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Choose Cruise ExpertCosta Rica Cruises
Explore Costa Rica's lush rainforests and stunning coastlines on a cruise.
Cruise Offers for Costa Rica
Travel Tips for Costa Rica
Discover the Wonders of Costa Rica on a Cruise
Costa Rica, often celebrated as a paradise for nature lovers, is a destination that combines beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant wildlife. Opting for a cruise to Costa Rica allows you to effortlessly explore this Central American gem’s unique landscapes while enjoying the comforts of shipboard life. Fun fact: Costa Rica is home to over 5% of the world’s biodiversity, despite covering only about 0.03% of the Earth’s surface! As a cruiser, you’ll find an abundance of adventures awaiting you, from zip-lining through cloud forests to relaxing on sun-kissed beaches.
Top Harbours to Visit in Costa Rica
As you sail into the heart of Costa Rica, these five harbours will captivate you with their unique charm and activities:
The gateway to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, Puerto Limón is a vibrant tapestry of cultures and natural beauty. Upon docking, consider taking a visit to the nearby Cahuita National Park, famous for its coral reefs and serene beaches. For a taste of local culture, stroll through the bustling market where you’ll find fresh fruits, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Be sure to try a patí, a delicious pastry filled with seasoned meat, before heading back to your ship!
Puntarenas serves as a pivot for both beach access and mountainous terrain. Once your cruise ship docks, take a short trek into the mountains to see the iconic Monteverde Cloud Forest. If you’re short on time, you can simply relax on the beach at Playa Puntarenas, enjoy the sun, and sip on refreshing coconut water. Alternatively, savour local seafood at a beachfront restaurant while you soak in the serene atmosphere!
Nestled nearby the picturesque Nicoya Peninsula, Puerto Caldera is often used as a jump-off point for exploring Costa Rica’s natural wonders. After arriving here, embark on an exhilarating tour to Arenal Volcano for a chance to soak in natural hot springs surrounded by stunning landscapes. If you’re eager for more relaxation, visit local artisan shops in Caldera where you can find beautifully crafted souvenirs to take home. Don’t miss trying a cup of locally grown kopi coffee before you set sail again!
Known for its verdant scenery and pristine beaches, Drakes Bay is a true treasure for nature enthusiasts. As your ship docks, consider booking a guided tour to Corcovado National Park, home to diverse wildlife, including tapirs and scarlet macaws. For a shorter visit, spend your time at one of the stunning beaches for swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. This destination provides a fantastic opportunity to disconnect and soak in the natural beauty!
Curu is a nature lover’s paradise, featuring a wildlife refuge that teems with diverse flora and fauna. Upon arrival, you can take a guided hike to seek out capuchin monkeys and vibrant toucans. If time allows, indulge in kayaking through calm waters to spot wildlife, or opt for a deeper dive into Costa Rica’s marine biodiversity with a snorkeling excursion. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture the colorful landscapes and incredible wildlife!
Best Times to Cruise Costa Rica
The ideal time to cruise to Costa Rica is between December and April, during the dry season, when temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C. This period provides the best weather for exploring rainforests and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. However, if you’re looking for slightly cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, consider cruising during November or early December, where daytime temperatures typically fall between 20°C to 25°C. Just be mindful that the rainy season (May to October) may bring occasional downpours, especially in the afternoons, but also rewards you with lush landscapes and intensified wildlife activity.
Cruise Pricing Overview for Costa Rica
Looking to book a cruise to Costa Rica? A typical 1-week cruise usually costs between $1,500 to $3,000 for standard options and can reach from $4,500 to about $8,500 for luxury experiences. For a 2-week cruise, expect the price range to be $2,500 to $5,500 for standard, while luxurious journeys start from $9,000. The most budget-friendly times are often during late April to early June or in late September, as rates tend to rise during the dry season. Dining at local restaurants typically costs around $15 to $40 per meal, and refreshing cocktails or local beers will set you back about $5 to $10.
