on the wild side costa rica & panama

Transcription

1 An expedition on the wild side costa rica & panama ACS Expeditions Outstanding trips for ACS members & friends by Betchart Expeditions Inc. Phone: (800) March 3-10, 2007 ABOARD SEA Voyager

2 Central America

3 Dear ACS Members, Come join us in 2007 as we explore Costa Rica and Panama. This journey will provide us with the chance to experience more environmental and ecological diversity in the span of a week than virtually any other similarly-sized real-estate on the planet! Costa Rica s wildlife is rich and ripe, offering howler, capuchin and squirrel monkeys, coatimundis, sloths, bulldog fishing bats, colorful tree frogs, gorgeous butterflies and more. Birders will be in avian heaven! During our exploration of Costa Rica and Panama during the week of March 3-10, 2007 (with an optional post-voyage extension to the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Sarapiquí and Arenal Volcano), we will encounter the country s inviting wildness in many ways: under the sea, on horseback, along a rain forest trail, under a waterfall, from the quiet of a kayak or under the stars of its tropical skies. Our itinerary gives us the extraordinary opportunity to experience the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and then to transit the Panama Canal. Throughout our journey, Lindblad s veteran guides will make the landscape come alive as they provide lectures and informal discussions about Central American natural and cultural history. They will enhance our enjoyment of this adaptive environment as they impart their knowledge about the things we see. To make your reservation, please call toll free at or return the reservation form on page 11. I hope you will join us for a very special voyage to this beautiful part of the world, where they say daily Pura Vida! (Everything s great!). Sincerely, Margaret M. Betchart President, Betchart Expeditions, Inc. For ACS Expeditions Ship s Registry: Honduras 3

4 The excitement level mounted with every mile that brought us closer to our main objective: the Panama Canal. Clanking electric mules fired up at our approach, and the rowboat and line-handlers prepared their throws, while grackles lined the swing bridge and served as a rowdy audience to our admission to this most famous of canals. Cindy Manning, Expedition Leader

5 the panama canal travel from ocean to ocean and traverse one of the wonders of the modern world. Slice across the land bridging two continents with aplomb as you join us in a transit of the legendary Panama Canal. Marvel at the genius of the American engineers who, 100 years ago, were able to foresee the size and scale of the ocean-going vessels of today. Explore the tropical rain forest that frames the Canal, and made building it so very challenging. Our transit of the Panama Canal is a far more holistic experience than the usual. Join us on deck to monitor our progress through each of the 1,000-foot lock chambers that will lift us, and any other vessel going through, 27 feet at a time, without the assistance of any pumps. This is strictly a gravity-fueled procedure, simple yet highly sophisticated. So inspired and ingenious that we still use the same lock gates that were installed during the Roosevelt years the Teddy Roosevelt years! Beyond the Canal & Behind the Scenes Since the historic Canal and lock operation cuts through rain forest that so challenged its builders, we ll incorporate this environment into our expedition in a most unique way. By special arrangement with the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, we are the only passenger ship permitted to overnight in the middle of our Canal transit to explore Barro Colorado Nature Monument the most studied piece of tropical forest on Earth! Accessible only by ship, Barro Colorado Island has been managed since 1924 by the Smithsonian and is one of the premier sites for research on tropical forests and its plants and animals. We ll hike the trails with Smithsonian guides, who share the details of the continuous probing and unraveling of Nature s secrets. There will also be an opportunity to learn about the Automated Radio Telemetry work scientists funded by National Geographic are doing on Barro Colorado. They re tracking capuchin and howler monkeys, ocelots, sloths, agoutis, coatis, toucans, hawks, antbirds and palm seeds. In 1907 President Theodore Roosevelt appointed Goethals chief engineer of the Panama Canal, with full responsibility for constructing the Canal and administering the Canal Zone. His capable handling of personnel problems and sound engineering skills contributed greatly to the success of the project.

