Rincón de Osa and Casa Orquídeas

A spectacular sunrise announced the beginning of our last day in Costa Rica. The Sea Voyager woke up in the serene waters of Golfo Dulce while the early mist leisurely faded over the emerald mountains. The invigorating breakfast was then served in the dining lounge for our guests who prepared for a very adventurous journey full of exciting choices. As announced by the Expedition Leader, our guests were soon ready for wonderful expeditions by Zodiac or kayak, as well as the traditional bird walk along the public road that circles Rincón Bay. Everyone had the opportunity to try different activities either from the ship or once in land. Our guests really enjoyed the vibrant experiences offered by this little piece of paradise in Central America called Golfo Dulce or “sweet waters gulf”! We must say that our guests were extremely pleased to learn that all of our outings finally ended up at a local cantina. At this point they had the occasion to refresh themselves with the unmistakable taste of a local beer or simply enjoy some cold fruit juice under the shade of a mango tree.

Very soon the cantina became the center of a particular crowd that filled the air with laughing and endless stories. Everyone partook on this unique event that also attracted a bunch of native Costa Ricans interested in finding out the reason for the party! Our guests talked about all the natural wonders observed along the river, the mangroves or the communal road that connects this remote area with the rest of the world. As the time passed, our naturalists invited all guests to decide how they wanted to return to the ship. It was funny to see everybody trying to determine the best possible way to cover all the alternatives available such as kayaking and Zodiac riding, walking and kayaking or any other conceivable combination. After all of our guests came back on board, many of them decided to take the invitation for a soothing dip in the fresh waters of Golfo Dulce. The always expected PA announcement was certainly welcomed by our hungry guests. A very appetizing lunch was then served, followed by a very well earned mid-afternoon siesta. On board the Sea Voyager, we were very pleased to hear a very enlightening presentation on the geological origin of Central America.

During the rest of the afternoon, all of us had the chance to visit one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in this part of the world. Besides the incredible collection of both local and exotic plants, our time here was quickly rewarded by the flight of the chestnut-mandibled toucan right over our heads. It actually looked like these amazingly colorful birds were trying to call our attention while they initiated a sort of ritual song amidst the tangled rain forest vegetation. All too soon, it was time to come back on board our vessel. The last sunrays accompanied the Sea Voyager towards its new appointment in Panamanian waters, while a cheerful group of expeditionary guests said good-bye to an absolutely unforgettable day in the southern most corner of Costa Rica!