Caribbean Sea – Hidden Highlights and sailing through the Panama Canal (Itinerary 2)
On this voyage you'll find departures with:
Early bird : Flight included
Duration: 15 days
£ 4395 £ 4888 per person
- See colourful cities and beautiful remote islands around several Caribbean countries
- Enjoy onboard yoga and meditation classes with a professional instructor
- Spot wildlife such as whales, turtles, dolphins, sharks, monkeys and iguanas
- Experience a transit of the Panama Canal aboard your expedition ship
Itinerary
- Day 1 Nassau, The Bahamas
- Day 2 At Sea
- Day 3 Inagua Islands, The Bahamas
- Day 4 Cockburn Town, Turks and Caicos
- Day 5 At Sea
- Day 6 Port Antonio, Jamaica
- Day 7 Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Day 8 George Town, Cayman Islands
- Day 9 At sea
- Day 10 Isla de Providencia, Colombia
- Day 11 Corn Island, Nicaragua
- Day 12 Bocas del Toro, Panama
- Day 13 San Blas Island, Panama
- Day 14 Panama Canal, Panama
- Day 15 Panama City, Panama
Nassau, The Bahamas
Former pirate haven, lively Nassau still trades in rum and cigars, but now sports a bustling central shopping district and endless options to wine and dine. New Providence Island and Paradise Island are also renown for their beaches and splendid coral reefs. Take some time to explore more with a Pre-Programme before your expedition.
At Sea
Enjoy a pleasant day at sea on the way to the Inagua Islands. The Expedition Team will begin their lecture series on the Caribbean. Spend time on deck looking for birds or other marine life following the ship’s wake. Make the most of the perfect climate and join a yoga workshop out on deck.
Inagua Islands, The BahamasInagua Islands, The Bahamas
With 140 different species of exotic birds including over 80,000 flamingos, Inagua is a birdwatcher’s dream. The mangroves are also a natural habitat for nesting Hawkbill and Green sea turtles. Visit one of the three remaining kerosene-burning, hand-cranked lighthouses in The Bahamas or learn about the Island’s main industry, salt production, from the friendly locals.
Cockburn Town, Turks and Caicos
As capitals go, few are as calm and quiet as Cockburn. The long, narrow streets are lined with old street lamps and 18th and 19th century British Bermudian architecture. The National Museum houses Taino artifacts and an exhibit of the Molasses Reef Wreck, the oldest known European shipwreck in the Americas, dated 1505.
At Sea
Join the Expedition Team for interesting lectures, learn the basics of expedition photography, and spend time out on deck enjoying the fresh sea air as you scout for wildlife. Use the Science Center’s state-of-the-art microscopes to observe the tiniest creatures in samples taken during this voyage. Continue your yoga routine and unwind with guided meditation.
Port Antonio, Jamaica
Once a beach escape for celebrities in the 1940s, this quiet town is tucked well away from Jamaica’s more touristic areas. With its makeshift markets and chatty street vendors, there is a romantic, slow-paced rhythm here. Trek to the stunning Reach Waterfall and famed Blue Lagoon, or take a bamboo raft to the aptly named Monkey Island.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Christopher Colombus first anchored here in 1494, calling it the “Gulf of Good Weather”. Today, it buzzes with locals and visitors out enjoying the beaches and exuberant eateries. Visit Rose Hall to learn about ‘Mobay’’s colonial history, explore hidden underground caves, or board a bamboo raft down the glistening Martha Brae River.
George Town, Cayman Islands
There is an endless array of activities available in George Town. Go on a submarine tour, board a glass-bottom boat, go snorkelling, scuba-diving, parasailing, visit rum distilleries and art galleries, and of course, enjoy duty-free shopping and restaurants galore. The 19th century National Museum contains over 8,000 exhibits, including a 14-ft traditional handmade catboat.
At sea 
As we continue toward Central America, spend this sea day at your leisure. Take advantage of the many onboard facilities, relax and meditate in our yoga workshop, or join in on lectures as we recap our voyage.
Isla de Providencia, Colombia
This tiny Colombian island in the Spanish Caribbean is a rare and unspoiled find off the grid. Tour the deserted golden beaches by buggy cart or go in search of pirate Henry Morgan’s hidden treasure. The diverse coral reefs are the centre point of UNESCO’s Seaflower Biosphere Reserve, and kaleidoscopic marine life inspires the above nickname.
-
IncludedProvidencia - Cultural ShowWith influences from Latin America, Africa and the Antilles the music of Providencia is of la socca, calypso, mento, foxtrot, Jumping Polka, Shoteische and pasillo!
-
Providencia - Adventure to the PeakThis is a tour to the highest mountain of the island and a nature reserve.
-
Providencia – Snorkeling TourIsla de Providencia is at the heart of UNESCO's Seaflower Biosphere, which cover approximately 10 percent of the entire Caribbean. Among the features protected by the biosphere is Providencia's coral reef— 32 kilometres (20 miles) long and one of the largest reefs in the western hemisphere.
-
Providencia - Island TourThe tour starts with a guided walk across the pedestrian bridge to the beautiful island of Santa Catalina. The footpath leads past mangroves and guests will learn about the mangrove ecosystem.
Corn Island, Nicaragua
Most of the Creole population live in colourful wooden houses on Great Corn, engaging in lobster fishing. Hike up Mount Pleasant Hill for views of the coves and stunning horseshoe bays. Pristine coral reefs surround both islands, tantalising snorkelers with the likes of barracudas, nurse sharks, hammerheads, green sea turtles, and spotted eagle rays.