Major Cruise Lines Visiting Costa Rica
- Princess Cruises
With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has 6 vessels that visit Costa Rica, including Coral Princess and Island Princess. Most sailings depart from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles. Recognised for its wide variety of onboard activities and entertainment, Princess Cruises is perfect for families looking to create lasting memories while exploring the beauty of Costa Rica. - Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian boasts a fleet of 20 ships, with 8 offering itineraries to Costa Rica, including Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy. Departures typically occur from Miami or Los Angeles. The line is renowned for its freestyle cruising concept, allowing guests to enjoy dining and activities at their convenience, ensuring a truly relaxed experience. - Holland America Line
With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America features 4 that head to Costa Rica, particularly Rotterdam and Zuiderdam. Departures often happen from Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver. Guests appreciate Holland America’s strong cultural immersion focus, allowing for enriching shore excursions that connect cruisers with the local culture. - Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival operates a fleet of 27 ships, with 7 offering itineraries that include Costa Rica, such as Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle. Most cruises depart from Tampa or Galveston. Known for its lively onboard atmosphere and family-friendly options, Carnival makes for a fun and entertaining experience for guests of all ages. - MSC Cruises
With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 2 that visit Costa Rica, namely MSC Divina and MSC Magnifica. Departures for these itineraries primarily occur from Miami or Civitavecchia (Rome). MSC is well-liked for its European flair and Mediterranean influences, ensuring a unique cruise experience enriched with stylish amenities and gastronomy.
Top Luxury and Small Ship Options
- Oceania Cruises
Oceania has 8 ships in its fleet, with 6 sailing to Costa Rica, including Insignia and Vista. Most sailments leave from Miami or Los Angeles. Known for its outstanding culinary experiences, Oceania emphasizes gourmet dining and exceptional service, providing an elegant cruising experience that caters to food lovers. - Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent’s fleet comprises 6 ships, with 3 frequently visiting Costa Rica, especially Seven Seas Grandeur and Seven Seas Mariner. Departures usually occur from Miami or Los Angeles. Regent is known for its all-inclusive luxury and unparalleled service, ensuring that every detail is taken care of, making for an unforgettable travel experience. - Seabourn
Seabourn operates a fleet of 6 ships, with 3 sailing to Costa Rica, including Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Quest. These cruises typically depart from Long Beach or Papeete. Seabourn offers ultra-luxury experiences, prioritising personalized service and refined onboard amenities, making it renowned for its intimate atmosphere. - Viking Ocean Cruises
Viking has a fleet of 11 ships, with 3 that visit Costa Rica, including Viking Mars and Viking Neptune. Most itineraries depart from Fort Lauderdale or Fuerte Amador. Viking focuses on destination immersion and cultural enrichment, providing a unique opportunity to connect with the local environment at each port gainfulness. - Silversea
With a fleet of 13 ships, Silversea offers 3 that sail to Costa Rica, notably Silver Shadow and Silver Moon. Most cruises depart from San Diego or Fort Lauderdale. Known for its elegant atmosphere and intimate settings, Silversea guarantees an indulgent cruising retreat for travellers seeking luxury in exploration.
Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Cruise
If Costa Rica has sparked your interest, consider exploring these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:
- Panama Canal: The Panama Canal offers a unique maritime experience, combining engineering marvels with stunning natural beauty. Cruisers can observe ships navigating through locks while also enjoying the lush landscapes of Central America.
- Caribbean: Known for its turquoise waters and tropical vibes, the Caribbean is perfect for those looking to relax on sun-soaked beaches. Each island boasts its own charm and culture, providing endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
- Galapagos Islands: For the wildlife enthusiasts, a cruise to the Galapagos Islands is a must. You’ll encounter unique species, stunning landscapes, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.
- South America: A cruise to South America allows you to explore diverse cultures, incredible landscapes, and vibrant cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, making it a dynamic addition to your travel itinerary.
- Mexico: Combining rich history, stunning coastal views, and vibrant culture, a Mexican cruise can take you to beautiful beaches and cosmopolitan cities brimming with delicious cuisine and local crafts.
With its incredible biodiversity, beautiful landscapes, and rich culture, Costa Rica promises a cruise experience like no other. Now is the time to book your unforgettable journey with CruiseAway!
Harbours for Costa Rica
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