Centurion Expedition Charter Series

Sample Itineraries for the Pacific Coast

San Juan Islands

An excursion in the San Juans includes, but is not limited to sailing on the yacht’s 14’ Lazer, or kayaking inside a quiet cove.  Add a whale-watching trip or stops at picturesque artist communities such as Ganges.  

 San Francisco Bay  Board Centurion in the San Francisco Bay area and visit the popular beach towns of Monterey, Carmel, Sausalito, and Pebble Beach.  Cruise up the Sacramento River and then spend a few days exploring the city of San Francisco.  Anchor in the Bay or tie-up next to the new Giants Baseball Park while you explore Ghiradelli Square and The Embarcadero.  Before you depart, let Centurion be your private escort to the famous Island of Alcatraz where you will tie up and take have a historic prison tour.  

 

 Mexican Riviera

   Visit the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa, Manzanillo, and Acapulco.  Spend your days basking in the sun or bartering with a local craftsman.  Spend your evenings at one of the many discotecas, or if you prefer, spend a relaxing evening soaking in the yacht’s hot tub or enjoy a glass of wine while reading a good book in Centurion’s private library. 

Cocos Island, Costa Rica

  Dive Cocos Island with your own private guide, swim with Hammerhead and Whale sharks, and Giant Manta Rays.  Take a breathtaking canopy tour through one of the many jungles.  Visit the world-famous market of Chichicastenango on Lake Atitlan. or repel into the Santa Ana Cave, which is 240 meters deep in Parque Nacional Barra Honda.  

 San Blas Islands, Pearlas Islands, Panama Canal

            Visit the Kuna Indians, native to the San Blas Islands.  Barter for a handcrafted mola on deck of the Centurion as they board your yacht from their Pongas, a dugout canoe made from a single tree.  Visit the matriarchal village of the Kuna for the cheapest lobster around or take a stroll through their village and view the handcrafted huts built on coconut currency.  Transit the Panama Canal from the Centurion and explore the Darien Jungle, which is so vast it has over 500 species of birds and over 600 species of trees.  Next, visit the beautiful Pearlas Islands Bird Sanctuary for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

             This is just a small sample of places we visit.  We can personalize your cruise to make it a memory of a lifetime.  For more extensive itineraries, please contact us

Sitka to Juneau

This is a sample itinerary only. The possibilities are endless and totally dependent on the adventurous minds of the guests and captain.

 Day 1. Departure is from the beautiful Sitka by the Sea, the capital of Russian America and the site of the hand over of “Seward’s Folly” to the United States. Before boarding Centurion, plan a visit to the Alaska Raptor Rehabilitation Center and commune close up with bald eagles, stroll through the haunting temperate rainforest trails of Totem Park, the site of the battle of Sitka between the Russians and the Tlinket natives. See native totem carvers, silversmiths and artists at work in the Sitka National Historic Monument. A stop at the Pioneer Bar for a taste of local color is a must.  

Upon departure Centurion will travel up the outer cost of Baranof and Chichigof Islands viewing the sea lions, sea otters and puffins of the St. Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge along the way. We will anchor in a secluded bay on the rock strewn outer cost of Chichigof Island.  

 Day 2. Today we explore scenic Ogden Passage by sea kayak and shore boat, stopping for a relaxing soak at White Sulfur Hot Springs before transiting steep sided Lisianski Strait to our evening moorage in the fishing village of Pelican. After dinner take a boat ride to “Bear Meadows” before exploring the local color of this sleepy outpost.  

 Day 3. Entering Cross Sound, we see the Brady Glacier and Cape Spencer (named by Vancouver for the family of Princess Diana Spencer and also the northern terminus of the Inside Passage). This is prime salmon and halibut country and if the tides are right we try our luck fishing “The Hump”. Today we visit Elfin Cove where we explore this boardwalk village of artists and fisherman, bartering for fresh oysters and the catch of the day. Later we explore the current filled South Inian Pass and cruise the churning waters of  “The Laundry” between the Inian Islands before finding our evening anchorage in a quiet misty cove. After dinner tonight we kayak among great rafts of sea otters making their home on this hidden secret of Southeast Alaska.

 Day 4. Key Strait is our destination and the famous Point Adolphus. We launch the shore boat and kayaks to watch up close as humpback whales feed on the plankton in the upwelling nutrient rich waters with a backdrop of the jagged peaks of the Fairweather Range. We visit Gustavus for a walk on the find sandy beaches left by the retreating glaciers following the fresh tracks of moose that abound in the area or maybe tee off for a round of golf on the Mt. Fairweather links. Salmon, halibut and Dungeness crab are abundant for the angler and an optional flightseeing trip with a local bush pilot over the spectacular Glacier Bay Park is available. Our evening anchorage is determined by the whims of the Captain and guests.  

