Cocos IslandDive in to adventure with a rare visit to Cocos Island, a breathtaking tropical paradise off the coast of Costa Rica. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is off the beaten path of most cruise lines, but offers rich rewards to its rare visitors. Caverns rumored to hold pirated Incan treasure, the world’s largest population of hammerhead sharks, 90 species of birds and outstanding kayaking and snorkeling are just a few of the attractions. Said to have been the inspirations for both Jurassic Park and Treasure Island, Cocos Island lures adventurers with its wildlife-rich waters, gorgeous scenery and tales of hidden plunder. The jewel of the Costa Rican park system, Cocos Island was once called “the most beautiful island in the world” by Jacques Cousteau and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Join our special guest speakers Stephen and Christopher Weston on this adventure.
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| | Cruise OnlyDay
01 | San Jose/Los Suenos
Arrive in San Jose, capital of Costa Rica, and transfer to the resort city of Los Suenos where you’ll board your ship, Pacific Explorer. As we depart for Cocos Island, bid adieu to the everyday world and prepare for a week of adventure. D | Day
02 | At Sea
Cocos Island lies about 300 miles off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica between the mainland and the Galapagos Islands. As we make our way there, you’ll have a chance to settle into your home on the Pacific Explorer. The ship holds just 100 guests and all staterooms offer ocean views. During the passage, our onboard Enrichment Program will enlighten you about various aspects of your upcoming destination.
Cocos Island was discovered in 1526, and was a popular stopover for pirates and whalers to take on fresh water, firewood and coconuts. It’s said to be the largest uninhabited island in the world at about 10 square miles, although there are a few “temporary” residents. A handful of Costa Rican Park Rangers live here to oversee the island and the twelve miles of water around it that are also protected. Tourists are only allowed ashore with the approval of the park rangers, and no one is allowed to stay overnight or collect any of the island’s flora or fauna. Just think: you will be one of just a very small number of people who have ever set foot on this pristine oasis in the Pacific. BLD | Day
03 | Explore Cocos Island
As we approach Cocos Island, you’ll notice the rugged landscape topped by four peaks often obscured in clouds. An emerald evergreen forest coats the island right down to the water line, punctuated by over 200 streaming waterfalls, some plunging great distances into the beautiful cobalt sea.
“…a very charming Place, and delightful to several of the Sense at once.” That’s what Lionel Wafer, a surgeon on the ship Bachelor’s Delight, had to say when he visited Cocos Island in the late 1600s. His name has been given to one of the two best landing beaches on the island, and we’ll spend part of our day here at Wafer Bay.
Depending on the tide, you may notice a tunnel or deep cave on the north side of the bay as we enter. It’s visible both above and below the water level, but the strong surges make it impossible to enter. Wafer Bay is home to the larger of two ranger stations on the island. We’ll go ashore here and you’ll have your choice of two activities—either a guided walk, or a Zodiac tour to the caverns with bird watching along the way.
Cocos Island is actually the top of a submerged volcanic mountain range. It’s never been linked to a continent so the flora and fauna here either developed indigenously or arrived long-distance from the Americas. Its rocky nature is apparent in the roots of the giant fig trees, which arch in the air like mangrove roots, unable to find much purchase in the rocky ground. The bird life here is prolific with some 90 species, but because the island is so “young”—just a few million years old—only three of these are endemic: the Cocos Flycatcher, Cocos Cuckoo and Cocos Finch. As we walk, we may be accompanied by curious white terns—dove-like white birds known as Espiritu Santo, or the Holy Ghost bird.
These volcanic origins also account for many of the caves found both above and below the water line. If you choose to explore the island’s caverns, keep your eyes open for glittering gold. It’s speculated that pirates hid tons of stolen Incan treasure here, although more than 300 treasure-hunting expeditions have failed to turn up the loot.
In the afternoon we’ll head to Chatham Beach. If you like, you can go kayaking or snorkeling in the waters where Jacques Cousteau once spent two months making a documentary. Butterfly and damselfish are just a few of the species that can be seen roaming the reef for food.