6 At Corcovado National Park the scarlet macaws circled the sky in an almost arrogant display of color and beauty. They were hosts introducing us to the green temple of wildlife. Mantled howler monkeys appeared at the end of our walk, as if they had been waiting for us. Gaston Trujillo, Naturalist

7 rain forests & sea gardens experience the tropics by Zodiac or kayak, on horseback and underwater. Hike through a rain forest in the morning, snorkel over a coral reef in the afternoon and in just one day you ll experience more biodiversity than most people see in a lifetime. During a guided nature walk through the protected areas of Costa Rica and Panama, you can smell the fragrance of dozens of tropical blooms, orchids in profusion, heliconias, bromeliads, and so much more. The roar of the howler monkeys, the whine of ever-present hordes of cicadas and the hoarse cries of parrots will be your accompaniment. You ll see leaf-cutter ants carrying their chartreuse burdens back to their subterranean nest. Feel the soft spray of a waterfall while taking a refreshing dip in a waterfall pool and feel tension slip away. The solitude of the forest will embrace you as you paddle soundlessly by in a kayak. For beginners and seasoned kayakers, there s nothing like exploring wildness in this quiet and personal way. You ll visit the jewels in the crown of the national park systems of both Panama and Costa Rica, such as Panama s least visited Isla Coiba which Lindblad Expeditions pioneered as a natural history destination in the early 90s. You ll nose into out-of-the-way bays where we have direct access to beaches, take our Zodiacs up new rivers, snorkel over pristine reefs and see tropical nature at its purest. The undersea gardens of this part of the world are as rich in marine life as the rain forest is in terrestrial life in fact, the coral reefs have been called the rain forest of the oceans. Left: Taking our kayaks down shady riverways or a ride on horseback at the edge of the forest along the shore are options in lush coastal regions. Right: Taking photos from a Zodiac, snorkeling in pristine waters or a naturalist guided walk all earn spectacular rewards. 7

8 The Panama Canal & the Wonders of Costa Rica > ITINERARY 8 DAYS/7 NIGHTS Herradura Costa Rica San Jose Caribbean Sea Manuel Antonio N.P. Colon An exploration by sea from the Panama Canal to the beaches and rain forests of Costa Rica. Saturday, Day 1: Miami/Panama City, Panama/Colon/Embark Sea Voyager Depart Miami late morning via American Airlines on a non-stop flight to Panama City, with a flying time of about three hours. On arrival, drive to Colon to board the Sea Voyager and set sail for the first part of our Panama Canal transit anchoring in Gatun Lake. This unique interruption makes us one of the few ships that make the crossing in two days, as well as the only ship permitted the exclusive opportunity to explore impressive Barro Colorado, which we visit tomorrow. (D) Sunday, Day 2: Barro Colorado Island & Gatun Lake/ Panama Canal Transit Today we ll combine two of the main reasons many of us come south of the border: the Panama Canal and the tropical rain forest. By special invitation, board a Zodiac this morning to explore Barro Colorado Nature Monument, set in Gatun Lake and home to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. Inaccessible to most travelers, the island itself is quite unique. Before the building of the Canal it was actually the top of a mountain, and when the river valley was flooded to form man-made Gatun Lake, it became the island we see today. You ll hike through the lush forest with Panama City Panama Canal Smithsonian guides, who share their insights into the research and the wonders of Osa Peninsula Golfo Dulce Pacific Ocean Panama nature. As always, the forest is full of surprises: monkeys, anteaters, slow-moving Isla Coiba Gulf of Panama sloths, brilliantly colored birds and more. We reboard Sea Voyager to continue our crossing, possibly at night when the Canal is dramatically lit. (A daylight transit cannot be guaranteed since cargo ships have priority over passenger ships.) (B,L,D) Monday, Day 3: Gulf of Panama Islets Flexibility and adventure go hand in hand. Since we re not tied to a minute-by-minute timetable, we take the day to leisurely explore a cluster of islands in the Gulf of Panama via Zodiac or kayak. It s a wonderful introduction to the region s varied birdlife. Observe large numbers of roosting and nesting seabirds: magnificent frigate birds, brown pelicans and blue-footed boobies of Galápagos fame. (B,L,D) Tuesday, Day 4: Isla Coiba National Park Isla Coiba is one of Panama s most remote national parks, where you may hike tropical, moist forest trails, swim and snorkel amid tropical fish. Our staff will assist both novice and expert snorkelers alike. For those preferring a drier clime, naturalists take underwater footage, which animates our evening gathering in the lounge. (B,L,D) Wednesday, Day 5: Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica Today we make our first landfall in Costa Rica. At Casa Orquideas, a privately-owned garden accessible only by boat and special invitation, see a profusion of orchids, look for tanagers, parrots

