This is NOT the way to see Costa Rica!
Pura Vida,
G
"Ray Goldenberg" wrote in message
news:9bkvc21ak3tokar5l7ftualv3qeun0mapi@4ax.com...
> Hi Everyone,
>
> I received this information from Wind Star and thought it would be of
> interest. If you have missed any of my news' postings, they are
> available on my web site.
>
> Best regards,
> Ray
> LIGHTHOUSE TRAVEL
> 800-719-9917 or 805-566-3905
> http://www.lighthousetravel.com
>
>
> Explore the Natural Wonders of Costa Rica By Ship Aboard msy Wind Star
>
> Eco-adventures abound on seven-night cruises along the Pacific Coast
>
> Seattle, WA, August 1, 2006 - Windstar Cruises returns to Costa Rica
> this winter with the 148-guest motor sailing yacht Wind Star sailing
> 15, seven-night cruises along the picturesque Pacific Coast.
>
>
>
> Lured by natural beauty, jungles teaming with wildlife and a dizzying
> array of flora, guests sailing on the intimate and elegant Wind Star
> get the best of both worlds---upscale accommodations combined with
> eco-adventure. A local Costa Rica naturalist sails on each trip to
> pass on local knowledge of the country's unique history, culture,
> geography and biodiversity.
>
>
>
> "Windstar's Costa Rica itinerary has proved very popular," said Diane
> Moore, Windstar's vice president of marketing and sales. "We are one
> of the only cruise lines that offers an entire week exploring the
> country's spectacular coastline, and we can visit more small bays and
> harbors due to the intimate size of the ship."
>
>
>
> In most ports of call, the msy Wind Star is at anchor while guests are
> tendered to shore in zodiac boats for an adventurous wet landing on
> the beach.
>
>
>
> Sailing roundtrip out of Puerto Caldera, the ship first sails north to
> its only stop outside of Costa Rica-San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. A
> tranquil fishing village with white-sand beaches invites guests to
> swim and relax in the sun. Shore excursions visit the important
> colonial city of Granada, Masaya Volcano, and an Indian craft market.
>
>
>
> In Playas del Coco, the horse-shoe shaped bay is popular for scuba
> diving, fishing and sailing. Shore excursions take guests on a float
> down the Corobici River or soaring through the treetops on a zip-line
> tour through the rainforest.
>
>
>
> A day in Quepos, a former banana-exporting town, brings a myriad of
> adventures within reach. Guests may choose a nature walk and swim in
> famous Manuel Antonio National Park, a dense rain forest that opens
> up onto white sand beaches. Monkeys and other animals thrive in the
> park. Another excursion explores the intricate ecosystem of the
> mangroves with monkeys, spoonbills, and a variety of other birds
> living in the upper canopy. Other adventures available out of Quepos
> include horseback riding in the rainforest, a rainforest exploration
> via an all-terrain vehicle, deep-sea fishing or a private cooking
> class at a nearby ranch and private reserve.
>
>
>
> Marenco, located on Drake Bay, is the southernmost port on the
> itinerary. It's proximity to Corcovado National Park, known for its
> biological diversity, allows Windstar guests plenty of time to explore
> the 500-hectare reserve composed of mountains, cloud forest, pristine
> beaches and rushing rivers. Organized shore excursions include a
> guided hike through the park, beach horseback riding, and an excursion
> to Isla del Caņo for snorkeling and exploration.
>
>
>
> Anchored off the Curu Reserve on the Nicoya Peninsula, guests are
> tendered ashore to explore the wildlife refuge, home to 220 species of
> birds; capuchin, spider, white-face and squirrel monkeys; three-toed
> sloths, coati and anteaters. Guests may elect to join a tour with an
> expert naturalist for a peaceful walk along the trails. In the
> afternoon, the ship sails to Tortuga Island for a beach picnic and
> complimentary water sports activities including sailing, snorkeling,
> kayaking, water skiing, ski tubing and wind surfing.
>
>
>
> Complimentary water sports are a highlight of the ship which has an
> aft water sports platform that lowers into the water for swimming and
> water sports activities. After a full day of adventure, guests will
> appreciate Windstar's atmosphere of casual elegance. Guests are free
> to relax in comfort aboard their own private yacht -no ties, jackets
> or cocktail dresses required.
>
>
>
> Windstar's elegant motor sailing yachts have recently received a
> multi-million dollar investment in luxury amenities including new
> Signature Cuisine menus by acclaimed Chef Joachim Splichal of L.A.'s
> Patina Group. Other amenities include new luxury mattresses and
> linens, flatscreen TVs, bath amenities by L'Occitane, Apple iPod Nanos
> and hammocks built for two on deck.
>
>
>
> The Wind Star sails in Costa Rica from December through March. Fares
> start at $1,749 per person based on double occupancy.
>
>
>
> About Windstar Cruises
>
> Seattle-based Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts known for
> their pampering without pretense and their ability to visit the hidden
> harbors and secluded coves of the world's most treasured destinations.
> Carrying just 148 to 308 guests, the luxurious ships of Windstar
> cruise to nearly 50 nations, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe,
> the Caribbean and the Americas.
>
>
>
> Windstar offers optional trip cancellation protection that provides
> cash back when you cancel for any reason prior to 24-hours before
> departure. For more information including brochures, rates and
> itineraries contact a professional travel agent.
> --
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