Due to the cold Humboldt current, the unique meeting point between deep and shallow water and the freedom from pollution, the coral reefs here are very healthy. As a result, “feeder” species have proliferated, attracting large pelagic species. Divers come from all over to dive with the world’s largest population of hammerhead sharks, as well as whale sharks, nurse sharks, white- and black-tipped sharks, manta rays and eagle rays, pilot whales, orcas, dolphins, green turtles, hawksbill turtles, olive Ridley turtles and more. The area is also home to 300 species of fish including large numbers of marlin, sailfish and yellow fin tuna. Not surprisingly, the area has been named one of the top 10 scuba diving spots in the world. BLD | Day
04 | Explore Cocos Island
This morning you have two options: go ashore for a guided walk to Chatham Bay or take a Zodiac tour in the caverns with bird watching along the way.
The smaller of the two ranger stations is located at Chatham Bay. This is also where you’ll find a rather unique “guest book”—hundreds of inscriptions chiseled in boulders dating from the late 18th to the 20th century. The oldest dates to 1846. Take a few minutes to photograph the inscriptions if you like.
Among its many claims to fame, Cocos is the only oceanic island in the eastern Pacific region that has tropical moist forests and cloud forests. Admire the native flora as we walk—the many different types of Epiphytes as orchids, tree ferns, and stunted iron trees named for their dense wood. Cocos Island is a baby by geologic standards. As such it’s only developed a handful of endemic species—two species of lizard and three birds. There are no native mammals (although pigs, feral cats, deer and rats have all been introduced). No frogs, amphibians or snakes either.
In the afternoon we’ll head over to Chatham Beach where you can go snorkeling or kayaking in the pristine waters. While snorkeling, be aware of the curious nature of the hammerhead sharks, which sometimes will follow the Exploration Leader on his or her ascent after free diving. While the hammerhead is the most sought-after prize to see on trips to Cocos, there are many other species of shark present as well. During the night the ship will reposition to Rio Genio. BLD | Day
05 | Explore Cocos Island
Early visitors thought there must be a lake on Cocos that fed all the many streams that turn into gorgeous waterfalls throughout the island, but none has been found (although parts of the island remain “uncharted” even to the rangers who live here). Wherever they come from, the rivers nourish their own little ecosystems, and this morning you’ll have a chance to explore that of Rio Genio, including possible sightings of great blue heron and great egrets. We’ll also stop by Wafer Bay House, the main park ranger station. If you prefer, you can spend the morning again exploring the caverns and birdlife of Cocos.
In the afternoon, you may choose to go snorkeling and kayaking in the small islands around Cocos. Many species of seagoing birds nest and roost here.
As we leave the island, you’ll have a chance to observe the majestic waterfalls that drop dozens of feet from the cliffs on the windward side of the island. After dinner, enjoy a Farewell Latin Party on the sundeck. BLD | Day
06 | At Sea
Today is a day of leisure as we make the transit back to the mainland. Visit with your new friends or dive into that novel you’ve been too busy to read all week. BLD | Day
07 | Los Suenos/San Jose
This morning you’ll disembark and transfer to San Jose for your return flight. If you have time, you might want to explore San Jose a bit before your departure. San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica, situated high in the Central Valley between gorgeous green volcanic and tectonic mountain ranges. Built after the colonial period, it’s always been pretty modern and forward looking. Thanks to profits from the coffee industry, this was the second city in the Americas to install electricity. It has its quirks though. Even though the city has a million people, there is no home mail delivery and there are no street addresses here, or anywhere else in Costa Rica for that matter. People navigate by landmarks. Enjoy your visit, and your flight home. B |
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner Cruise + Highlights of Costa RicaDay
01 | San Jose
Arrive in San Jose and transfer to the Hotel Crowne Plaza Corobici. Enjoy a day exploring San Jose at leisure.
