Costa Rica Cruises

Welcome to Costa Rica, a lush oasis where vibrant ecosystems meet pristine beaches and adventurous experiences. This Central American gem is perfect for cruisers seeking the thrill of zip-lining through rainforests, unwinding on stunning coastlines, and spotting exotic wildlife! Did you know that Costa Rica is home to over 5% of the world’s biodiversity? It’s an eco-traveler’s paradise filled with volcanoes, national parks, and warm-hearted locals. With a cruise to Costa Rica, you can explore this tropical paradise while enjoying the beautiful comforts of your ship!

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to Costa Rica

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17, Princess has 6 ships offering itineraries to Costa Rica. The Coral Princess and Island Princess are popular choices, known for their elegant dining experiences and enriching onboard activities like cooking classes and workshops. Most cruises typically depart from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles, providing multiple options for cruisers keen to explore the lush landscapes of Costa Rica.
• Holland America Line: This cruise line features 11 ships, with 4 visiting Costa Rica. Both the Rotterdam and Zuiderdam are known for their understated luxury and exceptional art collections. The cruises frequently depart from Fort Lauderdale or Vancouver, making it easy to begin your Costa Rican adventure.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20 ships, 8 of which sail to Costa Rica, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Jade stand out for their freestyle dining and relaxed onboard vibe. Most sailings depart from Miami or Los Angeles, ensuring cruisers can swiftly access the vibrant culture and stunning nature of Costa Rica.
• Carnival Cruise Line: This lively cruise line has a fleet size of 27, with 7 ships offering itineraries to Costa Rica. The Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle are well-loved for their fun-filled atmosphere and onboard attractions like water slides! Cruises typically set off from Tampa or Galveston, making it easy to embark on your tropical journey.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23, MSC has 2 ships, MSC Divina and MSC Magnifica, that visit Costa Rica. Both are known for their well-appointed accommodations and European flair. Departures usually happen from Miami or Barcelona, giving you options to start your unforgettable journey in style.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Costa Rica

• Oceania Cruises: This upscale cruise line has a fleet of 8, with 6 of its ships like Insignia and Vista cruising to Costa Rica. Oceania is famous for its fine dining and immersive destination experiences. Departures primarily occur from Miami or Los Angeles, allowing for easy access to the stunning beauty of this Central American paradise.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara has 2 ships like Azamara Onward and Azamara Journey exploring Costa Rica. Known for their emphasis on late-night stays in port, Azamara allows guests to experience the local culture fully. Most departures occur from Miami or Fuerte Amador, making it convenient for a luxurious tropical getaway.
• Seabourn: Seabourn’s fleet consists of 6 ships, with the Seabourn Sojourn visiting Costa Rica. Recognised for its all-suite accommodations and superb service, this line promises a lavish cruising experience. Typically departing from Miami, travellers can dive into paradise quickly.
• Silversea: With 12 ships in their fleet, Silversea has 2 vessels, Silver Dawn and Silver Moon, that sail to Costa Rica. Renowned for their excellent amenities, Six-star service and unique itineraries, Silversea offers an upscale cruise experience. Departures are generally from Fort Lauderdale or Bridgetown, providing seamless access to the region.

Top Harbours to Explore in Costa Rica

• Puntarenas: This vibrant port serves as the gateway to Costa Rica’s beautiful natural attractions. Take a walking tour of the charming town or sample local flavours at the Central Market. If you have time, head to nearby Manuel Antonio National Park for a glimpse of stunning beaches and thriving wildlife.
• Puerto Limón: The lush vegetation and Caribbean vibe make Puerto Limón an enchanting stop. Explore the famous Cahuita National Park, taking part in guided tours with opportunities for snorkelling, hiking, and spotting wildlife. Don’t forget to try some local rice and beans while you’re there!
• Cartagena, Colombia: Aside from cruising, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers historical riches. Walk through the picturesque streets of the old city, explore its fortifications, and sample the local food while immersing yourself in the vibrant culture.
• Panama Canal: While crossing the iconic canal, enjoy breathtaking views and engage in the rich history of this engineering marvel. Opt for a guided tour to learn about its construction and significance in maritime trade during your stop.
• Colón: A lively port city where you can experience the vibrant local culture. Book an excursion to explore the nearby Gatun Lake, where wildlife abounds, or shop for artisan crafts at the local markets.

Best Times to Cruise to Costa Rica

Cruising to Costa Rica is great year-round, but consider the seasonal changes. From January to March, temperatures average around 25°C to 30°C, making it a pleasant time to explore rainforests and beaches. In April to June, the temperatures stay warm, ranging between 26°C and 32°C. However, this can be the onset of the rainy season, so occasional showers are expected. The July to September period remains warm, with temperatures around 24°C to 31°C, but the rain can sometimes be more frequent. Finally, October to December brings cooler winds and lower humidity, with temperatures averaging around 23°C to 29°C. It’s an excellent time for clear skies and beautiful views of nature!

The Cost of a Cruise to Costa Rica

When planning your trip, consider that a one-week cruise to Costa Rica typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 AUD, depending on cruise line and cabin selection. Luxury cruises typically start around $3,500 and can go up to $6,500 AUD for more exclusive experiences.

In terms of dining, local meals often cost between $10 and $25 AUD, offering a delightful taste of Costa Rican cuisine. Drinks would typically run about $5 to $10 AUD at both local bars and your ship’s bar. This allows you to explore the local flavours while enjoying the beautiful scenery!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re interested in exploring more magnificent destinations, check out these alternative regions:

• Panama – Famous for the Panama Canal, this region offers stunning coasts, rich history, and vibrant cities. A chance to witness the engineering marvel of the canal while enjoying tropical scenery makes it a worthy alternative!
• Mexico – With beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and mouth-watering cuisine, Mexico offers something for everyone. You can explore ancient ruins, enjoy vibrant nightlife and relax on stunning coasts during your getaway!
• Western Caribbean – This region features gorgeous islands like Jamaica and Grand Cayman, renowned for their stunning beaches and rich cultures. With diverse activities, this destination is ideal for both adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts!
• Belize – Known for its barrier reef and beautiful rainforest scenery, Belize provides the perfect blend of thrilling adventures and serene relaxation. Snorkelling, diving, and exploring ancient Mayan ruins await you here.
• South America – From exciting cities like Buenos Aires to natural wonders like the Amazon Rainforest, South America offers unique landscapes and diverse cultures, making it an exciting alternative for your next cruising adventure.

Are you ready to explore the beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and breathtaking adventures in Costa Rica? With Cruise1st, booking your unforgettable cruise holiday is just a click away. Enjoy the lush beauty of Costa Rica, and create memories that will last a lifetime!