for thousands of tropical animals, birds and marine life – a paradise for nature lovers.

Vibrant cities and cultural exploration
Your expedition cruise will begin in Costa Rica’s capital San José and take you on an adventure that includes the former Nicaraguan capital of Léon, the colonial city of Granada, and Cabo San Lucas at the tip of the Baja California peninsula.

Trip Name
Explore the Nature and Culture of Central America’s Pacific Coast
Days
14
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 Discover San José
Sample the culture and cuisine of Costa Rica's capitalYou'll begin your exploration of Central America in San José, the capital of Costa Rica, affectionately known as ‘Chepe’. Pack in as much as you can in an exciting day of discovery.Explore Barrio Escalante, where you'll find a lively arts scene, a kaleidoscope of shows, microbreweries and food stalls. You can take a stroll through historic Barrio Amón, and learn more about the country’s pre-Columbian and modern culture at one of the city's many fascinating museums.Finally, experience an authentic Old World feel at Mercado Central and sample the local cuisine before spending the night at your hotel.
Day 2 - DAY 2 Tárcoles River wildlife
Scarlet Macaws, basilisk lizards and crocodilesToday, you'll enjoy a boat tour along the Tárcoles River to the Guacalillo Mangrove Estuary – home to an estimated 300 species of native and migratory birds.Spot colourful caracaras, kingfishers, Yellow Warblers, and the Scarlet Macaw. Keep your eyes peeled for basilisk lizards, iguanas, crocodiles and monkeys along the shore.Then it's onto Puntarenas where MS Roald Amundsen awaits. Before boarding, enjoy try a Churchill – the town's official snack of shaved ice with fruit, syrup and ice cream. Once aboard your hybrid-powered ship, you can get settled in and meet your Expedition Team.
Day 3 - DAY 3 Relax in San Juan del Sur
Enjoy Nicaragua's best beaches and fine architectureAs we cruise the Pacific Coast, we'll visit the Nicaraguan town of San Juan del Sur – a surfer's paradise, framed by colourful Victorian era clapboard houses, and fresh seafood restaurants.You'll enjoy a bus tour of Granada, home to some of the finest 16th century colonial architecture in the country. After, we'll visit a local school where we plan to drop off donated school supplies.Alternatively, you can join an optional excursion to the steaming fumaroles of the active Masaya Volcano, and stop at Catarina for panoramic views of Apoyo Lagoon and Lake Nicaragua.
Day 4 - DAY 4 Revolutionary León
Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of LeónFrom Puerto Corinto, you'll explore the vibrant former capital of Nicaragua, León – considered the intellectual and liberal centre of the country.León is home to one of Latin America's best art collections, while its streets and buildings tell their own tale of revolution, through colourful Sandinista murals of protest, war and local heroes like Carlos Fonseca.Explore more at the Museo Histórico de la Revolución, where you'll be guided by former revolutionaries, who'll provide first-hand commentary of living through those times. We say goodbye to Nicaragua as we cruise to El Salvador.
Day 5 - DAY 5 Exploring El Salvador
Discover volcanoes and Mayan villages in El SalvadorToday we dock at Acajutla, a former Mayan village that's now El Salvador’s main seaport. Stroll along dark sand beaches, and taste local Salvadoran dishes at the harbor restaurants. And don't forget to try the region's famous coffee.You can choose from a number of fascinating optional excursions. Take a trip inland to the cities of Sonsonate or Nahuizalco and Ataco in Acajulta. Or head to Cerro Verde National Park, home to the Izalco and Ilamatepec volcanoes. You might even visit UNESCO-protected Joya de Cerén, a 600 CE Mayan village, nicknamed the 'Pomeii of America'.
Day 6 - DAY 6 Mangroves in Mexico
Explore the wildlife of the Mexican mangrovesOur Central American expedition cruise continues to Mexico. From Puerto Chiapas, you'll be able to join a variety of optional excursions.Wildlife lovers will enjoy a guided boat excursion to the nearby mangrove streams and lagoons to spot pelicans, herons, hummingbirds and turtles. Or you can visit Chocolate City and learn how locally grown cocoa beans are transformed into sweet delights.Alternatively, explore the ancient ruins and stone carvings of Izapa, dating back to 1,500 BCE. Or enjoy a guided tour of Tapachula, a city filled with the cultural influences of immigrant port and agricultural workers.
Day 7 - DAY 7 Huatulco National Park
