Costa Rica & Panama Canal
 
Colón to Puerto Caldera
Sat Jan 4, 2025 - Sat Jan 11, 2025,
 7 days
 on Wind Star
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Colón to Puerto Caldera
Come find the natural and man-made wonders combined on this exotic Costa Rican and Panama Canal cruise full of bucket list places and activities.  Learn about the area from a local Naturalist on board, then take a Zodiac ashore and find rare experiences for yourself. Hike through Manuel Antonio National Park in search of its lovely beaches and abundant animal life. Soar high above the Quepos jungle floor as you zipline searching for such wildlife residents as monkeys, sloths, and toucans, then explore Golfo Dulce with some of the most intense rainforest landscapes in the world. Take a daylight transit through the massive Panama Canal, one of the world's most stunning feats of engineering on a ship that lets you see it all.

Looking for more? Go in-land and combine the best of the land and sea with a Cruise Tour that includes this itinerary:

Monteverde Cloud Forest & Arenal Volcano Cruise Tour
voyage map
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Day 1: Colón
Explore the inner workings of the Panama Canal, head into the jungle to meet with Embera Indians, or take an aerial tram ride through the rainforest canopy.
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Day 2: Panama Canal
At nearly 48 miles long, on your transit through the Panama Canal you will enter three sets of locks that raise and lower the vessel 85 feet between the calm Pacific Ocean and the shimmering waters of the Atlantic. Your voyage features a daylight hours transit with numerous observation vantage points for outside viewing and comfortable indoor air-conditioned lounges. Expert onboard commentary enhances your journey as you watch the day to day workings of this bucket list experience.
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Day 2: Balboa / Fuerte Amador
One of the entrances to the Panama Canal on the Pacific side, Balboa/Fuerte Amador was founded in 1519 and is a short distance from Panama City.  In 2012 Balboa was ranked #1 in Latin America in the category of world's busiest container ports. Sightseeing highlights include the colonial homes, the Administration Building, the Goethals Memorial, the Prado, and the local handicraft markets of traditional Panamanian crafts.
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Day 3: Balboa / Fuerte Amador
One of the entrances to the Panama Canal on the Pacific side, Balboa/Fuerte Amador was founded in 1519 and is a short distance from Panama City.  In 2012 Balboa was ranked #1 in Latin America in the category of world's busiest container ports. Sightseeing highlights include the colonial homes, the Administration Building, the Goethals Memorial, the Prado, and the local handicraft markets of traditional Panamanian crafts.
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Day 5: Isla Parida
Located within a Nature Preserve of 50 islands, and part of Chiriqui Marine National Park lovely Isla Parida boasts magnificent beaches, one of which is over 1,300 feet long.  The crystal clear waters stay at 82 degrees year round and are filled with marine life. There are numerous hardwood trees like teak, mahogany, and eucalyptus, and fruit trees like mango, banana and coconut trees. Here you will be treated to Windstar's Signature Beach Party on a secluded beach that faces the Pacific Ocean.
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Day 6: Golfo Dulce
Picture Jurassic foliage growing down steep hillsides all the way to the waterline, the hoots  of monkeys echoing through trees choked by orchids. Golfo Dulce is one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse areas, where both the jungle and the sea brim with life. Explore the canals by kayak in search of javelinas, butterflies, and more bird species than in all of North America. This port is accessed with a wet landing.
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Day 7: Quepos
The former banana-exporting town of Quepos is your basecamp for a day of rainforest adventure. Take a walk along trails that weave up to waterfalls, or ride horseback to a beautiful jungle pool. A float trip through a mangrove swamp populated by monkeys, crocodiles, egrets, and herons is also available. Or you may choose a nature walk through Manuel Antonio National Park, with its lovely beaches, easy trails, and abundant animal life. 
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Day 8: Puerto Caldera
Located on the Gulf of Nicoya, the small town of Puerto Caldera is one of Costa Rica’s top attractions, perfect for travelers who like more off the beaten path destinations where the native Tico lifestyle can be experienced. It is the gateway to San Jose, Jaco and the big city of Puntarenas, plus Los Suenos and Tortuga Island. Carara National Park is nearby, the rainforest home to crocodiles, over 400 species of birds and is considered the most likely place to see scarlet macaws.
Popular Highlights
coastlines of Panama
Discover the remote and pristine coastlines of Panama and Costa Rica.
Diego Vasquez
Learn insights from presentations given by our Costa Rican Naturalists who will be on board the entire cruise. 
Golfo Dulce
Find the coastline beauty of Golfo Dulce’s rainforest flora and fauna.
Isla Parida
Don't miss an opportunity to view the plentiful marine life surrounding Isla Parida.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Explore the beaches and wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park.
Panama Canal
Get your favorite spot on deck for the daylight transit of the historic Panama Canal
Wet Landing
This cruise utilizes wet landings to get you up-close to natural wonders. Zodiacs, rugged inflatable boats, deliver you directly from the yacht to the beach, where you will disembark directly in the water. 
Windstar's Signature Onboard Barbecue
Savor the delicious spread of Windstar's Signature Onboard Barbecue to tantalize your taste buds.
Itinerary at a Glance
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
Watersports
PlatformWatersports Platform: 
Sat Jan 4
Colón
Arrive:  
Depart:  6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Sun Jan 5
Panama Canal
Arrive:  4:00 AM
Depart:  6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Sun Jan 5
Balboa / Fuerte Amador
Arrive:  10:00 PM
Depart:  
Watersports Platform: 
Mon Jan 6
Balboa / Fuerte Amador
Arrive:  
Depart:  5:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Tue Jan 7
AT SEA
Arrive:  
Depart:  
Watersports Platform: 
Wed Jan 8
Isla Parida
Arrive:  8:00 AM
Depart:  6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Thu Jan 9
Golfo Dulce
Arrive:  8:30 AM
Depart:  5:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Fri Jan 10
Quepos
Arrive:  7:00 AM
Depart:  6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Sat Jan 11
Puerto Caldera
Arrive:  6:00 AM
Depart:  
Watersports Platform: 
“We experienced the magnitude of the man-made interoceanic waterway but also felt fully immersed in the nature that surrounded us. At each port, the ship dropped anchor near small marinas or in picturesque bays where we were the only cruise ship and sometimes the only ship.”
The Story
Some three million years ago a narrow isthmus rose from the sea, forming a land bridge between North and South America that allowed species to mingle. A hundred years ago the Panama Canal cut across that land bridge giving nations around the globe a shortcut so they, too, could mingle. These two events have led to a region so rich it’s proven irresistible to history buffs, engineers, and nature lovers alike.

