What Cruise Lines Go to Costa Rica Top Picks for 2024

Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line lead the top cruise options visiting Costa Rica in 2024, offering immersive itineraries that highlight the country’s lush rainforests, wildlife, and Pacific coastlines. These award-winning lines provide a mix of adventure and luxury, with shore excursions ranging from zip-lining to guided eco-tours, ensuring unforgettable experiences in one of Central America’s most biodiverse destinations.

Key Takeaways

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Offers year-round Costa Rica itineraries with diverse shore excursions.
• Royal Caribbean: Features eco-friendly ships and immersive rainforest tours in Puntarenas.
• Princess Cruises: Known for extended port stays and wildlife-focused excursions.
• Holland America: Combines luxury with cultural and adventure activities in Caldera.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Budget-friendly options with short 4-5 day Costa Rica getaways.
• Smaller expedition lines: UnCruise and Lindblad offer intimate, nature-focused experiences.

Why Costa Rica Is a Must-Visit Cruise Destination in 2024

Imagine waking up to the sound of howler monkeys echoing through a misty jungle, stepping onto a sun-kissed dock surrounded by emerald-green mountains, and sipping fresh tropical fruit juice as you prepare for a day of zip-lining, wildlife spotting, or exploring a pristine beach. This is the magic of Costa Rica — a country where adventure meets sustainability, and nature reigns supreme. For cruise travelers seeking an immersive, eco-conscious experience, Costa Rica has rapidly emerged as a top-tier destination in 2024. With its biodiversity hotspots, volcanic landscapes, and commitment to environmental preservation, Costa Rica offers a rare blend of relaxation and adrenaline that few other cruise ports can match.

But which cruise lines actually go to Costa Rica? As demand grows for Central American itineraries, more major and boutique cruise operators are adding Costa Rican ports to their schedules. From luxury yachts to large ocean liners, the options are expanding — but not all ships dock in the same places or offer the same experiences. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler looking to explore the Pacific coast, understanding what cruise lines go to Costa Rica is essential for planning the perfect voyage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top cruise lines visiting Costa Rica in 2024, highlight key ports of call, and provide insider tips to help you choose the best cruise for your travel style, budget, and interests.

Top Cruise Lines Visiting Costa Rica in 2024

Costa Rica’s appeal to cruise lines lies in its strategic location along the Pacific coast, its rich natural attractions, and its growing reputation as a leader in sustainable tourism. In 2024, a diverse mix of cruise operators — ranging from mainstream giants to intimate luxury vessels — are offering itineraries that include Costa Rican ports. Below are the top cruise lines currently sailing to Costa Rica, each with its own unique approach to destination immersion and guest experience.

1. Holland America Line: Classic Elegance with Pacific Panache

Holland America Line (HAL) continues to be one of the most reliable mainstream cruise lines visiting Costa Rica. Known for its mid-sized ships and well-curated itineraries, HAL offers 7- to 14-night cruises along the Pacific coast, often combining Costa Rica with Panama, Mexico, and Colombia. In 2024, the Eurodam and Nieuw Statendam are scheduled to dock at Puntarenas and Puerto Caldera, both key gateways to inland attractions.

What sets HAL apart is its “On Location” cultural programming, which includes onboard lectures on Costa Rican ecology, local cuisine workshops, and partnerships with eco-tourism operators. For example, guests can book a “Monteverde Cloud Forest & Coffee Tour” excursion directly through the cruise line, with transportation included. Holland America also emphasizes sustainability, aligning with Costa Rica’s green ethos through waste reduction and energy-efficient ships.

Pro Tip: Book early for HAL’s “Costa Rica & Panama Canal” itineraries — they fill up fast due to limited port calls and high demand for canal transit experiences.

2. Princess Cruises: Adventure and Accessibility Combined

Princess Cruises has significantly expanded its Costa Rica offerings in 2024, with the Discovery Princess and Sky Princess making regular stops at Puntarenas and Quepos. These ships are part of the line’s “Pacific Coast Explorer” and “Panama Canal Adventure” routes, typically lasting 10 to 15 nights.

Princess stands out for its MedallionClass technology, which streamlines check-ins, excursion bookings, and even food ordering — a huge convenience when navigating foreign ports. The line also partners with local operators to offer exclusive excursions, such as guided night hikes in Manuel Antonio National Park or kayaking through the mangroves of Damas Island. For families, Princess’s Discovery at Sea program includes kid-friendly wildlife tours and interactive science activities focused on rainforest conservation.

