Meet the ORC 50 catamaran, the "Unicorn of San Blas" - a groundbreaking fusion of speed, style, and sailing prowess that brings unparalleled adventure to the stunning San Blas islands. Sleek and minimalist, this high-performance catamaran is built for those seeking an exceptional charter experience. Designed with a lightweight carbon construction, the ORC 50 offers thrilling speeds and responsive handling, perfect for exploring hidden coves, pristine beaches, and the vibrant reefs of the archipelago. Whether you crave gentle cruising or high-speed thrills, the ORC 50 provides a seamless blend of comfort and exhilaration. With seasoned Captain Steven at the helm, you're in expert hands for a journey that goes beyond the ordinary. Captain Steven's extensive experience, including voyages with the legendary Eric Tabarly, brings professionalism and adventure to every trip. Guests can also request open-water passages, an exclusive option that showcases the raw energy and agility of this remarkable vessel. Ideal for passionate sailors and adventurous families alike, the ORC 50 redefines the San Blas charter experience, promising a sailing journey you won't forget. Join us for an unforgettable escape on the ORC 50 and experience the beauty of San Blas like never before!

The Salina 48 catamaran is recommended for medium and large groups looking for a premium service and high level of amenities including a huge list of water toys. Crew: David (Spain), Anne-Sophie (France) and Jose (Guna indigenous). 5 star local crew. English, French, Spanish and indigenous spoken. Max 10 guests in 4 double cabins and 2 single beds Full A/C in all the interiors Open bar with no restrictions Top local and international cuisine with no lobster limitation Loaded with water toys Prices start at $2,200/day, including for 2 adults, on an all-inclusive private charter. Each additional adult: $250/day. Each additional children under 12: $125/day. The Salina 48 is a luxury catamaran that blends spaciousness, performance, and elegance, making it the ideal choice for an unforgettable charter experience. Designed for comfort, this stunning vessel features a vast cockpit perfect for alfresco dining, an inviting saloon with 360-degree views, and four well-appointed cabins, each with its own ensuite bathroom, providing ample privacy for up to 10 guests. The Salina 48 is renowned for its exceptional sailing capabilities, ensuring a smooth, stable voyage even in challenging conditions. Whether you're exploring secluded spots in the San Blas islands or cruising along the outer reefs, the Salina 48 offers the perfect balance of luxury and adventure, promising a charter experience that exceeds all expectations. Water toys included: 2 single kayaks 1 double transparent kayak 4 paddle boards 4 sea scooters Snorkeling gear for all Fishing gear Starlink full internet Big dinghy to get all guests for excursions

Founded in 2012, we are a registered company in Panama, fully insured and with charter license by local Guna authorities. We offer mind bending catamaran charters in the San Blas islands. Only catamarans, only San Blas and only quality charters while contributing to the local economy both through our partnerships with locals and our foundation.

Sailing the San Blas Islands offers a breathtaking experience, but it requires both expert crew and careful planning due to the challenging conditions. Unlike other popular Caribbean destinations, bareboat charters are not allowed in San Blas because of uncharted waters, hidden reefs, and a lack of reliable marine infrastructure such as marinas and supply stores. The more than 365 islands are often surrounded by coral reefs, making navigation risky without local knowledge. To ensure a safe and enjoyable voyage, charters typically come with a skilled skipper and an inclusive provisioning plan, covering everything from fresh water and basic supplies to access to fresh seafood from local Guna fishermen. Catamaran Adventures offers discounts on charters not needing the provisioning, deckhand or cook. Contact us for further details.

