Costa Rica & the Panama Canal
Costa Rica & the Panama Canal
$11059
Costa Rica & the Panama Canal
12 Days Starting in San José Province, San José, Costa Rica and ending in Panama City, Panamá Province, Panama
Visiting: San José, Curú Wildlife Refuge, Manuel Antonio National Park, Punta Rio Claro National Wildlife Refuge, Golfo Dulce, Coiba Island, Pearl Islands, Panama City, Panama Canal Tours
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
Greg MortimerShip Capacity:
132
Physical rating:
Medium
Age range:
8-92
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
From:
$11059
$10506 (USD)
The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$553
Tour Overview
Fares shown include 1 pre-hotel night in San José – total trip duration 11 nights starting 19/04/2025
Immerse yourself in the remarkable coastlines of Costa Rica and Panama. Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse regions on earth. Discover tropical rainforests teeming with outstanding variety of wildlife, dazzling birdlife and flamboyant flora. In Panama, discover pristine coral reefs and learn the remarkable history of the Panama Canal on a guaranteed daylight crossing from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive San Jose
Location: San José
Meals Included: No Meals
Having made your way to San Jose, you will be met by a representative of AE Expeditions and transferred to our group hotel. Please visit the AE Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket.
Enjoy free time, and in the evening, dine at your leisure (dinner not included).
Day 2 : Embarkation Day
Location: San José
Meals Included: No Meals
This morning, your luggage will be collected from the hotel and transferred directly to the port for sanitisation, clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. There is time to settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings. Enjoy the thrill of departure as we ‘throw the lines’ and set sail for an exciting tropical adventure.
Day 3 : Curú Wildlife Refuge
Location: Curú Wildlife Refuge
Curú National Wildlife Refuge is a privately-owned nature reserve offering visitors outstanding eco-tourism experiences. The refuge is the first privately-owned refuge in Costa Rica, encompassing more than 3,700 acres of tropical forests, mangroves, and well-marked paths. 17 hiking trails wind through the varied terrain within the reserve, where you may see white-tail deer, armadillos and iguanas. Various monkey species are prolific within refuge including native capuchin, spider, and howler monkeys. Located on the southern Nicoya Peninsula of north-western Costa Rica, the refuge is brimming with wildlife and hosts one of the most beautiful beaches and protected bays on the Nicoya Peninsula, a great place to enjoy water activities.
Day 4 : Manuel Antonio National Park
Location: Manuel Antonio National Park
Boasting over 100 species of mammals, 184 species of birds and an impressive variety flora, Manuel Antonio National Park understandably attracts wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world. Costa Rica’s star attractions - two and three toed sloths, as well as white-faced monkeys, toucans, agoutis, armadillos and coatis are a few of the exciting animals that you may encounter within the park. We explore the park in the cool, early hours of the morning before returning to the vessel for lunch. In the afternoon, you have the option to explore Quepos town or enjoy some water activities.
Day 5 : Punta Rio Claro National Wildlife Refuge
Location: Punta Rio Claro National Wildlife Refuge
The untamed Osa Peninsula is considered by National Geographic to be ‘one of the most biologically intense places on earth’. We plan to hike the trails at Rio Claro Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary that encompasses 500 hectares of tropical rainforests, making it one of the most important natural preserves in Central America. Rio Claro is one of the last refuges for pumas, ocelot, jaguarundis, tapirs, white-lipped peccaries and a host of other rainforest animals. The high plateau forests, with trees towering over 43 m (140 ft), supports hundreds of species of ferns, bromeliads and orchids, and creates a biological corridor between palm swamps and mangroves. It is an extension of Corcovado National Park, the country's largest and one of the most remote parks in Costa Rica.