 Day 5. Today is spent exploring the secrets of Chatham Strait. We may kayak the marble grottoes of Basket Bay, or fish the trophy steelhead streams of Sitkon Bay visiting the ruins of historic Chatham Cannery or the shore based whaling station of Killisnoo along the way. Wildlife abounds as we look for brown bears while cruising the shores of Admiralty Island, named Kootznahoo (fortress of the Bears) by the natives. A relaxing soak in the stone hot springs next to the waterfall in Daranof is in store before we seek our evening anchorage in a mist filled secret bay at the foot of a hanging glacier.  

 Day 6. Fredrick Sound. Today we cruise the sea lion rockery at the Brothers Islands to observe the behavior of these large animals as they interact in their ordered society. Humpback whales congregate in this area and we move close to watch these leviathans “bubble net” for their food or repeatedly hurl their thirty-ton bodies from the water with a resounding slap that is heard for miles. We watch for the resident pod of Orca whales to see these carnivorous sea hunters on their stealthy quest for food. Anchorage tonight is in a quiet cove where we may pan for gold in the stream where the first Alaska strike occurred that began the rush north in the late nineteenth century.

 Day 7. Today we make our way through the ice strew Tracy Arm National Wilderness Area. We weave through the icebergs looking for black bears and mountain goats to view the actively calving Sawyer Glacier at the terminus of this steep sided Fjord. This day is spend exploring the ice and waterfalls by kayak and shore boat taking care not to disturb the thousands of harbor seals lying on the ice flows in this secluded “pupping ground” safe from the Orcas of Fredrick Sound. We move this evening to our departure destination of historic Juneau, the capital of Alaska to sample the art galleries and nightlife of this exciting frontier town. An optional helicopter flight to land on the Juneau ice field is available.


Tegucigalpa, Honduras to Bahia Herradura Costa Rica

Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica Natural Wonders and Culture

Day 1 - Arrive in Tegucigalpa high in the mountains of Honduras.  Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this country as you descend the mountain region to the coastal plains where you will board the Centurion in the Gulf of Fonseca.  We weigh anchor and make our way through the jungle tributaries heading west to the Dutch colonized village of Amapala located on the island of El Tigre.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the people and enjoy the culture of El Tigre before departing for La Union, El Salvador.  Sailing north we navigate between the volcanic cinder cone islands that pepper this unique Gulf that links the countries of Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua.  We will spend the afternoon in La Union, El Salvador and its surrounding countryside before heading for isle Menugera for an evening anchorage.

Day 3 – On this day we disembark at Moneypenny anchorage off the North coast of Nicaragua.  We will tour the Nicaraguan villages rich with art and history, explore the wonders of great Lake Managua, and meet our ship in the picturesque port of San Juan Del Sur. 

Day 4 – This morning we arrive in Puerto Calebro, Costa Rica where we can shop and explore until our early afternoon departure to Bahia Ballena (Bay of Whales) where we will anchor for the night.

Day 5 – We will explore the West coast islands along the Gulf of Nicoya, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, or just relaxing.  This evening we depart for Quepos. 

Day 6 – We arrive early in Quepos, Costa Rica, where we will spend the day diving, snorkeling, or exploring the beautiful, and world-renowned Manuel Antonio National Park.  Whether enjoying the private white sand beaches, studying the rich bio diversity of squirrel monkeys, three toed sloths, butterflies, macaws, and world famous flora. This will be a day to remember.

Day 7 – The Centurion will arrive early at Tortuga Island.  With white sand washed beaches framed by emerald green water, this tranquil island is yours to enjoy.  We will explore the spectacular Curu Wildlife Refuge that offers sanctuary to over 110 species of land and sea birds ranging from Toucans to delicate Flycatchers as well as Black Iguanas and Capuchin Monkeys.

Day 8 – We arrive in beautiful Bahia Herradura.  This exquisite crescent shaped bay is our disembarkation point where we can then enjoy a leisurely trip throughout the beautiful countryside of Costa Rica, towards its historic capital of San Jose.


Panama’s Caribbean Coast to the Pacific Ocean

Panama’s San Blas Islands, Portobello and Panama Canal

Day 1- Board Centurion in Colon, Panama for departure to the San Blas Islands.

Day 2-4, we arrive early in the picturesque San Blas Islands. We will spend the next three days visiting some of the worlds most beautiful and relaxing islands and the wonderful Kuna Indians that call them home.  We will meet the elders of Porvenir, enjoy the sights of Isla Tigre Village and Iguana Resort, snorkel the reefs of Chemiche Island, and discover the breathtaking intricacies of the art, and the exotic mysteries of this unique matriarchal society.

Day 5 - After breakfast we arrive early in Portobelo, the Caribbean port discovered on Columbus’s final voyage from which the Spanish gold fleet sailed for Europe.  We will share the rich history of culture and conflict as we explore the sixteenth century battlements that protected Portobelo, the pride of Spain for many centuries.  

Day 6 - Today we enjoy an opportunity of a lifetime traveling through this world famous isthmus, by heading through the Gatun Locks then west through the “Path between the Seas”.  We will spend the next two days transiting the Panama Canal, and exploring its fragile ecosystem including the Chagres River, which was diverted to make possible this great wonder of the modern world.  We may have the unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of the rare and endangered Manatee, which inhabit this river system.

