The Authentic Cruise Company

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Naturally Costa Rica

with Windstar Cruises
Jan. 03, 2026 - Jan. 11, 2026
9 days8 ports

Lush and vibrant, kissed by the sun and blessed with a breathtaking shoreline, the "rich coast" lives up to its name. Local naturalists highlight the region's history, flora, and fauna. Enjoy a catamaran and snorkeling adventure in Playa Flamingo, where you'll discover pristine beaches, beautiful reefs, and colorful marine life. Wander through Curu's dense tropical dry forests teeming with life before visiting Quepos for rainforest adventures and searching for red-backed squirrel monkeys in Manuel Antonio National Park.

  • Asia
  • british isles
  • Cambodia
  • Cherry Blossoms
  • Cruise
  • denmark
  • Dining
  • europe
  • family
  • iceland
  • ireland
  • Japan
  • Luxury Cruise
  • Monaco
  • Monte Carlo
  • scotland
  • Seabourn
  • Seabourn dining
  • Spring
  • The Mekong
  • Vietnam
  • wine

Itinerary

Day 1: Puerto Caldera
Day 2: Playa Flamingo
Day 3: Curú Wildlife Refuge
Day 4: Punta Leona
Day 5: Quepos (Puerto Quepos)
Day 6: Golfo Dulce
Day 7: Isla Parida
Day 9: Balboa (Panama City)
Day 1: Puerto Caldera

Day itinerary:

Located on the Gulf of Nicoya, the small town of Puerto Caldera is one of Costa Rica’s top attractions, perfect for travelers who like more off the beaten path destinations where the native Tico lifestyle can be experienced. It is the gateway to San Jose, Jaco and the big city of Puntarenas, plus Los Suenos and Tortuga Island. Carara National Park is nearby, the rainforest home to crocodiles, over 400 species of birds and is considered the most likely place to see scarlet macaws.

Day 2: Playa Flamingo

Day itinerary:

Playa Flamingo is considered one of Central America’s most beautiful beaches with it pristine blue water, exotic marine life, and some of the best deep sea fishing to be found. Located in Punta Salinas on the country’s Gold Coast, Playa Flamingo is the only full-service marina between Acapulco and Panama. Other water activities include year-round SCUBA diving, swimming, and snorkeling. The stunning and unspoiled white-sand beaches will remain in your memory for years to come.This port is accessed with a wet landing.

Day 3: Curú Wildlife Refuge

Located on the southeast tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, the Curu Wildlife Refuge is known for its pristine, white-sand beaches and impressive variety of species ranging from monkeys to sand crabs. In total the refuge covers 3,707 total acres and 656 feet of coastline. Travelers to the Curu Wildlife Refuge will quickly notice that they are in the minority at the site, with only a few people in the area among the abundance of animals and sea creatures. All of your senses will be captivated by this overwhelming amount of wildlife at the reserve, which offers some of the best eco-tourism in Costa Rica. Curu officially received support from the Costa Rican government to protect its wildlife in 1981 and the area officially became known as the Curu Wildlife Refuge in 1983. Today, the refuge is privately owned, extremely-well cared for and even more exclusive than many of the national parks in the country. If you’re looking to participate in some of the vast eco-tourism opportunities in Costa Rica, the refuge should be a top priority because of its exclusivity and the ability of visitors to personally interact with the diverse animal population. The refuge also features 17 peaceful trails, where travellers can check out this abundant wildlife in a number of different ecosystems, including mangrove swamps and both dry and wet tropical forests.

Day itinerary:

Located along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, the Curu Wildlife Reserve is an impressive nature reserve spanning 12 square kilometers. This biodiverse paradise is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike looking for a responsible way to experience Costa Rica’s forest and pristine beaches. Wander through dense tropical dry forests teeming with howler monkeys, capuchins, and a plethora of exotic birds or relax and bask in the sun on the beach.

