Join us aboard the 95 passenger MS Serenissima as we explore Central America’s Pacific coastline visiting Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. If you have been contemplating a visit to Central America, then this fascinating voyage could offer you the perfect opportunity with its mix of cultural and natural wonders. The history of the ancient Mayan civilisation, the colonial years and the more recent events of the region will be brought to life by our onboard team and local guides. There is also much of the natural world to occupy us on our journey including our visits to Costa Rica’s Curu National Wildlife Refuge, the spectacular Manuel Antonio National Park and the Palo Verde National Park and El Salvador’s most important marine ecosystem, the Jiquilisco Bay Biosphere Reserve. The birdlife of the region is magnificent and it is home to countless species of endangered birds from tiny hummingbirds to flashy macaws and parrots, toucans and woodpeckers. Add an amazingly rich biodiversity of flora and fauna seen against some of the lushest of landscapes to be found anywhere in the world and you have the recipe for a perfect escape.
Such a varied and comprehensive itinerary would be difficult to comprehend or undertake by any other means than a cruise aboard a vessel like the MS Serenissima with her expert expedition team, fleet of Zodiacs and just 95 fellow passengers. We will be able to visit some small islands and ports which the larger cruise vessels simply cannot access and skip the arduous, lengthy land travel which such a trip would usually entail and instead relax on board as we deliver you to a new and exciting destination each day.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Following an extensive renovation in 2003, the vessel began her life as a classic cruise ship and we have had the vessel on long term charter since 2013. Accommodating just 95 passengers the vessel is perfect for small ship cruising and can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Guatemala City, Guatemala.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. Arrive this evening and transfer to our hotel for our overnight stay.
Day 2 Antigua.
This morning we will visit Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between three magnificent volcanoes in 1542, it is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the Americas. Antigua remained an economic and political heart of Central America until a devastating earthquake in 1773 destroyed much of the city. We will explore the city which is a wonder of colonial buildings, beautiful squares, cobblestone streets and Baroque churches. After lunch we transfer to the MS Serenissima in Puerto Quetzal and sail this evening.
Days 3 & 4 Acajutla, El Salvador.
We spend a day and a half in El Salvador. From the port of Acajutla our full day excursion will discover the Mayan route starting at the archaeological site of Joya de Ceren, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Pompeii of America. The site was covered by the Loma Caldera volcano explosion which kept the remains of pre-Hispanic civilisation covered for hundreds of years and the site provides a unique insight into everyday life in a Mesoamerican farming community of the 6th century AD. We continue to the ruins of San Andres, once an important political and religious centre and testimony of the Indigo industry during the colonial period, better known as the ‘Blue Gold’. After lunch in a local restaurant we will continue to Santa Ana and see the beautiful Gothic Cathedral and National Palace before our tour ends at the ruins of Tazumal, the largest pyramid in El Salvador which dates from 1500 BC and is an important Mayan settlement. The next day our morning tour will explore some of the colonial towns and communities on the ‘Flower Route’ named after the abundance of flowers found along the roadsides and in the villages. We will drive through the beautiful mountains to the town of Nahuizalco, home to one of the most longstanding native communities and arts and crafts production sites in the country. We continue to Ataco, the final stop on the Ruta de las Flores. Ataco is a quaint, colonial village that is known for its natural beauty, as well as its brightly painted homes, cobblestone streets, colourful murals and unique arts and crafts. Return to the ship for lunch and a relaxing afternoon at sea.
Days 5 & 6 La Union.
We have two days to explore the southern region of El Salvador and will offer a number of excursion options. You may wish to follow the ‘peace route’ set up to remember the events of the 1980s when El Salvador experienced a bitter civil war. It is estimated that over 100,000 were killed in the fighting whilst half a million people fled into exile. We will visit Perquin, once a stronghold of the guerrillas and home to the Museum of the Revolution where former members of the rebel army are willing to share their experiences. We continue to the village of El Mozote where in December 1981 one of the worst atrocities occurred and more than 1000 people were killed in a single day. Our local guides will explain about living in the country during this time and we will see the monument erected for the victims and the memorial garden decorated with brightly coloured murals. There will also be a tour to Alegria, the birthplace of the writer Alberto Masferrer where we visit the lagoon known as the ‘Emerald of America’ located in the Tecapa Volcano. A full day tour will also visit the Jiquilisco Bay Biosphere Reserve which is El Salvador’s most important marine ecosystem with the coastal area being made up of remote islands, mangrove canals and desolate beaches whilst inland we find beautiful forests and cacao plantations. It is an important base for migratory birds as well as a nesting site for four sea turtle species including one of only two sites in the Pacific for the endangered Hawksbill Turtle. We explore the different areas of the reserve spending time with the environmentalists and scientists who will teach us about the conservation of the turtles, and we will walk through the forest on the lookout for spider monkeys. We will also visit a cacao plantation where we learn about the cultivation of cacao which creates some of the finest chocolate.
