Panama Canal Gay Group Cruise

15 nights from Ft.Lauderdale, Florida to San Diego, California

November 04 – 19, 2014
Celebrity's Infinity

Join Pied Piper Travel gay cruise as we celebrate our Twenty-fourth Season of organizing gay groups to the most interesting and exotic destinations on the world's most luxurious cruise ships! We'll sail from the exciting, gay-friendly port of Fort Lauderdale one-way to San Diego! During our voyage we'll visit these exotic ports: Cartagena, Puntarenas, Puerto Quetzal, and Cabo San Lucas! The highlight of our cruise will be a transit of the Panama Canal! All this is yours while you are pampered with gracious service, gourmet dining, and numerous venues for entertainment on one of Celebrity Cruises' luxury cruise ships, recently renovated Infinity!

The Panama Canal is one of the world's most amazing engineering marvels. Its presence has had a huge impact on the natural world, and serves as a vast wildlife sanctuary whose many inhabitants pay no mind to the ships that quietly pass through. Life flourishes along the canal, allowing the jungle to make inroads all the way down to the shoreline. Enjoy the many unique and exotic ports of call in the Caribbean and Mexican Riviera and be pampered with incredible service, gourmet dining, and world-class entertainment on the impressive luxury ship, Celebrity Infinity!

Celebrity's Infinity

Celebrity Infinity is the proud owner of some of the most satisfying experiences on the seas – however you enjoy passing your time. You can stay connected at our Celebrity iLounge®, packed with Apple® products and staffed with technology experts to help you learn valuable new skills. The Canyon Ranch SpaClub® is the place to visit for a range of fabulous treatments, from meditative relaxation to serene sensory options. Lie back and let the troubles of everyday life melt away in one of the largest and most luxurious spas afloat. When the time for entertainment comes, head to Martini Bar & Crush to see our talented bar staff put on a fantastic show over a bar made of ice – then taste a cool classic or contemporary Martini. For breathtaking views, pay a visit to our Constellation Lounge for a night of dancing under glowing disco lights while the sea shimmers outside.

Celebrity Infinity offers an array of exciting dining options. For a dining experience like no other, head to Qsine® for truly contemporary cuisine. Here, you can order your meal on an iPad® and watch as an intriguingly unique meal – comprised of classic and familiar flavours – is served. AquaClass® guests will also get access to the select Blu restaurant, where delicious cuisine awaits in an exclusive environment. Best of all, every dish on the menu has been designed to fit in with your healthy lifestyle, so it is a treat you can give yourself without feeling guilty. Sandwiches, salads, crepes, desserts and more are on the menu in the casual and lively surroundings of Bistro on Five. Meanwhile, our SS United States Restaurant uses an elegant menu alongside genuine fittings from the grand vessel herself to offer one of the most memorable Celebrity Infinity dining experiences.

Staterooms on board Celebrity Infinity are stylishly fitted with forward-thinking design in every aspect. The experience is indulgent from the moment you step on board – and there are accommodation options to suit the tastes of every guest. A stateroom is more than just a room. It is a place where guests can lie back, relax and take in the unmistakable luxury of a Celebrity Cruises holiday. Most of our staterooms include a private balcony for a personal open space, while others offer a superb sea view. Select an Inside Stateroom for a cosy stay, or a luxurious Penthouse Suite for incredible views and European-style butler service. All staterooms include en-suite facilities and luxurious bed linen.

Sail aboard a man-made wonder as you sail through one

Stand face-to-face with the grandeur of the Panama Canal aboard Celebrity Cruises. The only cruise that gives you a full vacation while crossing the Continental Divide.

When your Celebrity ship enters the canal, it will rise 85 feet in one of the legendary Gatun Locks. As you cross the Continental Divide - a journey that took mariners of long ago many years to complete - a new world of wonder and amazement awaits you on the other side. Join us for what will undoubtedly be an enlightening and rewarding journey.

Travel through the locks of historic Panama Canal, on a journey between the Atlantic and the Pacific. Venture through the virgin rain forests and bird sanctuaries of Puerto Limon. Then bask on the Mexican and Costa Rican beaches with a margarita.