San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica, situated high in the Central Valley between gorgeous green volcanic and tectonic mountain ranges. Built after the colonial period, it’s always been pretty modern and forward looking. Thanks to profits from the coffee industry, this was the second city in the Americas to install electricity. It has its quirks though. Even though the city has a million people, there is no home mail delivery and there are no street addresses here, or anywhere else in Costa Rica for that matter. People navigate by landmarks. B | Day
02 | Doka Coffee Tour, City Tour, Sarapiquí
Start your morning with a visit to the Doka Estate Coffee Plantation and tour the fields, coffee mill and of course, the sampling room. Return to San José for a city tour including a visit to the world-class Gold Museum and the artisan workshops of Moravia. Afterwards, transfer to your hotel in Sarapiquí, a short distance north of San José. BLD | Day
03 | Your Choice: Adventure or Culture
Choose 1 of 2 full-day tours. If you’re feeling adventurous, choose two activities at Hacienda Pozo Azul including horseback riding, a canopy zip line tour, a river float or rafting trip or an easy nature hike and butterfly garden tour. If you want to learn about the natural and cultural history of the Neotropics, head to the impressive Museum of Indigenous Cultures. You’ll also visit cacao and pineapple plantations where you’ll learn how these crops are processed and have a chance to taste delicious chocolate and piña coladas. Overnight in Sarapiquí. BLD | Day
04 | Cultural Exploration, Arenal
Travel to La Casona Rio Fortuna, a 100-year-old estate that immerses you in the cultural traditions of the area. Watch tortillas being made on a traditional wood stove and enjoy cafecito and a tortilla made just for you. Head to a local elementary school where the children will perform local folk dances and invite you to help with their reforestation project by planting a tree. A hearty lunch at La Casona is cooked by wood stove using local ingredients. Check in to your hotel in Arenal with the rest of the day at your leisure. BLD | Day
05 | Caño Negro and Arenal Volcano Hot Springs
Board a boat for a trip down the Rio Frio. In addition to bird life including roseate spoonbills and wood storks, you may also spot caimans, sloth and monkeys. Lunch on the banks of the river. In the afternoon, travel to Arenal Volcano Hot Springs where you’ll have a chance to soak in the relaxing waters before dinner. If weather allows, you might see Arenal’s impressive nighttime lava eruptions. BLD | Day
06 | San Jose/Los Suenos
Transfer to the resort city of Los Suenos where you’ll board your ship, Pacific Explorer. As we depart for Cocos Island, bid adieu to the everyday world and prepare for a week of adventure. D | Day
07 | At Sea
Cocos Island lies about 300 miles off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica between the mainland and the Galapagos Islands. As we make our way there, you’ll have a chance to settle into your home on the Pacific Explorer. The ship holds just 100 guests and all staterooms offer ocean views. During the passage, our onboard Enrichment Program will enlighten you about various aspects of your upcoming destination.
Cocos Island was discovered in 1526, and was a popular stopover for pirates and whalers to take on fresh water, firewood and coconuts. It’s said to be the largest uninhabited island in the world at about 10 square miles, although there are a few “temporary” residents. A handful of Costa Rican Park Rangers live here to oversee the island and the twelve miles of water around it that are also protected. Tourists are only allowed ashore with the approval of the park rangers, and no one is allowed to stay overnight or collect any of the island’s flora or fauna. Just think: you will be one of just a very small number of people who have ever set foot on this pristine oasis in the Pacific. BLD | Day
08 | Explore Cocos Island
As we approach Cocos Island, you’ll notice the rugged landscape topped by four peaks often obscured in clouds. An emerald evergreen forest coats the island right down to the water line, punctuated by over 200 streaming waterfalls, some plunging great distances into the beautiful cobalt sea.
“…a very charming Place, and delightful to several of the Sense at once.” That’s what Lionel Wafer, a surgeon on the ship Bachelor’s Delight, had to say when he visited Cocos Island in the late 1600s. His name has been given to one of the two best landing beaches on the island, and we’ll spend part of our day here at Wafer Bay.