Day 7 Corinto for Leon, Nicaragua.
The port of Corinto is our base for our visit to Leon, the former capital of Nicaragua. Here we will explore the colonial architecture and the 18th century cathedral which is one of the most prominent buildings in the city with fantastic views from the rooftop. Inside we will see the fresco paintings, statues and the lion that guards the tomb of Ruben Dario, the famous Nicaraguan poet. There will be some free time for those who wish to visit the bustling market.
Day 8 San Juan del Sur for Granada.
After an early breakfast we will leave from the friendly fishing village of San Juan del Sur for a full day tour to Granada and Lake Nicaragua. Founded in 1523, Granada is Nicaragua’s oldest Spanish city and has retained much of its Spanish character with colonial churches, narrow streets and colourful Spanish style homes. We will enjoy a walking tour including the cathedral and convent of San Francisco where we find around 30 pre-Colombian stone statues dating back to 800 AD sculpted by the inhabitants of Zapatera Island on Lake Nicaragua. After a local lunch we continue to Lake Nicaragua and enjoy a relaxing boat ride amongst the 365 small islands created by the volcanic activity of the Mombacho volcano around 20,000 years ago. Whilst some islands are inhabited most remain unspoiled and are home to exotic plants, howler monkeys and orchids.
Day 9 Playas del Coco, Costa Rica.
Our first stop in Costa Rica is the beach town of Playas del Coco in the Papagayo Gulf. Once a small fishing village it has grown into a popular destination for local Costa Rican tourism. We will use our Zodiacs to land before heading inland to the Palo Verde National Park where we will board local boats to travel along the Tempisque River seeing the mangroves and dry forest vegetation which is home to countless birds and multiple mammals. As we visit in the dry season we hope to see peccaries, armadillos, jaguarondis, coatis, agoutis, deer and monkeys which are attracted to the river. We will enjoy lunch at the 19th century Hacienda House with views of the savannahs and sugar cane fields.
Day 10 Manuel Antonio National Park.
Early this morning we will travel to the Manuel Antonio National Park which is one of the most stunning and bio-diverse areas of the world. Spread out over 683 hectares it is filled with diverse wildlife, has both primary and secondary forests, boasts a stunning shoreline ideal for bird watching or swimming and is home to several endemic species of plants and animals. We will make an early start this morning allowing for the best viewing of monkeys, vividly coloured birds and the lethargic three-toed sloth. This afternoon we will have some time at leisure in Quepos before we sail later tonight.
Day 11 Curu National Park & Isla Tortuga.
We spend the morning exploring the Curu National Wildlife refuge which boasts a rich and diverse wildlife in five different habitats ranging from marine zones, including a wide beach area, mangrove swamps and tropical forests. Here on a range of walks we will find several species of birds, howler and capuchin monkeys and turtles. Over lunch we sail the short distance to Tortuga Island where we have the chance to snorkel over the volcanic reef which is home to angelfish, morays and needlefish. Alternatively spend the afternoon relaxing on the white sand beaches.
Day 12 Puerto Caldera to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to San Jose for our scheduled indirect flight to London
Dates and Prices
12 to 24 February 2023 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
2 Standard Stateroom | £6095 | £5795 |
3 Classic Stateroom | £6295 | £5995 |
4 Superior Stateroom | £6695 | £6395 |
5 Deluxe Stateroom | £7095 | £6795 |
6 Junior Suite | £7695 | £7395 |
7 Owner’s Suite | £8095 | £7795 |
8 Serenissima Suite | £8295 | £7995 |
10 Standard Single | £6495 | £6195 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE120223
Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight hotel accommodation in Guatemala City with breakfast and lunch on Day 2 • 10 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, dinner on Day 1.
