From Panama to Barbados - 10 Day Expedition Cruise to the Southern Caribbean

Description

Panama and Colombia’s coastal gems
Setting sail from Colón at the gateway to the Panama Canal, you’ll explore the tiny islands of the San Blas archipelago and one of South America’s oldest towns, Santa Marta. A striking change of scenery awaits in the desert landscape of Colombia’s Guajira Peninsula.

Discover paradise islands
From the Dutch island of Bonaire, your cruise continues across the Caribbean Sea to the Lesser Antilles. Here you’ll explore the dazzling biodiversity and unique cultures of Dominica, St Lucia, Grenada and Barbados.

Trip Name

From Panama to Barbados - 10 Day Expedition Cruise to the Southern Caribbean

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 114m Passenger Capacity: 276 Built: 2007 MS Fram is designed for sailing in polar waters, holds the highest safety standards and is the perfect size for optimum nautical manoeuverability and guests' comfort. With space for only 276 guests, you are sure to get to know many of your fellow travellers. You will share stunning sights and memories of a lifetime long after returning home. The Norwegian word Fram means ‘forward’ – lifting expectations of the voyage at hand. MS Fram was built in 2007 with one mission in mind - to bring her guests closer to nature, wildlife and unforgettable experiences. As well as offering numerous lounges in which to relax, our more active guests can use our well-equipped gym. Meanwhile, on deck, our Jacuzzis guarantee you surreal memories when passing the towering icebergs of Antarctica or Greenland.

Itinerary

Day 1 - DAY 1 Setting sail from Colón

Bright city lights amid lush rainforestYour tropical expedition cruise to Barbados begins in vibrant Colón, the Caribbean gateway to the Panama Canal. It's a bustling cosmopolitan centre with hot springs, a thriving handicraft scene, and wonderful cuisine.Want to see more of Panama before you set sail? Join our Pre-Programme to a beautiful jungle lodge by the Chagres River – or head to Panama City and visit UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo.However you choose to spend your time, your expedition ship Ms Fram will be ready and waiting. Take time to settle into your cabin and meet your expert Expedition Team before your adventure at sea begins.

Day 2 - DAY 2 The people of Guna Yala

Discover ancestral traditions on San Blas IslandsBarely sixty miles from Colón, we enter a different world. The Guna people of the San Blas islands live much as their ancestors did. We're honoured to be their guests, as visiting here is not compatible with large tour groups.On our included tour, you'll learn how these matriarchal communities live alongside nature, preserving the delicate coral and mangrove ecosystems of these hidden islands. We'll also see local artisans at work, making the famous Guna scarves.Life here moves at its own pace. Take time to swim in the tranquil, crystal waters and enjoy birdsong in the shady palm groves.

Day 3 - DAY 3 Historical Santa Marta

Explore Spanish colonial heritage and tropical junglesYour southern Caribbean expedition cruise reaches Colombia and one of South America's oldest towns Santa Marta, founded in 1525. It's also one of the most attractive, surrounded by idyllic beaches and mountains.You'll see evidence of the former Spanish outpost's history all around, from colonial architecture to the impressive statue of libertador Simón Bolívar. Head to the fantastic Tayrona Gold Museum to learn more.For those seeking quiet contemplation or something more active, you'll find both in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountain range and magnificent Tayrona National Natural Park.

Day 4 - DAY 4 The Guajira Peninsula

Sail round Colombia’s Cape Horn to Cabo de la VelaArid Puntas Gallinas on the Guajira Peninsula, at the northernmost tip of South America is today's destination. It's also the ancestral home of the proudly independent Wayúu, who refused to cede to the Spanish conquistadores.Few ships sail these windswept, shallow waters, so you're in for quite an adventure. All our activities here will, of course, depend on the weather.With luck, we'll have the opportunity to spot the Punta Gallinas lighthouse en route to spectacular, rugged Cabo de la Vela. Here, you can find incredible ocean and desert views from the famous Pilón de Azúcar.

