PACIFIC  PANAMA | CARIBBEAN PANAMA

Gulf of Chiriquí

The Gulf of Chiriquí is a stunning starting point for your cruising adventure. This area is known for its calm waters, making it a perfect spot for boating and yachting. The Gulf encompasses a vast marine park, home to a variety of wildlife, including humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.

Isla Coiba

One of the main attractions in the Gulf of Chiriquí is Isla Coiba, part of the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island was once a penal colony, which has helped preserve its natural state. Today, it is a haven for divers and snorkelers. The waters around Isla Coiba are teeming with marine life, including large schools of fish, sharks, rays, and vibrant coral reefs. The island itself offers lush tropical forests and a variety of wildlife, making it a must-visit destination.

Isla Parida and Isla Secas

Further into the Gulf, you’ll find Isla Parida and Isla Secas, two other beautiful island groups. Isla Parida offers secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for anchoring and enjoying a quiet day of swimming and sunbathing. Isla Secas, on the other hand, is a privately-owned archipelago that offers luxury eco-friendly accommodations and is renowned for its excellent diving and fishing spots.

Cruising Eastward: Highlights and Anchorages

As you leave the Gulf of Chiriquí and head eastward, the coastline offers numerous picturesque anchorages and points of interest.

Bahia Honda

Bahia Honda, located just east of the Gulf of Chiriquí, is a secluded bay offering a serene anchorage. Surrounded by dense rainforest, this bay provides an opportunity to experience Panama’s untouched natural beauty. The calm waters are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, and the surrounding jungle is rich with wildlife, including howler monkeys and exotic birds.

Isla Cebaco

Further along the coast is Isla Cebaco, a large island known for its excellent fishing and diving spots. The island’s coastline features beautiful beaches and clear waters, making it an ideal location for snorkeling and beachcombing. Isla Cebaco also offers several sheltered anchorages, providing safe havens for yachts and boats.

Punta Mala

Navigating around Punta Mala can be challenging due to its strong currents and rocky coastline, but it is a rewarding experience for seasoned sailors. This point marks a significant turn in the journey, where the coast begins to curve northward toward the Azuero Peninsula.

Azuero Peninsula

The Azuero Peninsula is the cultural heartland of Panama, known for its traditional festivals, vibrant folklore, and artisanal crafts. Cruising along this peninsula offers a blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty.

Pedasí and Isla Iguana

Pedasí, a charming town on the eastern tip of the Azuero Peninsula, is a great stopover. The nearby Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge is a small island with stunning white-sand beaches and clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving. The island is also a nesting site for frigatebirds, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.

Playa Venao

Further along the coast, you’ll find Playa Venao, a renowned surfing destination with a relaxed, bohemian vibe. The bay here offers good anchorage, and the beach town has a variety of restaurants, bars, and surf shops. It’s an excellent place to restock supplies and enjoy the local nightlife.

Golfo de Montijo and Isla Cañas

As you continue northward, the Golfo de Montijo offers an expansive area of mangroves and estuaries, rich with biodiversity. The gulf is an important fishing area and provides an opportunity to experience Panama’s rural coastal life.

Isla Cañas

Isla Cañas, located within the Golfo de Montijo, is famous for its turtle nesting sites. During the nesting season, thousands of sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, providing a spectacular natural event. The island also offers beautiful beaches and excellent opportunities for kayaking through the mangroves.

Península de Las Perlas

The Península de Las Perlas, or Pearl Islands, is a must-visit destination when cruising toward the Panama Canal. This archipelago consists of over 200 islands and islets, each offering unique experiences.

Isla Contadora

Isla Contadora is one of the most developed islands in the archipelago, offering luxurious accommodations, restaurants, and pristine beaches. The island’s clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, with abundant marine life and vibrant coral reefs.

Isla San José and Isla del Rey

Isla San José and Isla del Rey are the largest islands in the Pearl Islands group. Isla San José is privately owned and offers exclusive resorts and untouched natural beauty. Isla del Rey, the largest island, has a more rugged and undeveloped charm, with numerous secluded bays and beaches perfect for exploring.

Approaching the Panama Canal

As you approach the Panama Canal, the coastal landscape becomes more industrial and bustling with maritime activity. The entrance to the Panama Canal is a fascinating area, steeped in history and engineering marvels.

Amador Causeway

The Amador Causeway is a scenic stretch connecting four small islands near the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. It offers stunning views of the canal and Panama City’s skyline. The causeway has several marinas where you can dock your boat, making it a convenient spot to prepare for transiting the canal.