Day 4: Punta Leona

Day itinerary:

Your wet landing will drop you off at Punta Leona Beach Club, a well-known private beach resort community located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Nestled amidst lush tropical rainforests, Punta Leona offers visitors a pristine and picturesque environment to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. The resort is known for its stunning white sand beach, Playa Mantas, and clear turquoise waters. Traverse the suspended cable bridges over the forest canopy in Carara National Park, or board a jungle cruise boat up the Tarcoles river to see one of the largest colonies of crocodiles in Costa Rica. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, Punta Leona provides a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. *This port is accessed by a wet landing and there may be a fee for using the resort amenities. Taxis and tours organized independently will need to be added to the resort guest list.*

Day 5: Quepos (Puerto Quepos)

Quepos allows tourists to experience a once in a lifetime nature experience in Manuel Antonio National Park without leaving any of the familiar amenities behind. The close proximity of the park, located just 4.3 miles (7 km) to the south, and a wide array of services makes Quepos the perfect place to visit for those who wish to explore this enchanting area. The amenities available include everything from banks, restaurants, hotels, gift shops, bakeries, bars, a hospital, supermarket and even a post office. The area was once dependent on banana plantations which used to line the surrounding area. After disease infiltrated the harvest, interest transferred to African Palms as the prominent crop. Now, tourism has deemed itself the major economic factor, contributing to just about everything in the area. Quepos lures in many tourists for its fantastic sport fishing. In fact, some have come solely to participate in this world class experience and have never left, but besides sport fishing, many other activities are available. Exploring this maze of wetlands by boat is amazing but not the only way to see crocodiles, monkeys, herons, raccoons and more. This small paradise has the perfect balance between nature and the comfort and facilities someone might need.

Day itinerary:

The former banana-exporting town of Quepos is your basecamp for a day of rainforest adventure. Take a walk along trails that weave up to waterfalls, or ride horseback to a beautiful jungle pool. A float trip through a mangrove swamp populated by monkeys, crocodiles, egrets, and herons is also available. Or you may choose a nature walk through Manuel Antonio National Park, with its lovely beaches, easy trails, and abundant animal life.

Day 6: Golfo Dulce

Wild, scenic and incredibly bio-diverse, Golfo Dulce is not on most tourists itineraries. The name, says it all, Golfo Dulce or sweet gulf, in English. After a well justified visit to the Golfo Dulce, located in the South Pacific region of Costa Rica, and adjacent to the Osa Peninsula, visitors will be delighted and perplexed, wondering why they would ever leave this wonderland. Several coastal hamlets reside along this enchanting gulf, namely Puerto Jiménez, Golfito, Zancudo and Pavones, as well as the Piedras Blancas National Park. This is one stop on the itinerary that won’t soon be forgotten. Easily one of the wettest and most humid sections in the country, Golfo Dulce and the southwest can receive more than 200 inches (500 cm) of rainfall per year. This assures the surrounding area will be thriving with wild and plant life, perfect for aspiring adventurers. Surrounded by Corcovado National Park to the southwest, and Costa Rica’s mainland to the northeast, Golfo Dulce serves up a large platter of entertainment for all who visit. Sprouting along the edges of the Golfo Dulce are mangroves and estuaries full of wildlife. Explore these ecosystems crowded with crocodiles, river otters, waterfowl, monkeys and much more. Fed by the Coto Colorado River, the Coto River Swamps are an excellent choice for discovering these uncanny wetlands and the secrets that lay within.

Day itinerary:

Picture Jurassic foliage growing down steep hillsides all the way to the waterline, the hoots of monkeys echoing through trees choked by orchids. Golfo Dulce is one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse areas, where both the jungle and the sea brim with life. Explore the canals by kayak in search of javelinas, butterflies, and more bird species than in all of North America.This port is accessed with a wet landing.

Day 7: Isla Parida

Day itinerary:

Located within a Nature Preserve of 50 islands, and part of Chiriqui Marine National Park lovely Isla Parida boasts magnificent beaches, one of which is over 1,300 feet long. The crystal clear waters stay at 82 degrees year round and are filled with marine life. There are numerous hardwood trees like teak, mahogany, and eucalyptus, and fruit trees like mango, banana and coconut trees. Here you will be treated to Windstar’s Signature Beach Party on a secluded beach that faces the Pacific Ocean.

Day 9: Balboa (Panama City)

Day itinerary:

Balboa, Panama City

Region Banner

Ship features

Grand Owner's Suite Midship

Grand Owner's Suite Midship

The Owner’s Suite Midship combines with the adjoining suite for a three bedroom and three bath suite totalling 1,374 square feet. Bring your friends and share the suite like a villa, or luxuriate with just the two of you for accommodations as unique as your travels. There’s no other suite like this at sea.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship

Owner's Suite Midship

A stunning brand new owner’s suites with 820 square feet of space featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms, a verandah, and plenty of space in the sitting area for entertaining. This is the most sought after suite on the entire ship and once you stay here, you’ll never stay anywhere else.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite

Star Porthole Suite

These rooms represent a nod the sailing tradition of porthole windows. And while sailors might have had cramped quarters, your 277 square foot stateroom is wonderfully spacious and furnished with all the modern amenities and comforts of home.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite
Owner's Suite Foward

Owner's Suite Foward

With 575 square feet, your Owner’s Suite offers separate living room and dining areas. A veranda, two interactive TVs, and a full master bath and separate powder room indulge you in spacious comfort.

