UMW Alumni On The Road: The Panama Canal and Costa Rica

The Panama Canal and Costa Rica

January 8 – 16, 2027

On this unforgettable, varied program, travel through one of the greatest engineering marvels of our time and explore pristine rainforests and jungle-fringed beaches. Cruising for 7 nights aboard the small ship Wind Star, visit the lush Manuel Antonio National Park — a captivating combination of rainforest, beach and coral reef. Naturalist guides will lead an exploration of this protected biodiverse paradise where you may spot toucans, iguanas and howler monkeys. On lovely Isla Parida, spend the day hiking in the rainforest or snorkeling in open water. On Osa Peninsula, learn about sloths and organic farming‚ specifically vanilla, pineapple, banana and cacao crops. Wrap up with a specially arranged daylight transit of the mighty locks of the Panama Canal, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Augment your stay with an optional extension in San José, Costa Rica.

Exclusive Highlights

7-night cruise from Costa Rica to Panama aboard the first-class small sailing ship Wind Star; plus a 1-night hotel stay in San José, Costa Rica. Specially arranged daytime transit through the Panama Canal, an incredible feat of engineering.

UNESCO World Heritage site: The Colonial Transisthmian Route of Panamá including Casco Viejo, Panama (Traveler’s Choice).

Dear Mary Washington Alumni, Parents and Friends:

We invite you to witness one of the greatest feats of the modern age — the Panama Canal, a stunning example of engineering prowess. During a specially arranged and narrated daylight transit, experience the mighty locks that raise and lower ocean-going vessels 85 feet, employing the force of gravity to achieve in mere hours what once involved a three-week circumnavigation of South America.

This 9-day, 8-night itinerary also showcases Earth’s most pristine ecosystems in the rainforests and islands of Costa Rica and Panama at the best time of year. Cruise aboard the exclusively chartered, first-class Wind Star, a sleek, four-masted sailing vessel accommodating only 148 guests. Anchor in secluded areas inaccessible to larger vessels, and enjoy a variety of included excursions led by experienced onboard naturalists.

Tour the stunning and biodiverse Manuel Antonio National Park, where guides will lead a trail walk through an ecosystem of rare species. Snorkel or hike the spectacular Isla Parida with its astounding range of wildlife.

Enhance your journey with the optional Arenal and San José Pre-Extension option. This amazing program will fill up fast. Reserve now while space and Special Savings are available!

Warm regards,

Mark Thaden Associate Vice President for Alumni and Donor Engagement

Day 1 | January 8

Depart your home city and fly to San José, Costa Rica. Transfer to the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belén and settle in.

Day 2 | January 9 B-L-D

San José | Puerto Caldera | Embark

Set off on a tour of Costa Rica’s capital city. Founded in 1736, San José has blossomed into a vibrant metropolis, filled with fascinating museums, lively markets and more. The cityscape boasts a mix of historic and modern architectural styles. Enjoy an included restaurant lunch before transferring to Puerto Caldera and embarking the first-class Wind Star

Day 3 | January 10 B-L-R-D

Quepos | Manuel Antonio National Park

Experience unparalleled diversity of wildlife on a visit to the lush Manuel Antonio National Park — a captivating

combination of rainforest, beach and coral reef. See hundreds of mammal and bird species that call this park home, along with countless amphibians and reptiles. Naturalist guides will lead an exploration of this protected paradise, where you may spot vibrant toucans, concealed iguanas, howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, sloths and Capuchin monkeys.

Day 4 | January 11 B-L-D

Puerto Jimenez | Osa Peninsula

The Osa Peninsula boasts incredible biodiversity, including two native species

of sloths, a variety of birds, monkeys, reptiles and more. Today, enjoy two excursions. Meet sloths in their natural habitat, in a preserve established and maintained by a local family. And explore an organic farm, growing vanilla, pineapple, banana and cacao crops. Then learn the history of chocolate production (by the ancient Mayans!), observe modern chocolate making, and taste the delicious results!

Day 5 | January 12 B-L-D

Isla Parida, Panama

Enjoy a BBQ lunch on the shore of this beautiful island.

Kayaks and snorkeling gear will be available, and you may opt to spend the day on the beach. Or you can choose an active hiking or open-water snorkeling excursion. The island boasts beautiful butterflies and birds and several species of monkeys.

Day 6 | January 13 B-L-D Day at Sea

Spend the day relaxing and gazing at the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy lectures, the ship’s amenities and three delicious meals on board today.

Day 7 | January 14 B-L-D

Panama City

This morning, choose an excursion. On a walking tour of Panama City’s UNESCOinscribed historic district, learn the city’s rich and fascinating history, encompassing Spanish colonization, slave rebellion and a 1671 pirate attack that destroyed the town — and resulted in the city being moved to the area today called Casco Antiguo. Or take a culinary walking tour in the old quarter of Panama, stopping for cooking demonstrations and food

tastings. This afternoon, embark on a tour of the fascinating Miraflores Locks Visitor Center. Visit this unique interactive museum to learn about the Panama Canal and the engineering behind it. Then follow up with a stop at the new BioMuseo (Biodiversity Museum) in the Bridge of Life building, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry.