Multiple ports will give your vacation a variety. Quaint villages one day. Mayan ruins the next. Peppered with relaxing beach trips and adventurous excursions both sailing above the trees and diving deep beneath the seas.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Gay friendly Fort Lauderdale has been called the "Venice of America" due to a comprehensive canal network where you'll find gondolas docked on the Himmarshee Canal off Las Olas Boulevard. Enjoy extensive strolling, shopping, and dining opportunities, as well as the best of sand and sun. Once the epicenter of Spring Break, today Fort Lauderdale is a year-round destination where culture and cuisine are in ample supply. Beautiful beaches, sunshine, coastline, nightclubs and superb restaurants await you in this Gold Coast enclave. More restaurants and shopping on Las Olas Boulevard or Himmarshee in downtown Ft. Lauderdale are a must.

Fort Lauderdale has a well deserved image as one of America's premier playgrounds. Over 10 million visitors a year prove it. The main attraction of Fort Lauderdale is water, lots of water. In Fort Lauderdale, in one way or another it's all about the water. The blue Atlantic, the Intracoastal Waterway and the New River combine with so many miles of man-made canals even Venice Italy calls itself the Ft. Lauderdale of Europe.

With so much navigable water throughout the city, Ft. Lauderdale has grown into America's yachting capital. A massive boating and marine support industry provides tens of thousands jobs and port and marina facilities to countless boats big and small. The city's nautical highlight takes place at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The world's largest; the show annually draws many thousands from around the globe.

Today, on the banks of the New River between the everglades and the Atlantic, the city which began as an insignificant outpost has grown into one of the most beautiful and dynamic communities in the nation.

Cartagena, Colombia

The old city of Cartagena projects the feel of a picture-perfect, Spanish colonial village, with cathedrals like Iglesia de Santo Domingo that dominate the skyline. Las Bovedas, the old military dungeons, have been converted to shops, and the string of fortresses provide the perfect vantage points from which to enjoy the harbor.

Cartagena de Indias was named after the famous port on the southeast coast of Spain. Cartagena de Indias grew wealthy and famous as the main Latin America departure point from which countless galleons sailed forth on their return voyage to Spain loaded with the plundered silver, gold and jewels of the "New World". Today the "Old City" is one of the most beautiful and best preserved examples of colonial architecture in the Americas.

Cartagena is a city of rich cultural heritage that is a combination of Spanish, Indigenous, African and Caribbean influences. The city has a population over 1-million. The social and economic divisions run deep, are clearly demarcated and have changed little over the centuries.

After hundreds of years of post-colonial decline Cartagena has once again immerged as an important gateway into Colombia and a bustling Caribbean hub. Though Cartagena faces the same challenges as any other large metropolitan area, over the past two decades the city has enjoyed a rejuvenated tourist industry. Local government and business leaders continue to work hard to make sure that the image and reality of their city is not confused with the narco-terrorist image that has unfortunately plagued much of Andean Colombia. Their efforts have been justly rewarded by the many visitors that come to Cartagena from around the world.

Colon, Panama

As the world's second largest duty-free port, Colon offers abundant shopping. It also represents the gateway to numerous sites of ecological interest, including Chagres National Park, a 3,000,000-acre rainforest preserve, and the Gamboa Rainforest Preserve, which lies within Soberania National Park

Panama is an amazing country of comparisons and contrasts. Over the centuries great ships and massive treasure fleets of the Spanish Crown sailed these waters and sheltered in the harbors, bays and rivers. Today the country continues to serve great fleets and mighty ships. It is an indispensible gateway for the wealth of nations as international trade and commerce cross through the heart of Panama and pass from one side of the world to the other.

This is a country where not so long ago disease struck down countless thousands. Yet it was here dedicated doctors discovered cures and preventions which have now saved millions around the world.

This is a nation wisely seeking to protect its mountains and rivers, lakes and forests, the natural treasures … for future generations. Yet, vastly more valuable than any university library, the elders of Panama's indigenous tribes hold a barely tapped encyclopedic knowledge of the plants and animals in the nation's rainforest. The scientific implications are wondrously infinite.

