offer - save Two under Sail 24 th January to 5 th February 2016

Transcription

1 launch offer - save Two Oceans under Sail 500 PER PERSON A luxurious voyage under sail exploring Costa Rica & Panama including a transit of the Panama Canal aboard the magnificent Sea Cloud II 24 th January to 5 th February 2016

2 Manuel Antonio National Park Scarlet Macaw Let us take you to some of the loveliest and untouched places in Costa Rica and visit the beautiful town of Grenada in Nicaragua. We will sail from the Pacific, through the Panama Canal into the Atlantic aboard the world s most luxurious sailing ship. This 12-day trip will take us along the coast and to the islands of Costa Rica and Panama, areas of outstanding natural beauty and home to countless species of endangered birds from tiny hummingbirds to flashy macaws and parrots, toucans and woodpeckers. Add an amazingly rich biodiversity of flora and fauna seen against some of the lushest of landscapes to be found anywhere in the world and you have the recipe for a perfect winter escape. However, what makes this trip stand out from any other is the opportunity to sail the shores of Costa Rica and Panama aboard Sea Cloud II. To be in this beautiful part of the world is a reward in itself, but to be exploring under sail just makes it perfect. To witness the New World as seen by the first explorers and later colonisers is a privilege and the sights, sounds and sheer energy of the crew as they man the sails will make for long lasting memories. As always with a Sea Cloud II cruise we have included a number of days at sea as well as some half days. After all travelling under sail is an important aspect of this unique trip. If you have been contemplating a visit to Central America, then this journey is the perfect opportunity. Granada, Nicaragua NICARAGUA San Juan Del Sur Playa del Coco COSTA RICA Puerto Limon Puntarenas San Jose Bocas del Toro Isla Tortugas Manuel Antonio PANAMA The Itinerary Day 1 London to San Jose, Costa Rica. Fly by scheduled indirect flight. Upon arrival transfer to the Real Intercontinental hotel or similar for an overnight stay. Day 2 Puntarenas, Costa Rica. After breakfast depart on a morning tour of San Jose before transferring to Puntarenas to embark Sea Cloud II in the late afternoon. Welcome drinks and dinner onboard this evening. Day 3 Playa del Coco, Costa Rica. After a leisurely morning at sea we call into the beach town of Playa del Coco in the Papagayo Gulf. Once a small fishing village it has grown into a popular destination for local Costa Rican tourism. We will use our Zodiacs to land before heading inland to the Palo Verde National Park, and in local boats ride through the Tempisque River seeing the mangroves and dry forest vegetation which is home to countless birds and multiple mammals. As we visit in the dry season we hope to see peccaries, armadillos, jaguarondis, coatis, agoutis, deers and monkeys which are attracted to the river. We return to the vessel this evening and continue our journey along the Costa Rican coast to Nicaragua. Isla Coiba Canal Darien COLOMBIA Day 4 San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. From the pretty fishing village of San Juan del Sur we will travel inland to the beautiful colonial city of Grenada which lies at the foot of the Mombacho volcano and on the western bank of Lake Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America with its own archipelago of around 300 islands. The country s oldest town, it was founded by the Spanish in 1524 and was often attacked by pirates in colonial times due to its growing wealth as one of the most important trading places. Today it has received special protection, and the place is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This morning we will visit the old city around the Parque Centrale a magnificently restored treasure with its splendid Spanish facades, Cathedral and monasteries and after lunch enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake. Day 5 Isla Tortugas, Costa Rica. The beautiful and peaceful Tortuga Island lies off the Southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. Spend the morning exploring the Curu Wildlife Reserve which boasts a rich and diverse wildlife in five different habitats ranging from marine zones, including a 200 metre wide beach area, mangrove swamps and