Day 6 : Golfo Dulce
Location: Golfo Dulce
Golfo Dulce, or Sweet Gulf, is a large bay that hugs pristine beaches, rivers and tall evergreen forests - a protected area known as the Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve. As one of the wettest places on Earth with over 5,000 millimetres (200 inches) of rainfall per year, the Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve features some of the world’s tallest trees. The warm tropical waters in the gulf are a great place to enjoy aquatic activities, where spinner dolphins are often seen frolicking in the bay. There are ancient coral reefs to explore, where you can see enormous coral gardens and the creatures that inhabit them. On land, there are more pristine rainforest trails for you to explore, where you can marvel at the extraordinary flora and fauna that contributes to Costa Rica’s biodiversity. By Zodiac, we shuttle ashore to Saladero Ecolodge and explore the gardens and walking trails filled with flowering plants. Keep a watch for birds including toucans, scarlet macaw, caracara and woodpeckers. In Golfo Dulce we exit Costa Rica and continue our journey as we sail to Panama.
Day 7 : Days 7-8 Coiba National Park, Panama
Location: Coiba Island
We continue to Coiba Island, a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, located off the southwest coast of Panama. The national park includes the main island of Coiba and 38 smaller islands in the surrounding marine areas within the Gulf of Chiriquí. Protected from the cold winds and the effects of El Niño, the Pacific tropical forest if Coiba Island features exceptionally high levels of endemic mammals, birds and plants. It is the last refuge for a number of threatened animals including the crested eagle.
On Coiba Island, we spend the morning in the area of Granito de Oro islet, a unique place that allows snorkellers to encounter a diversity and volume of marine life that is usually reserved for scuba divers. This is one of the world’s most sought-after diving destinations. The local ranger will provide guidance on the optimal places where we can enjoy water activities.
The following morning, we plan to land at Punta Clara, which served as a penal colony from 1919 to 1996, where Panama’s most notorious criminals and political prisoners were incarcerated. At the peak of its operations, the prison housed up to approximately 3,000 inmates in about 30 camps spread around the islands. You can visit the dilapidated penitentiary buildings or walk along the beach looking for scarlet macaws, yellow caracara and various seabirds. Back on board, enjoy lunch as we set towards the Pearl Islands.
Day 9 : Pearl Islands
Location: Pearl Islands
After a morning at sea, we reach The Pearl Islands of Panama, an archipelago located in the North Pacific Ocean in the Gulf of Panama, covering around 250 small islands. The Spanish Conquistadors discovered the islands in 1503 and gave the Islands its name due to the great amounts of pearls found on them. The Pearl Islands were originally named by the Spanish explorer Vasco Nuñez de Balboa due to the bountiful pearls that were harvested off the islands’ shores. The Pearl Islands are most famous for their spectacular and tranquil white sand beaches, untouched forests, and colourful coral reefs offshore – ideal for diving, snorkelling and paddling. We plan to visit Bartolome Island to enjoy some paddle boarding, paddling in kayaks and snorkelling in the warm, turquoise waters. We might also visit nearby Pacheca and Pachequilla islands to enjoy some birdwatching.
Day 10 : Panama City
Location: Panama City
Three million years ago, the Isthmus of Panama emerged from the sea and changed the world forever. It divided an ocean and joined two continents together, triggering one of the most important natural evolution events in the history of the world. Today, this narrow land bridge in Central America is home to more species of birds and trees than the whole of North America. Panama is of course world-famous for its 77 km (48 mi) canal that connects the Pacific Ocean with the Atlantic Ocean. Panama’s history has been formed by a rich pre-Columbian era for more than 12,000 years. Early cultures in Panama were the Monagrillo, the Cueva and the Conte, particularly famous for their pottery, which was the first in the Americas. The first European claiming the territory of today’s Panama was Rodrigo de Bastidas, coming from Colombia’s Atlantic coast in 1501. In 1513 Vasco Nuñez de Balboa became the first Spaniard to see the Pacific Ocean from the top of a hill. Four days later he and his men stood at the shores of the Pacific Ocean. In 1519, Panama City was founded and became an important hub for seized goods making its way from Peru to Spain. We visit Gatun Lake, a large artificial lake with a unique ecosystem that forms a major part of the Panama Canal, carrying ships for 33 km (20 miles) on their transit across the Isthmus of Panama. At the time it was created, Gatun Lake was the largest artificial lake in the world. The vegetation at Gatun Lake offers ideal habitats for a large number of bird species. The excursion starts with boat trip that heads north on the canal for 25 minutes where we may get close to some of the larger ships that transit the canal daily. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the forested banks of Gatun Lake looking for wildlife such as capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, three-toed sloth, various kinds of toucans and other bird life. This is a place to observe the raw regenerative power of the forest as it struggles to claim what was once wild. In the afternoon, we visit an Emberá village, an indigenous tribe who have inhabited this region for centuries. There are about 33,000 Emberá living in the Darién, Panama, and 50,000 in Colombia. On our visit to one of the Emberá villages near Panama City, you will be warmly welcomed by the local villagers and enjoy a presentation to learn about their history, culture and way of life. On a guided walk through their village, you will meet more villagers who may show you inside their home, sample local snacks and learn about their medicinal plants. The Emberá are renowned for their exquisite handmade jewellery and woven handicrafts, and you will have the chance to appreciate and to purchase their work. Later in the day, we may have the chance to stop at the Miraflores Visitor Centre overlooking the Miraflores lock of the Panama Canal. Four exhibition halls portray the canal's history and biodiversity, while three terraces and observation decks are ideal places for observing the canal's operation and the passage of ships through the locks.