Insider Insight: Quepos is a smaller port than Puntarenas, so ships docking here often offer a more intimate, less crowded experience — perfect for travelers seeking a quieter entry point to Costa Rica.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Flexibility and Fun

NCL brings its signature “Freestyle Cruising” model to Costa Rica, offering more dining options, flexible schedules, and a lively onboard atmosphere. In 2024, the Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore will visit Puerto Caldera as part of longer 11- to 14-night Pacific voyages. These itineraries often include stops in Mexico and Nicaragua, creating a broader Central American experience.

NCL excels at providing a wide range of shore excursions, from adrenaline-pumping zip-lining tours in Monteverde to relaxing catamaran cruises along the Nicoya Peninsula. Their “Go Local” excursions are particularly popular, featuring visits to organic cacao farms, traditional oxcart workshops, and artisan markets. NCL also offers overnight stays in some itineraries, allowing guests to experience Costa Rica’s vibrant nightlife and evening wildlife.

Traveler Tip: If you’re traveling with teens or young adults, NCL’s mix of adventure and nightlife makes it a standout choice — just be sure to book excursions in advance, as popular ones like the “Jungle River Float & Wildlife Safari” sell out quickly.

4. Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury with a Green Touch

Celebrity Cruises, part of the Royal Caribbean Group, has made sustainability a cornerstone of its brand — a perfect match for eco-conscious Costa Rica. In 2024, the Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Edge will visit Puntarenas and Quepos on select Pacific voyages. These ships feature advanced wastewater treatment systems, LED lighting, and zero single-use plastics, reflecting Costa Rica’s environmental values.

Celebrity’s excursions are curated for authentic cultural and ecological experiences. For example, guests can participate in a “Turtle Conservation & Night Walk” at Playa Grande, where leatherback turtles nest from October to February. The line also offers “Sustainable Sips” tours, showcasing Costa Rican coffee, chocolate, and rum produced using eco-friendly methods.

Bonus Feature: Celebrity’s “Always Included” pricing means gratuities, Wi-Fi, and premium drinks are bundled — a great value for travelers who want to avoid surprise costs.

5. Lindblad Expeditions: Small-Ship Adventure for Nature Lovers

For travelers seeking a more immersive, educational experience, Lindblad Expeditions is the gold standard. Partnering with National Geographic, Lindblad operates expedition-style cruises on small, nimble vessels like the National Geographic Quest and National Geographic Venture. These ships carry only 62–100 guests, allowing for intimate wildlife encounters and exclusive access to remote areas.

In Costa Rica, Lindblad focuses on Corcovado National Park, Golfo Dulce, and the Osa Peninsula — regions known for their pristine rainforests, jaguars, scarlet macaws, and humpback whales. Daily excursions include guided hikes, kayaking, snorkeling, and Zodiac boat rides led by expert naturalists and local guides. The onboard experience includes lectures by biologists, photography coaching, and evening recaps of the day’s sightings.

Ideal For: Photographers, birdwatchers, and eco-tourists who value depth over speed. Lindblad’s itineraries are typically 7 to 10 nights and often include a land extension in Costa Rica.

Key Costa Rican Cruise Ports: What to Expect

Costa Rica has several ports that serve as gateways to its diverse ecosystems, but not all are equally accessible or developed for cruise tourism. Understanding the differences between these ports can help you choose the best cruise line and itinerary for your interests.

Puntarenas: The Traditional Gateway

Puntarenas, located on a narrow peninsula extending into the Gulf of Nicoya, is Costa Rica’s most established cruise port. It’s served by larger ships from Holland America, Princess, NCL, and Celebrity. While the town itself is modest, it’s a launching point for inland adventures. From here, cruise lines organize shuttles to:

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (2.5-hour drive) – famous for hanging bridges and rare birds
• Poás Volcano National Park – a day trip with panoramic views of an active crater
• Carara National Park – a lowland rainforest teeming with scarlet macaws and crocodiles

Note: Puntarenas can feel crowded during peak season (December–April), so consider booking early-morning excursions to avoid the rush.

Puerto Caldera: Modern Facilities, Easy Access

Puerto Caldera, just 15 kilometers south of Puntarenas, is a newer, deeper port that can accommodate larger ships. It features modern terminal facilities, free Wi-Fi, and on-site currency exchange. Like Puntarenas, it serves as a base for inland tours, but it’s slightly less congested. Princess and NCL frequently dock here, offering excursions to the same attractions as Puntarenas but with potentially shorter shuttle times.

