Epic Caribbean Escape: Costa Rica to Barbados

Your exciting Central American adventure begins in the port city of Puerto Caldera, where you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht. From here, you’ll then embark on a memorable discovery of Panama and Costa Rica’s west coast.  Please book your flight to arrive into San Jose prior to 12:00 PM.

The Curú National Wildlife Refuge and Farm are situated in Nicoya Peninsula, in north-west Costa Rica. Some of the country’s most beautiful beaches and protected bays can be discovered here. Costa Rica’s first private national wildlife refuge is a prime example of a successful sustainable development program. You can still see cattle grazing, as well as tropical fruits cultivated here, such as mangoes. Youll also get to see Isla Tortuga, one of Costa Rica’s top destinations, approximately an hour away from the inviting shores of Nicoya Peninsula. Isla Tortuga boasts a pristine sandy beach fringed with palm trees, lapped by crystal-clear waters. You can relax at the beach, enjoy a hike, or go snorkelling in the transparent, turquoise waters. 

Welcome to Quepos, a small, booming harbour town, popular  as one of the prime spots for sport fishing, as well as gateway to the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park. As a tropical inlet backed by rainforest, the park offers a variety of outdoor adventures. After the fall of the banana plantation that laid the original foundations for the port, Quepos replaced its former industry with ecotourism – meaning there are now many other attractions to enjoy. Quepos is also frequented by numerous scientists and naturalists, who come to study this regions fantastic biodiversity. 

A ‘gulf within a gulf,’ Golfito Bay is known for its unspoiled landscapes, framed by the lush tropical mangroves of Corcovado and Piedras Blancas national parks. This is home to some of the richest biodiversity on the planet, and lies within one of the most vibrant destinations in Costa Rica. Here, eco-adventurers, boaters, surfers, and outdoor lovers come to explore and connect with nature, immersed in an array of fun and exciting activities. A hidden gem where the Costa Rican jungle meets the sea, Marina Golfito allows you to experience this Central American country from a stunning new perspective. 

Cebaco Island is situated in the province of Veraguas and part of the buffer zone for Coiba Island National Park. This is Panama’s third-largest island after Coiba Island and Isla del Rey. It is estimated, there are around 500 residents living on the island, mainly distributed in communities in the northern parts. Isla Cebaco is also popular for its gorgeous beaches.  

Darién National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Site, covering around 5,750-square kilometres (2,220-square miles). This vast park is among the largest and most precious protected areas in all of Central America, extending across almost the entire Panama-Colombia border, as well as a stretch to the Pacific Ocean. Darién National Park offers an exceptional variety of habitats – sandy beaches, rocky coasts, swamps, mangroves and tropical forests – which makes it a rich and welcoming habitat for diverse wildlife. There are two indigenous tribes, known to both Panama and Costa Rica, which reside today along the park’s riverbanks. 

Today, you’ll discover the Pearl Islands, located on the Pacific Coast of Panama, in the Gulf of Panama. Cruise to one of the 200 islands and islets, many, tiny and uninhabited and enjoy its superb beaches and beautiful coral reefs. The waters are alive with vibrant tropical fish and an incredible diversity of marine life, offering a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich underwater world. 

After breakfast, you can explore Panama City, Panama. One of the most cosmopolitan capitals in Central America, it is home to excellent museums, art galleries and the 16th century ruins of Panamá Viejo, the first European settlement along the Pacific. In the afternoon, you will be welcomed back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the next leg of your incredible journey.

Today, we pass through the Panama Canal, the most famous attraction in Panama. Considered one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Modern World,’ this man-made canal was built to significantly decrease the travel time for ships between the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Since its completion in 1914, the Panama Canal has seen in excess of 900,000 vessels and is regarded by many as a feat of engineering, which was originally considered impossible to build. On board your luxury yacht, you’ll experience this historic waterway for yourself.

Welcome to the San Blas archipelago, a group of islands located just north-west of Panama scattered across the sparkling Caribbean Sea. There are 378 islands within the archipelago, spread across an area of roughly 259-square-kilometres (100-square-miles). Most of the islands are uninhabited, but on some of the larger ones, you may get an opportunity to meet the native people, known as the Kunas. Formally called Kuna Yala (”Land of the Kuna”), San Blas is an autonomous territory of Panama, famed for its untouched nature and traditional culture.

Located along the coast of the Caribbean Sea, Cartagena de Indias uniquely combines the charm of colonial architecture and vibrancy of modern life. This dynamic port city is well-known for its fascinating cultural festivals, breathtaking landscapes and excellent cuisine. It also bears the legacies of storied Latin American history within its UNESCO World Heritage-listed walled Old Town and narrow stone walkways. As one of the most well-preserved cities in the Americas, Cartagena de Indias has inspired many artists throughout the ages.

The welcome sign to Santa Marta reads, “Here you can have it all” - alongside its beautiful beaches and vibrant city life, Santa Marta boasts a rich history and culture; the oldest remaining city in Colombia, dating back to 1525 and the nation’s first Spanish settlement.

