M/V Coral Star is a comfortable 115 foot floating lodge that offers
first-class service in an intimate setting. The captains and crew
feel that nature can best be seen in small groups; thus the maximum
ship capacity is only 16 guests!
M/V Coral Star cruises
the Pacific side of Panama following itineraries that specialize
in nature tourism (including whale watching) ,scuba
diving, deep sea fishing (with a specialized fleet and equipment)
and flly fishing. With over 1600 tropical islands, the magic of this
area is still relatively untouched. She also transits the Panama
Canal on her Two Ocean Expedition.
The Ship
The ship has 2 master staterooms, 2 deluxe rooms and 4 standard
cabins. All cabins are double occupancy, (16 guests maximum), with
each cabin having their own private bathroom, shower and sink. Her
interior is mahogany and teak. There are picture windows, wet bar,
entertainment center, carpeting, and a spiral staircase to the ship's
library and office. A salon and dining room provide a home like atmosphere
for your comfort. The ship is fully air-conditioned and it runs on
a 110V current provided by two 60 KW generators.
The full stainless steel galley on the main deck will rival any
restaurant. You will receive 3 delicious meals daily, plus snacks
during the day.
A laundry room contains
washers and dryers with fresh linen and towels for your convenience.
There are 3 teak sun decks with lounge
chairs and a "Fantail Bar" where you can relax and unwind
after a fun day of activities and exploring. A color TV/VCR with
tape library, stereo system, books, games and puzzles are available
for those with relaxation in mind.
The M/V Coral Star is run by an experienced Captain and crew whose
main goal is to ensure that you have a safe, fun and comfortable
cruise.
The Itineraries
M/V Coral Star offers
itineraries that specialize in Eco Tourism, Diving, Deep Sea Fishing
and Fly Fishing. We will be glad to provide details and
help you choose among any of the programs.
We want to highlight
two of our favorite itineraries here: the Two Oceans Expedition & Canal
Transit and the Guided Naturalist Cruise of the Coiba National Park,
a World Heritage Site..
Two Oceans Expedition
and Canal Transit offers an adventure in both
the Eastern Pacific and the Atlantic/Caribbean Ocean with a transit
though the incredible Panama Canal. On this intimate and tailored
tour will you will visit the indigenous cultures of the Darien rainforest,
snorkel or dive the crystal clear waters of the Las Perlas Archipelago,
explore the old haunts of Adventurer Sir Francis Drake and the legendary
pirate, Capt. Henry Morgan, hike the old Camino Real (the Royal Road),
explore the cliff hanging fortress of San Lorenzo and so much more.
Biologist and naturalist
guides will present a memorable exploration which offers an up
close and personal understanding of the history
and future of Panama. Discussing all the different aspects of Panama:
Old, Colonial and Contemporary ...cultures, wildlife, economy, history,
geography and more, ... Guides will be available at all times to
answer questions and aid in identifying the tropical diversity
of this amazing
area.
The M/V Coral Stars' 7
day Two Ocean Expedition/Canal Transit offers a one of a kind experience.
No overwhelming crowds
or packed excursions. This is a unique opportunity to experience
the true natural beauty, wildlife and marine diversity of the Gulf
of Panama, Canal Zone and Caribbean forts.
Each charter begins on
Saturday evening and ends on the following Saturday morning. The
Two Oceans Expedition and Canal Transit is available June through
September and then November through the first part of December.
7
Night Sample Two Oceans Expedition and Canal Transit Itinerary
(Balboa to Portobelo Transit)
The Guided Naturalist
Cruise explores the many natural wonders Coiba Island.
Here is your opportunity to experience one of the most remote,
exotic and natural areas in all of Central America safely with
experienced guides. Imagine discovering hidden waterfalls, canyons
and spectacular settings in an unspoiled tropical forest, with
its rare birds, mammals and plants! Or, a beach of white sand
and an ocean of warm blue water filled with whales, dolphins
and rare colorful fish!
The Coiba Island National
Park encompasses over 2,701 square kilometers, or 1,053 square
miles, including the Island of Coiba and 38 smaller islands. This
area contains an extraordinary marine and terrestrial biodiversity.
The park contains the second largest coral reef in the Central-Eastern
Pacific Ocean. Its' marine fauna include 23 species of whales and
dolphins, including humpback, sperm and killer whales. The island
of Coiba still maintains 85% of its virgin tropical-moist forest,
making it the biggest virgin-forested island in the Americas.
The Coral Star team of
biologists and naturalists guides combine more than 20 years of
experience in Ecology and Eco-tourism. They have worked with numerous
expedition operators and cruise lines, including the Smithsonian
Study Tours. Each charter has no more than 16 guests; two biologists/guides
and one park ranger available on every excursion assures you an
informative and personalized experience.
The M/V Coral Stars' 6
day Guided Naturalist Cruises are a unique opportunity to experience
all that Coiba National Park offers, thorough exposure to the islands'
diverse marine habitat, exploration of distinctive geographical
treasures, flora and fauna, excursions covering the prison areas
and natural hot springs. It is perfect for those interested in
an inclusive adventure with special in-depth discovery.
Each charter begins on
Saturday morning from David and ends on the following Thursday
afternoon in David. Sailings are available December through May.
A
Socially and Environmentally Responsible Ship
M/V Coral Star Mission
Statement
With the goal of preserving
and protecting the natural treasures of Panama, the M/V Coral Star
Staff is committed to minimal impact and noninvasive excursions.
With a maximum of
16 guests on board, our small specialized tours facilitate these
goals.
For the past 10 years,
the Coral Star has operated in the Eastern Pacific, an area often
overlooked.
Numerous ocean currents create a unique nursery for aquatic life
which is of huge importance to the entire pacific fish populations.
This unique migrational area for marine life, birds and aquatic
mammals, all are dependant upon Coiba National Marine Park and
its islands
for survival. Galapagos, Cocos and Coiba Islands all hold an important,
unique ecosystem, which we recognize as a vital tool
in the worlds ocean and animal balance.
