Passage to Hispaniola & Beyond
A voyage between Costa Rica & Antigua aboard the MS Serenissima
- 23 February 2021
If you have been contemplating a cruise around the Caribbean and are looking for an itinerary which combines some beautiful tropical isles still untouched by the hands of mass tourism with some fascinating and relatively unknown ports of call, then this unusual voyage from the wildlife rich shores of Costa Rica across to Antigua could offer the perfect solution. The region is imbued with colour and culture with a wealth of historical sites and great natural beauty.
Our itinerary is an eclectic mix of calls including visits to Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, British Virgin Islands and the Dutch Antilles with each day presenting something new to discover ranging from national parks, beautiful beaches, coral reefs and waterfalls to historical sites and forts of the Spanish, Dutch and British colonial periods. Our voyage offers an easy and comfortable way to explore the region and with the MS Serenissima we are able to visit some small islands and ports which the larger cruise vessels simply cannot access. Our knowledgeable onboard team will enable us to make the most of each day whether we are landing on remote beaches by Zodiac, searching for endemic flora and fauna or learning about the history of the region.
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. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. With her small size she 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 San Jose, Costa Rica.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the Real Intercontinental hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2 Puerto Limon.
After a morning at leisure we will check out of the hotel and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before transferring to the MS Serenissima in Puerto Limon. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 3 Puerto Limon.
This morning we head south to the Cahuita National Park. The area is filled with wildlife that includes howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, raccoons, sloths, otters, coatis, agoutis, armadillos and porcupines. Several avian species also live in the swamp forest including the green ibis, the green kingfisher, the yellow crowned night-heron, the frigate bird and the boat-billed heron among others. Our naturalist guides will lead us through the trails of the rainforest, sharing their vast knowledge of this fragile ecosystem. After lunch on board you can choose to spend the afternoon at leisure or join a restored passenger train and travel through beautiful scenery to catch a glimpse of some more of Costa Rica’s amazing wildlife such as sloths and monkeys. The train track is part of the Atlantic Railway which was opened in 1890 to link San Jose with the country’s east coast but closed to regular services after severe damage by an earthquake in 1991. For the second part of the trip we will board a boat and travel along the scenic Tortuguero canals, where waterfowl, white-faced and spider monkeys can be spotted.
Day 4 Isla Providencia, Colombia.
Often referred to as ‘Old Providence’ in English, Providencia is a beautiful Colombian island that is little known and relatively untouched by the hand of tourism. Along with its smaller sister island of Santa Catalina, it is enclosed by an extensive barrier reef system of some 35 kilometres in length, making it one of the most significant reefs in the world. Captured twice by Henry Morgan and his buccaneers who aimed to make it a British possession, it nevertheless ended up Spanish and is now a remote Colombian island. Arriving at lunchtime, spend the afternoon on an island tour, take a nature walk or travel in local boats to Crab Cay for swimming and snorkelling.
Day 5 At Sea.
Relax on board, find a spot on deck to read or maybe join one of the lectures as we continue our journey north.
Day 6 Port Antonio, Jamaica.
Arrive this morning on the north coast of Jamaica and the small, bustling port of Port Antonio, renowned as the world’s banana capital and once home to Errol Flynn who described it as a ‘paradise unspoiled by human hands’. This morning you can opt to join a rafting trip on the Rio Grande as skilled raftsmen will impart their local knowledge about the native flora and fauna and the history and people of the area as we take in the wonderful natural surroundings. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic drive to Reach Falls situated in the lush Montane Forest. We will have time to enjoy the falls and walk in the surrounding forest which is home to many species of fern as well as a variety of birds. Enjoy a swim in the emerald pool at the foot of the falls before returning to the MS Serenissima for lunch. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Port Antonio or relax on a local beach.
Day 7 Santiago de Cuba, Cuba.
During breakfast we arrive into Cuba and the port of Santiago de Cuba. A morning tour commences with a panoramic drive through the city including stops at the Moncada Garrison, which still bears bullet holes from Fidel Castro’s attempted coup in 1953 and the imposing Plaza de la Revolucion and the 16th century Casa de Diego Velazquez considered the oldest house in Cuba. We will also drive out of the city through lush tropical scenery to the Castillo del Morro which guards the entrance to the harbour, affording magnificent views. This afternoon is free to explore further independently.
Days 8 & 9 Cap Haitien, Haiti.
