Costa Rica and the Panama Canal
7 nights
National Geographic Quest
23 Dec '27Cruise overview
Sailing the Panama Canal is an unforgettable experience that places you at the heart of one of history’s greatest engineering triumphs. Aboard National Geographic Quest, you’ll enjoy privileged access—transiting the locks by both day and night—and benefit from a team of experts who illuminate every nuance of the crossing. Beyond the steel and stone of the canal, discover the vibrant tropical worlds of Costa Rica and Panama: snorkel colorful coral reefs, kayak along hidden shorelines and trek into lush rainforests filled with monkeys and colorful birdlife.
Itinerary
Colón
The provincial capital of Colón, beside the canal’s Atlantic entrance, is named for the Spanish-language surname of Christopher Columbus, though the Americans called it Aspinwall in the 19th century.. The city was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad and named Aspinwall for one of the railway engineers. Following completion in 1855, Colon gained in importance, which was furthered by the plans for an isthmian canal. During the time of the French canal attempt, a fire in 1885 burned the city nearly to the ground and left thousands of people homeless. Colon was rebuilt in the architectural style then popular in France. Buildings from that era plus the ones constructed by Americans between 1904 and 1914 are still in use today, although the majority is on the verge of collapse. In addition to its importance as a port, Colon boasts the world’s second largest duty-free zone, known as Zona Libre, which is contained in a huge fortress like, walled-off area with giant international stores. However, most of the merchandise is sold in bulk to commercial businesses throughout the country.
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Gatun Lake
Panama Canal Transit
Coiba Island
Osa Peninsula
Golfo Dulce
Osa Conservation Area
San José
Category 1
#301-306 — Cabins feature two single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, two nightstands, two portholes, a full-length mirror, and reading lights.
Amenities
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Ship features
Purpose-built for exploration in coastal waters, National Geographic Quest combines expedition technology with modern comfort.
- 100-passenger capacity for small-group exploration
- Fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and paddleboards
- Shallow draft for access to hidden coves and fjords
- Onboard expedition team and National Geographic photographers
- Open Bridge policy for guest interaction with the crew
- Comfortable lounge with panoramic views
- Spa, fitness area, and library
- Environmentally conscious design and operations
- Locally inspired dining and regional cuisine
- Interactive briefings and lectures daily