Day 11 Daylight Crossing Of The Panama Canal
Location: Panama Canal Tours
Crossing the Panama Canal will surely be a highlight for many travellers. Each year, over a million people visit the canal to witness this engineering marvel at work. Starting in the Pacific Ocean, you will be able to admire the Bay of Panama and Panama City’s splendid skyline before passing under the ‘Bridge of the Americas’. The vessel will then transit through the first set of locks, the Miraflores Locks, where it will be lifted 16 metres (52 foot) in two distinct steps. Next, your ship will enter Miraflores Lake, which is a small artificial body of fresh water that separates Pedro Miguel Locks from Miraflores Locks.
The vessel will transit through Pedro Miguel Locks, which is one of the two sets of locks on the Pacific side, and here the vessel is lifted 9 metres (29 foot) in one step. After exiting Pedro Miguel locks, your boat will travel through the Gaillard Cut, where the Chagres River flows into the canal. The Gaillard Cut (also known as Culebra Cut because its curves resemble a snake) is one of the main points of interest for visitors because it was carved through the Continental Divide and this section of the canal is full of history and geological value.
As you transit the cut you will see dredging occurring to control the sediments entering the canal because of the terrain’s susceptibility to landslides. Sail through Gatun Lake, which was formed by erecting the Gatun Dam across the Chagres River, and during your transit through the lake, you will pass the Smithsonian Research Station at Barro Colorado. The last of the three locks is the Gatun Locks, the only set of locks in the Atlantic sector of the canal. At Gatun Locks, the vessel will be lowered a total of 26 (85 foot) metres in three distinct chambers.
The complete crossing from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean takes approximately 10 hours, a journey that once took almost two weeks to complete, when vessels were forced to sail around the notoriously rough seas around Cape Horn at the bottom of South America to reach the Pacific coast.
This evening, celebrate a memorable journey at Captain’s Farewell reception.
Day 12 : Panama City
Location: Panama City
Disembark in Colon, on the Caribbean side of the Panama Canal, where you'll farewell your expedition team before transferring to the airport in Panama City for your onward journey. Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we do not recommend booking flights departing Panama City prior to 2.00 pm.
Ship Details
Greg Mortimer
Ship Overview
Our advanced, purpose-built expedition ship
We drew on centuries of collective experience to map out the Greg Mortimer: purpose-built for expeditions to the most remote places on earth.
The first passenger ship to feature the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW®, this allows the ship to cross oceans more comfortably and efficiently, and with expansive observation decks to bring you closer to the environment, inviting communal areas and unsurpassed environmental credentials, the Greg Mortimer offers the perfect base camp for adventures at the outer limits of human exploration.
Accommodating an average of 132 expeditioners per voyage within 76 cosy, comfortable cabins – all cabins have a view of the ocean and 85% of cabins have their own balcony. The ship also features a modern lecture lounge, multiple observation areas, zodiac launching platforms, a restaurant serving excellent meals, a gym and wellness centre, jacuzzis, a mudroom and many other amenities.
