Birds, Whales, Wildlife—See them All with Panama Marine Adventures

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PANAMA CITY, Panama—Animal enthusiasts will need to pack extra film and batteries when booking Panama Marine Adventure's eight-day "Journey Between the Seas" cruise. This adventure that takes passengers from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean via the Panama Canal offers myriad opportunities to see whales, porpoises, birds and other native wildlife like monkeys, crocodiles, and sloths.

On northbound journeys while on the Pacific side of Panama, guests have the best opportunity to see whales on day three of the itinerary when the ship docks near San Telmo and Mogo Mogo Islands. These locations are also home to many exotic birds, including blue footed boobies, frigate birds, ospreys and more. (Southbound trips will reach this location on day six). While docked in Lake Gatun, guests take to the water in small crafts as the expedition leader navigates to secluded areas of the lake. Howler monkeys, sloths, iguanas, crocodiles, and even the rare Resplendent Quetzal are just a few of the creatures that may make an appearance in the jungle and surrounding waters. Other adventures on the trip include a visit to the Embera Indians in their native Darien Jungle; swimming in the waters of the Pearl Islands; traversing the Panama Canal; and walking in the footsteps of the conquistadors along the Chagres River.

The 33-meter catamaran M/V Discovery accommodates 24 passengers and 10 crew members, and the smaller size allows it to reach remote areas that are inaccessible to cruise or freight ships. For guests that want to get even closer, the Discovery is equipped with a unique platform that lowers kayakers gently in and out of the water - allowing guests to discover bird sanctuaries and other marine life at their own pace. Even while relaxing on board, guests can enjoy the scenic views and marine wildlife from huge windows in the comfort of their private cabin - or from the upper deck's bar and lounge, which is fitted with a floor to ceiling “glass wall” with panoramic views.

The M/V Discovery departs weekly on most Saturdays throughout the year, and on selected dates in May and October. (There are no departures in September.) The eight-day trip is $3950 per person, which includes lodging in a queen or twin cabin, all meals on board, activities such as snorkeling and kayaking, and visits to local attractions like Fort San Lorenzo and the Church of San Felipe. For more details on the itinerary or the departure schedule, visit http:/www.pmatours.net/discovery/default.htm.