-
Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Following an extensive renovation in 2003, the vessel began her life as a classic cruise ship and we have had the vessel on long term charter since 2013. Accommodating just 95 passengers the vessel is perfect for small ship cruising and can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Tour Extensions
-
-
Before joining the MS Serenissima, we are offering the opportunity to discover Tikal, an ancient Mayan citadel in the rainforest of northern Guatemala as well as beautiful Lake Atitlan.
Tikal ruins
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Guatemala City, Guatemala.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. Arrive this evening and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2 Tikal.
This morning we will depart Guatemala City early for our short flight to Flores in the Peten Department (approximately one hour). We will visit the Tikal National Park to see the beautiful Mayan ruins in the dense sub-tropical humid jungle including temples reaching 70 feet tall and several thousand other monuments, stela and altars. After lunch in a local restaurant we will make our way to the airport for our return flight to Guatemala City. Return to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (B, L)
Day 3 Lake Atitlan.
After breakfast we embark on our full day tour to Lake Atitlan, described by Aldous Huxley as the most beautiful lake in the world. Surrounded by 12 post-Mayan villages, all bearing the names of Catholic saints and surrounded by three majestic volcanoes, the experience is unique. We will visit the main town of Panajachel where the quaint streets are home to many bohemian artists selling their crafts and there will be some time to explore at leisure and browse the local shops. After lunch at a local restaurant we will head back to our hotel in Guatemala City. The remainder of the day will be at leisure as we continue with the main itinerary from the afternoon of Day 1. (B, L)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
10 to 12 February 2023 Category Price Twin £1195 Single £1395 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Guatemala City, meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner), Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, Tikal excursion by air, Lake Atitlan excursion, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance, dinners.
-
-
-
If you would like to discover more of Costa Rica after your cruise, you can join our five night extension which includes the Monteverde Cloud Forest and Arenal.
Arenal Volcano
The Itinerary
Day 1 Puerto Caldera to Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Disembark this morning and transfer to Monteverde enjoying lunch along the way. On arrival check into the El Establo Hotel (or similar) for a two night stay and enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 2 Monteverde.
Today we will experience the hanging bridges of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Sky Walk which cross the canyons below and bring us face to face with the upper level of the forest canopy. Biologists now know that about 90 percent of all organisms in a rainforest are found in the canopy. The trails extend for slightly over a mile and a half and we will be accompanied by local guides. We will also have the opportunity to make our way up to one of the highest mountains in the area by Sky Tram, a tranquil way to take in the natural beauty of the forest. After lunch we will enjoy further exploration of the forest with a walk in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. Dinner tonight will be served at a local restaurant. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Monteverde to Arenal.
This morning we will start our stunning journey to Arenal including a stop for lunch. Afterwards enjoy some time at leisure absorbing the region’s lush and verdant flora and fauna whilst taking in its rare and diverse biosphere. Continue to Arenal and check into the Kioro Hotel (or similar) for our two night stay. Tonight we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Arenal.
After breakfast, we depart for a guided visit to Arenal Park. Here, we will take a walk through the area where the Arenal volcanic eruption took place in 1968, learning about the destruction this caused and the subsequent rebirth of life via the rich mineral deposits the eruption provided to the region. There will also be the opportunity to enjoy a treetop cable car ride whilst those feeling adventurous may like to participate in a zip-line adventure, providing an exhilarating bird’s eye view of the park. (B, L, D)
Day 5 Arenal to San Jose.
Today we will make our way to San Jose, visiting the Poas Volcano National Park this morning. After a short walk, we will be treated to spectacular 180-degree views of the volcano’s crater and the picturesque surrounding area. We will also visit the Doka Estate for an insight into one of Costa Rica’s prime exports, coffee. Upon arrival into San Jose check in to our hotel for an overnight stay. (B, L, D)
Day 6 San Jose to London.
Check out from the hotel after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London. (B)
Day 7 London.
Arrive today.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
23 February to 1 March 2023 Category Price Twin £2295 Single £2795 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Arenal & Monteverde, overnight hotel accommodation in San Jose, meals as indicated (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner), excursions, English speaking guide, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
-
Also of Interest
Natural Wonders of the Amazon & Galapagos
An extraordinary river cruise through Ecuadorian Amazonia aboard the MV Anakonda combined with an island hopping cruise through the Galapagos aboard the Isabela II
Anakonda & Isabela II
Itinerary at a glance
- Quito / Coca / Yasuni National Park / Galpagos / Santiago Island / Chinese Hat Islet / Genovesa Island / santa Fe ISland / Santa Cruz Island / Baltra
Secrets of El Salvador
A 14 day in-depth exploration of El Salvador’s history, culture & incredible natural wonders.