After a morning at sea we arrive at Cap Haitien on the north coast of Haiti at lunchtime. Well off the traditional cruise route, we have a day and a half in this historical city. Founded by the French in 1670, it grew into one of the richest and grandest cities in the Caribbean and was the centre of the revolution in the early 19th century when the liberated slaves rose up against the French colonial rulers. A city tour will include the striking Notre Dame Cathedral and local market. Those feeling active will want to visit the stunning Citadelle Laferriere, the largest fortress in the Caribbean located inland and 900 metres above sea level. Built in 1804 as the independent slaves looked to defend themselves from British and Spanish forces, it was not required and remains in good condition. See the large collection of cannons and walk the walls highlighting the fortress’s strategic position but also with wonderful views to Cap Haitien. Return to the MS Serenissima via the remains of the 19th century Sans Souci Palace. We also hope to visit one of the off shore islands to relax on the beach and learn more about the culture of voodoo from our local speakers.
Day 10 Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic.
Sailing along the northern coast of Hispaniola we will arrive in the Dominican Republic this morning. We will berth in Puerto Plata from where we will head inland to Santiago de los Caballeros which was founded in 1495 by 30 Spanish aristocrats and the country’s first capital. We will see the ‘Monumento a Los Heroes de la Restauracion’ dedicated to those who fought for independence from Spain in 1865 and now the social hub for the city. At the Centro Cultural Leon we will see exhibits showcasing Dominican history, arts and culture as well as learning about the city’s main industry of cigar production. We will enjoy lunch in the city before returning to the vessel this afternoon.
Day 11 Samana.
Arrive this morning at the Samana Peninsula renowned for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters and lush mountains. In addition it is a centre for migrating humpback whales that are usually resident in the Marine Mammal Sanctuary from January to March. If conditions permit this morning we will use the Zodiacs or local boats to view these amazing creatures. This afternoon we visit Los Haitises National Park where we will explore magnificent limestone caves covered in Taino Indian art and visit Bird Island where we learn the importance of the many migratory and indigenous birds that inhabit the mangroves.
Days 12 & 13 British Virgin Islands.
These islands are recognised throughout the seafaring world as one of the finest sailing areas. The 36 islands and cays sit in a dazzling turquoise sea surrounded by beautiful coral reefs. We have a day and a half here and will drop anchor and use our Zodiacs to explore. We may make calls at the islands of Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke and Tortola. We will enjoy island drives and allow for time to relax on the beautiful beaches and swim and snorkel in the clear waters.
Day 14 Sint Eustatius, Dutch Antilles.
In the 18th century the port of Oranjestad was a major player in the trade between Europe and the new world. Today the island maintains a low key existence and has avoided the modernisation and development of its neighbours. We will explore the small town including the 17th century fort and the museum with information on slavery, colonial relics and historical artefacts. Meanwhile, those feeling active may wish to take the strenuous hike to ‘The Quill’, the 600 metre hill that dominates the landscape. This afternoon is at leisure for further exploration.
Day 15 Montserrat.
Ask any Caribbean connoisseur about their favourite places and Montserrat will always be high on the list. Following the damaging volcanic eruptions of 1995 and 2010, the island is slowly recovering. We will visit the volcano observatory and learn how the islanders coped with the devastation the eruptions caused. We also see some of the untouched areas which are as beautiful as ever. This evening we sail the short distance to Antigua where we will moor overnight.
Day 16 Antigua to London.
Disembark this morning and take a morning tour to enjoy the views from Shirley Heights before heading to Nelson’s Dockyard, beautifully located in English Harbour. See the impressive collection of restored historic buildings which were occupied by the British Navy from 1707 till 1899. After lunch we will transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Day 17 London.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 23 February to 11 March 2021 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 2 Standard Stateroom | £7895 | £7595 |
| 3 Classic Stateroom | £8095 | £7795 |
| 4 Superior Stateroom | £8295 | £7995 |
| 5 Deluxe Stateroom | £8795 | £8495 |
| 6 Junior Suite | £9295 | £8995 |
| 7 Owner’s Suite | £9995 | £9695 |
| 8 Serenissima Suite | £9995 | £9695 |
| 10 Standard Single | £7895 | £7595 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE230221
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight hotel accommodation in San Jose with breakfast • 14 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Cuba Tourist Card.
NB: Our planned calls to Haiti will be subject to travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and should the calls not be permitted, an alternative plan will be made.
