Costa Rica Cruises

Experience the Wonders of Costa Rica with CruiseAway

Welcome to **Costa Rica**, one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, where lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and vibrant wildlife await! A cruise through Costa Rica is an ideal way to experience its natural beauty and rich culture without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. The highlights of this tropical paradise include adventures like zip-lining through the treetops, relaxing in natural hot springs, and exploring vibrant cities filled with history and art. Fun fact: Costa Rica is home to more than 5% of the world’s biodiversity, which means every day here is an opportunity for exploration and discovery!

Top Harbours to Visit in Costa Rica

As you cruise the stunning coastline of Costa Rica, you’ll have the chance to explore several beautiful harbours. Here are five popular ports worth your attention:

• Puntarenas: As one of the primary cruise ports in Costa Rica, Puntarenas serves as your gateway to breathtaking adventures. When your cruise docks, explore the beautiful **Puntarenas Beach** or immerse yourself in the nearby **Carara National Park**, known for its diverse wildlife and hiking trails. Insider tip: Don’t miss trying some delicious local seafood at the beachfront restaurants!
• Puerto Limón: A bustling port on the Caribbean side, Puerto Limón is rich in culture and history. Once you dock, consider exploring the lush landscapes of **Tortuguero National Park**, famous for its turtles, or take a scenic drive to the picturesque **Veragua Rainforest** for an unforgettable nature experience. Pro tip: Sample the local **rice and beans** — the traditional Caribbean dish is a must-try while you’re here!
• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico: Although not in Costa Rica, Cabo San Lucas is often part of itineraries to this region. After enjoying its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, take a boat tour to marvel at the famous **Arch of Cabo San Lucas**. A unique activity to consider is to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters around **Lands End** for a chance to see colourful marine life!
• Cartagena, Colombia: Another non-Costa Rican port that features in cruises to Costa Rica, Cartagena enchants visitors with its colourful colonial architecture. Explore the historic walled city, enjoy a walking tour through vibrant streets, and taste local delicacies like **arepas**. Insider tip: Try to arrive early to visit the Bolivar Plaza, where you can soak up local culture and beauty before the crowds arrive!
• Fort Lauderdale, USA: A popular departure point for cruises to Costa Rica, Fort Lauderdale boasts beautiful beaches and excellent amenities. Before setting sail, take some time to explore the **Venice of America** by boating along the canals, or do a little shopping in the bustling Las Olas Boulevard. Pro tip: Sample the fresh seafood at one of the local waterfront restaurants before your journey begins!

Best Times to Cruise Costa Rica

When planning your cruise to **Costa Rica**, the best time to visit is typically during the **dry season**, which runs from **December to April**. During this period, expect warm temperatures averaging around **25°C to 30°C**, ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. While the rainy season lasts from **May to November**, the temperatures remain pleasant, averaging around **20°C to 26°C**. If you opt for the wet season, be prepared with rain gear, but don’t let the occasional showers deter you; this time of year often offers fewer crowds and lush green scenery!

The Cost of Cruising in Costa Rica

The cost of a cruise in Costa Rica varies widely based on the cruise line and the duration of your trip. Expect to pay approximately **$1,600 to $3,200** for a one-week cruise, while two-week cruises can range from **$3,000 to $6,000**. For luxury cruisers, expect to pay upwards of **$5,000** for a one-week journey. The best times to cruise for deals are during the shoulder seasons of **late April to early June** and **September to November**, as prices tend to drop. Dining costs in the region can range from **$15 to $40** per meal at local restaurants, with fresh ingredients proudly showcased in the rich Costa Rican cuisine!

