Crossing Horizons

From the art scene in Wynwood to the shores of Miami Beach, Florida's Magic City is a perfect collision of relaxation and tradition.

This multicultural city where the sun rules supreme is more than just a cruise port. Whether you're getting down at a taco shop-turned live music performance, immersing yourself in Cuban tradition in Little Havana or lounging on a yacht, Miami makes for one perfect destination.

PortMiami is Virgin Voyages home port and ships will dock at their private terminal overlooking the Miami skyline.

Named for Ireland’s legendary pirate queen Grace O’Malley, O’Malley’s has everything you need for a traditional Irish pub: great food, great drinks, lively music, a welcoming atmosphere… and craic! O’Malley’s is the perfect spot for celebrating with the whole family or cheering on your team over a Dubliner Burger.

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.

Experience “Voyage to the Stars Planetarium” bringing a stunning indoor planetarium to the sea, displaying real-time images of constellations, planets and galaxies to complement our live stargazing with "Discovery at SEA" experience.

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.

Corinto is often viewed as the gateway to Nicaragua's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. This port town offers an authentic glimpse into Nicaraguan life with its bustling marketplaces and colonial architecture. Cruise ships dock at the Port of Corinto, just 1.2km/0.75mi from the centre of town.

Explore the nearby city of León, renowned for its historic churches and revolutionary murals, or venture to the rum distilleries for a taste of the local spirit.

Nature enthusiasts will relish a trip to Volcan Cosiguina, just a short drive away. The volcano's summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Fonseca and El Salvador. The pristine beaches around Corinto also provide a perfect backdrop to unwind and enjoy the coastal scenery.

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.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Nicknamed the 'Pearl of the Pacific,' Acapulco is Mexico's most glamorous pacific resort. The city is famed for its splendid beauty and its superb weather with an average of 360 days of sunshine per year. Its lively promenade gives travellers a sense of modern Mexico with a creative food scene and excellent shopping. Ships will dock at the Terminal Maritima.

Top Things to Do in Acapulco:

• watch the cliff divers at La Quebrada
• take a jetboat ride on Puerto Marques Bay
• visit the Fort of San Diego
• explore La Roqueta Island

Seafood lovers, rejoice! Chef Rudi Sodamin, head of culinary arts, created a restaurant that’s just for you - The Catch, by Rudi. It’s a celebration of our connection with the sea, featuring a menu with everything from broils to bakes to bisques. Choose from seasonal dishes made with local ingredients (and love), a catch of the day, lobster, and a raw seafood bar.

Cabo San Lucas is the sunny resort town on the tip of Mexico’s Baja California. This colourful small town is known for its excellent big-game fishing, great diving spots and challenging surf waves. Ships will anchor offshore in Cabo San Lucas bay and tender guests to shore.

Top things to do in Cabo San Lucas:

• catch the sunset at El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
• snorkel the coral reefs along the Sea of Cortez
• relax on Medano beach
• explore nearby Todos Santos

Ovation of the Seas makes sea days a real highlight. Soar above the ocean in the North Star capsule or feel the rush with indoor skydiving at RipCord by iFLY. There’s fun for all ages at SeaPlex—think bumper cars and roller-skating—while foodies can dive into playful plates at Wonderland or enjoy a cozy Italian at Jamie’s. Evenings buzz with live music and Broadway-style shows.

Big Island, officially known as Hawaii Island, offers a diverse range of attractions and landscapes. Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to witness the awe-inspiring activity of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world's most active volcanoes. The park’s lava flows and unique geological features make it a must-see destination.

Head to the east side and explore Hilo's lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls like Rainbow Falls, and the serene Liliuokalani Gardens. The west side boasts sunny Kona, famous for its coffee farms and historic sites like Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. Don't miss a visit to the stunning black sand beaches of Punalu'u, where you might spot sea turtles basking in the sun.

The entire city of Hilo is like one giant greenhouse with spectacular tropical flowers at every turn. The vibe here is definitively Old Hawaii with well-preserved historic buildings, which date back to the turn of the century and showcase Hawaii's unique architecture. Explore the stunning Rainbow Falls, a picturesque waterfall set in a lush tropical landscape.

Nearby, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden showcases a vibrant array of exotic plants and flowers. Wander through the historic downtown area to find unique shops, local markets, and the Pacific Tsunami Museum, which offers insights into the region's natural history. For a peaceful retreat, visit Liliuokalani Gardens, a beautiful Japanese-style garden perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Maui, known as the "Valley Isle," is home to the world’s largest dormant volcano in Haleakalā National Park. The sunrise view from the summit is a spectacular experience, but the park's trails and unique flora and fauna are equally enchanting throughout the day. In the afternoon, head to the scenic Road to Hana, a winding drive that offers stunning coastal views, waterfalls, and lush rainforests. Stop by the charming town of Paia for a taste of local cuisine and unique boutiques.

A surplus of natural splendor and the genuine hospitality of its people have helped to make Maui, Hawaii's second most popular island. Explore the fascinating history of the town of Lahaina. Plant yourself on a pristine beach, or play one of the world's most beautiful golf courses.

Oahu, known as "The Gathering Place," is a vibrant blend of natural beauty and urban charm. From Honolulu's Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air shopping center in the world or alternatively for nature enthusiasts, hike up Diamond Head for breathtaking views or relax on the famous Waikiki Beach. For a taste of local life, visit the North Shore to witness world-class surfing and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to sample local delicacies at a luau, where traditional Hawaiian cuisine and entertainment create an unforgettable evening.

The big, blue Pacific and stunning Koolau mountains serve as a dramatic setting for Hawaii's largest city. Climb to the top of Diamond Head. Take a romantic sunset stroll on Waikiki Beach. Catch a glimpse of history by visiting Pearl Harbor and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

Oahu, known as "The Gathering Place," is a vibrant blend of natural beauty and urban charm. From Honolulu's Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air shopping center in the world or alternatively for nature enthusiasts, hike up Diamond Head for breathtaking views or relax on the famous Waikiki Beach. For a taste of local life, visit the North Shore to witness world-class surfing and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to sample local delicacies at a luau, where traditional Hawaiian cuisine and entertainment create an unforgettable evening.

Home to most of Oahu’s population, the port city of Honolulu extends across the southern shores of the island and offers multiple fascinating attractions. From Pearl Harbor to Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, there’s so much to discover on a cruise to Honolulu. Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art for beautiful art collections that reflect Hawaii’s contemporary cultural landscape, including superb Asian art and fascinating Pacific and Polynesian artifacts.

Experience the Hawaiian tropical rainforest on a short 2-mile hike along the Manoa Falls Trail or visit the 200-acre Lyon Arboretum, which has one of the largest collections of palm trees in the world and over 5,000 tropical species flourish. Then, head over to in Honolulu’s Chinatown neighborhood for tasty noodles, juicy dumplings, and fresh seafood..