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Holiday Yacht Types in Panama
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Divided by the famous canal linking Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Panama is a Central American country robust with tropical beauty, cultural sophistication and sailing rich appeal. Sailing holiday in Panama exposes you to its magnificent archipelagos, wildlife-infested coastlines and soothing turquoise waters. The beauty of Panama rests in its coastal diversity and sailing conditions that range from tranquil to exhilarating. Marinas, such as Flamenco Marina and Shelter Bay Marina, are equipped with ample facilities, providing a secure base for adventurers before they delve into Panama's marine wonders. Plunge into the depths of local customs, utilize GPS and sea charts for navigating the diverse water landscapes and adhere to safety measures to create enchanting memories.
What distinguishes Panama's sailing experience is the medley of its historical essence, natural allure and active sailing culture. Through this article, we aim to reveal the charm Panama holds for yacht vacation lovers and make your course smooth sailing.
Embracing both Caribbean chill and Pacific surf, Panama's unparalleled geographical diversity nurtures a sailing ambiance like no other. The exceptional blend of virgin islands, thriving marine life, and historic traces of piracy era all make a yacht vacation in Panama an adventure to remember.
The most convenient means to reach Panama is by air, with the Tocumen International Airport servicing flights from worldwide destinations. For more adventurous souls, the thrill of a yacht voyage through the San Blas archipelago awaits.
Panama offers a plethora of sailing highlights including the Bocas Del Toro, an archipelago boasting breathtaking coral reefs and biodiverse marine life. The Pearl Islands, notorious among daily and weekly yacht renters, provides divine secluded beaches and luxurious resorts. Safe anchorages are found around Contadora, while famous snorkeling spots thrive around Espiritu Santo. The San Blas Islands invite sailors to culture-rich Kuna Yala, providing intimate interaction with native Panamanian life. A daring sail through the Panama Canal to the Pacific side opens a different set of adventures, proving Panama as an ideal location for long-term sail vacations.
The best period for a sailing holiday in Panama falls between December and April, allowing you to dodge the dicier weather that the rain season brings. The early months of the year are perfect for travelers keen on experiencing Panama's vivid cultural festivals like the colorful Carnival and soulful Jazz Festival.
Sailing in Panama offers variations to suit every sailing enthusiast. The Caribbean side, boasting stable winds and clamoring reefs, proves great for enthusiastic sailors. The Pacific side, with its strong winds and currents, provide a challenge even for seasoned sailors. Panama flaunts a tropical climate layered with high humidity and temperature hovering around 80°F, providing a true taste of tropical sailing.
Apart from its sailing appeal, Panama holds deeply entrenched cultural roots and historical relics. Wander in the old town of Casco Viejo, explore the ruins of Panama Viejo or immerse in the native Kuna culture at San Blas archipelago. Lastly, try the traditional dishes like Sancocho and Ron Ponche to tantalize your taste buds with Panama's unique gastronomy.
Off the sailing course, Panama greets you with vibrant city life, exotic wildlife, and tropical rainforests. A tour around Panama City introduces you to its modern skyscrapers and lively nightlife, while a trek into the Soberania National Park offers you bird-watching experiences. Water sport enthusiasts can indulge in diving, snorkeling, and surfing in Panama's warm waters.
The well-equipped Flamenco Marina, situated near the bustling Panama city, and the serene Shelter Bay Marina, at the Caribbean entrance of the canal, are among the best starting points for your sailing vacation. Anchorages in San Blas, Chichime Cays, and East Hollandes Cays provide safe and scenic overnight stops.
Both skippered and bareboat yacht rentals have unique advantages in Panama. The experienced skipper can guide you through changing sailing conditions and add a layer of safety, while going skipper-less gives you the freedom to navigate your own course and make spontaneous stops.
A journey with a knowledgeable crew further adds to your comfort. Enjoy tailor-made services, local insights and more relaxation while the crew takes care of sailing.
If you're opting for bareboat charter, you'll require a valid International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or a similar sailing qualification that the Panama authority acknowledges.
Light, airy clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, water-proof camera, and a good pair of walking shoes are must-haves for your journey. Remember to bring your adventurous spirit along as well, as Panama promises a remarkable sailing holiday.
| Destination | Description |
|---|---|
| Pearl Islands | Known for its splendid beaches, lush vegetation and vibrant marine life, Pearl Islands offer an idyllic sailing experience. |
| Bocas Del Toro | A dazzling archipelago with Caribbean vibes, perfect for snorkelling and exploring unique local wildlife. |
| San Blas Islands | Home to the Kuna Yala tribe, these 365 islands boast unspoiled beauty and crystal-clear waters. |
| Coiba National Park | A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity, excellent for nature lovers and diving enthusiasts. |
| Portobelo | A historic port city laden with colonial-era fortresses, a must-see location for culture vultures. |
| Panama Canal | Considered an engineering marvel, it offers an unrivalled sailing experience and great views of the Miraflores Locks. |
| Gulf of Chiriquí | A stunning paradise with plentiful marine life, perfect for snorkelling, diving, and dolphin spotting. |
Weather Conditions:
The best yachting season in Panama is from mid-December to mid-April when it's typically dry and sunny.Currency:
Panamanian Balboa (PAB) and the US Dollar (USD) are widely accepted currencies in Panama.Greeting:
The standard greetings in Panama are "¡Hola!" or "¡Buenos dias!".Local Delicacies:
Savour local dishes like Sancocho, a hearty chicken and vegetable stew, or Ceviche, a seafood delicacy marinated in lime juice.Local Laws:
Respect local customs and national park restrictions, particularly in preserved areas like Coiba National Park.Marine Life:
Panama shelters incredible marine diversity. Keep an eye out for dolphins, humpback whales, and colourful reef fish.Safety Precautions:
Bring sun protection and stay hydrated, as temperatures often soar above 30°C in the daytime.Panama Canal Transit:
A unique experience, complete with passage through the Miraflores Locks and the chance to cross from the Pacific to the Atlantic in just one day.Historical Tours:
Discover the rich history of Panama at sites like Old Panama City (Panamá Viejo) and the UNESCO-listed Fortifications of Portobelo.Wildlife Encounters:
Spend a day in Coiba National Park snorkelling among vibrant tropical fish or spot humpback whales while sailing in the Gulf of Chiriquí.Dive in Bocas del Toro:
These warm Caribbean waters offer excellent visibility for scuba diving and snorkelling, revealing colourful coral reefs and plentiful marine life.Pearl Islands Exploration:
Renowned for their natural beauty, these islands provide a tranquil getaway with beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life.Culinary Journey:
Enjoy Panamanian cuisine at local seafood markets or high-end restaurants, featuring fresh ingredients and Caribbean influences.Local Culture:
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Panama by visiting the San Blas Islands and interacting with the indigenous Kuna Yala tribe.| Number of sailboats | 3 sailboats available |
| Number of catamarans | 1 catamarans available |
| Manufacturers | Dufour, Yacht |
| Average cruise capacity | 7 |
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| With overnight accomodation | Min. price per day | Avg. price per day | Max. price per week |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sailboat | 701 $ | 1,368 $ | 1,774 $ |
| Catamaran | 5,001 $ | 5,001 $ | 5,001 $ |
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