*Please note this suite has a shower only

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite
Owner's Suite Foward
Classic Suites

Classic Suites

Relax in 400 to 530 spacious square feet. Your living area offers beautiful views from the forward-facing window and French doors onto your private veranda. Two spacious closets give you plenty of room to unpack.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite
Owner's Suite Foward
Classic Suites
Deluxe Suite

Deluxe Suite

Brand new Deluxe Suites welcome you with 468 square feet of casually elegant living space and an ocean viewing French balcony. All these suites feature 3rd berths, and a sleep-inducing queen bed easily converted to twins.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite
Owner's Suite Foward
Classic Suites
Deluxe Suite
Gracious Balcony

Gracious Balcony

Stylish comfort and ocean views welcome you in 277 square feet. Your queen bed (which can be separated as twins if you prefer) features luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy a luxurious soak in your full-size tub or an invigorating shower, then wrap up in your waffle-weave robe and slippers, savour a treat from the fresh fruit bowl, or simply stretch out and enjoy the fresh flowers.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite
Owner's Suite Foward
Classic Suites
Deluxe Suite
Gracious Balcony
Star Balcony Suite

Star Balcony Suite

As soon as you walk through the door, you’re greeted with an open living area for a more welcoming entrance. Drift off to sleep by the window in your queen bed as you watch the same stars that sailors used to navigate the seas hundreds of years ago.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite
Owner's Suite Foward
Classic Suites
Deluxe Suite
Gracious Balcony
Star Balcony Suite
Ocean View Suite

Ocean View Suite

Stylish comfort and ocean views welcome you in 277 square feet. Your queen bed (which can be separated as twins if you prefer) features luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy a luxurious soak in your full-size tub or an invigorating shower, then wrap up in your waffle-weave robe and slippers, savour a treat from the fresh fruit bowl, or simply stretch out and enjoy the fresh flowers.

Four suites with ocean view are modified accessible; they feature a shower with a small lip into shower, a step into the bathroom with a portable ramp, standard interior and exterior doorways.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite
Owner's Suite Foward
Classic Suites
Deluxe Suite
Gracious Balcony
Star Balcony Suite
Ocean View Suite
Star Ocean View Suite

Star Ocean View Suite

As soon as you walk through the door, you’re greeted with an open living area for a more welcoming entrance. Drift off to sleep by the window in your queen bed as you watch the same stars that sailors used to navigate the seas hundreds of years ago.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite
Owner's Suite Foward
Classic Suites
Deluxe Suite
Gracious Balcony
Star Balcony Suite
Ocean View Suite
Star Ocean View Suite
Sea Island Suite

Sea Island Suite

Available March 2024

This suite will offer a coastal airy space with curved arches, lovely “hardwood” floors, gorgeous inset carpeting, light walls, and white trim with black finishes. New antique-style furnishings and custom wallpapers have been specially commissioned in the resort’s style. You’ll never see a TV at Sea Island (they are all tucked away in cabinets), so you won’t see one in this suite, either. Historical black and white images of Sea Island will be on display.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite
Owner's Suite Foward
Classic Suites
Deluxe Suite
Gracious Balcony
Star Balcony Suite
Ocean View Suite
Star Ocean View Suite
Sea Island Suite
Broadmoor Suite

Broadmoor Suite

Available March 2024

Inspired by the design of The Broadmoor, the suite offers a traditional space with classic furniture, floral motifs, white trim with gold finishes, and wide crown moulding. New furnishings, and wall sconces have been specially commissioned in the resort’s style. The striking wallpaper used in the suite’s walk-in closet is an exact replica of the wallpaper used throughout The Broadmoor. The resort’s signature carpeting, with shades of light blue, brown, yellow and gold, was also recreated for the space. Historical black and white images of The Broadmoor will be on display.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises connects our guests with the world in style and comfort. Our small cruise ships carry fewer than 350 guests and dock in 150 ports. This intimacy provides you with the luxuries of time, space, and freedom to immerse yourself in both the journey and the destination - in ways you may never have imagined possible.
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    Banner Image

