Panama Canal & the Alluring Islands of the Caribbean: 12 days Panama City to Bridgetown

Welcome to the capital of Panama, Panama City. This cosmopolitan city, which comprises a juxtaposing skyline of skyscrapers, 17th century churches and colonial-style buildings, is steeped in history and boasts a happening culinary scene.  

Step on board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II. Meet the Captain, the crew and your butler and settle into your luxurious verandah suite. Toast to the start of your voyage as you look forward to the unrivalled experiences ahead. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Panama City prior to 02:00 PM.

Today, you’ll pass through the Panama Canal, considered one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Modern World’. Built between 1904 and 1914 to significantly decrease the travel time between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, it has seen more than 900,000 vessels and counting.  

Experience this engineering marvel as you relax on board Scenic Eclipse II. Spend time on the verandah of your spacious suite with a coffee delivered by the butler or take in the scenery of the Panama Canal from the Sky Deck & Bar, where you can unwind on sun loungers and in cabanas. Arrive in Portobelo later this evening, where the ship will dock overnight.

Once a great Spanish port, the laidback Caribbean fishing town is filled with remnants of its colonial past including a crumbling Spanish fort complete with 16 cannons facing the mouth of the bay, all set against a vibrant Caribbean backdrop of pristine beaches and tropical climate. Delve into the rich heritage of Congo culture and marvel at the architecture of the World Heritage-listed Old Town, adorned with historic forts and cobblestone streets.

Your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht will depart Portobelo late this evening and cruise overnight.

Scenic Freechoice:
Portobelo Forts & Colonial History: Explore the UNESCO-listed forts of Portobelo on a guided tour, uncovering tales of Spanish treasure, pirate raids and colonial history.  

Portobelo Bay Snorkelling & Beach: Snorkel the clear waters of Portobelo Bay with a private marine expert, exploring vibrant coral reefs and historic Drake’s Island. Discover tropical marine life and underwater relics while learning the secrets of this legendary pirate haven. 

Congo Culture & Portobelo Village Walk: Discover Portobelo’s Afro-Panamanian heritage on a private tour, ending with a vibrant Congo dance performance honoring a UNESCO-recognized tradition. 

Congo Percussion Workshop & Portobelo Heritage: Learn traditional Afro-Panamanian rhythms in a private drumming workshop, then relax with fresh coconut water overlooking Portobelo Bay. 

Welcome to Cayos Limones (Lemon Cay), a hidden paradise in the San Blas Islands of Panama, which is home to the indigenous Guna people and one of the biggest coconut plantations in the world. Immerse yourself in the beauty of these pristine isles dotted with swaying palm trees and surrounded by crystal-clear waters that are mottled by thriving underwater coral gardens. 

Take a short zodiac ride to Lemon Cay, where the Guna people greet you with music, dance and vibrant traditions. Explore handcrafted mola textiles, sample local cuisine and browse artisan goods. Relax on the beach and soak in the natural beauty - this unique cultural experience is open to everyone on this day. 

Cartagena is a beautifully preserved and colourful city oozing colonial charm. This World Heritage-listed walled city is looked over by a great 17th century hilltop fortress, and is crammed with churches and monasteries, bustling plazas where traditional musicians and dancers entertain and candy-coloured buildings with balconies draped in bougainvillea.

Renowned for vibrant festivals and exquisite cuisine, Cartagena is a treasure trove of Latin American culture and history. Wander its Old Town, with cobblestone streets that are frequented by artisans, hawkers and food vendors touting tropical fruits. The surrounding landscape of pristine beaches and tropical forests adds to its allure.

The evening will come alive with a spectacular performance of traditional Colombian folk dances, showcasing vibrant costumes, energetic rhythms and rich cultural storytelling. Experience the passion and heritage of Colombia through captivating music and dance. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Colombian Coffee Experience with Honey Pairing & Touch of Gold: Discover Cartagena’s historic walled city, then enjoy a hands-on Colombian coffee tasting led by a local expert. Learn about roasting, cupping and honey pairings before visiting the Gold Museum and ending with a relaxing café refreshment stop. 

Cartagena Walking Tour: Explore La Popa Monastery, Castillo de San Felipe, vibrant Getsemaní, the walled city, and the Gold Museum, ending with a local ice cream. 

Old Cartagena by Vintage Car: Tour Cartagena’s old town in classic vintage cars, discovering its beautiful colonial streets. End with a delicious meal at a trendy historic restaurant and some free time to explore. 

Enjoy some relaxation at sea today. Join your new friends over a meal at the Azure Bar & Café with beautiful indoor and outdoor seating. Graze the day away and enjoy Scenic Eclipse II’s all-inclusive premium beverages to ensure you’ll find something that suits your taste perfectly.

