A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

Delve into the tropical forests of Panama and Costa Rica and cross the legendary Panama Canal on an 8-day cruise, learning about Smithsonian’s scientific studies in the region as you explore a range of pristine ecosystems and meet the indigenous people that call them home. 

Starting at: $6,824 * Price includes special offer Make a Reservation Ask Us A Question or Call 855-330-1542
 Ships moving through a lock in the Panama Canal. Credit: Hemis/Alamy
Ships moving through a lock in the Panama Canal. Credit: Hemis/Alamy
 The scarlet macaw. Credit: Harvey Abernathey
The scarlet macaw. Credit: Harvey Abernathey
 Squirrel Monkey
Squirrel Monkey
 Exotic Poison Dart Frog
Exotic Poison Dart Frog
 Coati found in Panama
Coati found in Panama
 Metal Mark butterfly
Metal Mark butterfly
 One of the many locks of the Panama Canal
One of the many locks of the Panama Canal
 STRI scientist at work in lab
STRI scientist at work in lab
 Flora found in Panama
Flora found in Panama
 The delightful beaches of the San Blas Islands
The delightful beaches of the San Blas Islands
 Traditional <i>mola</i> art work of the San Blas Islands Credit: Danita Delimont/Alamy
Traditional mola art work of the San Blas Islands Credit: Danita Delimont/Alamy
 Display of traditional <i>molas</i> on the San Blas Islands Credit: Hemis/Alamy
Display of traditional molas on the San Blas Islands Credit: Hemis/Alamy

Panama and Costa Rica by Sea: The Natural Wonders of Central America

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

8 days from $6,824

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

Delve into the tropical forests of Panama and Costa Rica and cross the legendary Panama Canal on an 8-day cruise, learning about Smithsonian’s scientific studies in the region as you explore a range of pristine ecosystems and meet the indigenous people that call them home. 

or Call 855-330-1542

Tour Details

TOUR BROCHURE

brochure

WHAT OUR TRAVELERS SAY

Smithsonian Journeys packed more fascinating elements into a week-long trip to Panama and Costa Rica than I would have thought possible. Fabulous! 

- Rosalyn, J.

JOURNEYS DISPATCHES

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Ship

Le Bellot

Launched in 2020, Le Bellot is among a new fleet of luxury expedition ships launched by PONANT. These ships combine revolutionary design and a new standard of luxury. 
 
Spacious, Ocean-view Suites and Staterooms 
Each of the 92 elegant suites and staterooms features a private balcony, while Grand Deluxe Suites have a bay window and spacious private terrace. The deluxe, air-conditioned staterooms and suites (up to 484 square feet) have two twin beds that convert to one queen-size bed. Each cabin has a private bathroom with shower (bathtub in limited number of staterooms) and the luxurious amenities of a fine hotel, including individual climate control, satellite flat screen television, wireless Internet access, safe, minibar, full-length closet, writing desk/dressing table, and plush robes. 
 
Chic and Casual Dining 
International and regional cuisine are served in the stylish, spacious indoor-outdoor restaurant in a single, unassigned seating; at the casual pool deck grill; or from 24-hour room service. Continental and buffet breakfast, buffet lunch, afternoon tea, and a four-course dinner are served daily. Wine is served at your table during lunch and dinner and complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included throughout the cruise. 
 
Spacious Public Areas, Intimate Atmosphere, and World-Class Service 
The warm and inviting public areas accommodate all passengers comfortably. Enjoy sweeping views from the Observation Lounge and Main Lounge, both of which open to the outdoors, and lectures, cultural performances, or film screenings in the state-of-the-art theater. For your convenience, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship. 

The ship also features the first luxury underwater observatory, the Blue Eye, a multisensory underwater observation lounge that incorporates decor and technology to immerse you in the beauty of the ocean's ecosystem. Here, you can observe fascinating marine life through the large subaquatic windows while digital screens and the specially designed global listening system relay the sights and sound beneath the ocean surface.  

Other amenities aboard ship are a Sun Deck, swimming pool, beauty salon, spa and sauna, fitness room, and two elevators. In addition, there is a three-level marina platform with complimentary kayaking and snorkeling equipment, as well as 10 easily accessible Zodiacs.  

The highly trained, English-speaking international crew are personable and attentive, and the ship has an infirmary staffed with a doctor and nurse. 
 
Respect for the Environment 
The newest additions to a fleet that has been awarded the prestigious "Clean Ship" designation, a rarity among ocean-cruising vessels, these expedition ships are designed with energy efficient, advanced eco-friendly features that protect fragile marine ecosystems while providing a safe and comfortable voyage. 

 deck plan

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