    Naturally Costa Rica

    with Windstar Cruises
    Jan. 03, 2026 - Jan. 11, 2026
    9 days8 ports

    Lush and vibrant, kissed by the sun and blessed with a breathtaking shoreline, the "rich coast" lives up to its name. Local naturalists highlight the region's history, flora, and fauna. Enjoy a catamaran and snorkeling adventure in Playa Flamingo, where you'll discover pristine beaches, beautiful reefs, and colorful marine life. Wander through Curu's dense tropical dry forests teeming with life before visiting Quepos for rainforest adventures and searching for red-backed squirrel monkeys in Manuel Antonio National Park.

    • Asia
    • british isles
    • Cambodia
    • Cherry Blossoms
    • Cruise
    • denmark
    • Dining
    • europe
    • family
    • iceland
    • ireland
    • Japan
    • Luxury Cruise
    • Monaco
    • Monte Carlo
    • scotland
    • Seabourn
    • Seabourn dining
    • Spring
    • The Mekong
    • Vietnam
    • wine

    Itinerary

    Day 1: Puerto Caldera
    Day 2: Playa Flamingo
    Day 3: Curú Wildlife Refuge
    Day 4: Punta Leona
    Day 5: Quepos (Puerto Quepos)
    Day 6: Golfo Dulce
    Day 7: Isla Parida
    Day 9: Balboa (Panama City)
    Day 1: Puerto Caldera

    Day itinerary:

    Located on the Gulf of Nicoya, the small town of Puerto Caldera is one of Costa Rica’s top attractions, perfect for travelers who like more off the beaten path destinations where the native Tico lifestyle can be experienced. It is the gateway to San Jose, Jaco and the big city of Puntarenas, plus Los Suenos and Tortuga Island. Carara National Park is nearby, the rainforest home to crocodiles, over 400 species of birds and is considered the most likely place to see scarlet macaws.

    Day 2: Playa Flamingo

    Day itinerary:

    Playa Flamingo is considered one of Central America’s most beautiful beaches with it pristine blue water, exotic marine life, and some of the best deep sea fishing to be found. Located in Punta Salinas on the country’s Gold Coast, Playa Flamingo is the only full-service marina between Acapulco and Panama. Other water activities include year-round SCUBA diving, swimming, and snorkeling. The stunning and unspoiled white-sand beaches will remain in your memory for years to come.This port is accessed with a wet landing.

    Day 3: Curú Wildlife Refuge

    Located on the southeast tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, the Curu Wildlife Refuge is known for its pristine, white-sand beaches and impressive variety of species ranging from monkeys to sand crabs. In total the refuge covers 3,707 total acres and 656 feet of coastline. Travelers to the Curu Wildlife Refuge will quickly notice that they are in the minority at the site, with only a few people in the area among the abundance of animals and sea creatures. All of your senses will be captivated by this overwhelming amount of wildlife at the reserve, which offers some of the best eco-tourism in Costa Rica. Curu officially received support from the Costa Rican government to protect its wildlife in 1981 and the area officially became known as the Curu Wildlife Refuge in 1983. Today, the refuge is privately owned, extremely-well cared for and even more exclusive than many of the national parks in the country. If you’re looking to participate in some of the vast eco-tourism opportunities in Costa Rica, the refuge should be a top priority because of its exclusivity and the ability of visitors to personally interact with the diverse animal population. The refuge also features 17 peaceful trails, where travellers can check out this abundant wildlife in a number of different ecosystems, including mangrove swamps and both dry and wet tropical forests.

    Day itinerary:

    Located along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, the Curu Wildlife Reserve is an impressive nature reserve spanning 12 square kilometers. This biodiverse paradise is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike looking for a responsible way to experience Costa Rica’s forest and pristine beaches. Wander through dense tropical dry forests teeming with howler monkeys, capuchins, and a plethora of exotic birds or relax and bask in the sun on the beach.

