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Day 1TuesdayArrive in San José, Costa Rica, and transfer to Arenal Springs Hotel for a four-night stay. Enjoy a peaceful evening at the hotel, recharging for the adventures that await you the next day.
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Day 2Wednesday
Hotel Arenal Springs Resort & Spa
Today you will be visiting the Arenal Volcano National Park, this spectacular park lies in the northern highlands of Costa Rica only a few minutes from your hotel.Meals included: Breakfast -
Day 3Thursday
Safari boat tour
Embark on a serene safari boat tour along the Peñas Blancas River, originating from the Tilaran Mountain Range. You will float downstream in an inflatable raft, using paddles mainly for steering. Enjoy the quiet majesty of the rainforest, spot wildlife like sloths, monkeys, and toucans, and learn about the flora and fauna from your expert guide during this two-hour adventure.Meals included: Breakfast -
Day 4Friday
Arenal Hanging Bridges
Today, explore the Arenal Hanging Bridges, set within a 618-acre primary forest reserve. Just 25 minutes from local hotels, traverse trails and varied bridges to uncover the rich biodiversity of this vibrant rainforest sanctuary.Meals included: Breakfast -
Day 5Saturday
Puerto Caldera Costa Rica
Enjoy a leisurely morning with breakfast at your hotel, before transferring to Puerto Caldera for your cruise embarkation. Meet fellow passengers and settle in for a welcoming dinner aboard the ship.Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner. -
Day 6Sunday
Quepos Costa Rica
Explore the vibrant town of Quepos, your gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park. Despite burgeoning ecotourism, Quepos maintains its authentic charm. Discover a lively restaurant scene, navigate its quaint streets with ease, and engage with friendly locals. Immerse yourself in Costa Rica's rich culture and natural beauty. Meals included : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner -
Day 7Monday
At sea
Today, relish the tranquility of a day at sea, appreciating the art of sailing. Feel the exhilarating wind fill the majestic sails, propelling you across azure waters. Embrace the timeless maritime traditions and the ocean's natural beauty.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 8Tuesday
San Juan del Sur - Nicaragua
San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua's beach party hub, boasts nearby world-class surfing beaches and hosts international competitions. Explore tranquil fishing villages and sea-turtle nesting grounds. Visit the towering Mirador del Cristo de la Misericordia, one of the world's tallest Jesus statues.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 9Wednesday
Playa Panama - Bahia Culebra - Costa Rica
Playa Nacascolo, on Costa Rica's Papagayo Peninsula, features golden sands surrounded by lush vegetation. Home to coatis and monkeys, it's protected by Bahia Culebra headlands, making the waters calm for swimming and recognized as one of Costa Rica's prettiest beaches.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 10Thursday
Bahia Potrero - Flamingo - Costa Rica
This region encompasses the seaside villages of Flamingo, Surfside, and Potrero, boasting an ideal beach with calm waters perfect for a relaxing swim or a long stroll along the exquisite Pacific coastline.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 11Friday
Islas Tortugas Costa Rica
Isla Tortuga: Costa Rica's gem. Its beaches, embraced by coconut palms, meet turquoise waters, forming a tropical haven. Engage in beach volleyball, kayak rentals, or snorkeling. Thrill-seekers can zip through the canopy on an exhilarating adventure. Experience paradise found on this stunning island.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 12Saturday
Puerto Caldera
Disembark and indulge in the final excursion to Espiritu Santo coffee plantation. Delight in the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee and explore the plantation's beauty. Then, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK, bidding farewell to the enchanting sights and tastes of Costa Rica.Meals included: Breakfast
Call our experts: 0208 324 3117 Mon – Fri: 09:00 to 18:00 / Sat: 09:30 to 17:00
On Board
Star Clipper
13-Day package
From: £3,813
Departure Dates
Dec to Mar
Wonders & wildlife of Costa Rica & Nicaragua
Discover the magic of Central America with our exclusive Costa Rica and Nicaragua cruise aboard the Star Clipper. This unique journey begins with a four-day stay in the breathtaking Arenal Volcano area, where adventure and nature blend seamlessly. Experience the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano, a natural marvel that dominates the skyline. Walk among the treetops on the Hanging Bridges, offering panoramic views of the lush rainforest and its vibrant wildlife. Then, embark on a serene safari boat tour along the Peñas Blancas River, where you’ll have the chance to spot exotic animals in their natural habitat.
Following these unforgettable excursions, set sail on the magnificent Star Clipper, a true sailing ship that combines traditional elegance with modern comforts. Enjoy the full-board basis, ensuring every meal is a culinary delight. The journey through Costa Rica and Nicaragua promises pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and captivating cultural experiences. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or seeking a tranquil escape, this cruise offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation.
