Costa Rica Cruises

Explore the Wonders of Costa Rica with Cruise1st

Costa Rica, known for its stunning biodiversity and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This Central American paradise boasts incredible ecosystems, from lush rainforests and towering volcanoes to pristine beaches and scenic rivers. Fun fact: Costa Rica is home to more than 5% of the world’s biodiversity, despite its small size! Cruising to Costa Rica offers an excellent way to immerse yourself in its breathtaking landscapes while providing access to exciting activities like zip-lining, hiking, and wildlife watching—all from the comfort of your floating hotel.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Costa Rica Itineraries

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17, Princess Cruises showcases 6 ships sailing to Costa Rica, including the Coral Princess and Island Princess. These ships stand out for their diverse onboard experience, featuring entertainment, dining options, and enriching programs highlighting Central American culture. Departures for Costa Rica typically occur from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles, giving cruisers a great start to their journey.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Boasting a fleet of 20, Norwegian has 8 ships visiting Costa Rica, with the Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy offering a lively atmosphere and numerous dining options. These cruises most often depart from Miami or Los Angeles, allowing you to start your Costa Rican adventure in style while enjoying the ship's amenities.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships in their fleet, Holland America operates 4 to Costa Rica, including the Rotterdam and Zuiderdam. Renowned for their culinary experiences and engaging enrichment programs, these ships ensure a memorable journey from Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver—an excellent way to kick off your exploration of Central America.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Featuring a fleet of 27, Carnival has 7 ships sailing to Costa Rica, including Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle. These family-friendly ships offer a wide range of activities, making them perfect for cruisers of all ages. Departures can be found from Tampa or Galveston, allowing plenty of options for a fun-filled getaway to Costa Rica.
• MSC Cruises: With 23 ships, MSC has 2 offering itineraries to Costa Rica, featuring MSC Divina and MSC Magnifica. These ships are known for their blend of modern amenities and lush onboard experiences, focusing on Mediterranean hospitality. Most cruises depart from Miami or Barcelona, presenting cruisers with a fantastic opportunity to dive into adventure in Costa Rica.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Costa Rica

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania boasts a fleet of 8, with 6 ships sailing to Costa Rica, including the Insignia and Vista. Known for culinary excellence and unique shore excursions, these vessels provide a refined cruise experience. Commonly departing from Miami or Los Angeles, cruisers can enjoy a luxurious journey to the treasures of Costa Rica.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6, Seabourn features 3 ships cruising to Costa Rica, most notably the Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Quest. Renowned for their all-inclusive luxury service and elegant amenities, these ships set a high standard for cruising. Departures generally occur from Long Beach or Papeete, giving guests a lovely start to their Costa Rican adventure.
• Azamara Cruises: Comprising a fleet of 4, Azamara operates 2 ships that visit Costa Rica, including Azamara Onward and Azamara Journey. Offering immersive destination experiences, these ships allow guests to connect deeply with the cultures they visit. Departures usually happen from Miami or Fuerte Amador, perfect for those looking to explore Costa Rica.
• Silversea: With 12 ships, Silversea has 2 sailing to Costa Rica—Silver Shadow and Silver Moon. Silversea is celebrated for its luxurious offerings and personal service, ensuring a boutique cruise experience. Departures typically occur from San Diego or Bridgetown, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration of Costa Rica.
• Explora Journeys: This luxury cruise line has a fleet of 2, with 1—EXPLORA II—offering itineraries to Costa Rica. While focusing on sustainability and wellness, they curate a unique experience for discerning travellers. Departures generally occur from Miami, providing the perfect base for your adventure.

Top Harbours to Visit in Costa Rica

• Puerto Limón: The bustling gateway to Costa Rica, Puerto Limón welcomes cruise passengers with its vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to explore the nearby Tortuguero National Park, famous for its lush canals and wildlife, including sloths and howler monkeys. A walking tour of the town allows visitors to experience local culture, music, and tasty Caribbean cuisine!
• Puntarenas: Situated along the Pacific Coast, Puntarenas is a charming port where you can relax on the beach or enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants. Take a day trip to Manuel Antonio National Park for incredible hiking trails and opportunities to see stunning wildlife. If you’re in the mood for relaxation, stroll along the waterfront promenade and soak in the coastal views.
• Puerto Caldera: This small yet picturesque port serves as a gateway for cruise guests to explore Orotina, home to scenic coffee plantations and rolling hills. Join a coffee tour for a unique experience of tasting the locally grown beans. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely beach day at one of the stunning nearby beaches, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Key Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Costa Rica

• Cartagena, Colombia: This historic city is famous for its vibrant colonial architecture and rich history. While docked here, consider exploring the charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or take a guided tour of the nearby fortress, Castillo de San Felipe, for stunning views of the city and sea.
• Panama Canal, Panama: A marvel of engineering, cruising through the Panama Canal is an unforgettable experience. Passengers often take guided tours to learn about the canal's history and operations while observing the fascinating transit through the locks.
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA: Known as the "Venice of America" for its extensive canal system, Fort Lauderdale boasts a lively atmosphere. Explore the beachfront promenade or hop on a water taxi to discover the beautiful waterways and stunning mansions along the coast!
• Miami, Florida, USA: A trendy stop with plenty of things to do, Miami is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and cultural attractions. While docked, visit the iconic Art Deco Historic District or enjoy delicious Cuban cuisine in Little Havana—an unforgettable experience!
• Colón, Panama: Another essential hub for Panama Canal travel, Colón features a lively environment with access to the historic Fort San Lorenzo, lush rainforests, and beautiful beaches. Visitors can enjoy unique cultural tours or take part in adventure outings, like zip-lining through the rainforest.

Seasonal Highlights for Cruising in Costa Rica

Cruising to Costa Rica is enjoyable at various times of the year! From December to April, the dry season offers pleasant temperatures between 25-30°C, making it perfect for beach outings and adventure activities. May to November is the rainy season, with temperatures ranging from 20-28°C; while it may rain more, this period also provides incredible opportunities for lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife sightings during eco-tours. If you’re looking to embrace the outdoors, you might prefer traveling during the dry months!

Cost Overview for Cruises to Costa Rica

A week-long cruise to Costa Rica can generally range between $1,500 to $2,500 AUD, while two-week journeys may cost around $3,000 to $5,000 AUD. For those craving more luxury, expect to pay starting prices of $5,000 AUD for a week and upwards of $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals onboard are typically included, but if you decide to venture into local restaurants when ashore, expect costs between $15-40 AUD for a meal, while drinks can range around $10-15 AUD.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you're contemplating a cruise to Costa Rica, consider exploring these captivating alternatives:

• Panama: With its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, Panama is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and history—don't miss the iconic canal experience!
• Baja California, Mexico: An extraordinary region with picturesque coastlines and enchanting wildlife, Baja California offers stunning opportunities for kayaking, catamaran sailing, and exploring marine parks.
• Caribbean: The Caribbean is known for its turquoise waters and relaxed island vibe, ideal for a laid-back beach getaway—perfect for sun and sea lovers alike!
• Belize: With the world's second-largest barrier reef and rich Mayan culture, Belize is ideal if you're looking for stunning underwater adventures and unique historical exploration.
• Central America: Rich in biodiversity and vibrant cultures, Central America offers a variety of travel experiences, from lush rainforests to rich culinary delights.

Ready to embark on a Costa Rican adventure? Cruise1st is excited to help you book the perfect cruise for your exploration of this lush and vibrant region, filled with thrilling experiences and unforgettable memories!