Panama and Colombia: Exploring the Caribbean Coast
7 nights
National Geographic Quest
12 Nov '27Cruise overview
Explore the vibrant Caribbean coast of Panama and Colombia aboard the aptly designed National Geographic Quest, where every day offers a new natural or cultural encounter. Hike through lush rainforests alive with wildlife, kayak and Zodiac into hidden inlets, and engage with Indigenous communities from the island-dwelling Guna Yala to the famed artisans of Tuchín. In Fall 2025-Spring 2027 only, enjoy a special opportunity to transit the legendary Panama Canal—an iconic passage linking two great oceans.
Itinerary
Panama City
Arrive in Panama City, the capital of Panama, this afternoon. Transfer to Colón to embark the National Geographic Quest this evening. You may opt for a culturally immersive pre-voyage extension in Panama City and San Lorenzo, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site.
Arrival Time: Arrive before 1:30 p.m. local time.
Arrival City: Panama City, Panama
Expect incredible morning views as you arrive into the port for Panama City. Tinged with a silver pre-dawn light, the city will metamorphosise into a golden glow as the sun rises above it. And from then on expect one stunning view after another. Very interesting in its own right, Fuerte Amador is obviously overshadowed by its proximity to Panama City. So should the Miraflores museum of the Canal, which offers a comprehensive and immersive tour of the Canal including a 3-D experience, four exhibition halls, an observation deck, and a surprisingly good restaurant not interest you then there is always the option of lovely Casco Viejo – literally the old quartier of Panama. The grand old colonial houses, cobbled streets, independent boutiques and buzzing street scene make this a must stop on your itinerary. And if you like seafood, you will not want miss the many restaurants and market stalls serving different variations of so-fresh-it’s-still-practically-swimming ceviche. Best eaten like the Panamanians do, with salty crackers and a cold beer on the beach. And if money is no object, a cup of geisha coffee – supposedly the world’s best and definitely the world’s most expensive at $7 a shot is definitely a pick me up! Cool cosmopolitan capital aside, Panama has a skyscraper filled skyline that is worthy of some of its North American counterparts. But if urban utopia is not your scene then fear not, the sandy beaches and lush rainforests are never more than a short cab ride away.
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Portobelo
San Blas Islands
San Blas Islands
Capurgana
Santa Cruz Island, California
Cispatá Bay
Cartagena
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