This is a country whose life blood is actually water. This is a modern country, in a modern age with all the hustle and bustle which comes with the time. Yet this is a country where the primordial rainforest holds the key and points the way towards the future. A wonderful people, an amazing country of comparisons and contrasts … this is the República de Panama.

Panama Canal (Cruising)

"The land of the divided, the world united." It's hard to imagine a more fitting motto for what in no uncertain terms irrevocably changed the Western Hemisphere forever. For fifty miles the canal transects the exotic emerald jungles of Panama and gives one an appreciation of what a Herculean task it was to build this waterway before the advent of computers and giant earth movers.

The canal is a marvel of engineering, but the area is also a sanctuary for sloths, eagles, ocelots and toucans, thanks to a lush rainforest environment and tropical temperatures.

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Located along the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, Puntarenas is a great place to see native wildlife such as the scarlet macaw and the capuchin monkey. This region's volcanic terrain and rainforest environment continue to attract travelers from around the world.

Puntarenas is the largest city on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. It has a population of 357,500 and is located at the end of a long, thin peninsula that juts out into the Gulf of Nicoya. The name Puntarenas, which it shares with the country's largest province, translates into English as "Sandy Point".

Previously Puntarenas was one of Costa Rica's major ports. Today much of the cargo shipping to and from the Pacific coast is handled a few miles south in the town of Caldera. Puntarenas now welcomes cruise ships to its waters. A large fishing fleet also makes its home in Puntarenas. This is great for visitors because it assures them that the sea food in local cafés and restaurants is fresh from the sea.

Costa Rica is a wonderful country and the people are proud of the fact that theirs is one of the most environmentally minded nations on earth. They have proved this by setting aside, protecting and preserving 25% of its landmass and natural resources. It is understandable then that tourism (including eco-tourism) now generates more revenue than the combination of the country's two largest export crops, its famous bananas and internationally popular coffee.

Costa Rica means "Rich Coast"… and it is true. But the wealth of the country is not to be found in its cloud capped mountain rainforests, or along its white sand beaches, or growing on its lush plantations. You will find the real treasure of Costa Rica in the genuine sincerity, warmth and welcome of her people.

Puerto Quetzal, Guatamala

Guatemala's largest Pacific Ocean port, Puerto Quetzal offers a wealth of activities. Discover Lake Atitlan, the deepest lake in Central America, which is surrounded by three volcanoes. The area is rich in Mayan history, as well as a fertile ground for coffee growing.

This port is your gateway to fascination - and you might just be surprised by what you'll uncover. Discover the sweet history of local sugar production. Exotic Mayan culture. Explosive volcanic history. Even your favorite coffee blends from your fave corner Seattle-based coffee chain have their roots here. See it. Taste it. Savor the richness of the wonders of Guatemala.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

A traditional Mexican village inhabited by genuinely warm people, Puerto Vallarta features beautiful beaches, boutique shopping and some of the most picturesque and challenging golf courses in the Western Hemisphere.

Once a sleepy fishing village, Puerto Vallarta became quite the popular tourist destination after the famous Hollywood movie The Night of the Iguana was filmed here in 1964. With its pristine white sandy beaches, beautiful architecture and lush tropical climate, it's hard to believe this city, still so rich in culture and tradition, was ever kept a secret. Nestled on the 28 mile curve of Banderas Bay in the state of Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta has held steadfastly onto its character with cobblestone streets lined with red tile roofs and rows of balconies. The city has been influenced by pre-Columbian mystical traditions, Spanish mores, Roman Catholicism and contemporary cultures from around the world. Throughout the year Puerto Vallarta is host to colorful celebrations, processions and parades. This beachfront destination with a population of just 350,000 is home to the traditional Mexican music of Mariachi and is often named the best beach in Latin America by travel magazine readers.

The largest of Mexico's natural bays, Puerto Vallarta serves as the winter home to humpback whales that join dolphins, giant mantas, sea turtles, and over 100 species of birds that live here year round. Agriculture, tobacco, cattle ranching, tequila production and tourism are the main financial resources supporting the economy. Puerto Vallarta is in the Central Time Zone (the same as Texas) and lies on the same latitude as Hawaii, thus sharing the same tropical weather patterns.

