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Hone Photography Skills, Marvel at the Wonders - Early Booking Savings Available
SEATTLE, July 9 -- The leading small-ship cruise line Cruise West is offering five specialty cruises in the paradise of Costa Rica & Panama this November and December 2007 onboard the 100-guest Pacific Explorer. Whether a photography or history buff, or interested in environmental issues, Cruise West's compelling expert lecturers reveal mysteries and offer a uniquely satisfying learning experience. Guests may also enjoy the holidays Central American style on either the Christmas or New Year's sailings, visiting a warm destination that is family-friendly and offers culture, sea and wildlife. Early booking savings are still available on these voyages with savings of up to $175 for guests who book and pay their trip in full by September 14, 2007.
The eight-day Coast to Canal departure on November 3 features Panama Canal expert and 30-year employee of the canal, Eileen Boyd, who will share her knowledge about the history and future expansion of the canal. Professional photographer and educator Charles Edwards joins the departure on November 10. Amateur photographers and novices who are looking to hone skills will enjoy Edwards' approachable teaching techniques and vast experience in travel photography. His images have been featured in numerous galleries across the country.
Sustainable tourism has become a hot topic in the travel industry, and Cruise West's Coast to Canal cruise provides the distinct experience of visiting untouched destinations and indigenous peoples that are difficult to reach other than by small ship. The December 1 cruise hosts expert Carlos Valerio, past professor at School of Biology and consultant to the National Institute of Biodiversity in Costa Rica, who will discuss the biodiversity, geology, climate and weather changes. Guests can expect this topic to complement the sights and sounds of this enriching voyage. All Coast to Canal cruises transit by day boat into parts of the Panama Canal and include tours of the Miraflores Lock, and visits to the remote Embera Village in the Darien Jungle, Coiba National Park, Golfo Dulce, Caletas Beach and Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its prolific wildlife and bird viewing.
The December 18 Between Two Seas 10-day holiday sailing follows the route of the Coast to Canal itinerary and also includes the San Blas Islands and a Kuna Indian Village, Portobelo and traverses the entire Panama Canal. Festive Costa Rican and Panamanian holiday activities complement a fun, relaxing Christmas among secluded islands and remote villages. Ring in Feliz Ano Nuevo on the December 27 New Year's sailing amid the comforts and amenities of the Pacific Explorer with a midnight toast and a late night buffet. Spend New Years Day in Coiba National Park that is considered one of the top 10 diving and snorkeling locations in the world.
Take advantage of the early booking savings of $125 by booking and making a deposit by September 14, 2007, and save an additional $50 by paying in full; total savings $175. Prices are as low as $3,074 per person for the Coast to Canal and $4,024 per person for the Between Two Seas holiday cruises with the maximum early booking savings. Prices are based on double occupancy. Pre- and post-Costa Rica land extensions are available. All cruises depart from San Jose, Costa Rica and end in Panama City or reverse. For additional information or to book a Cruise West cruise, call 1-800-296-8307 or visit www.cruisewest.com.
Up-Close, Casual and Personal Cruising
Cruise West offers the opportunity to explore remote and distinctive destinations throughout North and Central America, Asia and the South Pacific. Small-ship cruising allows for personalized experiences not offered by larger cruise lines. Guest capacities aboard Cruise West's nine ships range from 78- 138. Guests may expect personal enrichment through onboard narrative and presentations by local experts. The ships' forward lounges and ample outdoor deck space provide outstanding viewing opportunities, and inflatable boats allow for up-close exploration and shore landings.
Source: Cruise West
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