Day 5 - DAY 5 Eye-catching Kralendijk

A vibrant meeting place of Old and New WorldsThe first thing you'll notice about Kralendijk is just how colourful everything is. This charming capital of Bonaire, a Dutch island with Spanish and Portuguese heritage, is an exhilarating mix of cultures.Historical sights are all within strolling distance. Explore Bonaire’s oldest structure Fort Oranje, the bright yellow Bestuurskantoor, and the archaeological treasures of the Terramar Museum.To see more of this beautiful island, you can join an optional nature walk or go flamingo watching at one of the many Ramsar sites.

Day 6 - DAY 6 Science and leisure

Research and relaxation at seaTime to recharge body and mind on board your comfortable expedition ship as we sail towards the Lesser Antilles.Start the day with some yoga, or scout for wildlife up on deck. Then join your Expedition Team for fascinating lectures on the history, peoples and geology of this unique area of the world, before enjoying delicious, locally sourced produce in our onboard restaurants.Head over to the Science Center and take part in Citizen Science projects that support marine conservation. We believe everyone can make a difference in protecting the world's most special habitats. It's what our cruises are all about.

Day 7 - DAY 7 The wonders of Dominica

Explore the landscapes and wildlife of ‘Nature Island’Welcome to the Lesser Antilles and the island of Dominica – a paradise of lush rainforests and volcanic mountains. Here you'll find Boiling Lake, Morne Diablotin, and Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.We'll land at Portsmouth for an included tour of 18th Century Fort Shirley, part of Cabrits National Park. The tropical forest, swamps and beaches here offer superb walks and birdwatching.You can also take an optional excursion to learn more about the traditions and customs of the indigenous Carib people – still very much a community here.

Day 8 - DAY 8 Volcanic St Lucia

Enjoy breathtaking vistas in the 'Land of Iguanas'There are two things you can't miss on St Lucia – the stunning volcanic landscape and its many, many iguanas. You'll see both as you explore the peninsula of Pigeon Island on the isle's northern tip.Take in the idyllic panoramic ocean views and learn about St Lucia's colonial past. Then step back into modern day life in the bustling yachting marina of Rodney Bay – and spend some time enjoying its restaurants and galleries.Join one of our optional excursions to see more highlights of this beautiful island, including nature walks and birdwatching in the rainforest covered mountains.

Day 9 - DAY 9 Grenada's Island paradise

Beauty and history on 'Spice Island'Grenada is the Caribbean paradise most people dream of visiting – green and mountainous, with white sandy beaches. But it's so much more than that. We'll dock in the vibrant capital of St George's, famous for its horseshoe-shaped harbour and pastel-painted Georgian buildings.Stroll into town to discover its trio of historic churches and lively food market. Enjoy picturesque views from Fort George and learn more about the island's history in the National Museum.You can also join optional excursions to learn more about Grenada's nutmeg plantations or see wildlife in the highlands.

Day 10 - DAY 10 Beautiful Barbados

Discover UNESCO-listed treasures in BridgetownYour southern Caribbean expedition cruise reaches its final stop, beautiful and historic Barbados. But that needn't be the end of your adventure.You'll disembark at the island's capital Bridgetown – home to the UNESCO-listed Parliament Buildings and the Garrison Historic Area, with 70 original buildings and forts from the 18th century.There's so much to see and do in Barbados that we'd recommend extending your stay with our Post-Programme. You won't want to miss its charming fishing ports, old plantation houses, historic distilleries, marvellous beaches and dramatic caves.

Day 11 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

10-day expedition cruise from Panama to Barbados, exploring the natural wonders, historic landmarks and local communities of the southern Caribbean.
Journey from the vibrant city of Colón to historical Santa Marta, before island-hopping down the Lesser Antilles to the many attractions of Barbados.
Discover tropical rainforests, volcanic landscapes and colourful wildlife, with our expert Expedition Team as your guides.