Costa Rica makes it debut on Star Clippers’ roster beginning November 2010 when Star Flyer begins sailing two seven-day, round-trip itineraries from Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica. So, we thought we’d kick off our “Port of the Week” feature with a port from one of the two itineraries: San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. This call has a late departure so guests can really explore.

Set against the prehistoric volcanic hills to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, San Juan del Sur is one of Nicaragua’s most beautiful areas. The inhabitants make their living fishing, diving, and catering to the visitors drawn to the bay’s stunning white-sand beaches, smooth waters and ecological richness. From here, guests can journey to Granada, the country’s main tourist destination. Granada possesses active volcanoes and unique cloud forest ecosystems, and for centuries it has been called “The Great Sultan” in recognition of its impressive colonial architecture.