If you have been contemplating a visit to Central America, then this fascinating voyage could offer the perfect opportunity with its mix of cultural and natural wonders. During our voyage you will enjoy swimming, snorkelling and nature walks all overseen by our expert onboard team. Some days you will be venturing into national parks and conservation areas teeming with wildlife or visiting remote communities where locals live following ancient ways of life. We have the added benefit of spending time in the captivating city of Cartagena and with just 95 passengers, we will be able to explore in small groups ashore and enjoy a convivial atmosphere on board.
Our voyage offers an easy and comfortable way to explore the region rather than arduous, lengthy land travel. You can relax on board as we sail between beautiful islands and interesting ports of call, and as much of the itinerary is far from the ‘big ship’ routes it includes little known but fascinating ports of call. One of the highlights for many will be the transit of the Panama Canal which makes an itinerary such as this possible as we cross from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific, and as we do so we will toast the engineering marvel during our daylight transit.
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.
3rd January 2023 Itinerary
Day 1 London to Cartagena, Colombia.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the MS Serenissima. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Cartagena.
Cartagena is one of the most fascinating cities in South America and this morning we will enjoy a walking tour of the colonial walled-city which is virtually surrounded by water and steeped in history, with a wealth of 16th and 17th century buildings and churches. Our guides will bring the history of the city to life as we walk its streets and ramparts. We will visit the 16th century Fort of San Felipe, Monastery of San Pedro Claver, the Plaza de la Aduana and Iglesia de Santo Domingo. Return to the MS Serenissima for lunch and a relaxing afternoon at sea.
Day 3 San Blas Islands, Panama.
We arrive in Panama at the stunning San Blas archipelago. The archipelago is made up of over 400 islands which line the north coast of Panama with white sandy beaches set in a turquoise sea. The islands are home to the indigenous Kuna Indians who gained self-rule from the government of Panama in the 1920s and maintain their traditional way of life including the production of colourful fabric art known as ‘molas’. We will have time to take a nature walk or maybe enjoy a swim or snorkel from the beach.
Day 4 Panama Canal Transit.
An undisputed destination on the travel bucket list has to be the Panama Canal. The first attempt to build the canal was made by a French company but ended in failure in 1889. The American government eventually bought out the French for 40 million dollars, and their attempt to build the Canal started in 1904. Through the efforts of over 80,000 workers and the loss of more than 30,000 lives, the greatest single construction project ever undertaken was completed. The project ended in triumph, with the Canal opening in 1914, and it is now a vital artery of international trade, with nearly 14,000 ships travelling through it every year. The canal is around 50 miles long and takes between eight to ten hours to cross and we hope to confirm a daytime crossing.
Day 5 Panama City.
From our anchorage at Flamenco Marina, there will be a choice of tours today. Join an excursion to the Panama Canal Observation Centre where you can learn about the expansion of the canal before visiting the Miraflores Locks Visitor Centre where you can see the history of the canal and watch the ships as they pass through. Alternatively, for those interested in meeting the Embera Indians, a tour to the Chagres National Park will be arranged where we can travel by a dugout canoe to the village in the jungle and meet the local tribe to learn about their history.
Days 6 & 7 Bahia Solano & Utria National Park, Colombia.
Today we land on the Pacific coast of Colombia and have a day and a half to explore this beautiful area which is well off the traditional cruise routes. Here we find the Utria National Park, a tropical forest which reaches down to the sandy beaches. Using our Zodiacs to get ashore we will enjoy hikes and nature trails and observe the flora and fauna with our local guides. In Bahia Solano we will visit the small town whilst those feeling active may wish to join a guided walk to a private rainforest reserve which runs alongside the Rio Mecana and is part of a 170 hectare nature reserve. Made up of mangroves, tropical forest, native plants and trees of the Choco region, our local guides will point out the indigenous plants and birdlife and highlight the ongoing reforestation programmes. We also hope to offer a chance to swim from one of the beaches.
Day 8 At Sea.
Our lecture programme continues as we spend the day at sea.
Day 9 Chiriqui Gulf Marine Park, Panama.
Return to Panama and the Chiriqui Gulf Marine Park which spreads over 36,000 acres and comprises of 25 islands and numerous coral reefs. Created in 1994 the Marine Park’s aim is to aid the preservation of the region’s ecosystems, diverse flora and fauna, scientific conservation projects and protect the islands' endangered inhabitants. We will land on one of the islands where you may choose to take a nature walk to mangroves learning about the local flora and fauna or find a spot under a palm tree on the beach and take a swim.
Day 10 Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica.
After clearing immigration formalities into Costa Rica at Golfito we make our way to Casa Orquideas (Orchid House), a five hectare private botanical garden cut out of the rainforest by Ron and Trudy MacAllister who now cultivate over 100 species of orchids which attract many different bird species. Plants of the tropics burst with colour and the air here is heady with the fragrance of flowers and humid soil. Due to the open space, it is often easy to spot a number of tropical birds here including toucans.
