Exploring Panama: boat trip ideas around the country

Panama, in the heart of Latin America, has been built by the influences of both indigenous and Spanish cultures. Now a dynamic country, it is increasingly regarded as a holiday destination, as it boasts an unparalleled mix of wildlife, culture, and nature. If you’re looking for Panama boat trip ideas, what to visit in this country, and where to go, look no further.

Discover Panama from the water with these boat trip ideas along its northern and southern coastlines. 

Panama City

Panama City, the capital of Panama, is a vibrant, modern city, bordering the world-famous Panama Canal. Founded in 1519, and built between the Pacific Ocean and the dense tropical rainforest, the city is a tribute to its rich history, with its colonial-era landmarks ever-present.

Before you set off, it’s worth walking around Casco Viejo, Panama City’s old town. You’ll see many historical landmarks, and have plenty of opportunities to try out local cuisine. Also worth the detour is the impressive 573-acre Metropolitan Natural Park. It’s the city’s only wildlife reserve, mostly covered in Pacific tropical dry forest, and hosts unique animal species, such as tapirs, caimans, and pumas. 

Panama City is a great place to start your boat trip. Sail around the city to discover its landmarks and natural features. 

Bridge of the Americas

Sail past the Bridge of the Americas that links the North and South America land masses. Measuring 1,654m long, the bridge was completed in 1962. It’s part of the Pan-American highway that stretches from Alaska to the tip of Argentina. 

Panama skyline 

Banking and trading have built Panama’s economy, with the country’s revenues largely dependent on the Panama Canal. Panama City is now a regional banking center in Latin America. The city’s skyline, best seen from the water, is a showcase of the country’s growth.  

Panama City beaches 

Having a boat also means you can easily access the various Panama City beaches: sail past the Bridge of the Americas, towards Punta Chame, considered the best kite surfing beach in Panama. 

Taboga Island 

Also accessible from Panama City for a day trip, or longer, is the small volcanic island of Taboga. Another name for it is ‘Island of the Flowers’, as it boasts rich tropical plant life. The island is popular for its white sand beaches, fishing, and whale watching opportunities. There are also hiking trails: you can walk up to the viewpoints at Cerro Vigia or Cerro de la Cruz, where you’ll have views over Panama Bay and the city behind. 

Pearl Islands

If you’re looking for a longer adventure from Panama City, sail to the Pearl Islands. Approximately 35 nautical-miles away, it’s a chance to get in two days of fantastic sailing there and back. This archipelago, located in the Pacific, consists of over 200 islands and islets. The most famous one is Contadora Island, reputed for its resorts and over 13 beaches. 

Visit between July and October, the whale mating season, for some whale watching. 

It’s also a great year-round destination for snorkeling thanks to clear waters and white sand beaches. You’ll see schools of fish, sometimes of up to 50,000 fish!

Coiba Island

Coiba Island is great if you’re looking to sail off the beaten track. Sail over from Panama City if you want to cruise along the Western coast, or straight from Boca Chica if you prefer a shorter crossing. The island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a good destination for diving. It’s part of the Coiba National Park, that is host to a diversity of marine life and jungle animals. Dive around Bahia Damas Reef to see manta rays, whales, and hammerhead sharks.  

Panama Canal 

The Panama Canal, constructed in 1914, is a key trade route, handling about 5% of the global maritime trade.

Pristine rainforests surround the canal, and are a vital source of water for the canal, and of biodiversity for the country. These forests are one of the few accessible areas where you can observe various Central American animal species undisturbed in their natural habitat. 

Gatun Lake

If you’re visiting Colon, Panama’s second-biggest city, take the opportunity to spend an afternoon sailing and fishing around Gatun Lake and its islands. Barro Colorado and Isla Guacha are two wildlife sanctuaries, with the first also being home to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. 

If you’re a keen bird watcher, you’ll also find that the Pipeline road, just off Gamboa, is a popular hiking route, with many sighting opportunities. 

San Blas Islands 

On the Caribbean side of Panama, discover the San Blas Islands. More than 350 islands and cays make up this archipelago, home to the Kuna people. It’s a popular sailing destination for its pristine environment, and as it’s out of the path of hurricanes. 

Set sail from Colon, and explore the coastline on the way to the islands. Stop at Portobelo to discover the ruins of an old Spanish castle, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Further along the way, you’ll also pass Isla Grande, an island surrounded by clear waters and beautiful beaches. 

Best season to visit Panama

For the best weather, visit Panama between January and March. It’s the dry season, with low humidity, and more moderate temperatures. And at this time, winds average between 10 and 20 knots. The rest of the year is still sunny, but with more frequent rain showers. 

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