Depending on the tide, you may notice a tunnel or deep cave on the north side of the bay as we enter. It’s visible both above and below the water level, but the strong surges make it impossible to enter. Wafer Bay is home to the larger of two ranger stations on the island. We’ll go ashore here and you’ll have your choice of two activities—either a guided walk, or a Zodiac tour to the caverns with bird watching along the way.
Cocos Island is actually the top of a submerged volcanic mountain range. It’s never been linked to a continent so the flora and fauna here either developed indigenously or arrived long-distance from the Americas. Its rocky nature is apparent in the roots of the giant fig trees, which arch in the air like mangrove roots, unable to find much purchase in the rocky ground. The bird life here is prolific with some 90 species, but because the island is so “young”—just a few million years old—only three of these are endemic: the Cocos Flycatcher, Cocos Cuckoo and Cocos Finch. As we walk, we may be accompanied by curious white terns—dove-like white birds known as Espiritu Santo, or the Holy Ghost bird.
These volcanic origins also account for many of the caves found both above and below the water line. If you choose to explore the island’s caverns, keep your eyes open for glittering gold. It’s speculated that pirates hid tons of stolen Incan treasure here, although more than 300 treasure-hunting expeditions have failed to turn up the loot.
In the afternoon we’ll head to Chatham Beach. If you like, you can go kayaking or snorkeling in the waters where Jacques Cousteau once spent two months making a documentary. Butterfly and damselfish are just a few of the species that can be seen roaming the reef for food.
Due to the cold Humboldt current, the unique meeting point between deep and shallow water and the freedom from pollution, the coral reefs here are very healthy. As a result, “feeder” species have proliferated, attracting large pelagic species. Divers come from all over to dive with the world’s largest population of hammerhead sharks, as well as whale sharks, nurse sharks, white- and black-tipped sharks, manta rays and eagle rays, pilot whales, orcas, dolphins, green turtles, hawksbill turtles, olive Ridley turtles and more. The area is also home to 300 species of fish including large numbers of marlin, sailfish and yellow fin tuna. Not surprisingly, the area has been named one of the top 10 scuba diving spots in the world. BLD | Day
09 | Explore Cocos Island
This morning you have two options: go ashore for a guided walk to Chatham Bay or take a Zodiac tour in the caverns with bird watching along the way.
The smaller of the two ranger stations is located at Chatham Bay. This is also where you’ll find a rather unique “guest book”—hundreds of inscriptions chiseled in boulders dating from the late 18th to the 20th century. The oldest dates to 1846. Take a few minutes to photograph the inscriptions if you like.
Among its many claims to fame, Cocos is the only oceanic island in the eastern Pacific region that has tropical moist forests and cloud forests. Admire the native flora as we walk—the many different types of Epiphytes as orchids, tree ferns, and stunted iron trees named for their dense wood. Cocos Island is a baby by geologic standards. As such it’s only developed a handful of endemic species—two species of lizard and three birds. There are no native mammals (although pigs, feral cats, deer and rats have all been introduced). No frogs, amphibians or snakes either.
In the afternoon we’ll head over to Chatham Beach where you can go snorkeling or kayaking in the pristine waters. While snorkeling, be aware of the curious nature of the hammerhead sharks, which sometimes will follow the Exploration Leader on his or her ascent after free diving. While the hammerhead is the most sought-after prize to see on trips to Cocos, there are many other species of shark present as well. During the night the ship will reposition to Rio Genio. BLD | Day
10 | Explore Cocos Island
Early visitors thought there must be a lake on Cocos that fed all the many streams that turn into gorgeous waterfalls throughout the island, but none has been found (although parts of the island remain “uncharted” even to the rangers who live here). Wherever they come from, the rivers nourish their own little ecosystems, and this morning you’ll have a chance to explore that of Rio Genio, including possible sightings of great blue heron and great egrets. We’ll also stop by Wafer Bay House, the main park ranger station. If you prefer, you can spend the morning again exploring the caverns and birdlife of Cocos.