Day 11 Corcovado National Park.
Resting on the northern side of the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay (Bahía Drake) is our gateway to the Corcovado National Park. We will use the Zodiacs to land on one of the beaches before enjoying a walk through the primary and secondary forest with our naturalist guides. The rich biological diversity of the biological corridor of the Corcovado National Park is astounding and bird lovers will be enchanted by a wide variety of birds, including tanagers, flycatchers, kingfishers, manakins, trogons, crested guans and spectacular scarlet macaws and toucans. We return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon hope to use our Zodiacs to land on one of the nearby beaches.
Day 12 Manuel Antonio National Park.
Early this morning we will travel to 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 a number of 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 13 Curu National Park & Isla Tortuga.
The Curu National Wildlife Refuge boasts a rich and diverse wildlife in five different habitats ranging from marine zones, including a wide beach area, mangrove swamps and tropical forests. This morning, on a range of walks we will find a number of species of birds, howler and capuchin monkeys and turtles. Over lunch we sail the short distance to Tortuga Island where there will be the opportunity 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 14 Puerto Caldera to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to San Jose for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 15 London.
Arrive today.
15th January 2023 Itinerary
Day 1 London to San Jose, Costa Rica.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2 San Jose to Puerto Caldera.
After breakfast in the hotel there will be some free time in San Jose before we transfer to the MS Serenissima in Puerto Caldera. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 3 Curu National Park & Isla Tortuga.
At dawn we will sail to 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. This morning, on a range of walks we will find a number of 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. We will sail in the late afternoon to Quepos and our overnight anchorage.
Day 4 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 a number of 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 5 Corcovado National Park.
Resting on the northern side of the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay (Bahía Drake) is our gateway to the Corcovado National Park. We will use the Zodiacs to land on one of the beaches before enjoying a walk through the primary and secondary forest with our naturalist guides. The rich biological diversity of the biological corridor of the Corcovado National Park is astounding and bird lovers will be enchanted by a wide variety of birds, including tanagers, flycatchers, kingfishers, manakins, trogons, crested guans and spectacular scarlet macaws and toucans. We return to the MS Serenissima for lunch and this afternoon hope to use our Zodiacs to land on one of the nearby beaches.
Day 6 Golfo Dulce.
Today we make our way to Casa Orquideas (Orchid House) a five hectare private botanical garden cut out of the rainforest by Ron and Trudy MacAllister who now cultivate over 100 species of orchids which attract many different bird species. Plants of the tropics burst with colour and the air here is heady with the fragrance of flowers and humid soil. Due to the open space, it is often easy to spot a number of tropical birds here including toucans. We will have some free time this afternoon to explore further or relax on the beach before we sail in the early evening.
Day 7 Chiriqui Gulf Marine Park, Panama.
Arrive in Panama and the Chiriqui Gulf Marine Park which spreads over 36,000 acres and comprises of 25 islands and numerous coral reefs. Created in 1994 the Marine Park’s aim is to aid the preservation of the region’s ecosystems, diverse flora and fauna, scientific conservation projects and protect the islands' endangered inhabitants. We will land on one of the islands where you may choose to take a nature walk to mangroves learning about the local flora and fauna or find a spot under a palm tree on the beach and take a swim.
Day 8 At Sea.
Our lecture programme continues as we spend the day at sea.
Days 9 & 10 Bahia Solano & Utria National Park, Colombia.
Today we land on the Pacific coast of Colombia and have a day and a half to explore this beautiful area which is well off the traditional cruise routes. Here we find the Utria National Park, a tropical forest which reaches down to the sandy beaches. Using our Zodiacs to get ashore we will enjoy hikes and nature trails and observe the flora and fauna with our local guides. In Bahia Solano we will visit the small town whilst those feeling active may wish to join a walk to a private rainforest reserve which runs alongside the Rio Mecana and is part of a 170 hectare nature reserve. Made up of mangroves, tropical forest, native plants and trees of the Choco region, our local guides will point out the indigenous plants and birdlife and highlight the ongoing reforestation programmes. We also hope to offer a chance to swim from one of the beaches.
Day 11 Panama City.
From our anchorage at Flamenco Marina, there will be a choice of tours today. Join an excursion to the Panama Canal Observation Centre where you can learn about the expansion of the canal before visiting the Miraflores Locks Visitor Centre where you can see the history of the canal and watch the ships as they pass through. Alternatively, for those interested in meeting the Embera Indians, a tour to the Chagres National Park will be arranged where we can travel by a dugout canoe to the village in the jungle and meet the local tribe to learn about their history.
Day 12 Panama Canal Transit.