The Greg Mortimer has redefined expedition cruising for the future.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
Greg Mortimer
Adults Only Areas:
adults only
Ship Children Facilities:
none
Ship Nursery:
none
Smoking Areas:
some
Ship Size:
boutique
Ship Style:
expedition
Ship Type:
ocean
Ship Currency:
USD
Ship Language:
en
Ship Capacity:
132
Ship Crew Count:
74
Number of Decks:
8
Number of Cabins:
76
Number of Large Cabins:
0
Number of Wheelchair-Friendy Cabins:
2
Ship Launch Year:
2019
Ship Gross Tonnage:
7400
Ship Length (Meters):
104.4 M
Ship Width (Meters):
18.2 M
Ship Speed (Knots):
12 Kn
Deck Plans
Deck 3
1 - Change Room/Mudroom2 - Zodiac Loading Platforms3 - Activity Launching Platforms21 - Medical CentreAurora Staterooms
Deck 4
ZodiacsCaptain's SuiteBalcony SuitesBalcony Staterooms
Deck 5
4 - Lounge/Lecture Theatre5 - Assembly Station6 - Reception7 - Ship Shop8 - Dining Room16 - Bar17 - Viewing Platforms18 - Hydraulic Platforms19 - Observation Deck
Deck 6
Balcony Staterooms
Deck 7
9 - Photography and Art Room10 - Library11 - Gym12 - Sauna/Wellness Centre13 - Sun DeckJunior Suites
Deck 8
14 - Observation Lounge15 - Top Deck16 - Bar20 - Jacuzzis/Plunge Pools
Cabins
After a long day exploring the wonders of your destination, you need somewhere where you can simply relax and take a break from real life.
The Greg Mortimer is the perfect place to take five and recuperate after exploring – with creature comforts and wellbeing considered as part of the overall design. All staterooms° have private bathrooms, personal storage options, twin and double-bed configuration options, ample storage, international power outlets and a daily cabin service, as well as all the basic amenities that you'll need onboard.
Of course, the prospect of unexpected wildlife encounters is always on the table so your accommodation needs to have a view as well! Across four of the five stateroom categories you'll find large floor to ceiling windows that offer prime observation opportunities around the clock. Additionally, there are private balconies in roughly 80% of the staterooms, allowing you to watch the world float past and take in the salty air of the open ocean.
Another great feature of the accommodation on the Greg Mortimer are the interconnecting staterooms. If you're part of a family or group who want some privacy, but still want to be close to each other, these staterooms are the perfect option.
Regardless of your chosen stateroom, you can enjoy fully-serviced accommodation on the Greg Mortimer!
Balcony Suite (Grade BASUI )
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Greg Mortimer's two Balcony Suites are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Featuring private balconies, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area, these will sell out quickly!Twin or double bedPrivate en-suiteFull size windowDesk areaCloset spacePrivate balconyRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Aurora Stateroom Twin
The Greg Mortimer features eight Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.Twin single bedsPrivate En-suitePorthole windowDesk areaCloset spaceRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Aurora Stateroom Triple
There are six Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms. *Please note the Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins are only available on certain departures3 single beds / 1 double & 1 single bedPrivate En-suitePorthole windowDesk areaCloset spaceRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Aurora Stateroom Twin (Grade AS2G )
The Greg Mortimer features eight Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.Twin single bedsPrivate En-suitePorthole windowDesk areaCloset spaceRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Balcony Stateroom Superior (Grade BASUI )
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Greg Mortimer's two Balcony Suites are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Featuring private balconies, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area, these will sell out quickly!Twin or double bedPrivate en-suiteFull size windowDesk areaCloset spacePrivate balconyRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Junior Suite (Grade JUN JSG )
The Greg Mortimer's four Junior Suites take in some impressive° scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony. Twin or double bedPrivate en-suiteFull size windowDesk areaCloset spacePrivate balconyRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TVSeperate lounge area
Captain's Suite (Grade CAP CSG )
The largest of all our rooms, the Greg Mortimer's singular Captain's Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you'll need to get in early to secure this suite. Twin or double bedPrivate en-suiteFull size windowDesk areaCloset spacePrivate balconyRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuablesSeperate lounge area42" flat-screen TV
Balcony Stateroom Superior (Grade BASUI SBSG )