El Salvador Accommodation
Itinerary at a glance
- San Salvador / Suchitoto / Suchitlan Lake / Hacienda Los Nacimientos / Suchitoto / Cinquera / Joya de Ceren / Cerro Verde Natural Park / Nahuizalco / Juayua / Concepcion de Ataco / Tazumal / Santa Ana / Santa Teresa Hot Springs / Jiquilisco Bay / San Salvador
East & West of Panama
A voyage from Colombia to Guatemala including a transit of the Panama Canal aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Cartagena / Capurgana / Sapzurro / San Blas Island / Panama Canal / Panama City / Golfo Dulce / Curu National Park / Isla Tortuga / Playas del Coco / Granada / Leon / La Union / Acajutla / Puerto Quetzal / Antigua
Christmas & New Year in the Caribbean
A voyage from Antigua to Cartagena aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Antigua / St Eustatius / Montserrat / Dominica / St Lucia / Grenadines/ Grenada / Trinidad / Bonaire / Curacao / Santa Marta / Cartagena
Christmas & New Year in Central America
Discover the wonders of Colombia, Panama & Costa Rica including a transit of the Panama Canal aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Cartagena / Capurgana / Sapzurro / San Blas / Panama Canal / Bahia Solano / Utria National Park / Chiriqui Gulf Marine Park / Golfo Dulce / Corcovado National Park / Curu National Park / Isla Tortuga / Manuel Antonia National Park / Puerto Caldera
Secret World of Two Oceans
Discover the Natural Wonders of Colombia, Panama & Costa Rica including a transit of the Panama Canal aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Cartagena / San Blas Islands / Panama Canal / Panama City / Bahia Solano / Utria National Park / Chiriqui Gulf Marine Park / Golfo Dulce / Corcovado / Manuel Antonio National Park / Curu National Park / Isla Tortuga / Puerto Caldera
From Panama to Peru
A journey through the Panama Canal and along the Andean Coast aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Panama City / Colon / San Blas Islands / Panama Canal / Bahia Solano / Utria National Park / Isla Gorgona / Isla de la Plata / Guayaquil / Puerto Bolivar / Isla Lobos de Tierra / Salaverry / Lima
Ancient & Natural Wonders of Central America
A voyage linking the Caribbean Sea with the Pacific Ocean including a transit of the Panama Canal aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Cartagena / San Blas Islands / Panama Canal / Panama City / Chiriqui Gulf Marine Park / Golfo Dulce / Manuel Antonio National Park / Curu National Park / Isla Tortuga / Playa del Coco / Granada / Leon / La Union / Acajutla / Perto Quetzal / Antigua
Glories of the West Indies
A voyage under sail aboard the magnificent Sea Cloud II
Sea Cloud II
Itinerary at a glance
- Barbados / Tobago / Grenada / Bequia / Dominica / Montserrat / Nevis / St Kitts / St Barthelemy / Antigua / Guadeloupe / St Lucia
Panama Canal, Corals & Cultures
A voyage from Costa Rica including Panama, Colombia, Honduras, Guatemala & Belize aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- San Jose / Puerto Caldera / Manuel Antonio National Park / Golfo Dulce / Chiriqui Gulf Marine Park / Panama City / Panama Canal / Bocas de Toro / Puerto Limon/ Isla de Providencia / Isla Guanaja / Livingston / Belize City / Grand Cayman
Island Hopping in the Caribbean
From the Cayman Islands to Antigua aboard the MS Serenissima with Guest Speaker Carrie Gibson
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Grand Cayman / Cuba / Trinidad / Jamaica / Domincan Republic / British Virgin Islands / Dutch Antilles / Montserrat / Antigua
Passage through the Lesser Antilles & Beyond
A voyage from Antigua to Barbados including calls in Guyana & Suriname aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Antigua / Cabrits / St Lucia / Bequia / Trinidad / Guyana / Suriname / Tobago / Barbados
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000