Trip Reports
Duration
7 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
5 Ports
13 December
Setting sail from Colón
Situated at the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal, Colón takes its name from Christopher Columbus, known in Spanish as Cristóbal Colón, although it's hard to imagine the famous explorer would find much reason to linger here nowadays. Once a thriving port, the city is now in a state of seemingly terminal decline, its colonial architecture crumbling and the modern city beset by social problems. It's not somewhere you will want to hang around for long, and serves merely as a gateway to the Canal, which will carry you to much nicer places.
Our tip
The wildlife in the region is amazing, particularly the birds, so if you have the slightest interest then extend your stay in Panama.
14 December
Panama: San Blas Islands
Situated just off the coast of Panama, the idyllic San Blas islands are home to the Kuna Indians, who enjoy political autonomy from the mainland and have an unusual degree of control over tourism to their homeland. Visiting these simple island communities is a privilege, and an insight into an indigenous way of life unsullied by mass tourism.
15 December
At sea
16-17 December
Colombia: Cartagena
Cartagena was founded by Spanish conquistadors in 1533, and the beautifully preserved centre is a real highlight of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. The walled old town, the Ciudad Amurallada, is a camera-friendly collection of cobbled streets and colourful, colonial-era buildings.
18 December
Colombia: Santa Marta
Situated on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Santa Marta is the oldest surviving Spanish colonial city in South America. The modern city lacks some of the charm of nearby Cartagena, but tourism has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, with a number of ambitious regeneration projects and a host of new restaurants and bars.
19 December
At sea
20 December
Arriving in Oranjestad
The tiny Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba, located just off the coast of Venezuela, lies outside of the hurricane belt, meaning it enjoys a largely dry climate, and boasts some of the best beaches in the region, if not the world. The capital, Oranjestad, is home to some appealing colonial architecture and plenty of shops, but it's the fine white sands of the northwest coast that attract most visitors to the island. To the east, the protected Arikok National Park is home to some interesting flora and fauna, as well as caves, sand dunes and ancient Arawak petroglyphs.
Don't miss
Nearly 20% of the island is natural park – stunning natural beauty both above and below the waterline. Don’t miss the ‘Conchi’ - the famed Natural Pool in Arikok National Park.
Your home from home
Sister yachts Wind Star and Wind Spirit are both 4-masted sail-assisted ships combining the refinement of a modern vessel with the romance of a tall ship.
What we love
Gracious staterooms provide a compact yet comfortable retreat. Facilities include several dining options, a variety of bars and lounges, a small swimming pool, whirlpool and even a watersports platform. Recently refurbished the décor is fresh and modern throughout.
| Capacity | 148 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 90 International staff |
| Style | This is laid-back luxury at its best with relaxed informal days, refined yet comfortable evenings and a friendly and welcoming crew. |
| Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Stay a little longer in Panama
It’s not in Colón, but if you want to extend your stay we propose Isla Palenque, off the Pacific coast of Panama – tricky to get to, but not to be missed.
Explore the Panamian jungle
Take a canopy tour and swing between great trees, seeing the wildlife as you go. Watch out – it’s not for the faint-hearted!
Stay a little longer in Aruba
Go for the romantic (and adult only) Bucuti and Tara Beach Resort – paradise!
Go off road in Aruba
Offroading is great fun in Aruba, so a tour by four wheel drive is the perfect way to explore the island.