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Greg Mortimer's two Balcony Suites are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Featuring private balconies, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area, these will sell out quickly!Twin or double bedPrivate en-suiteFull size windowDesk areaCloset spacePrivate balconyRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Aurora Stateroom Triple (Grade AS3G )
There are six Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms. *Please note the Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins are only available on certain departures3 single beds / 1 double & 1 single bedPrivate En-suitePorthole windowDesk areaCloset spaceRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Aurora Stateroom Twin
The Greg Mortimer features eight Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.Twin single bedsPrivate En-suitePorthole windowDesk areaCloset spaceRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Balcony Stateroom (Grade BASTA BASTA-B BASTA-C )
With 58 rooms available, the Greg Mortimer's Balcony Staterooms are the most abundant cabin category on board. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups.Twin or double bedPrivate En-suiteFloor to ceiling windowDesk areaCloset spacePrivate balconyRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Captain's Suite (Grade CAP )
The largest of all our rooms, the Greg Mortimer's singular Captain's Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you'll need to get in early to secure this suite. Twin or double bedPrivate en-suiteFull size windowDesk areaCloset spacePrivate balconyRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuablesSeperate lounge area42" flat-screen TV
Aurora Stateroom (Grade AUR )
?Greg Mortimer features 15 porthole rooms, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.Twin or double bedPrivate En-suitePorthole windowDesk areaCloset spaceSofa bed (can sleep 3rd passenger in select cabins)Room-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Junior Suite (Grade JUN )
The Greg Mortimer's four Junior Suites take in some impressive° scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony. Twin or double bedPrivate en-suiteFull size windowDesk areaCloset spacePrivate balconyRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TVSeperate lounge area
Balcony Stateroom (Grade BASTA BASTA-B BASTA-C BSAG BSBG BSCG )
With 58 rooms available, the Greg Mortimer's Balcony Staterooms are the most abundant cabin category on board. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups.Twin or double bedPrivate En-suiteFloor to ceiling windowDesk areaCloset spacePrivate balconyRoom-controlled thermostatSafe for storing valuables42" flat-screen TV
Dining
One of the most important parts of any expedition is the food! Whatever adventures the day holds, you will be fuelled-up with hearty meals and delicious morning/afternoon teas cooked by our onboard chefs.
Meals are a great time to soak up the expedition camaraderie in our open seating dining area. Share stories with your fellow travellers and ask our expedition team questions that may have come up during the day.
Tea, coffee and snacks are available 24 hours a day, and our chefs offer different menu options and courses for each meal. Enjoy the range of house wine, beers and soft drinks included with dinner after a long day in the wild.
We also invite you to join your captain and expedition team for informal Captain’s Welcome and Farewell drinks, with complimentary beverages and cocktail appetisers, followed by a 3 course meal.
Restaurant
Meals are served in a large restaurant with family style dining, perfect to swap stories with your new expedition family. Additionally, a private dining area will also be available on request. Enjoy the range of house wine, beers and soft drinks included with dinner after a long day in the wild, preparing yourself for another exciting day to follow.On the last day of your trip, the team on the Greg Mortimer put on a special farewell four-course dinner and cocktails – a perfect way to reflect on your time on the ship and consolidate lifelong friendships with the people you've met on-board.
Entertainment
When you’re relaxing during a sea day or you have a little downtime on the ship between excursions, what is there to do onboard the Greg Mortimer? Plenty!
The Greg Mortimer is also decked out with other facilities for your enjoyment. There is a library on Deck 5 with books and maps and a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear! Keen photographers and artists will revel in the multimedia room on Deck 5.
Elephant Island Bar
Communal meeting areas have always played a major role in fostering the warm camaraderie on board our ships. They are the heart of the expedition, where people meet to share tales from the day, swap photos, keep an eye out for wildlife and watch the sun go down.The bars and lounges on board are refined yet inviting places to gather, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, and of course friendly bartenders to shoot the breeze with.
Lecture Lounge
On all our expeditions, there are experts who lead presentations in the spacious lecture room so you can understand the region a little better. These often include topics as broad as history and culture to biology and climate change, these presentations aim to educate and entertain.
