Aboard Le Bellot: November 7, 2026; November 14, 2026*; January 15, 2027; February 26, 2027

Between the magic of Panama's crystal-clear waters and the lush jungles of Costa Rica, fall under the spell of a cruise where each port of call reveals its finest treasures. On this unforgettable journey between Colón and Puntarenas, you will discover wild regions with a biodiversity that is unique in the world, meet indigenous communities carrying on ancient traditions, and be mesmerised by the breathtaking views. Navigate between two worlds and sail one of the most mythical shipping routes across the Isthmus of Panama, from one ocean to the other, between heavenly beaches and primary tropical forests.

*November 14, 2026 is the reverse itinerary.

Aboard Le Bellot: Nov 21, 2026; Jan 14, 2027
Aboard Le Lapérouse: Dec 19, 2026

Connecting two continents, Panama and Costa Rica both possess unique biodiversity and landscapes. During this expedition cruise, tropical forest, impressive mangrove, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water will make up the decor of an extraordinary experience, between two oceans, thanks to the crossing of the mythical Panama Canal. From historic sites and preserved archipelagos to coral islets and nature reserves, you will explore this region’s treasures in the company of naturalist guides, discovering the history of the local communities as well as the incredible wildlife to be found here.

Aboard Le Bellot: Dec 8, 2026; Jan 4; Mar 29, 2027
Aboard Le Lapérouse: Jan 5, 2027

Connecting two continents, Panama and Costa Rica both possess unique biodiversity and landscapes. During this expedition cruise, tropical forest, impressive mangrove, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water will make up the decor of an extraordinary experience, between two oceans, thanks to the crossing of the mythical Panama Canal. From historic sites and preserved archipelagos to coral islets and nature reserves, you will explore this region’s treasures in the company of naturalist guides, discovering the history of the local communities as well as the incredible wildlife to be found here.

Aboard Le Bellot: Dec 1; 28, 2026
Aboard Le Lapérouse: Dec 28, 2026

Explore the luxurious Pacific Coast of Costa Rica during a 8-day journey, looped from Puntarenas. From Guanacaste to the Osa Peninsula, set off to discover incredible wildlife and explore emblematic national parks, guided by the song of the howler monkeys, the slow movements of sloths, the hypnotic colours of the macaws and other fascinating species. In this biodiversity sanctuary, mangroves, tropical forests and beaches of black sand are perfect illustrations of the country’s mantra: Pura Vida, meaning a pure life, one that is harmonious and closely linked to nature.

Aboard Le Lapérouse: February 19, 2027

This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT EXPLORATIONS voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT EXPLORATIONS experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world-class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.

Discover Panama and Costa Rica with Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT EXPLORATIONS on this splendid 8-day cruise aboard Le Lapérouse, which explores the region’s abundant natural splendors, local indigenous communities, and the modern marvel of the Panama Canal.

Aboard L'Austral: October 20, 2026

Between the wild beauty of the Panamanian coastlines and the fascinating shores of Peru, let yourself be carried away on a journey where every moment is a unique experience. Explore the Darien National Park, a sanctuary of unique biodiversity, and discover the Embera community, guardians of ancestral traditions in the heart of the Caribbean islands. Cross the legendary Panama Canal, the mythical passage connecting two oceans, and marvel at the Andean panoramas and Peru’s pre-Colombian heritage. From turquoise water edged with immaculate beaches to tropical forests where nature reigns supreme, this journey will plunge you into the heart of exceptional landscapes and cultures.

Aboard Le Bellot: January 31; February 20; March 2, 12; 2027

In the midst of the Mexican winter, set off on an all-new journey in Baja California, a wild land where the sea and the sky come together in an endless dazzle. As you sail over crystal-clear waves, you will be captivated by magical encounters: grey whales — preserving their ancient migratory cycle, the longest of all mammals, to give birth in these shallow lagoons — playful bottlenose dolphins, orcas, blue whales, colorful fish and majestic devil rays.

Aboard Le Bellot: February 10, 2027

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This cruise is part of a collection of Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT EXPLORATIONS voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT EXPLORATIONS experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.

This 11-day voyage aboard Le Bellot to the peninsula of Baja California and the Sea of Cortez is an extraordinary opportunity to explore a part of the world that Jacques Cousteau famously called “the world's aquarium.” Few places on earth can rival the abundance and variety of marine life to be found on this itinerary: playful sea lions, dolphins, sea turtles, dozens of different species of fish, and above all, whales. Nor is the rich profusion of species confined to the sea. The ibis, cormorants, and great blue herons that inhabit the dense mangroves of the peninsula's Pacific Coast, as well as the pelicans, gulls, and boobies living in the Sea of Cortez—all these, and more, make for a birder’s paradise.