3 Panama canal Embera people Sloth Isla Coiba tropical forests. Here on a range of walks we will find over 200 species of birds, howler and capuchin monkeys, mammals such as otters, ocelots and pumas and turtles. After lunch relax on the white sandy beaches of Turtle Island or enjoy a swim in the stunning turquoise sea. Though named after the Spanish word for turtle you are far more likely to run into the many species of birds that call the island home. Day 6 Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica. From Quepos we will visit the Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most stunning and bio-diverse areas of the world. Spread out over 683 hectares it is filled with diverse wildlife, has both primary and secondary forests, boasts a stunning shoreline ideal for bird watching or swimming, and is home to a number of endemic species of plants and animals. We will make an early start this morning to get the best viewing of monkeys, vividly coloured birds and the lethargic three-toed sloth. Spend a leisurely afternoon cruising along the Costa Rican coast. Day 7 Isla Coiba, Panama. Enjoy a relaxing morning at sea before arriving at Isla Coiba. This once infamous prison island, now a National Park, has reverted to an island paradise. This afternoon will include an exploration of the 38 tiny surrounding islands dotted along the northern coast with their amazing beaches and coral reefs alive with all manner of fish. Later, time permitting, explore the main island, which boasts some 147 species of birds, and walk up to the observation tower. Day 8 At sea. Relax onboard with a full day at sea to enjoy the sensation of travelling under sail. During the day our guest speaker will host lectures. Day 9 Bay of San Miguel, Darien Jungle, Panama. This morning arrive at the wild, rugged and remote Darien Province. The Darien Jungle is recognised as one of the world s top ten birding sites, and we hope to see many bird species such as the colourful crimson-collared tanager, green and chestnut-fronted macaws, rufous-tailed and snow-bellied hummingbirds, whimbrels, willets (a type of sandpiper), white ibises and egrets, laughing gulls. We will explore this pristine, seldom visited area by local canoe, navigating up the tidal Mogue River to the Embera Indian settlement. Untouched by the modern world these little known tribes offer a fascinating glimpse of an ancient world that has changed little since Sir Francis Drake was ransacking the shore of the Spanish Main. Day 10 Panama Canal Transit. An undisputed destination on the travel bucket list has to be the Panama Canal. The first attempt to build the Canal was made by a French company, but ended in failure in The American government eventually bought out the French for 40 million dollars, and their attempt to build the Canal started in Through the efforts of over 80,000 workers and the loss of more than 30,000 lives, the greatest single construction project ever undertaken was completed. The project ended in triumph, with the Canal opening in 1914, and it is now a vital artery of international trade, with nearly 14,000 ships travelling through it every year. Three sets of locks work as water elevators lifting ships to the level of Gatun Lake, 85 feet (26 metres) above sea level, and later lowering them again to sea level on the other side. By using the Canal, vessels avoid travelling the 14,000 nautical mile route through the treacherous Drake Passage and around Cape Horn at the southernmost tip of South America. The Canal is around 50 miles long and takes between eight to ten hours to cross. Unlike many cruise ships we are delighted to be able to guarantee a daytime transit allowing us the best conditions to experience this engineering marvel. Prices per person Based on double occupancy Day 11 Bocas del Toro, Panama. Spend the morning sailing to the Bocas del Toro Archipelago in north-western Panama which comprises of six large and numerous tiny islands. On our afternoon tour we will visit the Ngobe community, the largest indigenous group in the archipelago, spend some time sloth and dolphin watching and enjoy a nature walk on Isla Solarte before returning to the ship. Day 12 Puerto Limon to London. Disembark this morning and drive to San Jose for your return indirect flight to London. Day 13 London. Morning arrival. LAUNCH OFFER - SAVE 500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Cat Cabin Description Deck Brochure price Launch offer E Deluxe double Cabin D Deluxe double Cabin C Deluxe double Promenade B Junior Suite Promenade A Luxury Owner s Suite Lido F Stateroom for sole use Cabin E Deluxe double for sole use Cabin Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, overnight hotel accommodation in San Jose, ten nights aboard Sea Cloud II on a full board basis with house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, Tour leader, guest speaker, shore excursions, gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions, transfers and port taxes Not Included: Travel insurance, visas. Ship to Shore: Please note for this itinerary Zodiacs, tenders or local boats will be used to transport passengers ashore in all ports apart from Puntareanas and Puerto Limon. NB. Ports subject to change and weather conditions. All special offers are subject to availability.