9 and gaudy toucans. Later, explore the bay of Golfo Dulce, ideal for kayaking or swimming. (B,L D) Thursday, Day 6: Osa Peninsula & Corcovado N.P. The Sea Voyager anchors off the remote Osa Peninsula and the environs of Corcovado National Park. Our exact landing spot for the day will depend on sea conditions. You may swim in waterfall pools, horseback ride on the beach or kayak. Trek through the rain forest for a chance to see three species of monkey in one day: howler, spider and squirrel! (B,L,D) Friday, Day 7: Manuel Antonio National Park The abundant wildlife here is most active in the early morning, so we are sure to get an early start. Monkeys or vividly colored birds can be easy to spot, but it often takes the expert eye of a naturalist to point out lethargic three-toed sloths. In the afternoon, we explore Costa Rica s beautiful coast where we ll find a great spot for a final hike or swim. (B,L,D) Saturday, Day 8: Herradura/Disembark/San Jose/ Miami This morning we disembark Sea Voyager in Herradura and drive to the airport for flights home, or on to other adventures. The Miamibound flight departs late morning, arriving in the late afternoon. (B) Complement your 8-day voyage with seven days in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Sarapiquí and Arenal Volcano. The cost for your stay is $1,800 per person, double occupancy or $2,020 sole occupancy. Please call for more details.

10 Sea Voyager Since expedition doesn t mean deprivation, count on enjoying fresh & delicious regional cuisine in an ambience glowing with warm tropical woods, wicker, & brass. Dress is totally casual no need to dress up ever (unless you feel festive, then feel free!) And uneven-numbered seating in the dining room favors easy joining & mingling. Roomy Category 3 cabins offer lounging space & big windows. Ship Information: Capacity: 60 guests in 31 spacious, outside cabins. Registry: Honduras. Overall length: 175 feet. The Sea Voyager was completely refurbished in Public Areas: A glass-enclosed Lounge with full-service bar; a Sun Deck with canvas canopy; an Observation Deck; a Fitness Center equipped with stationary bicycles, elliptical trainer and treadmills; Library with books about the region; Dining Room. Meals: Full range of meals in an informal setting. Breakfast and lunch are buffets, and dinner is a full-service menu with at least three selections (one for vegetarians). Healthy snacks for children are always available. Cabins: All cabins are above the waterline with picture windows. Each includes lower berths, private bathrooms and air conditioning. Special Features: Guest internet kiosk, Zodiacs, kayaks, snorkeling gear, underwater video camera, Splash-Cam, video microscope, LEXspa. All costs are per person double occupancy unless otherwise noted. Sea Voyager Deck Plan CATEGORY DECK CABIN NUMBERS 1 Main 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 315, 316 $3,970 Upper Sole Occupancy: 207, 208 $3,970 SUN DECK LOUNGE BRIDGE Cabins feature a large outside window, two lower single beds (some convert to a double), small writing desk with makeup table, closet, drawers and private bath. Note: Sole occupancy cabins have one lower single bed. 2 Upper 205, 206, 209, 210, 211, 212, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220; BRIDGE DECK LEXspa UPPER DECK GALLEY DINING ROOM Library Fitness Center OBSERVATION DECK Bridge 104, 106, 108 $4,480 Sole Occupancy: All of the above $6,720 Cabins with large outside window, two lower single beds (some convert to a double), small writing desk with makeup table, large closet, drawers and private bath. Bridge deck cabins have outside access. 3 Upper 201, 202, 203, 204; Bridge 103, 105 $5,380 These deluxe cabins are larger and include private bath, two single beds (that convert to a queen-size bed), sofa and additional pullout bed for a third person,coffee table, easy chair, writing desk, ample closet and storage space. Upper Deck cabins have large exterior windows while the Bridge Deck cabins have outside access and a large window. Call for triple rate. MAIN DECK Sample Airfare: Flight from Miami to Panama City and return from San Jose, Costa Rica to Miami. Economy US$500-$600; Business from US$1,700 10

