Panama Canal & the Alluring Islands of the Caribbean

Expect incredible morning views as you arrive into the port for Panama City. Tinged with a silver pre-dawn light, the city will metamorphosise into a golden glow as the sun rises above it. And from then on expect one stunning view after another. Very interesting in its own right, Fuerte Amador is obviously overshadowed by its proximity to Panama City. So should the Miraflores museum of the Canal, which offers a comprehensive and immersive tour of the Canal including a 3-D experience, four exhibition halls, an observation deck, and a surprisingly good restaurant not interest you then there is always the option of lovely Casco Viejo – literally the old quartier of Panama. The grand old colonial houses, cobbled streets, independent boutiques and buzzing street scene make this a must stop on your itinerary. And if you like seafood, you will not want miss the many restaurants and market stalls serving different variations of so-fresh-it’s-still-practically-swimming ceviche. Best eaten like the Panamanians do, with salty crackers and a cold beer on the beach. And if money is no object, a cup of geisha coffee – supposedly the world’s best and definitely the world’s most expensive at $7 a shot is definitely a pick me up! Cool cosmopolitan capital aside, Panama has a skyscraper filled skyline that is worthy of some of its North American counterparts. But if urban utopia is not your scene then fear not, the sandy beaches and lush rainforests are never more than a short cab ride away.

Welcome to the capital of Panama, Panama City. This cosmopolitan city, which comprises a juxtaposing skyline of skyscrapers, 17th century churches and colonial-style buildings, is steeped in history and boasts a happening culinary scene.  

Step on board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II. Meet the Captain, the crew and your butler and settle into your luxurious verandah suite. Toast to the start of your voyage as you look forward to the unrivalled experiences ahead. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Panama City prior to 02:00 PM.

Once a great Spanish port, the laidback Caribbean fishing town is filled with remnants of its colonial past including a crumbling Spanish fort complete with 16 cannons facing the mouth of the bay, all set against a vibrant Caribbean backdrop of pristine beaches and tropical climate. Delve into the rich heritage of Congo culture and marvel at the architecture of the World Heritage-listed Old Town, adorned with historic forts and cobblestone streets.

Your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht will depart Portobelo late this evening and cruise overnight.

Welcome to Cayos Limones, a hidden paradise in the San Blas Islands of Panama, which is home to the indigenous Guna people and one of the biggest coconut plantations in the world. Immerse yourself in the beauty of these pristine isles dotted with swaying palm trees and surrounded by crystal-clear waters that are mottled by thriving underwater coral gardens. Experience the rich culture of the Guna people, view handicrafts such as the mola, intricate hand-woven textiles and savour the flavours of local traditional cuisine.

Cartagena's magnificent city walls and fortresses, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enclose a well-restored historic center (the Cuidad Amurallada, or walled city) with plazas, churches, museums, and shops that have made it a lively coastal vacation spot for South Americans and others. New hotels and restaurants make the walled city a desirable place to stay, and the formerly down-at-the-heels Getsemaní neighborhood attracts those seeking a bohemian buzz. The historic center is a small section of Cartagena; many hotels are in the Bocagrande district, an elongated peninsula where high-rise hotels overlook a long, gray-sand beach.When it was founded in 1533 by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia, Cartagena was the only port on the South American mainland. Gold and silver looted from indigenous peoples passed through here en route to Spain and attracted pirates, including Sir Francis Drake, who in 1586 torched 200 buildings. Cartagena's walls protected the city's riches as well as the New World's most important African slave market.

Cartagena is a beautifully preserved and colourful Caribbean city oozing colonial charm. This World Heritage-listed walled city is looked over by a great 17th century hilltop fortress, and is crammed with churches and monasteries, bustling plazas where traditional musicians and dancers entertain and candy-coloured buildings with balconies draped in bougainvillea.

Renowned for vibrant festivals and exquisite cuisine, Cartagena is a treasure trove of Latin American culture and history. Wander its Old Town, with cobblestone streets that are frequented by artisans, hawkers and food vendors touting tropical fruits. The surrounding landscape of pristine beaches and tropical forests adds to its allure.

Known as One Happy Island, thanks to its friendly, positive energy, Aruba is a melting pot of some 90 nationalities and an autonomous country within the Royal Dutch Kingdom, one of three in the Caribbean islands. One of the Lesser Antilles Islands, Aruba is loved for its sunny weather, sugar-white sand beaches and aqua-hued water, which is home to vibrant coral reefs. It has rugged limestone cliffs and hidden caves, a Arikok National Park, a desert landscape at the island’s heart dotted with tall cacti and natural wonders including a natural pool, as well as indigenous rock paintings.

Curaçao is known for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches and is part of the Royal Dutch Kingdom. Willemstad, a World Heritage-listed site, is an excellent example of Dutch colonial architecture with most buildings between 1650 to 1900 still standing. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life at popular snorkeling spots such as Playa Lagun and Blue Bay Beach. Explore the island’s rich history at landmarks such as Fort Amsterdam and the Kura Hulanda Museum.

Klein Curaçao is a pristine and secluded uninhabited island paradise just off the coast of Curaçao. Bask in the sun on white sandy beaches or snorkel in the turquoise waters, exploring colourful coral reefs where sea turtles frequent. Take a stroll to the abandoned pink lighthouse or discover the island's shipwrecks dotted along the beach and fascinating history. With its untouched natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Klein Curaçao invites you to unwind in tranquillity.

Located in the southern Grenadines, Tobago Cays is famous for its five small uninhabited islands: Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tobac and Jamesby. The main attraction here is the Tobago Cays Marine Park, a national park and wildlife reserve renowned for its massive 1400-acre lagoon and surrounded by a vivid horseshoe-shaped reef. This is an idyllic area to enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters that are brimming with colourful fish and turtles.

Located beside the island’s only natural harbour, the capital of Barbados combines modern and colonial architecture with glorious palm tree-lined beaches and a number of historical attractions. Experience the relaxed culture of the city renowned for its British-style parliament buildings and vibrant beach life, and seek out the Anglican church and the 19th-century Barbados Garrison. The distance between the ship and your tour vehicle may vary. This distance is not included in the excursion grades.

Your journey concludes this morning in Bridgetown, the vibrant capital of Barbados. Nestled on the island's southwestern coast, Bridgetown is a World Heritage-listed site renowned for its colonial architecture and rich history.

Indulge in one final breakfast, cherishing the memories created during your time on board. Then, prepare for your onward journey or return flight home as we transfer you to the airport.

Please book your flight to depart out of Bridgetown after 12:00 PM.

+All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. #Spa treatments at additional cost.

Please note the itinerary is a guide and may be subject to changes for operational reasons. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.