With staggering biodiversity and the epic engineering achievement of the Panama Canal (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the opportunities for adventure and enrichment are endless. Enjoy a unique daylight small ship view of the canal, locks, and Lake Gatun as a Canal Historian describes each phase of your journey. Wade ashore as your Zodiac makes “wet landings” in small ports and on remote beaches backed by rainforest. Watch for birds, monkeys, and species found nowhere else on earth. Encounter indigenous tribes who only recently emerged from the jungle. It’s an intoxicating voyage that will thoroughly satisfy the adventurer in you.
Windstar Ranked No. 1 Small Ship Cruise Line in 2018 for Panama Canal and Central America by Cruise Critic Cruisers' Choice Destination Awards
 
Insider Tips:
• Costa Rica has 12 ecosystems, each home to its own species. Two you don’t want to miss are the rainforest canopy (which you can explore by aerial tram or zip line) and the mangrove estuary, home to shore birds, caimans, and more.
• Up until the 1960s, the Embera Indians lived deep in Panama’s Darien jungle. A visit to one of their small villages is a rare opportunity to experience traditions and lifestyles as they were before the Spaniards colonized the region. 
• One of the best Panamanian souvenirs is a mola – an appliqued and hand-embroidered textile made by the Kuna Indians. One of the best places to buy them is at the handicrafts market in Panama City.
• You’ll make wet landings in 2 ports—Golfo Dulce and Isla Parida. Wear waterproof shoes and shorts for going ashore, and bring a ziplock or watertight bag for valuables.
• The day of our Canal crossing starts early with history and insights from a canal expert. Get a good sleep the night before, put on your sunscreen, and remember to stay hydrated.