Quepos: Gateway to Manuel Antonio

Quepos, near the world-renowned Manuel Antonio National Park, is a favorite for nature-focused cruise lines like Lindblad and Celebrity. The port is smaller, so only mid-sized ships can dock. What it lacks in infrastructure, it makes up for in proximity to wildlife. Excursions from Quepos often include:

• Guided hikes in Manuel Antonio – spotting sloths, monkeys, and iguanas
• Snorkeling at Isla Damas – exploring coral reefs and mangrove tunnels
• Sunset catamaran cruises – with opportunities to see dolphins and whales (seasonal)

Pro Tip: If you love wildlife photography, Quepos is your best bet — the park’s trails are well-maintained and offer excellent animal sightings.

Corcovado & Golfo Dulce: Remote and Untouched

For expedition cruises, Corcovado and Golfo Dulce represent the wild heart of Costa Rica. Lindblad and other small-ship operators use Zodiacs to land in these areas, where guests can explore virgin rainforest, spot jaguar tracks, and snorkel in protected marine zones. These ports are not for luxury cruisers but are ideal for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime eco-adventure.

Best Time to Cruise to Costa Rica: Weather and Wildlife Considerations

Timing your cruise is crucial for maximizing your Costa Rica experience. The country has two main seasons: dry (December to April) and green (May to November), each with unique advantages and trade-offs.

Dry Season (December–April): Peak Tourism and Wildlife Activity

The dry season is the most popular time to visit Costa Rica, and for good reason:

• Clear skies and sunny days – ideal for beach activities and photography
• Lower humidity – more comfortable for hiking and excursions
• High wildlife visibility – animals are more active and easier to spot
• Whale-watching season – humpback whales migrate to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast from December to April

However, this is also the most crowded and expensive time to cruise. Ports like Puntarenas and Quepos can be packed, and excursion prices rise. To avoid crowds, consider booking a cruise in late April, when the dry season is ending but the weather is still favorable.

Green Season (May–November): Fewer Crowds, Lush Landscapes

Often misunderstood, the green season offers significant benefits:

• Fewer tourists – more intimate experiences at national parks and beaches
• Lower prices – cruise lines often offer discounts on itineraries during this period
• Rainforests at their peak – rivers are fuller, waterfalls are more dramatic, and the landscape is vibrant green
• Sea turtle nesting – especially from July to October on beaches like Tortuguero and Playa Grande

The downside? Afternoon rains are common, and some trails may be muddy or closed. But with flexible planning, you can still enjoy full days of exploration. Lindblad and other eco-cruises often operate during the green season, capitalizing on the abundance of wildlife and lower visitor numbers.

Shoulder Months: The Sweet Spot

For the best balance of weather, prices, and crowd levels, consider November (end of green season) or May (start of dry season). These months offer:

• Reliable weather with fewer storms
• Moderate prices and availability
• Good wildlife activity (especially sea turtles in November)

Example: A 10-night Princess cruise in early November 2024 includes a stop in Quepos during peak turtle nesting, with excursions to Manuel Antonio and a mangrove kayak tour — all at a 15% discount compared to peak season.

Unique Excursions and Activities You Can’t Miss

One of the biggest advantages of cruising to Costa Rica is the opportunity to participate in once-in-a-lifetime activities that go far beyond typical port tours. Here are some must-try excursions offered by cruise lines in 2024:

Wildlife and Conservation Experiences

Costa Rica is home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity, and cruise lines are partnering with local conservationists to offer meaningful experiences:

• Sea Turtle Night Walks – Join researchers at Playa Grande (October–February) to observe nesting leatherbacks
• Birdwatching in Monteverde – Spot the resplendent quetzal and three-wattled bellbird with expert guides
• Jaguar Tracking in Corcovado – Learn camera-trap techniques used by scientists

Insider Tip: Lindblad’s “Conservation Immersion” excursions include a visit to a local reforestation project, where guests can plant a tree and learn about carbon offset programs.