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Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. With her small size she 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.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted to have had the MS Serenissima on long term charter since 2013. There are so few ships of her generation still cruising and she is a great testament to her owners who invest considerable sums to keep her on top form. At the end of 2018 she underwent a refurbishment which included both of the lounges and in November 2019 further refurbishments were completed including the cabins on Decks 3 & 4, the reception area and the Venice Restaurant. MS Serenissima is a charming vessel and one of her best known and loved features is her unique style.
The vessel is equipped with a fleet of Zodiac landing craft allowing us to visit remote places where normal tender arrangements are not possible. The Captain, Officers, Expedition Staff, and crew offer a first class service and have been selected for their professionalism and caring attitudes. The atmosphere on board is warm and welcoming and dedicated to discovery and relaxation.
We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Number of crew: 52
Beam: 43.6 feet
Draft: 15.5 feet
Length: 286 feet
Gross tonnage: 2598 tonnes
Classification: CRS
Cruising Speed: 14 knots
Built: 1960
Refurbished: 2018 & 2019
Registered: St Vincent & GrenadinesAIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is air-conditioned throughout. Please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning.
ALTERATIONS TO THE SCHEDULE
Our planned schedule may be changed at short notice due to weather conditions or technical reasons. Should there be any alterations the Captain or Cruise Director will inform you of any changes.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
CABINS
The cabins are attractively designed for comfort and convenience. There are eight different grades of cabins arranged over five decks, and all cabins feature either windows or portholes. Windows and portholes do not open in the cabins/suites, except for the Serenissima Suites (numbers 701 – 704) which have a window and a balcony door which opens out onto the balcony.
Facilities include: • Air-conditioning (please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning) • Dressing table with chair or stool • En-suite bathroom with shower, (please note cabins 601-605 and 507 have a bath with shower attachment) • Hairdryer • Minibar (Serenissima Suites only) • Balcony (Serenissima Suites only) • Dressing gown and slippers • Safe • Flat screen television • Telephone (charges apply) • Wardrobe • Wi-Fi access – You will require your own laptop, tablet or smartphone (charges apply).
COMMUNICATION
In case you wish to contact the ship, please call + 47 2367 4607. This is a Norwegian telephone number so calls will be charged at an international rate. The ship can also be contacted by email at cruise@msserenissima.com (please indicate passenger name and cabin number as the subject).
The telephone system for ship to shore functions is via satellite and charged at €7 Euros per minute for outgoing calls. Please be advised of the following for internal communication:
Cabin to cabin: dial cabin number International line: dial 000+ code of the country + telephone number Reception: dial 800 Doctor: dial 331 or 332
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced onboard and delivered to your cabin each evening during the turn down service.
DINING, DRINKING & DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
The Venice Restaurant onboard serves international cuisine and accommodates all guests at a single open seating. Tables seat 4 to 10 diners. In addition, there is an outside dining area for when the weather and itinerary permit. Breakfast and lunch are both buffet style, dinner is waiter service only. Complimentary (red and white) house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner. Bar drinks and other beverages with meals are not included; these may be purchased onboard and paid for at the end of your cruise. Complimentary tea and coffee are available 24 hours a day at the tea and coffee station located in the Andrea Lounge.
Please advise of any special dietary requests such as vegetarian, vegan, low salt, low cholesterol, gluten free, lactose intolerant to Noble Caledonia (in writing) in advance and we recommend that you also reconfirm with your Cruise Director and Maitre D’ once on board. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed.
DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual (e.g. a shirt and trousers for gentlemen and a skirt/trousers and blouse for ladies). There will be a welcome and farewell dinner, so you may like to bring something a little dressier for these events. For example, gentlemen may wish to wear a jacket and tie, and ladies a dress or trouser suit. Black tie is not required.
DOCTOR
A medical doctor is available on board 24 hours a day. A fee is charged for any consultations and medication prescribed. Please ensure you carry adequate supplies of any regular medications you may require. If you have any medication which must be kept cold, please ask at reception to store it in the fridge.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical outlets in the cabins and public areas are 220V and take a two-round-pin plug (as in continental Europe). There is a 110/220V, 60Hz outlet for electric shavers in the bathroom. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor.
EMERGENCIES
In case of an emergency please leave your cabin/suite and follow the instructions given by the Captain and Hotel Manager. All public areas have an emergency button. We request that you read the safety instructions on the back of your cabin door.
