6 Reasons to Visit Costa Rica on a Small Ship Cruise

For nature and wildlife enthusiasts, Costa Rica is a perfect destination.   The landscapes are ecologically diverse, filled with rainforests, lakes, volcanoes, cloud forests and a wide array of plant, bird and wildlife, from chattering howler monkeys and slow-moving sloths to scarlet macaws, toucans and blue morpho butterflies, one of the largest butterfly in the world.  With some luck you may even spot an elusive jaguar or rare tapir.

Stunning, tropical, an amazing experience for sure.  And popular. 
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To get away from the crowds (and additional reasons), I recommend visiting on a small ship cruise: luxury yacht, clipper ship, adventure or expedition style, you have a number of great choices.  

Why a small ship cruise? 

Reason #1 – You don’t have to navigate the roads.  Costa Rica is a small mountainous country.  Roads are not as well maintained as they are in the US and travel between destinations may take longer than planned.  No worries on a cruise. Let the captain do the driving while you relax and enjoy the downtime. 

Reason #2 – You don’t have to worry about the hotel quality.  Costa Rica has some beautiful properties and eco lodges as well as hotels on the opposite spectrum.  Price does not necessarily match up with the amenities you might expect, so you have to be careful and do your research.  No worries on any of the small ship cruises. You know ahead of time what to expect. 

Reason #3 – You unpack/pack once while getting to visit multiple places over the course a week or longer.

All photos courtesy of Lindblad Experiences, photographer Ralph Lee Hopkins

​Reason #4 - Access to pristine and remote areas of the Costa Rican western coastline.  You visit secluded areas of national parks, conservatories and World Heritage sites.  You have opportunities to explore coastal forests by zodiac, glide through mangrove forests on kayaks and snorkel crystal clear waters with plenty marine life.

Reason #5 – The opportunity to add land based days to visit areas not accessible directly by ship.

Reason #6 – Panama is also often on the itinerary, along with the opportunity to transit the Panama Canal.

​As you can see, there are plenty of adventures to experience in this stunning country.  Sailings are available between November and March.  Start planning now so you can experience Costa Rica’s national motto in person. 

​Pura Vida – life’s simple pleasures.  
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​Ready for an experience that takes your adventure to a new level? 
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