Dense jungle vegetation filled with colorful bursts of exotic tropical plants, rocky rivers that tumble into the open sea, beautiful white sandy beaches, arid flatlands decorated with cactuses, and steep mountain sides dotted with villas are only a portion of the beauty to be taken in here. There are many historic buildings and sites, sprawling resorts and planned communities, ultra-modern marinas, world-class theatres, more than 250 restaurants, art galleries, and small pueblos spilling over with colorful bougainvillea…here life is lived at a snail's pace. All of this is divided into just eight different neighborhoods from north to south, each adding to the charm, diversity and uniqueness of Puerto Vallarta.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

This southernmost enclave on the tip of the Baja Peninsula features unearthly rock formations, cantinas owned by rock stars and hundreds of ways to enjoy yourself on, in, under and close to the water. Cabo is also blessed with a coastline that's ideal for kayak exploration, snorkeling, whale-watching or perhaps a romantic rendezvous.

Located at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is a Mexican oasis known for the contrast between its deserts and beaches. It is also well known for its deep sea fishing. Along with the neighboring town of San José del Cabo, these towns are referred to as "Los Cabos" or "the capes." Cabo is the second largest city in the Baja Peninsula and attracts the most tourists in the area.

First inhabited by Cochimi Indians and later by Spanish explorers searching for pearls and silver, the Cabo area became a favorite haunt for pirates waiting to attack the Spanish ships that sailed back and forth from Mexico to the Philippines filled with silver and silk. Today the pirates may be gone, but there are still many treasures to be found in Cabo San Lucas.

John Steinbeck recorded his 1940 memories of Cabo and the Sea of Cortez in his 1951 book Log from the Sea of Cortez, which helped propel the city to international fame as a fisherman's paradises. Hollywood stars like Bing Crosby and John Wayne often visited "Marlin Alley" to fish and relax. Sport fishing remains one of the biggest attractions in the Los Cabos area, highlighted by the annual World Billfish Series and the Bisbee Black & Blue Jackpot Marlin Tournament.

Since the 1980s, heavy investment in tourism and real estate has transformed the city into a chic resort town as famous for its beaches as for the high profile clientele. A dry, tropical climate makes golf, water sports, and deep-sea fishing among the most popular activities in Cabo San Lucas. The Los Cabos area is home to six championship golf courses, as well as annual biking competitions.

While water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, scuba diving, and windsurfing attract many people to Cabo, it is also the perfect spot for observing migrating whales from November to March. Other sea visitors to Cabo include leatherback turtles, the only sea turtles without hard shells, as well as four other endangered turtle species. The wide array of native plants and exotic sea life makes eco-tourism very popular in Los Cabos.

San Diego, California

In addition to being home to a world-class zoo and aquarium, San Diego is a laid-back navy town that is the closest U.S. city to Mexico. Great Mexican/American cuisine, Spanish-inspired architecture and what some consider the best weather in North America, make San Diego a destination unto itself.

Bordered by the Anza-Borrego Desert, the Laguna Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean, San Diego is blessed with a year-round Mediterranean climate, which only adds to the attraction of its 70 miles of beaches.

San Diego is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic, vibrant and beautiful cities in the United States. Beginning in the late 1700s around the Catholic mission of San Diego de Alcala, the town and harbor grew to be a vital port on California's Pacific coast.

Though the military presence has been greatly reduced over the past few years, San Diego has a long and abiding relationship with the United States Navy and Marine Corps. The Navy, under Marine guard, first raised the American flag over San Diego on July 29, 1846. From World War II through Viet Nam, the Cold War and beyond, many San Diego families eagerly awaited their loved ones to return from the sea.

Rich with Mexican – American culture, San Diego has many wonderful museums, restaurants, parks, entertainment and shopping venues, and professional sports teams. The bay, surrounding waters and beaches combine with great weather year round to offer a wide variety of opportunities for boaters, surfers and swimmers. A city with an active, outdoor life style mixed with its own brand of "California Cool" … San Diego.