Major Cruise Lines Operating in Costa Rica

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, **six** sail to **Costa Rica**, including **Coral Princess** and **Island Princess**. Most departures take place from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Los Angeles**. Princess Cruises is known for its exceptional onboard service, thrilling activities, and an impressive range of excursion options that allow you to experience the best of Costa Rica’s biodiversity and culture.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line features **20 ships**, with **eight** providing itineraries to **Costa Rica**. **Norwegian Encore** and **Norwegian Joy** regularly depart from **Miami** or **Los Angeles**. They’re famous for their flexible dining options and casual atmosphere, allowing guests to explore Costa Rica at a comfortable pace while enjoying a variety of onboard activities.
• Holland America Line: Operating with a fleet of **11 ships**, **four** sail to Costa Rica, including **Rotterdam** and **Zuiderdam**. Most cruises depart from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Vancouver**. Holland America Line is renowned for its focus on cultural immersion and educational experiences, offering travelers a chance to learn about Costa Rica’s ecosystems through guided excursions and expert-led activities.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Comprising **26 ships**, **seven** offer journeys to **Costa Rica**. The **Carnival Miracle** and **Carnival Legend** typically depart from **Galveston** or **Tampa**. Carnival is known for providing a fun and vibrant atmosphere throughout its vessels, ensuring guests of all ages can enjoy entertainment and activities during their voyages.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of **23 ships**, **two** of its vessels, the **MSC Divina** and **MSC Magnifica**, sail to Costa Rica. Departures often occur from **Miami** or **Barcelona**. MSC is particularly popular with families, offering a range of entertainment options and dining experiences inspired by the Mediterranean—enhancing your Costa Rican experience with a taste of global flavours.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: This cruise line features **eight ships**, with **six** sailing to Costa Rica. The **Vista** and **Insignia** frequently depart from **Miami** or **Los Angeles**. Oceania Cruises stands out for its gourmet dining options and destination-focused itineraries, allowing you to explore both renowned hotspots and hidden gems in Costa Rica.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Operating with a fleet of **six ships**, **three** cruise to Costa Rica, including **Seven Seas Grandeur** and **Seven Seas Mariner**. Departing primarily from **Miami** or **Los Angeles**, Regent focuses on the all-inclusive luxury experience, offering fine dining, first-rate service, and immersive shore excursions for an unforgettable cruise experience.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Featuring **11 ships**, **three** offer itineraries to Costa Rica; among them are the **Viking Mars** and **Viking Neptune**. These ships generally depart from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Fuerte Amador**. Viking is known for its enriching cultural experiences and destination immersion, wherein guests gain insight into the wildlife and natural beauty of Costa Rica through active excursions.
• Silversea: With a fleet of **13 ships**, **four** frequent Costa Rica, including **Silver Shadow** and **Silver Dawn**. Departing often from **Fort Lauderdale** or **San Diego**, Silversea offers luxurious small-ship cruising with unparalleled service and unique itineraries tailored to provide an intimate exploration of Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes and attractions.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet size of **four ships**, **two** visit Costa Rica, specifically the **Azamara Onward** and **Azamara Journey**. Departures typically happen from **Miami** or **Fuerte Amador**. Azamara is distinguished by its focus on destination immersion, offering longer stays and late-night departures, allowing guests to engage more deeply with local cultures.

Explore Alternative Regions

If you’re considering a cruise to **Costa Rica** but are curious about other enticing destinations, here are five worthy alternatives:

• Caribbean: Known for pristine beaches and turquoise waters, the Caribbean islands offer a beautiful escape with rich culture and vibrant festivities.
• Central America: Explore the culture and history of nations like Guatemala and Nicaragua, abundant in ancient ruins and natural beauty.
• Eastern Mediterranean: Combining historical sites with breathtaking beaches, the Eastern Mediterranean offers picturesque landscapes and intriguing cultures.
• Mexico: The coastal towns of Mexico provide beautiful beaches, rich history, and delightful cuisine, allowing for a vibrant cruising experience.
• Panama Canal: The iconic canal is a marvel of engineering and a must-see for crossing between the Atlantic and Pacific, offering stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.

Cruising to **Costa Rica** presents an incredible opportunity to soak in the beauty of nature while enjoying leisurely island adventures. So why wait? Book your memorable trip with **CruiseAway** today and step into a world of vibrant landscapes and unparalleled experiences!