Tonight's entertainment at the state-of-the-art theatre will give you another opportunity to appreciate the magical moments on board Scenic Eclipse II before you retreat to your ultra-luxury suite. Alternatively, choose to dine in the comfort of your suite and have your evening nightcap brought by the butler. 

Known as One Happy Island, thanks to its friendly, positive energy, Aruba is a melting pot of some 90 nationalities and an autonomous country within the Royal Dutch Kingdom, one of three in the Caribbean islands. One of the Lesser Antilles Islands, Aruba is loved for its sunny weather, sugar-white sand beaches and aqua-hued water, which is home to vibrant coral reefs. It has rugged limestone cliffs and hidden caves, a Arikok National Park, a desert landscape at the island’s heart dotted with tall cacti and natural wonders including a natural pool, as well as indigenous rock paintings.

Scenic Freechoice:
Aruba's Outback Jeep Adventure: Explore Aruba’s outback with visits to Ayo rocks, Bushiribana Gold Mill ruins, California Lighthouse, Tres Trapi beach and the iconic Fofoti tree. 

Aruba’s Expedition by UTV: Experience Aruba off-road in a Utility Terrain Vehicle! Discover dramatic landscapes, historic ruins and unique rock formations, ending with a refreshing swim at Mangel Halto Beach. A perfect blend of thrill, adventure, nature and culture. Guests must be at least 23 years old and hold a valid driver’s license to operate a UTV. 

Photo Ops in Aruba Bus Tour: Discover Aruba’s scenic and cultural highlights on a guided bus tour, visiting the California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Casibari Rock Formations and Mangel Halto Beach — each offering stunning views, rich history and unforgettable photo opportunities. 

Curaçao is known for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches and is part of the Royal Dutch Kingdom. Willemstad, a World Heritage-listed site, is an excellent example of Dutch colonial architecture with most buildings between 1650 to 1900 still standing. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life at popular snorkeling spots such as Playa Lagun and Blue Bay Beach. Explore the island’s rich history at landmarks such as Fort Amsterdam and the Kura Hulanda Museum.

Scenic Freechoice:
Treasures of Curaçao: Visit the stunning Hato Caves, explore the Maritime Museum’s rich history, drive through UNESCO-listed Scharloo and taste blue Curaçao at the Chobolobo distillery. 

Capital Highlights by e-Bike: Explore Punda, Scharloo and Pietermaai by pedal-assisted e-bike, crossing the Queen Emma Bridge and discovering hidden streets, historic sites and local art. 

Art Experience at Landhuis Bloemhof: Travel to Landhuis Bloemhof to experience Curaçao’s art, history and nature. Enjoy guided tours of the Water Plantation, the stunning Cathedral of Thorns and take part in a relaxing art workshop before unwinding with a snack at a local hotspot. 

Klein Curaçao is a pristine and secluded uninhabited island paradise just off the coast of Curaçao. Bask in the sun on white sandy beaches or snorkel in the turquoise waters, exploring colourful coral reefs where sea turtles frequent. Take a stroll to the abandoned pink lighthouse or discover the island's shipwrecks dotted along the beach and fascinating history. With its untouched natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Klein Curaçao invites you to unwind in tranquillity.

Scenic Discovery:
Today's Discovery Team activities may include watersports such as snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, as well as a guided walk on the island to explore its natural and historical features. 

Today the day is yours to spend exactly as you wish. Perhaps spend the morning in the wellness centre, which features saunas, steam rooms and a fully equipped gym, plus a complimentary yoga and Pilates studio – unique to ships the size of Scenic Eclipse II. In the evening, head to the spacious Scenic Bar to enjoy a selection of more than 130 varieties of whisky. Alternatively, you can ask your butler to deliver your favourite cocktail to your suite where you can take in the views from your private verandah.

Located in the southern Grenadines, Tobago Cays is famous for its five small uninhabited islands: Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tobac and Jamesby. The main attraction here is the Tobago Cays Marine Park, a national park and wildlife reserve renowned for its massive 1400-acre lagoon and surrounded by a vivid horseshoe-shaped reef. This is an idyllic area to enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters that are brimming with colourful fish and turtles.

Scenic Discovery:
After a beach landing, today's Discovery Team activities could include exciting watersports such as snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. 

Your journey concludes this morning in Bridgetown, the vibrant capital of Barbados. Nestled on the island's southwestern coast, Bridgetown is a World Heritage-listed site renowned for its colonial architecture and rich history.

Indulge in one final breakfast, cherishing the memories created during your time on board. Then, prepare for your onward journey or return flight home as we transfer you to the airport.

Please book your flight to depart out of Bridgetown after 12:00 PM.

+All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. #Spa treatments at additional cost.

Please note the itinerary is a guide and may be subject to changes for operational reasons. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.