The capital of Aruba, Oranjestad welcomes with a unique blend of old and modern, lending a special charm to this bustling harbour city. Enjoy strolling along the streets lined with a variety of boutiques and striking residential buildings. Among the remarkably well-preserved architecture is the green ‘Stadhuis’, which houses the City Hall. Another interesting site is the Aloe Museum and Factory, which dates back to 1890 and illustrates the fascinating story of aloe production, on which the economy was once dependent.

Today, you’ll stop at Willemstad, the charming capital of Curaçao and a vibrant port city renowned for its stunning blend of culture, rich history, and colourful architecture. Nestled along the southern coast of the island, Willemstad is divided into two main districts, Punda and Otrobanda, which are connected by the iconic Queen Emma Bridge, a pontoon bridge that swings open for ocean-going vessels.

This island group makes an attractive destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists alike, as all the islands offer excellent opportunities for snorkelling and swimming, as well as hiking. Bonaire, just off the north coast of Venezuela, is famous for its pioneering conservation efforts, with a large section of the island under protection status. Today, enjoy exploring Kralendijk, the colourful capital of Bonaire, popular for its heritage architecture and lovely sandy beaches.

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea, soaking up the stunning views from the comfort of your luxury yacht. Today, make the most of the yacht’s stylish spaces and exceptional facilities, extending to the inviting aqua pool, contemporary wellness zone and al fresco dining out on deck.

Today, you’ll arrive at Mayreau, the smallest of the Grenadines’ uninhabited islands, with a surface area of just four square kilometres (1.5-square miles). The population of Mayreau is no more than 250 residents, who live in the village on the island’s highest point, Station Hill. The charming little church and community centre at the top of the hill provide spectacular views across the islands. On a clear day, you can observe both Grenada and Saint Vincent, as well as other nearby islands, showcasing the vivid colours of the reefs and waters surrounding the Tobago Cays.

Discover Bequia Island, a hidden paradise in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, revealing idyllic, secluded spots and a distinct lack of traffic. This beautiful island offers visitors a chance to experience an authentic Caribbean lifestyle, without the hustle and bustle of mainstream beach tourism. Delight in exploring untouched pristine beaches and truly relax and unwind amid stunning nature.

After breakfast, take your time exploring Bridgetown, renowned for its cultural diversity, fantastic shopping and delicious cuisine. The historic centre of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a beautifully preserved example of British colonial settlements in the Caribbean. In the afternoon, step back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the final part of your journey to the Grenadines and Windward Islands.

This morning, you’ll depart Bridgetown and cruise to Speightstown. This charming town, located on the north-west coast of Barbados is famed for its rich history, vibrant culture and picturesque setting. Speightstown features an eclectic mix of colonial-era buildings, colourful shops, and modest residences. Many buildings here reflect the islands rich architectural heritage and come painted in distinctive pastel hues.

Welcome to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, a beautiful island-nation in the Caribbean Sea. The capital, Kingstown, is clustered around the bay on the island of Saint Vincent and offers excellent shopping and dining. Visit St. George’s Anglican Cathedral, an elegant Georgian-style church built around 1820, resplendent with colourful stained-glass windows. In the afternoon, your luxury yacht will sail onwards to Bequia Island.

Embedded in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Bequia Island  reveals a hidden paradise, with secluded peaceful spots and distinct lack of traffic. The island offers visitors a chance to experience an authentic Caribbean lifestyle without the hustle and bustle of mainstream beach tourism. Here, you can explore untouched pristine beaches and relax and unwind amid stunning natural beauty.

Today, you’ll arrive in Mayreau, the smallest of the Grenadines inhabited islands, measuring just 4—four-square kilometres (1.5-square miles), with a population of approximately 250 residents. From the charming church at the top of the island’s highest hill, on a clear day, you can see both Grenada and Saint Vincent islands, along with the vivid colours of the coral reefs and waters surrounding the Tobago Cays. In the evening, you’ll set sail for Union Island.

Union Island is renowned for its clear and calm turquoise waters and laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. Enjoy the stunning white-sand beaches encircled by lush tropical mountains and a tempting range of beachfront bars and restaurants. Today, why not spend a blissful day swimming and snorkelling off your yacht’s Marina Platform, enjoying Emerald Cruises complimentary array of exciting aquatic toys.

Today, we set sail for Tobago Cays, an awe-inspiring archipelago known universally as the ultimate paradise destination. Naturally, this is a popular yachting anchorage spot, where warm, sandy bottomed aquamarine waters are brimming with turtles, tropical fish, stingrays, and starfish. One of the islands beyond the reef, Petit Tabac, is where the popular film franchise, ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ (2017) was partly filmed.

Your time on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht comes to an end, returning to beautiful Bridgetown, Barbados. After bidding farewell to your crew and fellow guests, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home, or to continue your holiday.  Please book your flight to depart out of Bridgetown after 12:00 PM. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such, Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will be operated unaltered from the itinerary stated above.