Day 8 | January 15 B-L-R-D

Panama City | Canal Crossing | Colón

Savor the once-in-a-lifetime experience of traveling from

the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea through the Panama Canal. A total of 40 miles long, this waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans was first constructed in the early 1900s. Watch as the mighty locks open and close, ultimately raising and lowering the ship 85 feet in this unique and memorable experience. Enjoy a delicious lunch and time to relax

onboard the ship. Tonight, join your fellow passengers for a Farewell Reception. Raise a glass to your fabulous adventure!

Day 9 | January 16 B

Disembark | Panama City | Return To Home City

After breakfast, disembark the ship. Passengers flying home later this afternoon have the opportunity for a final excursion this morning:

Expedition Naturalists

Your multi-talented Expedition Team will lead onboard discussions and presentations, and accompany you on zodiac rides and guided nature walks during your shore excursions. This seasoned team of naturalists has traveled and worked extensively in Central America and around the world. Their areas of expertise span marine biology, ornithology, ecology, geology, conservation and environmental education, history and photography. These collective experiences and a specialized interest in the world’s ecosystems make them exceptionally wellsuited to lead your expedition. They will be by your side throughout your journey to answer questions and share their knowledge about this part of the world.

stop at the Agua Clara Visitor Center overlooking the Panama Canal expansion. Enjoy a view of Lake Gatún and see the canal’s newest locks, which opened in 2016. Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to local conditions.

PRE-TOUR EXTENSION

Arenal and San José

January 5 to 9 (Program Begins: January 5)

Explore Costa Rica’s diverse biospheres, from steamy hot springs to misty cloud forests. Visit an organic chocolate workshop, an award - winning cof fee estate and a traditional artisan town known for hand - painted woodcrafts. In view of towering Arenal Volcano, walk in the lush rainforest along a series of suspended and fixed bridges. Includes accommodations for four nights at deluxe hotels.

Price per person, based on double occupancy: $2,495

Price per person, based on single occupanc y: $3,295

Further details will be provided with your reservation confirmation.

7 nights aboard the exclusively chartered, first-class Wind Star.

1 night in San José, Costa Rica at the first-class Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belén.

Welcome and Farewell Receptions.

Included Meals | 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners.

Complimentary non-premium liquor, house wine, beer, nonalcoholic beverages and minibar service throughout the cruise; complimentary house wine and beer at lunch and dinner and nonalcoholic beverages at all meals during the land program.

Experienced Gohagan & Company Travel Director accompanies you throughout the program (1 for every 40 guests).

Expert lecturers and local guides enrich your experience with their knowledge and insight.

Gratuities are included for all shipboard personnel and local guides/drivers on included excursions and transfers.

Complimentary water is available in your cabin and on excursions.

Our extensive pre-departure materials better prepare you for your travel experience.

Complimentary travel mementos.

GOHAGAN & COMPANY AIR | Your Air, Your Way

Advantages of booking your air with Gohagan include:

Our experts know the best flight itineraries that work with your travel program’s start and end times, and they will work to find the best rates comparable to those available to the public.

Free group transfers and luggage handling for arrivals and departures during the designated transfer window. 24-hour emergency support throughout the program to handle any schedule changes and unexpected delays.

Flexibility to change or cancel reser vations up to 60 days prior to departure with minimal penalties on applicable tickets.

The Gohagan Difference — An Inclusive Luxury Experience

For your comfort and convenience, our fares are comprehensive. We offer incredible inclusions not typical of all providers.

2027 DEPARTURE DATE | January 8 to 16 | Program Begins: January 8

All suites and staterooms are ocean-view and feature: two twin beds or one queen bed (a few have a fixed queen bed, see above); elegant granite-finished private bathroom with L’occitane products and a magnifying mirror; flat-screen TV; robes and slippers; luxurious linens; private climate control; personal safe and hair dryer. All rates are in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy, including taxes (unless otherwise stated).

*The Special Savings Rate is valid if booked by 5/28/26 and paid in full at booking. These Special Savings consist of $500 Early Booking and $500 Pay-in-Full Savings.

Single supplements apply in select categories at 160% of the per person cabin fare, plus taxes, with limited availability. Single rates for all other categories are at 200%. Special Savings still apply. (Cabin fare is the standard rate less taxes.) A surcharge of 3% will be applied to all bookings paid by credit card to cover payment processing costs. This fee is nonrefundable and will be added to the total booking amount at checkout. Deposit amount is $2,000 per person. Final Payment is due at least 150 days prior to departure. Full ship information and deck plans are available on our website at gohagantravel.com.

Gohagan & Company reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees, promotions and surcharges at any time. Terms & Conditions are available at gohagantravel.com/terms/