Discover the beaches, plants and wildlife of HuatulcoSpend the day in Huatulco – a vision of paradise with scenic bays, beaches and sheltered coves. You'll visit its national park, home to over 700 plant species, 130 mammals, 300 bird species, and more than 80 types of reptiles and amphibians – a dream for nature lovers and photographers.Optional excursions include catamaran trips to Chahué, Tangolunda, Organo and Maguey bays. Or perhaps a tour to Conejos Bay, Copalita River, and an arts and crafts museum. You can also opt to visit the communities of Piedra de Moros, Pueblo Viejo and Las Pozas, and learn about Mexican culture.
Day 8 - DAY 8-9 Serenity at sea
Relax and recharge back on board shipIt's time for a relaxing day at sea as we cruise to Puerta Vallarta. Sit back and admire the scenery, go for a swim or soothe your muscles in the spa. Or join our art workshop to create pieces inspired by your travels.For in-depth geological and biological insights, stop by the ship’s Science Center and analyse any expedition samples. The Expedition Team will continue their series of lectures, and you can take part in our Citizen Science projects, contributing important data to research.You can also take it easy in the comfort of our Explorer Lounge & Bar, chatting over a drink or reading a book.
Day 9 - DAY 10 Enticing Puerto Vallarta
Discover this vibrant Mexican beach resortWe visit Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico's premier coastal destinations. Situated along Bahía de Banderas, it offers an abundance of nature and watersport options. Downtown in El Malecón, the boardwalk buzzes with performers – and look up to catch the death-defying dance of the papantla flyers. You'll discover colourful markets and handicraft stalls too.Head to Mercado Municipal Rio Cuale to taste delicious tamales, tacos and mole. Or you can learn some authentic recipes at a Mexican cooking class. Join an optional excursion to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, to see its impressive orchid house, native palms, agave and cacti.
Day 10 - DAY 11 Beautiful Cabo San Lucas
Discover the natural wonders of Cabo San LucasWith stunning beaches and azure waters, Baja California's Cabo San Lucas is beloved by Hollywood stars. Its biggest star though is Land’s End – jagged granite arches, stacks and needles that form El Arco. The waters here teem with fish, sea lions, rays, and even whales. You can visit El Arco on an optional excursion and stop at Baja’s most famous beach, the beautiful Playa del Amor.Or, if your interests lie more in geology and botany, then head to Museo de Historia Natural in downtown Cabo San Lucas, where you'll also learn about local marine life conservation efforts.
Day 11 - DAY 12-13 Relax Onboard
Enjoy the final leg of your Pacific Coast expeditionWe say goodbye to Mexico as we cruise to San Diego, our final destination. Enjoy the next two days at sea, swapping tales of your travels in the Explorer Bar or over a delicious meal in one of the onboard restaurants.Our lecture programme continues, delving further into the points of interest you've encountered on the expedition. You can hone your wildlife photography skills out on deck, or book relaxing treatments in the Wellness Centre. If you've not yet done so, you can still take part in Citizen Science projects, providing vital data for research. Before we reach San Diego, your Expedition Team will host a highlights presentation of your Pacific Coast adventure.
Day 12 - DAY 14 California's 'Beach City'
Visit San Diego, California's 'Beach City'We say a fond farewell to MS Roald Amundsen as we dock in San Diego. With its heady mix of urban sophistication, laidback surfer vibe, and year-round sunshine, San Diego provides the perfect finale to your trip. Spend your day at the beach or take a trolley car tour to explore Downtown, from the historic Gaslamp Quarter to the San Diego Bay waterfront. Culture buffs should head to Balboa Park, with its 17 museums, art galleries and other performing arts venues.With so many places to visit in San Diego, we highly recommend booking an optional Post-Programme to tour the city before returning home.
Day 13 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

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Inclusions

    • 14-day expedition cruise from Costa Rica along the Pacific Coast to San Diego, exploring the coastline of Central America.
    • Discover vibrant cities and unforgettable beaches, bays and coves as you cruise to Nicaragua, El Salvador and Mexico.
    • Visit nature spots and national parks teeming with incredible wildlife, paddle among the mangrove forests, and learn about local communities.

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