San Blas Reborn: New Islands Emerge Amidst Climate Change Hysteria The San Blas archipelago, known for its stunning beauty and cultural richness, is witnessing a profound transformation driven by both the forces of nature and the resilience of the Guna people. As climate change alters the geography of this paradise, new islands are emerging, while existing ones face the threat of submersion. This dynamic evolution highlights the Guna community's adaptability and determination to preserve their way of life in the face of environmental challenges. San Blas: A timeless paradise where nature's beauty and local culture blend seamlessly, following the natural cycles of life. A New Island Emerges in San Blas Off the coast of Maoqui in the Dutch Cays, a new island is gradually taking shape. What started as a mere speck of land, approximately 5 meters by 8 meters, has grown over the past decade to a remarkable 40 meters by 80 meters. This natural phenomenon of island formation in Guna Yala is not just a geological event; it carries significant cultural implications. The new island in San Blas in its early stages, very small, from 10 years ago. The new island in its early stages 10 years ago, gradually growing in size. Aerial view of emerging island in San Blas, Panama, forming in front of Maoqui island, which is visible in the background. In the Guna tradition, when a new island forms, the first family to plant coconut trees on it typically claims the right to inhabit it once it becomes fully habitable. This process is neither quick nor straightforward-it can take years for the island to reach a stable size, where it is no longer submerged during high tides. On this newly emerging island, Jose's family, our longtime deckhand of our Mambo Diablo Salina 48 catamaran and dear Guna friend, has already planted between 30 and 40 coconut trees in neat rows, staking their claim to the land. However, they must remain vigilant, as the death of these trees could jeopardize their ownership. Recently planted coconut trees by a family on Maoqui Island, who will eventually have the right to live there and utilize its resources. The Guna use coconuts and seafood for both sustenance and income. Recently planted coconut trees by a family on Maoqui Island, who will eventually have the right to live there and utilize its resources. The Guna use coconuts and seafood for both sustenance and income. The final decision on ownership, however, rests with the General Guna Congress. While the family continues to nurture their coconut trees, they must wait for the island to stabilize-a process that could take several more years. This careful stewardship reflects the Guna's deep connection to their land and their ability to adapt to the slow but steady changes brought about by climate change. Relocating from Cartí Sugdupu: A Community in Transition While new islands are forming, other parts of San Blas face a more ominous reality. The island of Cartí Sugdupu, one of the 49 inhabited islands in the archipelago, is under threat from overcrowding. With its population exceeding 1,000 people, crammed into an area roughly the size of five football fields, the island's future is uncertain. Despite media narratives, the relocation of Cartí's inhabitants to the mainland is primarily due to overpopulation and the severe shortage of space on the island. There is no longer any room for the younger generation seeking to establish their homes. This is the indisputable reality, rather than the alarmist headlines circulated by some outlets. Furthermore, while it is true that some islands may eventually submerge in the distant future, new islands are simultaneously emerging, reflecting the ongoing natural cycle of change in San Blas. Carti Sugdupu, San Blas. The Panamanian government has acknowledged the urgent need to relocate the residents of Cartí Sugdupu. However, both the government and the media focus on the islands' potential to sink as the reason for their actions, while the underlying reality is one of overpopulation and a severe lack of space. The island, which stands 50 cm to 1 meter above sea level, is supposedly predicted to be submerged in the coming decades. In response to this projection, the government has initiated a relocation plan, moving the community to a new mainland settlement called Nuevo Cartí, or Isber Yala ("Tree of Níspero").

Mind-Bending Catamaran Charters in Untapped San Blas.