Day 7- Today we head for Mira Flores Lock where we will enter the Pacific Ocean and arrive at Panama City.  Upon entering the Pacific Ocean we will head for Isla Taboga where we will explore the effects of the colder Pacific current with its riches in marine life including an array of whales, Marlin, and Sea Turtles.  After anchoring this evening we will venture out to explore the wreck-strewn beaches and shoals of this unique tropical island.

Day 8 – After an early morning swim or beach walk we will weigh anchor and head for Bal boa, Panama where we will say our good byes and head for home with our treasure chest of memories. 


Panama’s Pacific Coast to Caribbean

Panama’s Perlas Islands, Mogu River, Choco Indians and Panama Canal

Day 1 - Board Centurion for departure to the remote Megu River, into the depths of the famous Darian jungle and marvel at the biodiversity and history of this unique area.

Day 2 - We will board the zodiacs and head up river into the remote Choco Indian area.  The day will be spent studying the fragile rain forest and ecosystem.  We will have the opportunity to visit with local elders and witness their unique relationship with this jungle environment.  This evening we depart for the Perlas Islands. 

Day 3 - 5 - We arrive early in the Perlas Islands where we will spend the next three days.  We will visit remote islands such as Mogo Mogo Island or beautiful Isla Del Rey, snorkel the hidden sea caves of Isla Sonora with its giant Manta Rays, turtles, and vast array of the world’s most beautiful tropical fish or enjoy the opportunity to explore the worlds largest Pelican breeding grounds.  Whether searching for the pearls or visiting its captivating villages and friendly natives, you will return with a lifetime of memories from the Perlas Islands.

Day 6 - Today we enter Mira Flores Lock, the first great lock of the Panama Canal. We will spend the next two days transiting the canal and exploring its interior ecosystem including the Chagres River, which was diverted to make possible the “Path Between the Seas”.  This world famous body of water is rich in sea life with manatees, turtles, fauna, and other unique animal life.  Until recently exploration within the Panama Canal was impossible.  This is an opportunity of a lifetime to marvel at the creation of man and nature within the Panama Canal system.

Day 7- Today we weigh anchor and head for Gatun Lock where we will make our decent to the Caribbean. After the final lock gates open we will set our course for Portobelo, the city of gold made famous by the Spanish treasure fleet.

Day 8 – After breakfast we will spend the morning exploring picturesque Portobelo, steeped in history and discovered by Columbus on his final voyage.  Portobelo was considered the pride of Spain for many centuries, boasting impressive sixteenth century battlements.  We then set sail for Porto Cristobal, Panama where we will bid our farewells to the trip of a lifetime. 


Costa Rica’s Rain Forest to Panama’s Jungle Rivers

Costa Rica National Parks, Panama’s Remote West Coast and the Panama Canal

Day 1 - Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica and tour Costa Rica’s west coast as you travel to beautiful Bahia Herradura where you board the Centurion.Enjoy an evening of sailing or relaxing, as we lay at anchor in this white sand, emerald green, crescent shaped bay.

Day 2 - We arrive early in Quepos, Costa Rica, where we will spend the day diving, snorkeling, or exploring the beautiful and world-renowned Manuel Antonio National Park.  Whether enjoying the private white sand beaches, exploring the jungle, or hiking through the breathtaking flora and fauna with the Squirrel Monkeys, Three Toed Sloth’s, Toucans, and butterflies, this will be a day to remember.

Day 3 - After breakfast we will arrive at Isla Del Cano where we will explore the beaches, snorkel the hidden world of the submarine caves with their giant Manta Rays, turtles, and a vast array of the world’s most beautiful tropical fish.  We will anchor in beautiful Drake Bay for a relaxing evening.

Day 4 - Corcovado National Park in Golfo Dulce awaits us for an early morning bird watching hike.  Paddle up the Agujitas River in a kayak or enjoy the Yellow Billed Toucans or Scarlet Macaws as they loudly announce their arrival.  This evening we sail to Coiba Island, Panama. 

Day 5 - Explore the reefs of Coiba Island or enjoy the great deep-sea fishing that this island community enjoys.  Abundant sea life includes different species of whales, turtles, and colorful fish.  Enjoy the rich biodiversity of the lush tropical rain forests that are home to spectacular species, including the world famous Red and Green Macaw.

Day 6 - 7 - this morning we arrive in the beautiful Perlas Islands where we can enjoy the local culture or explore spectacular islands such as Mogu Mogu, or Isla Del Rey.  Whether exploring the Isla Sonora Sea caves that house the world’s largest Pelican breeding grounds or searching for the pearls of Espiritu Sasnto, you will return with a lifetime of memories from the Perlas Islands.

Day 8– Today we enjoy an opportunity of a lifetime traveling through this world famous isthmus, by heading for the Mira Flores Lock, the first of the “Passage Between the Seas” that makes up the Panama Canal.  Upon transiting Gatun Lock, we will find ourselves in Porto Cristobol, Panama, where we will bid farewell to our friends and crew of the Centurion.