A Tale Of Two Seas

Known as the 'cruise capital of the world', Port Miami is is considered to be the world’s busiest cruise ship port. Whether arriving or departing, aboard your cruise liner you can take in the superb view of the Miami skyline.

This multicultural city where the sun rules supreme is more than just a cruise port. Visitors from all over the world enjoy Miami’s famous Art Deco buildings, family-friendly zoos and romantic palm tree-lined streets filled with fantastic restaurants. Don’t forget about the white sandy beaches and year-round warm weather, perfect for relaxing before or after your Caribbean cruise from Miami.

Kingston is Jamaica's vibrant capital of and is a hub of culture, music, and history. Begin your exploration at the Bob Marley Museum, located in the reggae icon's former home. Stroll through Emancipation Park, known for its striking sculptures and lush greenery, perfect for a leisurely morning walk.

For a taste of local cuisine, head to Devon House, a beautiful colonial mansion offering an array of eateries and shops. Don’t miss the famous Devon House I-Scream, a local favorite. At the National Gallery of Jamaica you can admire works from some of the island’s most celebrated artists, capturing the essence of Jamaican culture.

Port Royal, located at the mouth of Kingston Harbour in Jamaica, is a historic site rich in pirate lore and colonial history. Once known as the "wickedest city on earth," it was a bustling hub for privateers and buccaneers. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of Fort Charles, one of the oldest structures in the area, and the fascinating Maritime Museum.

Santa Marta is the oldest city in Colombia and abounds with Spanish colonial charm. From the mangroves of Ciénaga Grande to the beaches of Tayrona National Park, Santa Marta offers a multitude of thrilling adventures. Ships will dock at Puerto de Colombia.

Top Things to Do in Santa Marta:

• hike to the Quebrada Valencia waterfalls
• learn about the Tairona culture Taironaka Indian Reserve
• visit the museum dedicated to Simon Bolivar
• explore Tayrona National Park
• visit the Cathedral of Santa Marta

Cartagena is a feast for the senses, with its consistently warm air, bright colours, history and nightlife. Filled with legends, romance and splendour, the walled city features Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and cultural sites. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Cartagena:

• join a walking tour through the city
• visit the Rosario Islands
• explore the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
• visit the chocolate or emerald museums
• wander the streets of Old Town and the Plaza Santo Domingo
  

The Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering, links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating global maritime trade. Stretching approximately 80km/50mi, this intricate waterway features three locks - Miraflores, Pedro Miguel, and Gatun - that elevate and lower vessels to overcome the variation in sea levels.

The Miraflores Locks' visitor center offers an insightful experience, allowing observers to witness massive ships navigating the locks. The Gatun Locks, a crucial part of the canal, showcase the impressive process of raising and lowering water levels to enable the passage of ships.

Traversing the Panama Canal provides a firsthand glimpse into the intricate operations that have shaped international shipping for over a century.

Puntarenas beckons with its rich tapestry of lush landscapes making it a vibrant spot for adventure and relaxation. This coastal city is a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering thrilling activities like zip-lining and river rafting amidst its natural parks, and is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts eager to spot sloths, scarlet macaws, and capuchin monkeys in their natural habitats.

The city's history is as rich as its landscapes, from its indigenous roots to its emergence as a vital coffee exporting hub. Today, Puntarenas thrives with cultural landmarks such as the Casa de la Cultura and the Marine History Museum, blending educational experiences with natural exploration. Whether it's wandering through the Paseo de los Turistas, visiting the NATUWA Macaw Sanctuary, or exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Puntarenas offers a unique blend of cultural and ecological wonders for every traveller.

Puerto Caldera's cruise terminal is approximately 23 kilometers (about 14 miles) from the city of Puntarenas, around 30 minutes away. For transportation, you can opt for taxis, which are readily available at the port, or consider an organized shore excursion to maximize your visit. A must-see is the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, offering a glimpse into the country's diverse flora and fauna.

San Juan del Sur, located on Nicaragua's Pacific coast, is primarily a tender port, with cruise ships anchoring offshore and passengers ferried to the town via small boats. This charming beach town is just a short walk from the tender dock, allowing visitors immediate access to its numerous attractions.

San Juan del Sur offers a laid-back atmosphere with a beautiful crescent-shaped bay that's perfect for swimming and sunbathing. For those looking for adventure, the surrounding area is known for excellent surfing spots and ecological tours, including zip-lining through the lush Nicaraguan forest. The town itself is dotted with vibrant local eateries and bars where visitors can sample fresh seafood and traditional Nicaraguan dishes.

Acajutla, located on the Pacific coast of El Salvador, is the primary seaport for cruise ships entering the country. Cruise ships docking at Acajutla are perfectly positioned for exploration, with the nearby Tazumal ruins in Chalchuapa representing some of the most well-preserved Mayan architecture in Central America.

The Ruta de las Flores, a scenic route through charming villages and coffee plantations, is particularly appealing for those interested in authentic experiences. Acajutla itself provides a rare glimpse into the maritime and economic life of El Salvador, with the port situated roughly 84 kilometers (52 miles) west of the capital, San Salvador (travel time of about an 1h 15m).

Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala’s principal Pacific Ocean port, is a gateway to some of the country’s most captivating attractions. While primarily a launch point for nearby destinations, its proximity to key sites allows visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of local culture and history swiftly. From here, the colonial beauty of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and stunning volcano views, is easily accessible (approx. 1hr15m drive - 90 km/56mi away).

For those interested in the natural beauty of Guatemala, the surrounding area offers activities such as visits to coffee plantations in the highlands where the unique, aromatic beans are cultivated. Additionally, the coastal town of Monterrico is within reach, known for its black volcanic sand beaches and as a nesting ground for sea turtles, making Puerto Quetzal a strategic starting point for exploring Guatemala’s diverse landscapes.

Huatulco is a resort region known for its nine beautiful bays and thirty-six pristine beaches. This area is celebrated not only for its scenic beauty but also for its commitment to environmental sustainability, with much of the land designated as a protected national park. The clear, calm waters make it ideal for snorkelling, scuba diving, and kayaking, especially around the reefs of Chachacual Bay.

Huatulco also offers a rich cultural experience with its lively markets and local festivals. Visitors can explore the small traditional communities nearby, sampling Oaxacan cuisine, which is famed for its complex flavours and indigenous ingredients.

Puerto Vallarta, nestled on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is famed for its vibrant arts scene and stunning natural beauty. The city balances quaint, traditional Mexican charm with the sophistication of a modern resort town. Art enthusiasts are drawn to the numerous galleries along its cobbled streets and the iconic sculptures that line the Malecón, a seaside promenade.

The area is encircled by lush jungles and clear blue waters. Beaches like Playa Los Muertos offer sunbathing and water sports, while nearby, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens provide a tranquil escape with native flora and fauna. For an authentic taste of local life, the Olas Altas Farmers Market showcases crafts, food, and music, enriching any visit to Puerto Vallarta.

Los Angeles, a sprawling Southern California city, is famed not only for its influence on the entertainment industry but also for its diverse cultural offerings and sunny coastline. Highlights include the Getty Center, where art and stunning architecture meet in an expansive hilltop setting, and the historic Griffith Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the city and beyond.

For those disembarking mid-morning, a stroll through the vibrant streets of Santa Monica or a visit to the eclectic Venice Beach Boardwalk provides a perfect slice of local life. Both are excellent spots to enjoy the quintessential SoCal sun, sand, and surf, complete with shops, street performers, and seaside eateries.