In the afternoon, you may choose to go snorkeling and kayaking in the small islands around Cocos. Many species of seagoing birds nest and roost here.
As we leave the island, you’ll have a chance to observe the majestic waterfalls that drop dozens of feet from the cliffs on the windward side of the island. After dinner, enjoy a Farewell Latin Party on the sundeck. BLD | Day
11 | At Sea
Today is a day of leisure as we make the transit back to the mainland. Visit with your new friends or dive into that novel you’ve been too busy to read all week. BLD | Day
12 | Los Suenos/San Jose
Transfer to the airport in San José for your return flight home.B |
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner Cruise + Monteverde Cloud ForestDay
01 | Arrive In San José And Monteverde
Transfer to Monteverde Cloud Forest Private Reserve area. This afternoon explore or rest and enjoy the hotel facilities. Overnight in Monteverde. LD | Day
02 | Monteverde - Selvatura Park
Depart for a full day tour at Selvatura Park, a conservation project in Monteverde. The canopy walkways and trails allow you to enjoy the serenity and marvels of the virgin cloud forest. Enjoy a guided walk in butterfly and hummingbird gardens, amphibian and reptile exhibitions, and allow the hidden entomologist in you to explore the astounding “Jewels of the Rain Forest” exhibition by world famous entomologist Dr. Richard Whitten, who has been collecting insects since the tender age of 5. Overnight in Monteverde. BL | Day
03 | Transfer To San José To Board Your Ship
Following breakfast, transfer to the resort city of Los Suenos where you’ll board your ship, the Pacific Explorer. As we depart for Cocos Island, bid adieu to the everyday world and prepare for a week of adventure. D | Day
04 | At Sea
Cocos Island lies about 300 miles off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica between the mainland and the Galapagos Islands. As we make our way there, you’ll have a chance to settle into your home on the Pacific Explorer. The ship holds just 100 guests and all staterooms offer ocean views. During the passage, our onboard Enrichment Program will enlighten you about various aspects of your upcoming destination.
Cocos Island was discovered in 1526, and was a popular stopover for pirates and whalers to take on fresh water, firewood and coconuts. It’s said to be the largest uninhabited island in the world at about 10 square miles, although there are a few “temporary” residents. A handful of Costa Rican Park Rangers live here to oversee the island and the twelve miles of water around it that are also protected. Tourists are only allowed ashore with the approval of the park rangers, and no one is allowed to stay overnight or collect any of the island’s flora or fauna. Just think: you will be one of just a very small number of people who have ever set foot on this pristine oasis in the Pacific. BLD | Day
05 | Explore Cocos Island
As we approach Cocos Island, you’ll notice the rugged landscape topped by four peaks often obscured in clouds. An emerald evergreen forest coats the island right down to the water line, punctuated by over 200 streaming waterfalls, some plunging great distances into the beautiful cobalt sea.
“…a very charming Place, and delightful to several of the Sense at once.” That’s what Lionel Wafer, a surgeon on the ship Bachelor’s Delight, had to say when he visited Cocos Island in the late 1600s. His name has been given to one of the two best landing beaches on the island, and we’ll spend part of our day here at Wafer Bay.
Depending on the tide, you may notice a tunnel or deep cave on the north side of the bay as we enter. It’s visible both above and below the water level, but the strong surges make it impossible to enter. Wafer Bay is home to the larger of two ranger stations on the island. We’ll go ashore here and you’ll have your choice of two activities—either a guided walk, or a Zodiac tour to the caverns with bird watching along the way.