Bocas del Toro, Panama 
Bocas del Toro is a stunning archipelago brimming with deserted sandy beaches, teeming coral reefs, and lush rainforest. It is home to Panama's first National Marine Park and one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth. This `Galápagos of the Caribbean´ supports wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, turtles, sloths, monkeys, and iguanas.
-
Bocas del Toro - Sustainable Cacao FarmGreat views and chocolate tasting with a “feel good” factor! Enjoy a short boat tour and brief hike to the beautiful and fascinating Bocas Sustainable Farm.
-
Bocas del Toro - Cayo ZapatillaVisit the picturesque Zapatilla Cay – the setting for numerous episodes of the “Survivor” series. Enjoy the white sand beaches and fine coral for snorkelling as we scan for exotic wildlife.
-
Cacao Farm & Indigenous CommunityGet a taste of life in a Ngabe village, learn about organic cacao and enjoy a delicious chocolate tasting as you support the local community.
San Blas Island, Panama
More than 365 cayes, islands and reefs make up the San Blas Islands. Only 49 are inhabited, exclusively by Guna Yala Indians, who protect their islands by only accepting ecologically friendly tourism and shunning mass market cruise ships. Try fresh red snapper with coconut rice and a Coco-Loco drink, before relaxing in a beach-side hammock.
Panama Canal, Panama 
We enter the Panama Canal near the city of Colón. Experience the canal transit and the ingenuity of the lock's system firsthand as MS Fridtjof Nansen is lifted over 26 metres above sea level, passing through man-made channels and lakes to eventually emerge in the Caribbean Ocean, effectively crossing from the Atlantic to the Pacific.
Panama City, Panama 
Your voyage ends in Panama City, which is much more than just its famous canal. Visit the ruins of Old Panama City which was devastated by notorious pirate Henry Morgan. Hike Ancón Hill and enjoy views of the skyscraper-lined cityscape and of Casco Antiguo district which boasts a real mix of architectural styles.
What's included
Included in your voyage
Expedition Cruise
- Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in restaurants Aune and Fredheim
- À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
- Complimentary tea and coffee
- Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
- Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board
- English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
- Range of included excursions
Onboard Activities
- Experts on the Expedition Team deliver in-depth lectures on a variety of topics
- Use of the ship’s Science Center which has an extensive library and advanced biological and geological microscopes
- Citizen Science programme allows guests to assist with live scientific research
- Professional onboard photographer gives top tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
- Use of the ship’s hot tubs, infinity pool, panoramic sauna, outdoor and indoor gyms, and outdoor running track
- Yoga and meditation sessions with an instructor
- Informal gatherings with the crew such as daily recaps and preparation for the day to come
Landing Activities
- Escorted landings with small expedition boats
- Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment for activities
- Complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket
- Expedition Photographers help with your camera settings before landings
Not included in your voyage
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Luggage handling
- Optional shore excursions with our local partners
- Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
- Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area
Notes
- All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
- Excursions and activities are subject to change
- Please ensure you meet all visa entry requirements
- On this trip, a vaccine against yellow fever is required. The vaccination must be done at least 10 days before departure. Please bring the vaccination certificate on your voyage. For details, please see entry requirements
- No gratuities expected
Your ship
MS Fridtjof Nansen
| Year built | 2020 |
| Ship yard | Kleven Yards, Norway |
| Passenger capacity | 530 (500 in Antarctica) |
| Gross tonnage | 20 889 T |
| Length | 140 m |
| Beam | 23,6 m |
| Speed | 15 knots |
MS Fridtjof Nansen is the latest addition to Hurtigruten’s fleet of custom built ships – and the next generation expedition ship. She will explore some of the most spectacular corners of the globe.
Optional excursions
Some expedition cruises may include excursions that can be reserved for no additional charge. These included excursions can often be combined with other excursions available in port.
Please note excursions are subject to change and are not yet available for booking for departures after March 2021.
Providencia - Cultural Show
Duration
45 min
Price per person
Free – please reserve
Booking code
INCL-IDP1
Providencia - Adventure to the Peak
Caribbean and Central America
Duration
6 hours
Price per person
From £ 82
Booking code
A-IDP1
Providencia – Snorkeling Tour
Caribbean and Central America
Duration
4 hours
Price per person
From £ 92
Booking code
A-IDP3
Providencia - Island Tour
Caribbean and Central America
Duration
4 hours
Price per person
From £ 82
Booking code
A-IDP2
Bocas del Toro - Sustainable Cacao Farm
Caribbean and Central America
Duration
4 - 5 h
Price per person
From £ 97
Booking code
A-BOC1
Bocas del Toro - Cayo Zapatilla
Caribbean and Central America
Duration
4h15
Price per person
From £ 113
Booking code
A-BOC2
Bocas del Toro - Cacao Farm & Indigenous Community
Caribbean and Central America
Duration
5 hours
Price per person
From £ 103
Booking code
A-BOC4
Practical information
Sailing with MS Fridtjof Nansen
-
MS Fridtjof Nansen: Life on board and Practical information
-
Meet our Expedition Team
-
Young Explorers’ Programme: Bring your kids on board
Before you travel with MS Fridtjof Nansen
Day 3
Eventyrets siste kapittel - Bergen
Aenean lacinia bibendum nulla sed consectetur. Curabitur blandit tempus porttitor. Morbi leo risus, porta ac consectetur ac, vestibulum at eros.
Photo: Firstname Lastname