FIELD STAFF
Throughout your cruise you will be accompanied by your Noble Caledonia Cruise Director/Expedition Leader and an experienced team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests.
GOING ASHORE
Please leave your cabin key at reception and take your ship card with you. As soon as you are back on board please hand back your boarding card and pick up your key as this will confirm your presence on board.
When you go ashore individually, please be back on board at least 30 minutes before the advertised departure time of the ship.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions are included in the cost of your holiday.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at key positions around the ship particularly at the entrance to restaurants and near the gangway. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
INTERNET
Wi-Fi access is available in public areas with your own laptop, tablet or smartphone and charges apply – 500MB for €15 Euros, or 1GB for €25 Euros. Please note that connection is dependent on weather conditions and location.
LANGUAGE
All members of the crew speak English.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
If you require the laundry service, please leave your laundry bag together with the completed laundry list on your bed before 0900. The laundry bag and list can be found in your wardrobe. Every effort will be made to return your laundry to your cabin within 24 hours. There is no dry cleaning service onboard.
LIFE JACKETS
All life jackets are stored on Deck 6 near the Muster station.
LIFT
There is a lift on board that serves decks 3 to 6. Please note that, due to the layout of the ship, the following cabins are accessible by at least one flight of stairs: 417 – 421, 424 & 701 – 704.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within seven days of disembarking. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MONEY
The official currency on board is the Euro, but British Pounds are also accepted. All passengers will have their own ship account, which allows you to sign for purchases and services such as bar drinks, telephone calls, laundry etc. throughout your cruise. The following payment methods are accepted for settlement of shipboard accounts:
• Cash (Euros,British Pounds or US Dollars) • Credit Card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express) • Debit Card (MasterCard & Visa) Please note that personal cheques and Travellers’ Cheques are not accepted.
As a result of Russian ownership, please note that credit/debit card payments will be charged in Russian Rubles. The debited amount shown on your bank/building society statement in British Pounds will be based on the relevant exchange rates on the day of the transaction. You may need to make your bank/building society aware that your card payment will be authorised ‘in Russia’ so that payment is not declined, and also to ascertain if any additional charges will be applied. Unfortunately, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service onboard, as this would be contravening official regulations.
PASSPORTS
Your passport will be kept securely at reception throughout the duration of the cruise, and you will be issued with a ship card which we advise you carry with you at all times when ashore.
POST
Please note that although the reception staff may be happy to post letters and postcards on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or indeed at the port of call at which you make such a request. Please also note that some postal services are unreliable and that any letters or postcards that you ask to be sent on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route.
PUBLIC AREAS
• Andrea Lounge (on Deck 5). The bar is open from 09.00 until 24.00. • Harald Jarl Lounge (on Deck 5). There is a small library here with books and games. • Lido area (on Deck 5) with a Jacuzzi and small fitness room with two running machines • Observation Deck (access from Deck 5 lido area) • Deck 5 and Deck 6 outside seating areas
RECEPTION
Reception is open from 7.00 am to 10.00 pm. Overnight the reception’s phone will be switched over to the bridge.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday and in order to do this we need some feedback from our guests. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in to your Cruise Director.
QUIETVOX AUDIO SYSTEM
During our excursions, we use an audio headset system called Quietvox. In your cabin there is a charging station with two devices and two sets of earpieces. Please keep your devices in the charging station (and the station plugged in) whilst you are not on an excursion. Bring the sets with you on excursions as your guides with speak to you through their microphone. The use of the equipment will be explained before the first excursion starts.
SAFE
Although there is a safe in your cabin, we recommend that you leave all extra valuables at home, and bring with you only what you consider necessary. Neither the ship, nor Noble Caledonia, are responsible for any valuables left in the cabins. Beware of petty crime and pickpockets whilst ashore. A money belt worn underneath clothing is useful. Do not take all your money with you when out sightseeing. We advise utmost caution at popular tourist spots. Please do not leave any luggage unattended at any time.
SAFETY & LIFEBOAT DRILL
The safety briefing will take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill you will be instructed on how to wear and operate your life jacket.
SEA SICKNESS
As on any seagoing vessel, some marked motion may be anticipated in certain areas, dependent upon weather, season, etc. It is recommended that you bring anti-motion sickness medication just in case, even if you have never experienced motion sickness in the past. Please consult your Doctor/General Practitioner (GP) or local pharmacist regarding which medication is appropriate and its side effects. To avert motion sickness, avoid alcohol, tobacco, excess liquids and confined spaces. Most people feel better sitting on deck looking at the horizon or lying down with their eyes shut. Oddly, you will feel better with some food, such as crackers or dry toast in your stomach. Many people eat to avoid feeling sick. Remember, once you start to experience motion sickness, medications are of little help. SHOP The shop sells branded MS Serenissima merchandise.