Your Holiday Package Includes:
Don’t miss…
Stunning biodiversity of Costa Rica’s rainforests and national parks
San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua’s beach party hub
Tropical haven of Islas Tortugas in Costa Rica, with its coconut palm-lined beaches and turquoise waters
Isla Tortuga: Costa Rica’s gem. Its beaches, embraced by coconut palms, meet turquoise waters, forming a tropical haven
Rejuvenating hot springs near Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica
Costa Rica & Nicaragua Itinerary
Flights from London Gatwick
All local transfers
4 nights at Arenal Springs hotel on a bed and breakfast basis (including excursions programme)
On board Star Clipper Tall Ship
Accommodation on board Star Clipper for 7 nights in your chosen grade of cabin
Full board basis including buffet style breakfast & lunch, afternoon tea and midnight snack. 6 course a la carte dinner service.
Tea/coffee and drinking water included
Complimentary watersports (subject to weather conditions and port authority clearance)
Evening entertainment
Professional English speaking Cruise Director.
Port charges
Below flight times are indicative and subject to availability. You will be advised exact flight details at the time of booking.
Flights example for cruises starting and ending in Puerto Caldera
British Airways
- Tuesday Depart Heathrow:11:05 Arrive San Jose: 16:50
- Saturday Depart San Jose: 18:40 Arrive Heathrow: 10:55 (+1 day)
Indirect flights on different days of the week and from other UK airports are also available. Please ask for details.
All local transfers are included in your package.
- San Jose airport –Arenal Springs hotel – approximately 2h 30 min
- Arenal Springs hotel – Puerto Caldera port – approximately 2h 50 min
- Puerto Caldera – San Jose Airport – approximately 1h
- Gratuities (optional -recommended amount €8 per passenger per day)
- Soft drinks & alcoholic beverages
- Shore excursions or other land arrangements
- Passengers personal expenses
Ports of call: Puerto Caldera, Quepos, Coiba, Parida Island, Islas Tortugas, San Juan del Sur, Coiba National Park
The Weather
Costa Rica is classified as a tropical country with no true winter season due to its proximity to the equator. It is more or less divided into two seasons, a dry season, often referred to as high season, and a rainy season, often referred to as green season.
Overall, the country stays pretty warm year-round offering around twelve hours of sunlight to its residents and visitors every day throughout the year.
Your vessel: the elegant Star Clipper
Cabins
85
Guests
166
Crew
74
Length / Breadth
115.5m/360ft – 15.24m/50ft
Masts
4 masts, 21 sails
Sail Area
36,000 sq ft
Star Flyer with it’s sister ship Star Clipper are as fleet as the wind and as graceful as swans.
These are true clipper ships reflecting their proud heritage in every inch of their polished brass and gleaming brightwork. Step aboard these unique vessels and discover a new age of sail, where the traditions of the past are happily married to the comforts and amenities of the present day. Star Clipper and Star Flyer are modern cruise ships in every way, created for luxury-loving passengers who also love the traditions and romance of the legendary era of sailing ships. Star Clipper and Star Flyer are both 360 feet long and each carries around 150 guests in pampered comfort.
Life aboard is blissfully relaxed, and you’ll never feel confined thanks to spacious cabins and expansive teak decks with ample space and not one, but two swimming pools. Also notable are the atmospheric inside/outside tropical bar and piano bar, the attractive restaurant accommodating all guests in a single sitting with an open seating policy.
The décor of Star Clipper is reminiscent of the grand age of sail. Antique prints and paintings of famous sailing ships please the eye, while teak and gleaming mahogany rails are richly reminiscent of a proud nautical heritage.
As the name suggests, Star Clipper is both a shining example to other ships of her kind and a vessel that cuts through the water with all the grace of a bird in full flight, she offers her own style and character to anyone who steps aboard.
If you are feeling active, you can try a supervised climb up the rigging to the crow’s nest, or at selected stops try some complimentary water sports like kayaking, windsurfing or dinghy sailing. If you are feeling lazy, relax by one of the 2 pools on board with a good book or just sit back and enjoy the wonderful scene of travelling under full sail.
Deck Plans
Cabin Selection
Category 1 Deluxe deck cabin – Sun Deck
- Two lower beds convert to double bed
- Minibar
- Bathroom with whirlpool bath
- Cabin doors open onto deck
Average cabin dimensions – 14.5m2
Category 1 Deluxe deck cabin – Main Deck
- Two lower beds convert to double bed
- Minibar
- Bathroom with whirlpool bath
- Cabin doors open onto deck
Average cabin dimensions – 14.5m2
Category 2 Large outside cabin – Clipper Deck
- Twin/double or triple beds
- Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions – 12m2
△ – Cabin has an extra fold down bunk with a ladder
D – Cabin has a fixed double bed
Category 3 Outside cabin – Clipper Deck
- Twin, double or triple beds
- Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions – 11m2
O – Opens directly into dining room
D – Fixed double bed
Category 3 cabins on the Clipper Deck may be slightly smaller than Category 3 cabins on the Commodore Deck.
Category 3 Outside cabin – Commodore Deck
- Twin, double or triple beds
- Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions – 11m2
△ – Cabin has an extra fold down bunk with a ladder
D – Fixed double bed
Category 3 cabins on the Commodore Deck may be slightly larger than Category 3 cabins on the Clipper Deck.
