Costa Rica and Nicaragua on Star Clippers

(32 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Daniel Oppliger

El Paso, TX
Group Travel Expert

 

I have been immersed in the travel industry since relocating to El Paso in 1986. Initially, I worked with a local tour operator before venturing out on my own.Over the years, I've developed specialties in Destination Resorts and River Cru...

Star Clippers, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Crossings

I took a group to Costa Rica for a voyage on the Star Flyer. The intent was to catch Comet Ison, but she fizzled behind the sun.


Well, making the best of it, we arrived in San Jose.  Many of us stayed at the Marriott on a coffee plantation.  We took a pre-arranged shuttle to the ship the next day around noon.  We were greeted with rum punch and the crew already collected our luggage and has taken it to our room.


For dinner, Star Clippers had tables set aside for our group with our name prominently displayed. That night we headed north.  The dark skies were a delight to the amateur astronomers among us. Moving along under sail power for the most part to San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. Nicaragua was a pleasant surprise. We quickly learned of the recent history and why the revolution took place. We had students as guides who needed to practice English.


We had lunch and shopping time. We went to see the volcano and became engulfed in sulfur smell. It was very interesting and I encourage clients to make a visit.


After a shorter sail back to Costa Rica, Bahia Culebra I took a float trip on the river. We saw many birds, iguana and monkeys.  The next day I spent the day at a resort near Bahia Potrero. Star Clippers made some kind of arrangement.


Isla Tortuga was basically a beach day with lunch served ashore. To the disappointment of the crew, only about half went to shore making double work for the kitchen and wait staff. This particular cruise had a group of elderly from an unnamed tour operator. You really need to be mobile and able to walk on the this cruise. Many could not and this group had three hospital calls during the week for broken bones and sprained wrists. Please only consider this sailing adventure if you are able bodied and can move about.


The cuisine and choices were varied and I can say it was excellent. From fish, pasta dishes, and lobster on the last evening I was happy. The bar is very affordable. The ship has a great selection of wines, although I am not a wine drinker.


Sunning in the bow spit, dipping in the pools and climbing the mast are the main on-board activities.  Most days the cruise director gave a port talk too. 


Overall our group was happy and it was a unique experience. I have since traveled to Bali and Indonesia on Star Clippers.  I highly recommend it if Star Clippers brings back that itinerary.


 


 

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