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.

Scenic Freechoice:
Portobelo Forts & Colonial History: Explore the UNESCO-listed forts of Portobelo on a guided tour, uncovering tales of Spanish treasure, pirate raids and colonial history.  

Portobelo Bay Snorkelling & Beach: Snorkel the clear waters of Portobelo Bay with a private marine expert, exploring vibrant coral reefs and historic Drake’s Island. Discover tropical marine life and underwater relics while learning the secrets of this legendary pirate haven. 

Congo Culture & Portobelo Village Walk: Discover Portobelo’s Afro-Panamanian heritage on a private tour, ending with a vibrant Congo dance performance honoring a UNESCO-recognized tradition. 

Congo Percussion Workshop & Portobelo Heritage: Learn traditional Afro-Panamanian rhythms in a private drumming workshop, then relax with fresh coconut water overlooking Portobelo Bay. 

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 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.

The evening will come alive with a spectacular performance of traditional Colombian folk dances, showcasing vibrant costumes, energetic rhythms and rich cultural storytelling. Experience the passion and heritage of Colombia through captivating music and dance. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Colombian Coffee Experience with Honey Pairing & Touch of Gold: Discover Cartagena’s historic walled city, then enjoy a hands-on Colombian coffee tasting led by a local expert. Learn about roasting, cupping and honey pairings before visiting the Gold Museum and ending with a relaxing café refreshment stop. 

Cartagena Walking Tour: Explore La Popa Monastery, Castillo de San Felipe, vibrant Getsemaní, the walled city, and the Gold Museum, ending with a local ice cream. 

Old Cartagena by Vintage Car: Tour Cartagena’s old town in classic vintage cars, discovering its beautiful colonial streets. End with a delicious meal at a trendy historic restaurant and some free time to explore. 

Aruba's capital is easily explored on foot. Its palm-lined central thoroughfare runs between old and new pastel-painted buildings of typical Dutch design (Spanish influence is also evident in some of the architecture). There are a lot of malls with boutiques and shops—the Renaissance mall carries high-end luxury items and designer fashions. A massive renovation in downtown has given Main Street (a.k.a. Caya G. F. Betico Croes) behind the Renaissance Resort a whole new lease on life: boutique malls, shops, and restaurants have opened next to well-loved family-run businesses. The pedestrian-only walkway and resting areas have unclogged the street, and the new eco-trolley is free and a great way to get around. At this writing, Linear Park was well and will showcase local merchants and artists. There will be activities along a boardwalk that will eventually run all the way to the end of Palm Beach, making it the longest of its kind in the Caribbean.

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.

Scenic Freechoice:
Aruba's Outback Jeep Adventure: Explore Aruba’s outback with visits to Ayo rocks, Bushiribana Gold Mill ruins, California Lighthouse, Tres Trapi beach and the iconic Fofoti tree. 

Aruba’s Expedition by UTV: Experience Aruba off-road in a Utility Terrain Vehicle! Discover dramatic landscapes, historic ruins and unique rock formations, ending with a refreshing swim at Mangel Halto Beach. A perfect blend of thrill, adventure, nature and culture. Guests must be at least 23 years old and hold a valid driver’s license to operate a UTV. 

Photo Ops in Aruba Bus Tour: Discover Aruba’s scenic and cultural highlights on a guided bus tour, visiting the California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Casibari Rock Formations and Mangel Halto Beach — each offering stunning views, rich history and unforgettable photo opportunities. 

Dutch settlers came here in the 1630s, about the same time they sailed through the Verazzano Narrows to Manhattan, bringing with them original red-tile roofs, first used on the trade ships as ballast and later incorporated into the architecture of Willemstad. Much of the original colonial structures remain, but this historic city is constantly reinventing itself and the government monument foundation is always busy restoring buildings in one urban neighborhood or another. The salty air causes what is called "wall cancer" which causes the ancient abodes to continually crumble over time. The city is cut in two by Santa Anna Bay. On one side is Punda (the point)—crammed with shops, restaurants, monuments, and markets and a new museum retracing its colorful history. And on the other side is Otrobanda (literally meaning the "other side"), with lots of narrow, winding streets and alleyways (called "steekjes" in Dutch), full of private homes notable for their picturesque gables and Dutch-influenced designs. In recent years the ongoing regeneration of Otrobanda has been apparent, marked by a surge in development of new hotels, restaurants, and shops; the rebirth, concentrated near the waterfront, was spearheaded by the creation of the elaborate Kura Hulanda complex.There are three ways to cross the bay: by car over the Juliana Bridge; by foot over the Queen Emma pontoon bridge (locally called "The Swinging Old Lady"); or by free ferry, which runs when the pontoon bridge is swung open for passing ships. All the major hotels outside town offer free shuttle service to town once or twice daily. Shuttles coming from the Otrobanda side leave you at Riffort. From here it's a short walk north to the foot of the pontoon bridge. Shuttles coming from the Punda side leave you near the main entrance to Ft. Amsterdam.

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.

Scenic Freechoice:
Treasures of Curaçao: Visit the stunning Hato Caves, explore the Maritime Museum’s rich history, drive through UNESCO-listed Scharloo and taste blue Curaçao at the Chobolobo distillery. 

Capital Highlights by e-Bike: Explore Punda, Scharloo and Pietermaai by pedal-assisted e-bike, crossing the Queen Emma Bridge and discovering hidden streets, historic sites and local art. 

Art Experience at Landhuis Bloemhof: Travel to Landhuis Bloemhof to experience Curaçao’s art, history and nature. Enjoy guided tours of the Water Plantation, the stunning Cathedral of Thorns and take part in a relaxing art workshop before unwinding with a snack at a local hotspot. 

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.