11 SPECIAL BOOKING OFFER BRING THE KIDS: We believe sharing an expedition with your kids or grandkids is a life-enhancing experience. So, take $500 off the Double Occupancy price for each youngster under 18. Cost Include: All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary; all meals; nonalcoholic beverages aboard ship; entrance fees; excursions and sightseeing; taxes, service charges, and tips (except to ship s crew). There s never a charge for kayaks, Zodiacs, snorkeling equipment, or the services of the ship physician and Lindblad s expedition staff. Not Included: Airfare transportation from hometown to Miami/ Central America/Miami; alcoholic beverages; personal items such as phone/fax/ charges, travel insurance; and discretionary gratuities to ship s crew. Note: A complete packet of pre-journey information, including recommended reading and suggestions on what to bring, will be sent after your reservation is confirmed. TERMS AND CONDITIONS Reservations: To confirm your place, a completed reservation form and an advance payment of $1,000 is required at the time of reservation and is payable by check. Final Payment: Due 60 days prior to departure. Travel Protection Plan: Travel and medical insurance are available at extra cost. Ask about our comprehensive guest travel protection plan for worry-free expedition. Smoking Policy: Allowed in designated outdoor areas. Responsibility: Certain other provisions concerning, among other things, limitations of the Company s liability for loss of property, injury, illness or death during the voyage will be provided to all guests prior to final payment, and to prospective guests upon request. CANCELLATION POLICY Number of Days Prior to Expedition Start Per Person Cancellation Fee 90 or more days $ days Advance payment days 50% of trip cost 29-0 days No refund This policy applies to expeditions and extensions. We strongly recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan. The Company reserves the right to impose surcharges based on increases in the Company s actual cost of fuel. ACS Expeditions Outstanding trips for ACS members & friends by Betchart Expeditions Inc. Phone: (800) ACSinfo@betchartexpeditions.com RESERVATION FORM EXPLORING PANAMA AND COSTA RICA Aboard the Sea Voyager March 3-10, 2007 Please reserve place(s) on Exploring Panama & Costa Rica March 3-10, 2007 Please reserve place(s) on Monteverde, Sarapiquí, Arenal Post-Tour March 3-17, 2007 Name: Date of Birth: (as it appears on passport) Name: Date of Birth: (as it appears on passport) Street Address: City: State: Zip: Home Phone: Business Phone: Fax: Accommodations: Double Single Twin share w/friend Twin share (Roommate assigned by Tour Operator.) Please indicate choice of cabin category in order of preference: 1st choice: 2nd choice: I/We are Smokers Non-smokers I/We have read the Terms and Conditions for this program and agree to them. For Reservations or Information: Carol Larsen Betchart Expeditions, Inc Montebello Road Cupertino, CA Phone: or carol@betchartexpeditions.com Signature(s) Date: Enclosed is my deposit check of $1,000 per person payable to Betchart Expeditions, Inc. Trust Account Membership: ACS Other 11

12 LUSH GREEN FORESTS, JEWEL-BRIGHT BIRDS, MIND BOGGLING BEAUTY... AH, WE MUST BE IN THE TROPICS! Travel + Leisure 2006 Small-ship Cruise Lines Award Lindblad Expeditions is ranked among the best. Travel + Leisure 2006 World s Best Tour Operators Award ranked Lindblad Expeditions in the top ten by readers. Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2006 ranked Lindblad Expeditions among the best:...a 93.9 score for Destinations/ Itineraries, 96.2 Service and 89.3 for Activities. ACS Expeditions Outstanding trips for ACS members & friends by Betchart Expeditions Inc. Phone: (800) ACSinfo@betchartexpeditions.com Montebello Road Cupertino, CA prsrt std U.S. Postage paid lindblad Expeditions 12