 
Wind Star
Wind Star is a sleek, 4-masted sailing ship accommodating 148 guests. With four decks and a gross tonnage of 5,307, Wind Star feels like your own private yacht.
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Accommodations & Pricing
Boutique cruising with fewer than 350 guests. Our expertly designed itineraries and unexpected shore excursions bring you closer to each destination.
Category A
Category A
Every inch of your stateroom is designed for comfort. Luxurious Egyptian cotton linens wrap you in pleasant sleepiness as you stretch out in your queen bed (can be separated into twins if you prefer). Your spacious bath features granite counter tops, ample storage, and a roomy shower with massage shower head. L’Occitane® bath products invite you to indulge, while comfy waffle-weave robe and slippers entice you to relax. You’ll find fresh fruit and flowers always waiting for you after a day of sun or sightseeing. And, of course, everything else you need and expect — flat-screen television and DVD, private safe. And always at your fingertips, anything you wish from room service.
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Category AX Deluxe
Category AX Deluxe
Every inch of your stateroom is designed for comfort. Luxurious Egyptian cotton linens wrap you in pleasant sleepiness as you stretch out in your queen bed (can be separated into twins if you prefer). Your spacious bath features granite counter tops, ample storage, and a roomy shower with massage shower head. L’Occitane® bath products invite you to indulge, while comfy waffle-weave robe and slippers entice you to relax. You’ll find fresh fruit and flowers always waiting for you after a day of sun or sightseeing. And, of course, everything else you need and expect — flat-screen television and DVD, private safe. And always at your fingertips, anything you wish from room service.
? Call for Availability
Category B
Category B
Every inch of your stateroom is designed for comfort. Luxurious Egyptian cotton linens wrap you in pleasant sleepiness as you stretch out in your queen bed (can be separated into twins if you prefer). Your spacious bath features granite counter tops, ample storage, and a roomy shower with massage shower head. L’Occitane® bath products invite you to indulge, while comfy waffle-weave robe and slippers entice you to relax. You’ll find fresh fruit and flowers always waiting for you after a day of sun or sightseeing. And, of course, everything else you need and expect — flat-screen television and DVD, private safe. And always at your fingertips, anything you wish from room service.
? Call for Availability
Category BX Deluxe
Category BX Deluxe
Every inch of your stateroom is designed for comfort. Luxurious Egyptian cotton linens wrap you in pleasant sleepiness as you stretch out in your queen bed (can be separated into twins if you prefer). Your spacious bath features granite counter tops, ample storage, and a roomy shower with massage shower head. L’Occitane® bath products invite you to indulge, while comfy waffle-weave robe and slippers entice you to relax. You’ll find fresh fruit and flowers always waiting for you after a day of sun or sightseeing. And, of course, everything else you need and expect — flat-screen television and DVD, private safe. And always at your fingertips, anything you wish from room service.
? Call for Availability
Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite
With an expansive 220 square feet, the Owner’s Suite gives you everything offered in a stateroom, plus lots more, including a beautiful sitting area and separate in-room dining space.
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The Windstar Life
The Windstar staff-to-guest ratio is 1:1.5, and it shows.The moment you board you’ll feel it: an ever-attentive crew at your service, providing you with what you want and need, when you want and need it.
Friendly and Relaxed Atmosphere
Signature Onboard Barbecue
Cooking Demonstrations
Genuine and Thoughtful Crew
Crew Talent Show
Open Bridge
Local and Live Performances
Relax at the Pool or Hot Tub
Complimentary 24 Hour Room Service
Signature Sail Away
Shopping With The Chef
Take In The Sun
Watersports Platform
Enjoy regionally inspired treatments at World Spa by Windstar
Relax With A Morning Yoga Session
ALL DATES &
FARES
Complimentary All-Inclusive Upgrade
Holiday Sailings
Last Minute Cruise Deals
Great cruise-only fares or make it an all-inclusive voyage with Wi-Fi, unlimited beer, wine, and cocktails, and gratuities. From $89 per guest per day.
Date
Ship
All-Inclusive
From
Cruise Only
From
Sat, Nov 30 - Sat, Dec 7, 2024
WIND STAR
$4,049
$4,049
Sat, Dec 7 - Sat, Dec 14, 2024
WIND STAR
$3,199
$3,199
Sat, Dec 14 - Sat, Dec 21, 2024
WIND STAR
$2,792
$2,169
Sat, Dec 28 - Sat, Jan 4, 2025
WIND STAR
Call For Availability
Sat, Jan 4 - Sat, Jan 11, 2025
WIND STAR
Call For Availability
THIS
SAILING
Sat, Jan 18 - Sat, Jan 25, 2025
WIND STAR
Call For Availability
Sat, Jan 25 - Sat, Feb 1, 2025
WIND STAR
$4,599
$4,599
Sat, Feb 1 - Sat, Feb 8, 2025
WIND STAR
Call For Availability
Sat, Feb 8 - Sat, Feb 15, 2025
WIND STAR
$4,499
$4,499
Sat, Feb 22 - Sat, Mar 1, 2025
WIND STAR
Call For Availability
Sat, Mar 1 - Sat, Mar 8, 2025
WIND STAR
$4,199
$4,199
Sat, Mar 8 - Sat, Mar 15, 2025
WIND STAR
$4,999
$4,999
Sat, Nov 29 - Sat, Dec 6, 2025
WIND SPIRIT
$4,522
$3,899
Sat, Dec 6 - Sat, Dec 13, 2025
WIND SPIRIT
$3,222
$2,599
Sat, Dec 13 - Sat, Dec 20, 2025
STAR PRIDE
$3,222
$2,599
Sat, Dec 20 - Sat, Dec 27, 2025
STAR PRIDE
$3,822
$3,199
Mon, Feb 9 - Mon, Feb 16, 2026
STAR PRIDE
$3,822
$3,199
Mon, Feb 16 - Mon, Feb 23, 2026
STAR PRIDE
$3,622
$2,999
Mon, Feb 23 - Mon, Mar 2, 2026
STAR PRIDE
$3,222
$2,599
Mon, Mar 2 - Mon, Mar 9, 2026
STAR PRIDE
$3,622
$2,999
Mon, Apr 13 - Mon, Apr 20, 2026
STAR SEEKER
$4,322
$3,699