SHOP
The shop sells branded MS Serenissima merchandise.
SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted in the cabins or public areas. Smoking will only be permitted outside in the designated areas.
SNORKELLING
There is snorkelling equipment available on board the vessel.
TELEVISION
The ship is equipped with a satellite TV system which receives 13 channels. TV reception depends on the satellite dish and on occasion it may not be possible to receive a signal. There is one central video channel on which it is possible to listen to the lectures delivered in the Andrea Lounge. There is also a channel for the ship’s camera located in front of the ship and another which displays the Daily Programme and activities.
TOILETS
The ship is fitted with a sensitive vacuum system. Please do not put anything into the toilet except toilet paper.
TOWELS
Towels will be changed once in the middle of your cruise. Should you need new towels earlier, please let the housekeeper know. Please do not use the bathroom towels on the beach. A separate towel for swimming will be provided.
WATER
Previously the MS Serenissima used 200 plastic bottles of water every day. In order to help reduce the damage caused to the environment by waste plastic, we are replacing plastic water bottles where possible with eco-friendly, reusable water bottles. We have chosen stainless steel bottles, made of durable, high quality stainless steel. It will keep your drink fresh and cool for longer and fit neatly into your bag or backpack. You can fill it up from the water station on board, located in Reception area, deck 5. We recommend that you do not drink nor refill your bottles from the tap in your cabin. The tap water is not potable. The bottle in your cabin is for your personal use during the cruise to take on excursions. Please leave the bottle/s in your cabin at the end of the cruise.
ZODIACS
Some destinations may require the use of Zodiacs to go ashore. These are usually on expedition cruises though may sometimes be used on destination cruises.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.6 December 2019
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
Tour Extensions
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Before embarking the MS Serenissima we are offering the opportunity to join a five night tour of Costa Rica which will include Poas Volcano National Park, Arenal Park and Monteverde.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to San Jose, Costa Rica.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. On arrival, transfer to the Real Intercontinental Hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 San Jose to Arenal.
Following breakfast at our hotel, we will first head to the Doka Estate for an insight into one of Costa Rica’s prime exports, coffee. We will learn the processes involved in the harvesting and manufacturing of this ubiquitous beverage. We will continue to Poas Volcano National Park, where after a short walk, we will be treated to spectacular 180 degree views of the volcano’s crater and the picturesque surrounding areas. Following lunch in a local restaurant, we will transfer to the Tabacon Hot Springs which are heated by the nearby volcano and set in a tropical paradise. We will have some time here to relax before transferring to Arenal and checking in to the Kioro Hotel for a two night stay. Dinner tonight will be at a local restaurant.
Day 3 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 and for the more adventurous, to participate in a zip-line adventure, providing an exhilarating bird’s eye view of the park. Following lunch, there will be time to relax and explore Arenal at leisure.
Day 4 Arenal to Monteverde.
After breakfast we will start our stunning journey to Monteverde including a stop for lunch at the Bon Appetit Restaurant. 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 on to Monteverde and check-in to the El Establo Hotel for our two night stay. Tonight we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 5 Monteverde.
Today we will experience the hanging bridges of Monteverde Cloud Forest Sky Walk which cross the canyons below and bring us face to face with the upper level of the forest canopy. The trails extend for slightly over a mile and a half and we will be accompanied by local guides. Biologists now know that about 90 percent of all organisms in a rainforest are found in the canopy. Among the 400 species of birds, some of the best known species are: the quetzal, the bird bell, the black turkey bird, the mot-mot, the orange-bellied trogon, and the bare-neck umbrella bird. 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.
Day 6 Monteverde to San Jose.
After breakfast and a morning at leisure in the hotel we transfer to San Jose meet our fellow travellers and continue with the main itinerary from Day 1.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
18 to 23 February 2021 Category Price Twin £2295 Single £2795 Price Includes: Overnight hotel accommodation in San Jose, two nights hotel accommodation in Arenal and Monteverde, all meals as mentioned in itinerary, transfers and excursions as described, gratuities, English speaking guide, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
NB: Hotels may vary to those mentioned but will be of similar standard.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000