Costa Rica Cruises

Explore the Natural Wonders of Costa Rica: Your Next Cruise Adventure

Welcome to Costa Rica, a small, yet stunning gem nestled in Central America, known for its rich biodiversity, lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. The country's commitment to environmental conservation is evident through its numerous national parks and protected areas, which provide exceptional opportunities for adventures in nature. Did you know that Costa Rica boasts over 200 volcanic formations, including the active Arenal Volcano? With such diverse landscapes and ecosystems, cruising to Costa Rica allows you to experience a delightful combination of thrilling outdoor activities, serene beaches, and colourful local culture all in one go.

Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Costa Rica

• Princess Cruises features a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 sailing toward the enchanting shores of Costa Rica. The Island Princess and Coral Princess are particularly popular, renowned for their excellent dining options and onboard entertainment. Each vessel is equipped with multiple restaurants and theatres that provide high-quality entertainment and culinary experiences at sea. Departures from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles make it easy for you to begin your exciting Costa Rican adventure.
• Norwegian Cruise Line boasts a fleet of 20 ships, with 8 of them visiting Costa Rica. The Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Jade stand out for their contemporary design and diverse onboard activities, including water slides and Broadway-style shows. Guests can enjoy a wide variety of dining choices, catering to all tastes. Typical departures occur from Miami or Los Angeles, making it convenient to journey to Costa Rica.
• Holland America Line operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 4 offering itineraries to Costa Rica. The Rotterdam and Zuiderdam are particularly known for their focus on cultural enrichment and fine dining. Guests can enjoy cooking demonstrations and wine tastings while aboard, making every meal a delightful experience. Departures from Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver easily lead you to Costa Rica’s picturesque coastline.
• Carnival Cruise Line has a fleet of 27 ships, with 7 providing access to Costa Rica. The Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle feature a fun and energetic atmosphere, with various pools, water parks, and family-friendly entertainment options. The diverse cuisine caters to guests of all ages, ensuring a memorable time. Departures mostly take place from Tampa or Galveston, making it straightforward to reach Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
• MSC Cruises features 23 ships in their fleet, with 2 including itineraries to Costa Rica. The MSC Divina and MSC Magnifica are celebrated for their elegant design and incredible service. Guests can enjoy a range of culinary experiences alongside an array of entertainment options. Most cruises depart from Miami or even Rome, inviting you to explore Costa Rica from various exciting starting points.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in Costa Rica

• Oceania Cruises operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 of them cruising to Costa Rica. The Vista and Insignia are highly regarded for their exceptional culinary offerings and intimate atmosphere. Renowned for high-quality dining, Oceania provides gourmet experiences for food lovers. Departures from various ports like Miami or Los Angeles ensure easy access to the stunning beauty of Costa Rica.
• Azamara Cruises features a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 of them sailing to Costa Rica. Both the Azamara Onward and Azamara Journey offer unique experiences focused on local cultures and immersive excursions. Their smaller size allows them to visit hidden gems that larger ships cannot, enriching your experience. Departures typically occur from Miami or Panama City, giving you a range of options to start your coastal adventure.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with Balmoral and Borealis providing a charming experience for those seeking a more intimate cruise. Known for their warm service and close-knit atmosphere, these ships allow you to feel at home while exploring Costa Rica. Departing from Southampton or Puerto Limón, cruising with Fred Olsen makes for a memorable journey.
• Explora Journeys features 2 ships in its fleet, with EXPLORA II being the unique choice for journeys to Costa Rica. Focused on luxury experiences and showcasing local cultures, this vessel offers a sophisticated cruising experience. Most cruises depart from Miami, ensuring a classy launch into your Costa Rican adventure.

