Few regions on Earth rival the ecological diversity found between Panama and Costa Rica.
On one side, ancient rainforests teem with toucans and monkeys; on the other, the Pacific Ocean shelters vibrant coral reefs and marine sanctuaries.
Kontiki Expeditions’ M/Y Wayra is the rare luxury vessel that lets travelers experience both ecosystems in a single seamless journey.

For the travel trade, these dual-environment itineraries represent a high-value, differentiating product in the boutique cruising segment.

An Itinerary Designed for Immersion

Each Kontiki voyage along the Panama & Costa Rica corridor is crafted to combine oceanic adventure with cultural authenticity.
Guests wake to the sound of waves brushing volcanic shores, enjoy Zodiac landings on hidden beaches, and return each evening to the comfort of a designer yacht suite.

Typical highlights include:

Coiba National Park (Panama): UNESCO-listed marine reserve ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge: Home to nesting frigatebirds and pristine reefs.

Golfo Dulce (Costa Rica): A tropical fjord where humpback whales breed seasonally.

Isla Tortuga: White-sand serenity for swimming and paddleboarding.

Local Villages and Artisan Markets: Encounters revealing the human side of coastal life.

These sites are inaccessible to large ships, positioning Kontiki’s voyages as truly exclusive explorations.

Luxury Meets Local Authenticity

Unlike traditional cruises, M/Y Wayra carries just 18 guests, ensuring privacy and personalization.
Service is meticulous yet unpretentious—delivered by a local crew trained in both hospitality and natural interpretation.
Meals celebrate regional flavors: fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and organic produce sourced from coastal farms.

The onboard atmosphere encourages connection: guests dine family-style under the stars, share stories after excursions, and form bonds that often extend beyond the voyage.

For travel advisors, this mix of comfort and authenticity appeals to discerning clients seeking experiences money alone cannot buy.

A Sustainable Approach to Exploration

Kontiki Expeditions operates under the philosophy of “conscious luxury.”
Every detail of its operations, from navigation routes to waste management, is designed to minimize impact and maximize benefit for local ecosystems and communities.

Sustainability measures include:

Energy-efficient propulsion and reduced fuel consumption.

Elimination of single-use plastics.

Partnerships with marine research foundations.

Community collaborations providing fair employment and sourcing.

This responsible framework gives travel professionals the confidence to market Wayra as a sustainable luxury product, fully aligned with modern traveler values.

Why the Panama–Costa Rica Corridor Works for the Trade

This region checks all the boxes for agencies focusing on exclusive, nature-driven itineraries:

Ease of Access: Both countries have strong flight connections and tourism infrastructure.

Safety and Stability: Ideal for U.S., Canadian, and European travelers seeking reliable destinations.

Year-Round Appeal: Warm weather and abundant biodiversity ensure constant demand.

Variety in a Compact Area: Rainforest hikes one day, snorkeling reefs the next.

Cross-Border Itineraries: Add perceived value without complex logistics.

For DMCs and wholesalers, combining both destinations within a small-ship program increases booking potential and cross-selling opportunities.

Market Positioning for Travel Professionals

In the global luxury segment, differentiation is key.
Large-ship cruises are losing ground to niche expedition experiences that deliver intimacy, flexibility, and a strong narrative.
Kontiki’s Panama–Costa Rica voyages provide exactly that.

Marketing tips for agencies:

Emphasize the duality of land and sea—rainforest mornings, ocean sunsets.

Highlight limited capacity as an exclusivity driver.

Use sustainability credentials as trust-building content.

Promote the cruise as an “expedition” rather than a “vacation.”

This storytelling approach resonates with clients seeking authenticity and environmental responsibility.

The Role of Aura Selections

As the international representative for Kontiki Expeditions, Aura Selections connects travel professionals with:

Updated itineraries and rates.

High-resolution images and marketing copy.

Trade training sessions and webinars.

Personalized B2B support for group or charter inquiries.

By working through Aura Selections, agencies gain access to reliable product knowledge, smooth communication with the operator, and the assurance of working with a vetted, reputable brand.

The Traveler Profile

Kontiki’s target guests are typically:

Aged 35–65, educated, and environmentally aware.

Experienced travelers who prefer small-group experiences over mass tourism.

Interested in photography, wildlife, and culture as part of a balanced itinerary.

The Future of Coastal Exploration

As overtourism continues to challenge traditional destinations, the small-ship expedition model stands out as a sustainable alternative.
Kontiki’s Panama–Costa Rica program demonstrates how luxury can coexist with environmental stewardship.

For travel professionals, promoting such products positions your agency at the forefront of the eco-luxury movement—a segment that’s growing faster than any other in the post-pandemic travel market.

✉️ For partnerships, product information, or trade inquiries, contact us at info@auraselections.com

From Rainforests to Reefs: The Dual Appeal of Kontiki’s Panama–Costa Rica Voyages

Where Two Worlds of Nature Converge