Balboa Yacht Club

Located near the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, the Balboa Yacht Club is a historic marina offering all the amenities needed for cruising sailors. It’s an excellent place to rest, refuel, and prepare for the canal transit. The yacht club also provides a vantage point to watch ships entering and leaving the canal.

Transiting the Panama Canal

Transiting the Panama Canal is the highlight of any cruising journey through Panama. This engineering marvel, completed in 1914, connects the Pacific Ocean with the Atlantic Ocean, significantly reducing the maritime distance between the two oceans.

Miraflores Locks

The Miraflores Locks are the first set of locks you’ll encounter when transiting the canal from the Pacific side. The locks raise ships from sea level to the level of Gatun Lake, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world. The Miraflores Visitor Center offers an excellent opportunity to learn about the canal’s history and watch the lock operations up close.

Pedro Miguel Locks

After passing through the Miraflores Locks, you’ll navigate through the Pedro Miguel Locks, which further raise your vessel to the level of Gatun Lake. The locks are surrounded by lush tropical forests, providing a scenic backdrop to this engineering feat.

Gatun Lake

Gatun Lake is an expansive artificial lake that forms a major part of the Panama Canal. It was created by damming the Chagres River and serves as a waterway for ships transiting the canal. The lake is surrounded by dense rainforest, offering stunning natural scenery and abundant wildlife. Cruising through Gatun Lake is a serene experience, with opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and exploring the surrounding islands.

Gatun Locks

The final set of locks on the Atlantic side of the canal is the Gatun Locks. These locks lower ships from the level of Gatun Lake back to sea level, allowing them to continue their journey into the Caribbean Sea. The Gatun Locks are an impressive sight, with massive gates and chambers that manage the transit of enormous vessels

PACIFIC PANAMA  | CARIBBEAN PANAMA  

Bocas del Toro and San Blas

Introduction

Sailing the Caribbean side of Panama is an adventure that promises breathtaking beauty, diverse cultures, and unforgettable experiences. From the lush, tropical archipelago of Bocas del Toro to the pristine, turquoise waters of the San Blas Islands, this region offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural richness. Each destination has its own charm and appeal, making it a paradise for sailors and explorers.

Bocas del Toro

The Bocas del Toro Archipelago, located in the northwest of Panama, is a popular destination for sailors and travelers seeking a blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich biodiversity. This archipelago consists of several islands, each offering unique attractions and experiences.

Isla Colón

Isla Colón is the main island of the Bocas del Toro Archipelago and serves as the gateway to the region. The island’s principal town, Bocas Town, is a lively hub with a mix of Caribbean and Latin influences. It offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and nightlife options.

Bocas Town

Bocas Town is the heart of Isla Colón, bustling with activity and vibrant energy. The town’s colorful buildings, influenced by Caribbean architecture, create a picturesque setting. Sailors can dock at one of the local marinas and explore the town’s numerous bars, restaurants, and shops. Popular spots include the Buena Vista Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and stunning ocean views, and the Bookstore Bar, a great place to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a drink.

Bluff Beach

Just a short sail from Bocas Town is Bluff Beach, a long stretch of golden sand and powerful waves. It’s a favorite spot for surfers, but swimmers should be cautious due to the strong currents. The beach is surrounded by lush jungle, and visitors can explore the nearby trails to see wildlife such as monkeys and sloths.

Isla Bastimentos

Isla Bastimentos is a large island known for its natural beauty and vibrant local culture. The island offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Isla Colón, making it a perfect destination for those looking to relax and unwind.

Red Frog Beach

Red Frog Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Bocas del Toro. It gets its name from the tiny red frogs that inhabit the area. The beach is known for its stunning white sand, crystal-clear waters, and surrounding jungle. There are several eco-resorts and lodges near the beach, offering accommodations that blend seamlessly with the natural environment.

Bastimentos National Marine Park

Bastimentos National Marine Park is a protected area that includes portions of Isla Bastimentos and several smaller islands. The park is home to diverse marine life, including coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving, with opportunities to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.

Old Bank

Old Bank is a small village on Isla Bastimentos known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant atmosphere. The village is a great place to experience local music, dance, and cuisine. Visitors can explore the colorful streets, visit local shops, and enjoy traditional dishes like coconut rice and fried plantains.

Isla Carenero

Isla Carenero is a small island located just a short boat ride from Isla Colón. The island offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful beaches and excellent surfing spots.