Must-Visit Harbours in Costa Rica

• Puerto Caldera - As the main gateway for cruise ships in Costa Rica, Puerto Caldera is known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to popular destinations such as Jaco and Manuel Antonio National Park. Spend your time exploring lush jungles, pristine beaches, and vibrant wildlife or indulge in thrilling water activities like surfing and kayaking. Don’t miss the chance to taste local delicacies in nearby restaurants that offer authentic Costa Rican cuisine!
• Puerto Limón - This charming Caribbean port is close to some of Costa Rica's most celebrated natural attractions. Tour the renowned Tortuguero National Park, famous for its effort in protecting sea turtles and their nesting habits. Sample fresh tropical fruits at local markets or take a guided excursion to Cahuita National Park, where you can hike through stunning landscapes and observe wildlife in its natural habitat.

Ports Typically Visited Before or After Costa Rica

• Cartagena, Colombia - Renowned for its colonial architecture and history, a visit to Cartagena offers a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Colombia. Stroll through the walled city, explore Castillo San Felipe, or enjoy local cuisine at a seaside restaurant to sample fresh seafood.
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA - Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant city life, Fort Lauderdale offers great shopping and dining opportunities. After arriving from your cruise, explore the local attractions such as the Bonnet House Museum or indulge in a relaxing day at the beach.
• Miami, Florida, USA - Thrumming with culture and energy, Miami invites visitors to experience its glamorous nightlife, stunning beachside, and diverse culinary scene. Visit iconic locations like Art Deco Historic District or embark on a food tour to sample the city’s rich Caribbean and Latin flavours.
• Panama Canal, Panama - A marvel of engineering, traversing the Panama Canal makes for one of the most fascinating cruise experiences. Witness the gigantic ships transiting while you delve into the unique ecosystems that surround this incredible waterway.
• Aruba - This tropical paradise offers pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and delightful local cuisine. Enjoy a relaxing day sunbathing, snorkelling, or exploring the island’s unique desert-like landscapes while taking in sweeping ocean views.

Seasonal Highlights in Costa Rica

Cruising to Costa Rica offers fantastic experiences throughout the year. From January to March, the high season brings sunshine and pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, ideal for exploring tropical attractions. Springtime stretches from April to June, with slightly warmer temperatures between 22°C to 32°C, welcoming frequent rain but lush landscapes and abundant wildlife. The summer months of July to September often experience warmer conditions, ranging from 23°C to 34°C, making it perfect for beach lovers and outdoor adventures. Autumn, from October to December, gradually cools down, with temperatures between 20°C and 28°C; plus, expect beautiful views as the lush greenery thrives from the rainy season!

Cost of Cruising to Costa Rica

Considering a cruise to Costa Rica? Typical costs range from £800 to £1,500 per person for a week-long cruise and from £1,600 to £3,000 for a two-week voyage. Luxury cruising can elevate prices, starting around £2,200 weekly. Dining ashore can range from £15 to £45, showcasing incredible local cuisine skilfully prepared. Drink prices usually range from £2 to £10, depending on your preferences.

Alternative Regions Worth Exploring

If you’re intrigued by Costa Rica but would like to explore different regions, consider these appealing alternatives:

• Caribbean - With stunning turquoise waters and vivid coral reefs, the Caribbean offers relaxation, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural experiences across its many islands.
• Panama - Explore the dramatic landscapes, rich history, and cultural diversity of Panama. Witness the outstanding engineering feat of the Panama Canal while delving into the vibrant capital city, Panama City.
• South America - Experience the vibrant cultures and diverse ecosystems of South America. From the Andes Mountains to the Amazon rainforest, there are endless adventure possibilities waiting to be uncovered.
• Bahamas - A haven of beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Bahamas is perfect for relaxation and enjoyment of aquatic activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or simply soaking up the sun.
• Mexico's Riviera Maya - Known for its stunning beaches and Mayan ruins, this region offers a unique cultural experience paired with paradise-like scenery, perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.

With spectacular landscapes, exciting wildlife, and an incredible commitment to ecotourism, booking your cruise vacation to Costa Rica with Cruise1st guarantees an adventure you won’t soon forget. Get ready to uncover the vibrant beauty of this Central American treasure!