Library & Multimedia Centre
With floor-to-ceiling windows, the library is a peaceful sanctuary where you can find non-fiction books to read up on the day’s destinations, plug in and organise your photos or play board games with newfound friends.Choose from our range of informative nonfiction titles, wildlife guidebooks, travel journals, novels and a selection of children’s books and board games.Wildlife guides, books and binoculars can also be found on the observation lounge on deck 7.
Multimedia Room
Keen photographers and artists will revel in the multimedia room on Deck 5.
Observation Points
Let's face it – you don't want windowless rooms when travelling around some of the most beautiful locations around the world. This is why the Greg Mortimer is designed with plenty of dedicated observation spaces – ideal for keen bird spotters, wildlife watchers and those wanting to watch the scenery go past.From the indoor 180-degree lounge and outdoor 360-degree open deck, both on deck 8, to the 270-degree open sundeck on level 7, there are plenty of observation points to share around the ship! If these are full, then you can take up a spot on one of the two hydraulic viewing platforms on deck 5.
Enrichment
Custom-Built Activity Platform
Regardless of your destination, we offer a number of additional activities to allow you to see more of the environment. From kayaking and diving to climbing and ski touring, it's these optional activities that often leave the biggest impression on your trip as a whole. Onboard the Greg Mortimer, there is a spacious prep and loading platform for these activities and more – designed in consultation with our expert activity guides.
Excursions
Although the ship is fun, the real enjoyment comes from the many shore excursions that are available. Depending on weather conditions, it may be possible for multiple landings, taking a look at everything from rock formations and ancient ruins to cute groups of penguins. We know time is of the essence in these wild locations, so the Greg Mortimer has been designed to carry 15 Zodiacs, which means you can maximise your time on shore.From four dedicated sea level launching platforms, transfers are quicker, safer and enable you to get closer to the action for a longer period of time. Just remember to charge your camera before you step onto the Zodiac!
Hydraulic Viewing Platforms
Although there is no doubt that you'll love the aesthetics of the Greg Mortimer, we are all here to admire the spectacular landscape and spot the elusive wildlife in their natural habitat. To ensure you get the best views possible, the new ship features unique viewing platforms, custom-built for the Greg Mortimer. Accessed from Deck 5, the two platforms fold out hydraulically for unobstructed views of passing marine life and seabirds – make sure your camera is locked and loaded!
Mudroom
No need to take your wet expedition gear back to your cabin to dry. Keep your cabin warm and cosy by leaving your outer jackets and pants in the mudroom.The mudroom is your launchpad for all shore excursions and activities. Here, you will have access to a locker when you can hang your gear up to dry, and store your boots between excursions.
Zodiac Launching Platform
Zodiacs are a vital part of getting up close and personal on your adventure – sneaking into areas that the Greg Mortimer can't reach. On this new ship, there are specially designed launching platforms that enables us to load Zodiacs easily and quickly, allowing you to spend more time exploring on the two to three daily landings.There are 15 Zodiacs that are boarded from either side of Deck 3 (sea level), perfect for when there is a group of fluffy cute penguin chicks that we need a photo of!
Kids and Teens
There are no dedicated children's facilities onboard the Greg Mortimer.
Health & Fitness
There is a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage° at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear!
Wellness Centre & Gym
You are welcome to visit the wellness centre during your voyage where you can use the gym, visit our sauna (which we highly recommend after the polar plunge!) or book a massage (additional cost applies).There are also two jacuzzis on the top outside deck with amazing views of the world outside.
Gratuities
Gratuities/tips for crew are included in your voyage fare, to the value of USD$15 per person per day. It is at your discretion if you would like to tip outside of this. It is not necessary to tip the Expedition Team members.
Useful Information
Age Restrictions
Our travellers have ranged from 8 to 92, so as long as you have a thirst for adventure, you’re welcome to join us in Antarctica. Any person under 18 years of age must travel with their legal guardian.