Carenero Beach

Carenero Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand with calm waters, making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands.

Surfing and Water Sports

Isla Carenero is known for its excellent surfing conditions, with several breaks suitable for different skill levels. The island also offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, making it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts.

San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands, also known as Guna Yala, are an archipelago of over 360 islands and cays located along Panama’s Caribbean coast. The islands are home to the Guna people, an indigenous group with a rich cultural heritage. The San Blas Islands are renowned for their pristine beauty, with turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.

Cultural Immersion

One of the highlights of sailing through the San Blas Islands is the opportunity to experience Guna culture. The Guna people have maintained their traditional way of life, and visitors can learn about their customs, crafts, and daily routines.

Traditional Villages

Several islands in the San Blas archipelago are home to traditional Guna villages. These villages consist of bamboo and thatched-roof huts, and visitors are often welcomed to explore and learn about Guna life. The villagers are known for their hospitality and are happy to share their traditions and stories with visitors.

Mola Art

The Guna people are famous for their intricate mola art, a form of textile art made using layers of fabric. Molas are used to decorate clothing and are often sold as souvenirs. Each mola tells a story and reflects the creativity and skill of the artist. Visitors can purchase these unique pieces directly from the artisans, supporting the local economy.

Natural Beauty

The San Blas Islands are renowned for their natural beauty, with stunning landscapes both above and below the water. The archipelago offers endless opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the pristine environment.

Coral Reefs and Marine Life

The waters surrounding the San Blas Islands are teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. The coral reefs are home to a variety of fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and barracudas. Sea turtles, rays, and even dolphins are commonly spotted in the area. The clear, warm waters provide excellent visibility, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the underwater world.

Remote Beaches

Many of the islands in the San Blas archipelago are uninhabited and offer secluded beaches with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. These remote beaches provide the perfect setting for a peaceful day of swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Anchoring near one of these islands allows for a private and tranquil experience, away from the crowds.

Navigating Between Bocas del Toro and San Blas

Sailing between Bocas del Toro and the San Blas Islands offers a diverse range of experiences and requires careful navigation and planning.

Weather and Conditions

The Caribbean coast of Panama experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the rainy season (May to November). The dry season is generally considered the best time for sailing, with calmer seas and more predictable weather. However, the region can still experience sudden squalls and strong winds, so it’s important to stay informed about weather conditions and plan accordingly.

Navigational Challenges

Navigating the waters between Bocas del Toro and the San Blas Islands can present some challenges, including coral reefs, shallow areas, and strong currents. It’s essential to have accurate charts and a reliable GPS system. Local knowledge is invaluable, and seeking advice from experienced sailors or local guides can help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Points of Interest Along the Way

There are several points of interest and potential stopovers when sailing between Bocas del Toro and the San Blas Islands.

Portobelo

Portobelo is a historic town located on the Caribbean coast, east of Bocas del Toro. The town was an important port during the Spanish colonial era and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortifications, such as Fort San Lorenzo and Fort San Jerónimo, and learn about the town’s rich history at the Portobelo Museum. The town also offers good anchorages and basic amenities for sailors.

Isla Grande

Isla Grande is a small island located near Portobelo, known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The island is a popular weekend destination for locals and offers several beachfront restaurants and bars. Isla Grande is a great place to anchor and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the island’s scenic trails.

Practical Considerations

Sailing in the Caribbean waters of Panama requires careful planning and consideration of various practical aspects.

Immigration and Customs

When arriving in Panama by boat, it’s important to complete the necessary immigration and customs procedures. The main ports of entry for yachts and sailboats are in Bocas del Toro, Colón, and the San Blas Islands. Ensure that all crew members have valid passports and that the vessel’s documentation is in order. It’s also advisable to check the latest regulations and requirements before arrival.

Provisions and Supplies

While Bocas del Toro and some of the larger islands in the San Blas archipelago have basic provisions and supplies, it’s important to stock up on essential items before setting off. Fresh produce, drinking water, and fuel can be limited on some of the more remote islands. Bocas Town on Isla Colón has several grocery stores and markets where you can purchase supplies. In the San Blas Islands, it’s a good idea to support local vendors by purchasing fresh fish, fruits, and other goods from the Guna people.

Respect for Local Culture

When visiting the San Blas Islands, it’s important to respect the Guna culture and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their homes, and be mindful of local customs and etiquette. The Guna people have their own laws and regulations, so it’s essential to adhere to any guidelines provided by local authorities or village leaders.