Category 4 Outside cabin – Commodore Deck
- Two lower beds, double bed or triple berth
- Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions – 11m2
△ – Cabin has an extra fold down bunk with a ladder
D – Fixed double bed
Category 5 Inside or outside cabin – Clipper Deck
- Raised double bed, two lower beds or triple berth
- Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions – 11m2
△ – Cabin has an extra fold down bunk with a ladder
R – Bed raised over 1m
D – Cabin has a fixed double bed
Category 5 Outside cabin – Commodore Deck
- Raised double bed, two lower beds or triple berth
- Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions – 11m2
R – Bed raised over 1 meter off the ground.
D – Fixed double bed.
Category 6 Inside cabin – Commodore Deck
- Upper/lower berths
- Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions – 8m2
Your cabin is ingeniously designed for comfort and efficiency, with:
- Private bathroom
- Air-conditioning
- Flatscreeen TV/DVD player (except category 6)
- Hairdryers
- Private safe located inside the closet
- Radio
- Telephone
- Under bed storage
All cabins are non-smoking
Ship Information
- Construction date: Star Flyer 1991, Star Clipper 1992
- Passenger capacity: 166
- Number of crew: 74
- Length: 115.5m
- Ship’s registry: Malta
- Gross tonnage: 2,298
- Number of masts: 4
- Mast height: 63m
- Sail area: 3,365m2
- Number of sails: 16
- Speed: Between 5-17 knots
Your Hotel: Arenal Springs Resort & Spa
Get the celebrity treatment with world-class service at Hotel Arenal Springs Resort & Spa
Offering an outdoor pool and a restaurant, Hotel Arenal Springs Resort & Spa is located in Fortuna, 20 minutes’ drive from Arenal Volcano site. Free Wi-Fi access is available.
The bright rooms here will provide you with a flat-screen cable TV and air conditioning. The private bathrooms also come with a shower. You can enjoy the views of Arenal Volcano and the garden from all the accommodations. Extras include a terrace, a minibar and a coffee maker.
The on-site restaurant offers buffet services as well as à la carte dishes. Hotel Arenal Springs Resort & Spa has an Italian restaurant, as well as one specialized in international cuisine, plus a sushi bar.
Other facilities offered include a tour desk. The property has free parking, a yoga deck and a hot springs.
Facilities
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free parking
- Non-smoking rooms
- Facilities for disabled guests
- WiFi available in all areas
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
Room options
Double Room (Included in your Holiday)
The following room types are available with a supplement
- Junior Suite
- Master Suite
Prices
Costa Rica & Nicaragua Star Clipper flight inclusive package
Prices (£) per person from:Including: flights, transfers, 4 Night stay in the Arenal Springs hotel (Costa Rica), 7 nights Cruise & port charges
Deparure Dates | Cabin 6 | Cabin 5 | Cabin 4 | Cabin 3 | Cabin 2 | Cabin 1 | Owner's suite | Guranteed single cabin | 3rd person share |
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31/12/2024 | £3,813 | £3,968 | £4,143 | £4,258 | £4,373 | £4,638 | £5,393 | £4,268 | £3,078 |
14/01/2025 | £3,918 | £4,073 | £4,233 | £4,353 | £4,468 | £4,733 | £5,498 | £4,298 | £3,098 |
28/01/2025 | £3,918 | £4,073 | £4,233 | £4,353 | £4,468 | £4,733 | £5,498 | £4,298 | £3,098 |
18/02/2025 | £3,918 | £4,073 | £4,233 | £4,353 | £4,468 | £4,733 | £5,498 | £4,298 | £3,098 |
04/03/2025 | £3,918 | £4,073 | £4,233 | £4,353 | £4,468 | £4,733 | £5,498 | £4,298 | £3,098 |
Costa Rica & Nicaragua Star Clipper
Prices (£) per personDeparure Dates | Cabin 6 | Cabin 5 | Cabin 4 | Cabin 3 | Cabin 2 | Cabin 1 | Owner's suite | Guranteed single cabin | 3rd person share | Port charges |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
04/01/2025 | £1,465 | £1,620 | £1,795 | £1,910 | £2,025 | £2,290 | £3,045 | £1,920 | £730 | £135 |
18/01/2025 | £1,570 | £1,725 | £1,885 | £2,005 | £2,120 | £2,385 | £3,150 | £1,950 | £750 | £135 |
01/02/2025 | £1,570 | £1,725 | £1,885 | £2,005 | £2,120 | £2,385 | £3,150 | £1,950 | £750 | £135 |
22/02/2025 | £1,570 | £1,725 | £1,885 | £2,005 | £2,120 | £2,385 | £3,150 | £1,950 | £750 | £135 |
08/03/2025 | £1,570 | £1,725 | £1,885 | £2,005 | £2,120 | £2,385 | £3,150 | £1,950 | £750 | £135 |
Book your Package with us to ensure full financial protection for your holiday.
Your flight inclusive holiday with us is financially secure as we are ATOL licensed and the full package is ATOL protected. We have been trading since 1995 so you can book with total confidence. |