Dress Code
Shipboard clothing is informal and casual Jeans, jumpers and long-sleeved shirts are ideal for indoors in the polar regions; however be sure to keep your jacket close for unexpected wildlife sightings! Some people like to take a nicer outfit for the captain's welcome and farewell drinks but formal clothing is not necessary. For health and safety reasons, we do request you wear enclosed shoes in public areas while on board the ship. AE Expeditions will provide you with a complimentary, insulated polar jacket that includes an inner down jacket and an outer waterproof shell.All passengers travelling to Antarctica, the Arctic, or Scotland, will have access to complimentary use of gumboots during the voyage. If you have concerns regarding extra-small or large sizing, or hard-to-fit feet, we recommend you bring your own pair. Gumboots are to be worn on all shore visits unless advised otherwise by the expedition team.
Health & Safety
Medical FormIt is compulsory for each passenger to return a signed medical from their general practitioner. Your Medical Form is required to be signed by your general practitioner and returned to AE Expeditions no later than three months and no earlier than six months before your voyage departure date.If you become aware of any change in your health and fitness that may be likely to affect your participation on the trip (e.g. pregnancy, mental illness, heart or bronchial disorder, broken limbs, etc.), you should notify us in writing immediately.Pre-Existing Medical ConditionsIt is your responsibility to advise AE Expeditions of any pre-existing medical conditions and /or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of you requiring medical attention. Travelling when pregnant is not recommended.
Medical Facilities
When travelling to extreme environments, ensuring our expeditioners are healthy and happy is our number one priority. That's why we have a doctor on board at all times, as well as a well-equipped clinic to provide basic medical care.
Responsible Travel
Our commitmentAE Expeditions is committed to travelling respectfully and providing a trip of a lifetime experience, while aiming to create lifelong ambassadors for the protection of our planet and the diverse places we visit around the world.Our fleetOur fleet boasts the lowest polluting marine engines in the world, and our state of the art engines deliver an 80% reduction in emissions.*The revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW® cuts through the swell, reducing vibrations and making quicker transits through waves, which helps reduce our fuel consumption by up to 60%.Our onboard desalination plant converts seawater to freshwater that’s safe to drink. This means we can carry less freshwater on sea crossings, further reducing our fuel consumption.Our fleet uses virtual anchoring, a combination of GPS, steering technology, propellers and thrusters, which allow the ship to hold position. This protects the sea floor and minimises the damage caused by conventional anchors.*Tier 3 compared to the older Tier 1 enginePlastic: towards zeroOn board we’ve replaced many single-use plastic products with sustainable alternatives and our aim is to eliminate them altogether.Responsible diningAll of our seafood onboard is sustainably sourced in accordance with the Marine Stewardship Council guidelines. We also cater for vegetarian and vegan diets (please mention this when booking).Gentle cleaning productsFor our onboard cleaning products, we aim to use biodegradable, phosphate free and non-bioaccumulative products as much as possible.We are proud to provide Stream2Sea’s mineral-based sunscreen, tested and proven safe for fish and coral larvae onboard – available for passenger use.RecyclingWe use recycling bins onboard to separate waste and reduce our landfill, and aim to recycle our waste at every port.We are proud to be a member of the SeaGreen recycling initiative in Ushuaia, and participate in beach clean-up initiatives such as Clean up Svalbard.Carbon NeutralWe are certified 100% Carbon Neutral as part of an ongoing active sustainability plan to help make a positive impact on the planet.Citizen Science ProgramTravel is always the best educator and we offer the chance to enrich your curiosity and expand your knowledge and understanding of the places we travel to. There is no better learning opportunity than being in the field with subject matter experts. Our Citizen Science Program is designed to be an interactive forum of like-minded travellers to share new discoveries and deepen their connection to the natural world in a relaxed, informal and fun environment – both on board our ships, on our fascinating shore expeditions and in our zodiacs. You can make a difference as we can provide invaluable data to the scientific community through you taking part. You too can become an ambassador for the protection of our majestic but fragile blue planet when you return home by sharing what you have learned. Our seven dynamic and diverse Citizen Science Projects – focusing on whales, seabirds, microplastics, weather patterns, phytoplankton, polar fjordlands and marine biodiversity – have been hand-picked for their ground-breaking work and global achievements.
Smoking Policy
There is a ‘No Smoking’ policy throughout the interior of our ships.
