After an early breakfast, National Geographic Sea Lion took us to Casa Orquideas, a tropical botanical garden that had been cultivated by Ron and Trudy McAllister and has served as their home for the last 33 years. We were greeted by the colorful scarlet macaws as guests were transported by inflatable boats into this delightful garden of tropical plants, orchids and birds. Informative walks were offered by our naturalists and many guests chose to wander at their own pace.
After returning to the ship, Captain Dion also set up swimming from the stern to cool off. Before lunch, Isa, one of our naturalists, gave a fascinating presentation about the behaviors of the primates, with whom we share much in common.
Our afternoon destination bought us to Golfito, which was major banana growing region until 1985. Our choice of activities included exploring by inflatable boat or kayaking for those who want to stretch their muscles on the water.
To usher in the new year of 2014, we were treated to a fireworks display and a piñata for the young guests. Tomorrow we will continue onto Panama.