Cocos Island is actually the top of a submerged volcanic mountain range. It’s never been linked to a continent so the flora and fauna here either developed indigenously or arrived long-distance from the Americas. Its rocky nature is apparent in the roots of the giant fig trees, which arch in the air like mangrove roots, unable to find much purchase in the rocky ground. The bird life here is prolific with some 90 species, but because the island is so “young”—just a few million years old—only three of these are endemic: the Cocos Flycatcher, Cocos Cuckoo and Cocos Finch. As we walk, we may be accompanied by curious white terns—dove-like white birds known as Espiritu Santo, or the Holy Ghost bird.
These volcanic origins also account for many of the caves found both above and below the water line. If you choose to explore the island’s caverns, keep your eyes open for glittering gold. It’s speculated that pirates hid tons of stolen Incan treasure here, although more than 300 treasure-hunting expeditions have failed to turn up the loot.
In the afternoon we’ll head to Chatham Beach. If you like, you can go kayaking or snorkeling in the waters where Jacques Cousteau once spent two months making a documentary. Butterfly and damselfish are just a few of the species that can be seen roaming the reef for food.
Due to the cold Humboldt current, the unique meeting point between deep and shallow water and the freedom from pollution, the coral reefs here are very healthy. As a result, “feeder” species have proliferated, attracting large pelagic species. Divers come from all over to dive with the world’s largest population of hammerhead sharks, as well as whale sharks, nurse sharks, white- and black-tipped sharks, manta rays and eagle rays, pilot whales, orcas, dolphins, green turtles, hawksbill turtles, olive Ridley turtles and more. The area is also home to 300 species of fish including large numbers of marlin, sailfish and yellow fin tuna. Not surprisingly, the area has been named one of the top 10 scuba diving spots in the world. BLD | Day
06 | Explore Cocos Island
This morning you have two options: go ashore for a guided walk to Chatham Bay or take a Zodiac tour in the caverns with bird watching along the way.
The smaller of the two ranger stations is located at Chatham Bay. This is also where you’ll find a rather unique “guest book”—hundreds of inscriptions chiseled in boulders dating from the late 18th to the 20th century. The oldest dates to 1846. Take a few minutes to photograph the inscriptions if you like.
Among its many claims to fame, Cocos is the only oceanic island in the eastern Pacific region that has tropical moist forests and cloud forests. Admire the native flora as we walk—the many different types of Epiphytes as orchids, tree ferns, and stunted iron trees named for their dense wood. Cocos Island is a baby by geologic standards. As such it’s only developed a handful of endemic species—two species of lizard and three birds. There are no native mammals (although pigs, feral cats, deer and rats have all been introduced). No frogs, amphibians or snakes either.
In the afternoon we’ll head over to Chatham Beach where you can go snorkeling or kayaking in the pristine waters. While snorkeling, be aware of the curious nature of the hammerhead sharks, which sometimes will follow the Exploration Leader on his or her ascent after free diving. While the hammerhead is the most sought-after prize to see on trips to Cocos, there are many other species of shark present as well. During the night the ship will reposition to Rio Genio. BLD | Day
07 | Explore Cocos Island
Early visitors thought there must be a lake on Cocos that fed all the many streams that turn into gorgeous waterfalls throughout the island, but none has been found (although parts of the island remain “uncharted” even to the rangers who live here). Wherever they come from, the rivers nourish their own little ecosystems, and this morning you’ll have a chance to explore that of Rio Genio, including possible sightings of great blue heron and great egrets. We’ll also stop by Wafer Bay House, the main park ranger station. If you prefer, you can spend the morning again exploring the caverns and birdlife of Cocos.
In the afternoon, you may choose to go snorkeling and kayaking in the small islands around Cocos. Many species of seagoing birds nest and roost here.
As we leave the island, you’ll have a chance to observe the majestic waterfalls that drop dozens of feet from the cliffs on the windward side of the island. After dinner, enjoy a Farewell Latin Party on the sundeck. BLD | Day
08 | At Sea
Today is a day of leisure as we make the transit back to the mainland. Visit with your new friends or dive into that novel you’ve been too busy to read all week. BLD | Day
09 | Los Suenos/San Jose
Transfer to the airport in San José for your return flight home. B |
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner |
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