Special Dietary Requirements
We can accommodate most special meal requests if given advance notice. Our talented chefs will take your requirements into their meal planning and ensure you receive tasty, healthy meals. Ensure you list any dietary requirements on your personal details form. Although we aim to accommodate most dietary requirements, we are unable to cater to all requirements, nor can we guarantee that our onboard meals do not contain traces of peanuts or other nuts. Please contact us to enquire about your specific needs.
Temperatures
Our expeditions to the polar regions operate during the summer months in the Antarctic and Arctic. During the summer months in Antarctica° the temperature can range from -2°C (28°F) to 8°C (46°F). Big storms are rare, but if one comes through the temperature could drop to -8°C (17°F).In the Arctic the temperature can range from -3°C (26.6°F) to 7°C (44.6°F).
Wi-Fi and Connectivity
Onboard wi-fi internet packages are available for purchase during the voyage. Telephone access for personal use is not available on board. In case of an emergency, our expedition team can facilitate communication with your family members if necessary.
What's Included
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Accommodation
On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service. One night’s hotel accommodation in San Jose, including breakfast, on Day 1.
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Airport Transfers at Destination
All transfers as mentioned in the itinerary.
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Fully Guided
Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
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Meals
All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage. Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner. Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages
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Additional Services
Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult). Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage. Complimentary 3-in-1 polar jacket. Comprehensive pre-departure information
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All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
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Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
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Transfer from hotel to pier on Day 2.
What's Not Included
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Accommodation
Hotels not mentioned in the itinerary
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Insurance
Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
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International Travel
International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
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Meals
Hotels not mentioned in the itinerary
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Optional
Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
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Airport arrival or departure taxes.
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Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
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All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, wi-fi, email or phone charges.
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Gratuities and Tips
A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account.
It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill.
It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members.
This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
Check out our Q&As
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
As detailed in itinerary.
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Are flights included in this tour?
International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary are included.
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
All transfers as mentioned in the itinerary are included.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, English speaking guide on this tour.
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
Save the solo supplement and we’ll pair you with a like-minded traveller based on gender and your selected cabin category. If we’re unable to find you someone to share with, the solo supplement is waived. If you would rather have a cabin all to yourself, you can pay a 50% surcharge and it’s all yours! This way, you can explore endlessly at your own pace.
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
An experienced team of destination specialists, activity leaders, and local guides
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Bookings are open to people 8 years of age and over. Passengers under 18 years of age must be accompanied at all times by an adult throughout the expedition and cannot be left unsupervised at any time including during paid additional activities. A child remains the sole responsibility of the adult at all times. Children between 8-17 years of age must pay the adult price of the expedition.
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What about special requests or requirements?
Aurora Expeditions will use reasonable endeavours to accommodate special requests from you, including special dietary requirements, but they cannot be guaranteed. You should advise Aurora Expeditions as soon as possible after booking of any such special requests or requirements, such that Aurora Expeditions can try and accommodate them.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have updated our health and safety protocols effective from 1st October 2023. Aurora requires expeditioners to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to travel. If you are unvaccinated, your participation on an expedition is subject to a medical review. In the event that any passenger was to test positive for COVID-19 onboard, we will require a 5-day isolation period in your cabin on the vessel. Aurora highly recommends that all passengers have an Influenza vaccine prior to travel. All health and safety protocols are subject to change and may vary due to local regulations in the countries visited.
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What is Aurora Expedition's child policy?
Bookings are open to people 8 years of age and over. Children under the age of 8 are not permitted. Passengers under 18 years of age must be accompanied at all times by an adult throughout the expedition and cannot be left unsupervised at any time including during paid additional activities. A child remains the sole responsibility of the adult at all times. Children between 8-17 years of age must pay the adult price of the expedition.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Save the solo supplement and we’ll pair you with a like-minded traveller based on gender and your selected cabin category. If we’re unable to find you someone to share with, the solo supplement is waived. This option can be combined with other offers and discounts. If you would rather have a cabin all to yourself, you can pay a 50% surcharge and it’s all yours! This way, you can explore endlessly at your own pace. This option can be combined with other offers and discounts.
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Dates & Availability
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Saturday - Wednesday
Apr 19, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Aurora Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 2500 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aurora expeditions charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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