4 Pre-Cruise Extension Tree frog Squirrel Monkey Treetop walkway Butterfly Monteverde Cloud Forest 21st to 24th January 2016 For those wishing to see more of Costa Rica before embarking Sea Cloud II we are offering an extension to the Monteverde National Park. In the mid 60 s, a Quaker community moved to the Monteverde area where they found a cloud forest paradise which they decided to protect. The area was covered with tall trees festooned with orchids, bromeliads, ferns, vines and mosses as well as numerous crystal clear streams and waterfalls. Variable climate and large altitudinal gradient has helped to produce an extremely high biodiversity. The four life zones found in Monteverde are home to more than 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, 500 species of butterflies, 120 reptile and amphibian species, 2500 plant species (among them 420 different types of orchids and 200 fern species), 500 species of trees and thousands of insects. Among the 400 species of birds, some of the best known species are: The Quetzal, the Bird Bell, the Black Turkey Bird, the Mot-Mot, the Orange-bellied Trogon, and the Bareneck Umbrella Bird. The Itinerary Day 1 London to San Jose. Fly by scheduled indirect flight. On arrival transfer to the Real Intercontinental Hotel (or similar) for an overnight stay. Day 2 San Jose to Monteverde. After breakfast in the hotel we transfer to Monteverde. On the way we will stop at the Scarlet Macaw Sanctuary at El Manantial, a wildlife conservation charity working to save and protect endangered species from extinction. As well as encountering the scarlet macaw we will also have the chance to stroll through the grounds of the sanctuary, discovering the many other breeds of birds that live here. We will enjoy a local lunch and continue to the El Establo Hotel (or similar) for our two night stay. Day 3 Monteverde. Today we will experience the hanging bridges which span the canyons below, and bring us face to face with the upper level of the forest canopy. There are five bridges in total, the longest of which spans 984 feet. The trails extend for slightly over a mile and a half, and we will be accompanied by local guides who will impart their knowledge about the native plant and animal species. Biologists now know that about 90 percent of all organisms in a rainforest are found in the canopy. The sun that barely reaches the forest floor strikes treetops with full force, fuelling the photosynthesis that eventually results in leaves, fruit and seeds. With the bounty of good food, animals abound in the canopy as well. Many plants in Monteverde s cloud forests are specially adapted to absorb moisture directly from the ever-present mist. Epiphytes (plants that live on trees in order to reach the sunlight) are plentiful in these forests, adding to the water-gathering ability of the trees. We will also undertake a journey on the Sky Tram from where we can view the Nicoya gulf, Arenal volcano, the lake, the mountain range and the cloud forest. Return to the hotel and meet later for dinner. Day 4 Monteverde to San Jose. Today transfer to San Jose where we will meet our fellow passengers for an overnight stay at the Real Intercontinental Hotel (or similar). Prices per person Based on double occupancy Twin: 795 Single: 1095 Price includes: Overnight accommodation in San Jose, two nights accommodation in Monteverde, transfers, tours as described, English speaking guides, breakfast daily, lunch on days 2 to 4, dinner on days 2 and 3. Not Included: Travel Insurance, gratuities.

5 Sea Cloud II For this voyage under sail we have chartered the magnificent Sea Cloud II. Launched in 2001, she is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines the timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. The 32,150 square feet of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight; she really is the most exquisite of vessels. Your Cabin/Suite Built to accommodate 96 passengers in five star luxury, Sea Cloud II offers a range of beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. Spread over three decks are 29 deluxe outside cabins with showers, 16 junior suites with bathtubs, and two owner suites with bathtubs and showers. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and aesthetically pleasing. The two owner suites feature a king size canopy bed and all other cabins feature queen size beds (with separate mattresses, excluding category F staterooms which feature upper and lower single beds). Cabin sizes range from 16m 2 to 27m 2 (category F measure 12m 2 ). The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble. All cabins have a television with DVD player, minibar, dressing table, wardrobe and a safe. A welcome bottle of champagne and a fruit basket which is replenished daily are provided to enjoy whilst in your cabin. Your Space No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambience in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness centre, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud II cruise. The Lounge is located mid-ship on the Lido Deck offering comfortable seating areas. The vessel s magnificent Steinway is located here and will be played for your enjoyment by an accomplished pianist. Here you will enjoy interesting lectures and presentations, or perhaps enjoy a drink from the bar. There is also a library onboard where you can relax, write postcards, play a board game, find a film to watch in your cabin, send s from the laptop or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail whilst watching the sailors manoeuver the sails high above, rekindling memories of a bygone age. Your Dining The cuisine aboard the Sea Cloud II is of an exceptionally high standard, and has been accepted by the international Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Enjoy international dishes complemented by local specialities selected fresh from

6 Lounge Lido deck Category A cabin Category B cabin On Deck Restaurant the market by the onboard chef. Dinner is served à la carte and is a four course affair with a vegetarian option always available. All cruises aboard the Sea Cloud II are full board with carefully selected wines and beers served to compliment your lunch and dinner. All soft drinks, coffee and tea whilst onboard are also included. Life Onboard Whilst there are many large sailing ships offering passages around the world there are few if any that can compare in terms of luxury to Sea Cloud II. Despite the luxurious setting, casual clothing is appropriate and the atmosphere onboard is friendly and generally informal. Service is personal, and the crew of 65 quickly acquaint themselves with passengers and the officers on the bridge are also available to answer questions; manoeuvres permitting. After all, Sea Cloud II is not only a cruise ship, but a private yacht as well. For your Comfort, Safety & Security Sea Cloud II combines the timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. The hospital is located on the Cabin Deck and is staffed by a ship s doctor. In consideration of all passengers, smoking is not permitted onboard with the exception of designated areas on open decks. SUN DECK LIDO DECK PROMENADE DECK CABIN DECK CATEGORY A CATEGORY B BAR DINING ROOM SHOP GYM LOUNGE LIBRARY RECEPTION H CATEGORY C CATEGORY E CATEGORY D CATEGORY F Chester Close, Belgravia, London, SW1X 7BE +44 (0) info@noble-caledonia.co.uk noble-caledonia.co.uk All special offers are subject to availability. Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations and are available on request. Cover image: Humming bird