Adventure and Thrill-Seeking

For adrenaline junkies, Costa Rica delivers:

• Zip-lining through the cloud forest – Some lines offer “canopy tours” with 10+ platforms and 2-kilometer cables
• White-water rafting on the Savegre River – Class II–III rapids, suitable for beginners and families
• Surf lessons at Playa Hermosa – Princess and NCL offer beginner-friendly surf camps

Cultural and Culinary Immersion

Costa Rica’s culture is as rich as its nature. Cruise lines are expanding offerings in this area:

• Coffee and chocolate tasting tours – Visit a working finca to see how beans are grown, roasted, and transformed into gourmet products
• Traditional oxcart painting – Learn the UNESCO-recognized art of carreta decoration
• Salsa and ceviche cooking classes – Hands-on lessons with local chefs

Pro Tip: Celebrity’s “Sustainable Sips” tour includes a rum distillery visit and a tasting of Costa Rica’s award-winning Ron Centenario.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line for Your Costa Rica Adventure

With so many options, selecting the right cruise line for Costa Rica depends on your travel style, budget, and priorities. Below is a comparison of key factors to help you decide:

Zip-lining, surf lessons

Feature	Holland America	Princess	NCL	Celebrity	Lindblad
Best For	Cultural immersion, mid-sized ships	Technology, family-friendly	Flexibility, nightlife	Luxury, sustainability	Nature, education
Ship Size	Mid-sized (2,000–2,600 guests)	Large (3,000–3,600 guests)	Large (3,900–4,000 guests)	Large (2,900–3,000 guests)	Small (62–100 guests)
Cost (Per Person, 7-Night)	$1,200–$1,800	$1,400–$2,000	$1,100–$1,700	$1,800–$2,500	$4,500–$6,500
Unique Excursions	Coffee tours, cloud forest hikes	Night hikes, mangrove kayaking	Turtle walks, sustainable sips	Jaguar tracking, Zodiac safaris
Best Season	Dry season (Dec–Apr)	Dry & shoulder months	Flexible year-round	Dry season	Green & shoulder months

Final Recommendation: If you value authentic wildlife encounters and eco-education, go with Lindblad. For a balanced mix of culture, comfort, and value, choose Holland America or Princess. If you want non-stop entertainment and flexibility, NCL is ideal. And for luxury with a green conscience, Celebrity delivers.

Final Thoughts: Embark on a Costa Rican Cruise You’ll Never Forget

Costa Rica is more than just a cruise port — it’s a living, breathing sanctuary of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re gliding through a mangrove forest in a kayak, spotting a three-toed sloth in Manuel Antonio, or sipping locally grown coffee on a misty mountain ridge, every moment in Costa Rica feels like a discovery. The cruise lines visiting in 2024 are not just offering transportation; they’re curating immersive, sustainable, and unforgettable experiences that align with the country’s “Pura Vida” philosophy.

As you plan your 2024 cruise, remember that the best choice isn’t just about the ship or the price — it’s about how deeply you want to connect with Costa Rica. Do you seek luxury and convenience? Adventure and thrills? Or quiet moments in the wild? By matching your travel goals with the right cruise line and port, you can turn a simple vacation into a transformative journey.

So pack your binoculars, your sense of wonder, and your eco-friendly sunscreen — Costa Rica is waiting. With the right cruise, you’ll return home not just with souvenirs, but with stories, photos, and a renewed appreciation for the planet’s incredible beauty. Pura Vida isn’t just a slogan; it’s a promise — and one that Costa Rica and its cruise partners are eager to fulfill in 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines go to Costa Rica in 2024?

Top cruise lines visiting Costa Rica in 2024 include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America, and Celebrity Cruises. These lines offer itineraries ranging from 7 to 14 days, often combining Costa Rica with Panama and Mexico.

What cruise lines go to Costa Rica with eco-friendly excursions?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic) stand out for sustainable travel options in Costa Rica. Both offer shore excursions focused on wildlife conservation, rainforest hikes, and carbon-neutral tours.

Are there luxury cruise lines that go to Costa Rica?

Yes, luxury options include Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Silversea. These lines feature all-inclusive packages with premium amenities and small-group excursions to Costa Rica’s national parks and beaches.

Do any family-friendly cruise lines go to Costa Rica?

Disney Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line offer family-oriented itineraries to Costa Rica with kid-friendly activities and onboard programs. Their shore excursions often include wildlife spotting and adventure parks suitable for all ages.

What cruise lines visit both Costa Rica and Panama?

Princess Cruises and Holland America frequently sail transits of the Panama Canal, stopping at Costa Rican ports like Puntarenas and Puerto Limón. These itineraries typically highlight both countries’ natural and cultural highlights.

Are there expedition cruise lines that go to Costa Rica?

Expedition lines like UnCruise Adventures and Hurtigruten operate small-ship voyages to Costa Rica, focusing on wildlife encounters and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Their itineraries often include kayaking in mangroves and visits to remote reserves.