In Search of the Elusive and Rare Albino Nurse Shark in San Blas Last spotted April 24th 2024 around the shallows of the San Blas Cays, this rare specimen of nurse shark is one of the few known to have been documented. Snorkeling in San Blas means entering a pristine aquatic and thriving ecosystem filled with marine life of all kinds. Healthy corals, a myriad of colorful fish types and basically all the food chain has remained intact for the most part. Specimens long disappeared in other parts of the Caribbean can be easily observed throughout the snorkeling spots visited while on your yacht charter in San Blas. Well... few lobsters are missing... but that is for a good cause :) Swimming with the friendly nurse sharks, either ashore or right from the catamaran is one of the highlights contemplated in our sailing trips in San Blas and we encourage you to engage in this activity meant for both adults and kids. The gentle character and slow movements of the nurse sharks along with the instructions of the captain will help you dissipate any fear that may have been implanted in you. The small teeth on nurse sharks are meant for crushing hard-shelled prey such as lobster and crab and their small mouths only open in a low angle, that along with their gentle character makes swimming with them a totally safe experience. Albino animals in the wild have been documented extensively and a quick search on Google will show animals of all kinds that carry this genetic mutation which causes the animal to not be able to produce melanine. Gorillas, zebras, alligators... even turtles and snails all over the planet have been documented with this condition but only a handful of albino sharks have been discovered and to this day remain an extremely rare sight. We will be documenting this particular animal during the summer when water visibility is at its greatest. We will keep you posted. For obvious preservation reasons we are not detailing the exact coordinates of where the albino nurse shark resides. With scuba diving being banned in the San Blas islands, the rich coral reefs can only be visited while snorkelling which for some might be a put off but we definitely align with the Guna Congreso (San Blas ruling party) which long ago dictated the ban on certain water activities such as kitesurfing, jetskying, scuba diving and anything that was not compatible with the peaceful coexistence with the local population and the natural environment. Ban on these activities also meant reducing the influx of visitors to the region which in turns also helped to ease the overall pressure on this still idyllic paradise. Join our catamaran cruise in San Blas and discover the most authentic and well preserved reef system in the Caribbean. Visit the outer cays and the best snorkelling locations of the San Blas islands, all under the supervision of our professional captain and crew. San Blas Cruise

Chase the Sun: Book Your 2024 High Season Catamaran Charter in San Blas Now Scape the 2024 winter: with new catamarans coming in and easiness in flight transfers, Sailing the San Blas islands during the best period has never been so gratifying. Welcome to our new approach on what an out of this world sailing vacation and a catamaran cruise in the best and only true Caribbean Paradise is. Often criticised for provoking the much needed evolution into a more friendly and quality oriented catamaran charter reality in San Blas, Catamaran Adventures will continue to push forward with the reforms in the local sailing industry while preserving the essence of the Guna Yala region and contributing with the local communities in a balanced way. Leaving 2023 behind also means leaving behind the old days when reaching San Blas was only possible through a never ending road, and that is thanks to the expanding fleet of private planes that are able to reach the San Blas landing strip in Corazon de Jesus, likewise, the days where the only boats available were not only poorly maintained but also captained by unprofessional characters to say the least, are also over. As we step into the peak season for Caribbean travel, we are also approaching what could be considered the optimal period of the year to embark on a sailing adventure in the autonomous region of Guna Yala. If your main objectives for a winter escape include basking in warm, sun-drenched days infused with the vibrant essence of the Caribbean region and indulging in exclusive sightseeing experiences, our acclaimed yacht charters in San Blas will cater to your every wish! Although already reduced, we still have availability for your next sailing holidays in the San Blas Islands. Our Lagoon 57, Lagoon 52, Salina 48 and Lagoon 42 which are our most requested catamarans are available on selected dates and ready to embark you on a life changing vacation. Don't lose the opportunity to sail the more than 365 islands in San Blas.

The region on Guna Yala (the San Blas Islands) experiences different levels of activity and busyness throughout the year, depending on various factors. Christmas, Carnival and Easter are definitely busiest. Much like years behind, our catamarans in San Blas are already booked out for the major holidays mentioned above and, for example, trying to book a yacht charter for Christmas is almost impossible unless we have a cancellation. Can we escalate our resources to meet demand? the answer is a rotund "no" and this is because this Caribbean region is definitely not your typical Caribbean sailing charter destination. No marinas where to dock, no repair facilities, no fuel, gas etc, limit the amount of charter boats that can provide a decent service with all the responsibilities. San Blas is neither a tourist trap nor a mass tourism location. The whole untouched and unmatched beauty of San Blas would not have prevailed throughout the years if the islands could be sold to foreign entities or there had been any sort of major investment in infrastructure. Peak tourist season in San Blas typically coincides with the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, you can expect more tourists in the islands adjacent to the road and the ports in the coastline. Unlike other Caribbean sailing destinations such as the BVIs, USVIs, Sint Maarten, Antigua,etc, which get hit by hurricanes during the summer, the archipelago of Guna Yala can be visited year-round. Busiest dates in San Blas: - Christmas: starting December 24th and ending January 5th, charters quotes increased by 20% - Carnival: dates vary each year, no extra charge: consult exact dates here - Easter: dates vary each year: consult exact dates here charters quotes increased by 20% It's best to plan your visit or activities based on your priorities and preferences, considering factors like weather and your specific interests. High season brings the postal-perfect conditions in San Blas but you will not be alone. Wet season, May-October on the other hand, sees almost no boats or tourists but you may have occasional and sporadic rain which can be persistent in very few cases. Do not underestimate sailing in the wet season, it can be a complete pleasurable and even more unique experience. Planning your sailing charter outside major holidays is prefered but we understand you may be limited by work, school and other factors. Either way, our aim is to show you the best islands and cays. What is the point of visiting Dog island, Pelican island or any other busy islands when we have around 250 square miles of untouched natural wonders to discover? Book smart, get informed. Catamaran Adventures San Blas.