An undisputed destination on the travel bucket list has to be the Panama Canal. The first attempt to build the canal was made by a French company but ended in failure in 1889. The American government eventually bought out the French for 40 million dollars, and their attempt to build the Canal started in 1904. Through the efforts of over 80,000 workers and the loss of more than 30,000 lives, the greatest single construction project ever undertaken was completed. The project ended in triumph, with the Canal opening in 1914, and it is now a vital artery of international trade, with nearly 14,000 ships travelling through it every year. The canal is around 50 miles long and takes between eight to ten hours to cross and we hope to confirm a daytime crossing.
Day 13 San Blas Islands, Panama.
We arrive in Panama at the stunning San Blas archipelago. The archipelago is made up of over 400 islands which line the north coast of Panama with white sandy beaches set in a turquoise sea. The islands are home to the indigenous Kuna Indians who gained self-rule from the government of Panama in the 1920s and maintain their traditional way of life including the production of colourful fabric art known as ‘molas’. We will have time to take a nature walk or maybe enjoy a swim or snorkel from the beach.
Day 14 Cartagena.
After a morning at sea we arrive in Cartagena, one of the most fascinating cities in South America. This afternoon enjoy a guided walking tour of the colonial walled-city which is virtually surrounded by water and steeped in history, with a wealth of 16th and 17th century buildings and churches. Our guides will bring the history of the city to life as we walk its streets and ramparts. We will visit the 16th century Fort of San Felipe, Monastery of San Pedro Claver, the Plaza de la Aduana and Iglesia de Santo Domingo. Return to the ship for dinner as we remain moored overnight.
Day 15 Cartagena to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 16 London.
Arrive today.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
3rd January 2023 Itinerary
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 3 to 17 January 2023 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 2 Standard Stateroom | £7195 | £6895 |
| 3 Classic Stateroom | £7395 | £7095 |
| 4 Superior Stateroom | £7795 | £7495 |
| 5 Deluxe Stateroom | £8295 | £7995 |
| 6 Junior Suite | £8795 | £8495 |
| 7 Owner’s Suite | £9295 | £8995 |
| 8 Serenissima Suite | £9295 | £8995 |
| 10 Standard Single | £7195 | £6895 |
15th January 2023 Itinerary
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 15 to 30 January 2023 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 2 Standard Stateroom | £7495 | £7195 |
| 3 Classic Stateroom | £7695 | £7395 |
| 4 Superior Stateroom | £8095 | £7795 |
| 5 Deluxe Stateroom | £8595 | £8295 |
| 6 Junior Suite | £9095 | £8795 |
| 7 Owner’s Suite | £9595 | £9295 |
| 8 Serenissima Suite | £9595 | £9295 |
| 10 Standard Single | £7495 | £7195 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE030123/SCSE150123
Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight accommodation in San Jose with breakfast and lunch on day 2 (15 January departure date only) • 13 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes
Not Included: Travel insurance.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
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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.
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Information Directory
SHIP 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 & GrenadinesSHIP INFORMATION
AIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is air-conditioned throughout. Please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning.
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, 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
• 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 on board and delivered to your cabin each evening during the turn down service.
DINING, DRINKING & DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
The Venice Restaurant on board 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 on board 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.
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.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
If you require the laundry service, please leave your laundry bag together with the completed laundry list on your bed before 9.00 am. 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 on board.
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 to advise of any associated costs.
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.
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 9.00 am until 12.00 am. 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.
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.
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.
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 the 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.
WI-FI
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.
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 note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
Click below to download a copy of the Information Directory
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Cabin information
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to see more of Costa Rica, we are offering an extension which includes time spent exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest and Arenal.
Treetop walkway, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
The Itinerary
Day 1 Puerto Caldera to Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Disembark the MS Serenissima this morning and transfer to Monteverde enjoying lunch en-route. 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 explore the forest further 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 on 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 wish 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
16 to 22 January 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.
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If you would like to see more of Costa Rica, we are offering an extension which includes time spent exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest and Arenal.
Monteverde National Park
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to San Jose, Costa Rica.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. On arrival, transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. 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 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. After some time here to relax we will continue to Arenal and check in to the Kioro Hotel (or similar) for a two night stay. Dinner tonight will be at a local restaurant. (B, L, D)
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. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Arenal to Monteverde.
After breakfast we will start our stunning journey to Monteverde including a stop for lunch after which we will 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 (or similar) for a two night stay. Tonight we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B, L, D)
Day 5 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. 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. 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 at a local restaurant. (B, L, D)
Day 6 Monteverde to Puerto Caldera.
After breakfast and a morning at leisure in the hotel we will transfer to the MS Serenissima in Puerto Caldera with lunch en route and continue with the main cruise itinerary from Day 2. (B)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
11 to 16 January 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.
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