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Secrets of Central America, 8 December 2026
10 nights
Le Bellot
8 Dec '26Cruise overview
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.
Wildlife encounters are possible experiences and cannot be guaranteed.
Itinerary
Puntarenas
This town is not on the Nicoya Peninsula, but rather on Costa Rica’s mainland. It is best known as a cruise-ship port and launching pad for ferries heading southeast to the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula and for cruises sailing out on the Gulf of Nicoya. Puntarenas is also a major fishing port with a lively fish market. The town’s reputation suffers from the unimpressive parts you see from your car as you roll through town on the way to the ferry dock. But the town has a lot of character off the main drag, thanks to its illustrious past as an affluent port town and principal vacation spot for San José’s wealthy, who arrived by train in the last century. Once the port was moved and roads opened to other beaches, Puntarenas’s economy crashed, but it’s making a comeback. Sitting on a narrow spit of sand—punta de arenas literally means “point of sand”—that protrudes into the Gulf of Nicoya, the town boasts a beautifully groomed, wide Blue Flag beach with views of the Nicoya Peninsula and spectacular sunsets, along with a public swimming pool, the San Lucas Beach Club, and a marine-life museum. Ticos arrive by bus and car to enjoy the beach and stroll the Paseo de los Turistas, a beachfront promenade lined with tree-shaded concrete benches and seafood restaurants. Crowds of locals, called porteños, cruise by on bicycles, the town’s most popular form of transport.
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Curú Wildlife Refuge
Bahía Drake
Rio Esquinas
Coiba Island
Darién National Park
Pearl Islands
Panama Canal Transit
San Blas Islands
Fuerte San Lorenzo
Colón
Deluxe Stateroom
Elegant and light-filled, the Deluxe Stateroom features a private balcony, queen-size bed, ensuite bathroom and refined contemporary décor, offering a comfortable and stylish retreat after days of exploration.
Amenities
- King or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Vanity Area
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Pillow Menu Available
- Desk
Owner's Suite
The finest accommodation onboard, the Owner’s Suite features panoramic views, a vast terrace with private Jacuzzi, a large living and dining area and exquisite décor, combining ultimate privacy with Ponant’s highest level of luxury.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Butler Service
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Telephone
- Lounge Area
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Hair Dryer
- Pillow Menu Available
- Desk
Grand Deluxe Suite
Exceptionally spacious, the Grand Deluxe Suite offers a generous living room, elegant bedroom, walk-in wardrobe and a large balcony. Thoughtful design and premium finishes elevate the sense of indulgence.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Pillow Menu Available
Privilege Suite
With sweeping views and an expansive balcony, the Privilege Suite features a separate lounge and bedroom, refined furnishings and a marble bathroom, blending luxury, privacy and effortless French sophistication.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Sofa Bed
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Butler Service
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Lounge Area
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
- Desk
Prestige Suite
Created by combining two Prestige Staterooms, the Prestige Suite offers a large living area, two private balconies and a separate bedroom, making it ideal for guests seeking added space and comfort.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Sofa Bed
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Butler Service
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Desk
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Free Wi-Fi
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
Deluxe Suite
Spacious and beautifully appointed, the Deluxe Suite offers a separate lounge area, private balcony and luxurious bathroom. Its contemporary styling and generous layout create a relaxed, premium onboard experience.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Pillow Menu Available
- Desk
Prestige Stateroom
Located on higher decks for enhanced views, the Prestige Stateroom includes a private balcony, serene modern design and a welcoming seating area, combining comfort with Ponant’s signature French elegance.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Room Service Available
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Vanity Area
- Toiletries Provided
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Pillow Menu Available
- Desk
Deluxe Stateroom
Elegant and light-filled, the Deluxe Stateroom features a private balcony, queen-size bed, ensuite bathroom and refined contemporary décor, offering a comfortable and stylish retreat after days of exploration.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Vanity Area
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Pillow Menu Available
- Desk
Deck 7
- Spa
- Fitness Centre
- Hair Salon
- Sun Deck
Deck 6
- Panoramic Lounge
- Art Gallery/Photo & Video
- Ocean Young Explorers
- Privilege Suites
- Grand Deluxe Suites
- Deluxe Suites
- Prestige Suites
- Prestige Staterooms
Deck 5
- Bridge
- Owners Suites
- Prestige Suites
- Deluxe Suites
- Privilege Suites
- Prestige Staterooms
Deck 4
- Restaurant
- Prestige Staterooms
- Deluxe Suites
Deck 3
- Theatre
- Medical Centre
- Reception Desk
- Excursions Desk
- Shop
- Main Lounge
- Grill
- Pool
- Deluxe Suites
- Deluxe Staterooms
Ship features
Le Bellot combines expedition capability with boutique luxury and stylish amenities.
- Compact explorer yacht with elegant design
- Large windows or balconies in all accommodations
- Lounges with retractable openings to the outside
- Inclusive service with refined touches
- Multiple dining options drawing on French and regional cuisine
- Panorama and observation lounges
- Spa, fitness and wellness areas
- Zodiac fleet, underwater cameras, expedition programming
Accommodation
Accommodation
All accommodations aboard Le Bellot include generous windows or balconies, luxurious finishes, smart storage, climate control and modern en-suite bathrooms. Suites and higher categories offer enhanced living space, additional amenities and elevated comfort levels.
Dining
Dining
Dining aboard Le Bellot is both elegant and inclusive. The main restaurant serves plated meals with a menu variety inspired by Port Cuisine and regional ingredients. A more casual menu is available for lighter fare, and private in-suite dining is offered. Wine pairings and thoughtful beverage options are included.
Amenities
Amenities
Public spaces include lounges, observation decks, a library, a boutique, wellness areas, and open promenades. The design emphasises connection with the sea, with outdoor-facing lounges and seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces.
Wellness
Wellness
Le Bellot’s spa features treatment rooms, a serene wellness environment, sauna or steam amenities and fitness options to provide balance between exploration and relaxation.
Entertainment
Entertainment
Evenings onboard focus on enrichment and connection: lectures, musical performances, film screenings, origin stories, and an opportunity to mingle in lounges or on deck.
Families
Families
Le Bellot welcomes travellers of all ages; her suite layouts can accommodate families, but her design and programming lean toward curious adult travellers and couples seeking discovery.