    Day 4: Punta Leona

    Day itinerary:

    Your wet landing will drop you off at Punta Leona Beach Club, a well-known private beach resort community located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Nestled amidst lush tropical rainforests, Punta Leona offers visitors a pristine and picturesque environment to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. The resort is known for its stunning white sand beach, Playa Mantas, and clear turquoise waters. Traverse the suspended cable bridges over the forest canopy in Carara National Park, or board a jungle cruise boat up the Tarcoles river to see one of the largest colonies of crocodiles in Costa Rica. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, Punta Leona provides a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. *This port is accessed by a wet landing and there may be a fee for using the resort amenities. Taxis and tours organized independently will need to be added to the resort guest list.*

    Day 5: Quepos (Puerto Quepos)

    Quepos allows tourists to experience a once in a lifetime nature experience in Manuel Antonio National Park without leaving any of the familiar amenities behind. The close proximity of the park, located just 4.3 miles (7 km) to the south, and a wide array of services makes Quepos the perfect place to visit for those who wish to explore this enchanting area. The amenities available include everything from banks, restaurants, hotels, gift shops, bakeries, bars, a hospital, supermarket and even a post office. The area was once dependent on banana plantations which used to line the surrounding area. After disease infiltrated the harvest, interest transferred to African Palms as the prominent crop. Now, tourism has deemed itself the major economic factor, contributing to just about everything in the area. Quepos lures in many tourists for its fantastic sport fishing. In fact, some have come solely to participate in this world class experience and have never left, but besides sport fishing, many other activities are available. Exploring this maze of wetlands by boat is amazing but not the only way to see crocodiles, monkeys, herons, raccoons and more. This small paradise has the perfect balance between nature and the comfort and facilities someone might need.

    Day itinerary:

    The former banana-exporting town of Quepos is your basecamp for a day of rainforest adventure. Take a walk along trails that weave up to waterfalls, or ride horseback to a beautiful jungle pool. A float trip through a mangrove swamp populated by monkeys, crocodiles, egrets, and herons is also available. Or you may choose a nature walk through Manuel Antonio National Park, with its lovely beaches, easy trails, and abundant animal life.

    Day 6: Golfo Dulce

    Wild, scenic and incredibly bio-diverse, Golfo Dulce is not on most tourists itineraries. The name, says it all, Golfo Dulce or sweet gulf, in English. After a well justified visit to the Golfo Dulce, located in the South Pacific region of Costa Rica, and adjacent to the Osa Peninsula, visitors will be delighted and perplexed, wondering why they would ever leave this wonderland. Several coastal hamlets reside along this enchanting gulf, namely Puerto Jiménez, Golfito, Zancudo and Pavones, as well as the Piedras Blancas National Park. This is one stop on the itinerary that won’t soon be forgotten. Easily one of the wettest and most humid sections in the country, Golfo Dulce and the southwest can receive more than 200 inches (500 cm) of rainfall per year. This assures the surrounding area will be thriving with wild and plant life, perfect for aspiring adventurers. Surrounded by Corcovado National Park to the southwest, and Costa Rica’s mainland to the northeast, Golfo Dulce serves up a large platter of entertainment for all who visit. Sprouting along the edges of the Golfo Dulce are mangroves and estuaries full of wildlife. Explore these ecosystems crowded with crocodiles, river otters, waterfowl, monkeys and much more. Fed by the Coto Colorado River, the Coto River Swamps are an excellent choice for discovering these uncanny wetlands and the secrets that lay within.

    Day itinerary:

    Picture Jurassic foliage growing down steep hillsides all the way to the waterline, the hoots of monkeys echoing through trees choked by orchids. Golfo Dulce is one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse areas, where both the jungle and the sea brim with life. Explore the canals by kayak in search of javelinas, butterflies, and more bird species than in all of North America.This port is accessed with a wet landing.

    Day 7: Isla Parida

    Day itinerary:

    Located within a Nature Preserve of 50 islands, and part of Chiriqui Marine National Park lovely Isla Parida boasts magnificent beaches, one of which is over 1,300 feet long. The crystal clear waters stay at 82 degrees year round and are filled with marine life. There are numerous hardwood trees like teak, mahogany, and eucalyptus, and fruit trees like mango, banana and coconut trees. Here you will be treated to Windstar’s Signature Beach Party on a secluded beach that faces the Pacific Ocean.

    Day 9: Balboa (Panama City)

    Day itinerary:

    Balboa, Panama City

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    Windstar Cruises

    Windstar Cruises connects our guests with the world in style and comfort. Our small cruise ships carry fewer than 350 guests and dock in 150 ports. This intimacy provides you with the luxuries of time, space, and freedom to immerse yourself in both the journey and the destination - in ways you may never have imagined possible.
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