Duration
11 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
6 Ports
7-8 January
Setting sail from Lima (Callao)
Peru's underrated capital enjoys a fine setting on the Pacific coast, and the handsome colonial-era buildings surrounding the Plaza de Armas give clues to Lima's distinguished history. For three centuries this was the capital of the Spanish Americas, when the city grew rich on the back of plundered Inca gold. Modern Lima can be a little hectic, the roads often clogged with traffic, but the historic centre has an undeniable charm to it, and in recent years a clutch of innovative restaurants have helped to put Peruvian cuisine on the map.
Our tip
This is the hop-off point to fly to Cusco and Machu Picchu, which is obviously a must-do, but schedule time in Lima too if you can, it’s a fascinating city.
9 January
Honduras: Trujillo
10 January
At sea
11 January
Ecuador: Machala
Machala is often described as the ‘banana capital of the world’, and hosts the World Banana Fair every September, when buyers from across the globe come in search of the perfect banana. As well as banana plantations, the area is also home to nature reserves rich in birdlife and the Puyango petrified forest.
12-13 January
Ecuador: Guayaquil
Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city and most important commercial centre, and acts as the gateway to the Pacific coast and the wildlife haven of the Galapagos Islands. It’s a busy, buzzing sort of place, centred around the pleasant riverfront Malecón promenade.
14 January
Ecuador: Manta
The Ecuadorian port of Manta is known as the “tuna capital of the world”, and you’ll see plenty of fishing boats as you arrive. The beach is a popular destination for local tourists, but you may find that the nearby town of Montecristi, home of the Panama hat, makes for a more interesting excursion.
15-17 January
At sea
18 January
Arriving in 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.
Don't miss
The Historical Panama Canal Railway goes from the Pacific coast to the Atlantic coast – the journey time is about one hour, and the views are amazing.
Your home from home
What we love
These small ships accommodate 312 guests in large all-suite accommodation, following the completion of the Star Plus refurbishment programme in 2021. There's a choice of restaurants and comfortable lounges and plenty of deck space, while the ship's marina ensures you can enjoy the complimentary watersports when anchored in hidden bays and tiny coves.
Capacity | 312 Guests |
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Crew | 190 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
Where to stay in Lima
We like the Country Club Lima Hotel for a bit of colonial style.
See more of Peru
Travel south from Lima to Nazca to see the extraordinary Nazca Lines – well worth the journey, and stay on at the beach if you have time to spare.
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!