BBQ island and the adjacent crystal clear waters of the Pool, snorkel the vibrant outer reefs in Coco Bandero, dinner at any of the islands in Dutch Cays and a bonfire in the amazing island of Cambombia are some of the best plans. An all inclusive yacht charter in the independent region of the San Blas islands located in the Caribbean coast of Panama, opens the possibility of exploring this vast archipelago of more than 365 islands to any visitor coming in by air or road. Regardless of the group composition, families, friends or couples,there's always a plan onboard, whether it is simply relaxing and sipping on your sundown pina colada while watching the scenery from the catamaran or engaging in the multiple activities available and proposed by the captain. Our itineraries cover stays of 2-10 nights but in order to experience and what is more important, integrate the grandioseness of this, the last Caribbean Paradise, 5 nights is the minimum stay recommended. Top 10 things to do in the San Blas Islands: 1. Visit the legendary BBQ island 2. Swim in the Pool and spend 1/2 day discovering the islands close by 3. Dinner at any of the islands of Dutch cays 4. Snorkel the outside reef ot Coco Bandero Cays 5. Bonfire in Cambombia 6. Take home some of the best Molas (local handicraft) 7. Jungle trail with Lisa, the mater Mola maker 8. Visit the tight local communities close by shore 9. Meet Jose´s family and spend some time with his family down in 10. Maoqui island (Dutch Cays) ....11th is paddleboarding Be warned, San Blas has two different parts: the islands close to shore and the ports which receive mostly day trips from local Panamanian visitors and the outer islands and cays along with the area close by the Corazon de Jesus airport which are not possible to reach by day travelers due to the distance and that offer the most isolated, unique and preserved scenery found in the Caribbean. Make sure you read our post: Top 5 Islands Not To Visit In The San Blas San Blas Islands Sailing Charters for the Discerning Traveler

The San Blas islands is a destination capable of satisfying a wide spectrum of visitors such as nature and adventure lovers, cultural experience buffs, relaxation seekers and ocean/beach enthusiasts. Knowing which island to choose amongst the more than 365 and knowing when to go and with what company can be a crafty task. Mixed reviews on the San Blas islands are all over travel blogs and review websites. While some visitors to the islands fall in love with San Blas and the whole experience, other do not seem share the same perception. What sets apart both experiences is the discerning ability of the traveler to navigate through all the info available and to choose a professional travel agency with the enough knowledge and resources to deliver a well thought out, structured and consistent vacation plan and itinerary that is adaptable to your needs. Visiting San Blas is not as simple as driving from Panama City to the port of San Blas and heading to any island since it exposes you to landing in one of the spots closest to shore and packed with day tourists. Top 5 islands not to visit in San Blas. Do not be tempted to fix your trip totally on your own you need an agency primarily because you are venturing into an autonomous region of Panama and you will have to deal with a completely different culture and ways. The agency plays in the middle of both worlds and is a much needed intermediary in such different context. Transfers in and out of San Blas, type of boat or catamaran, food and provisions, insurance, etc, are a few of the aspects to take a close look at. Choose the best company in San Blas with the best reviews, is responsive and very importantly only has boats and sailing packages in San Blas and nowhere else. There is no point in accelerating in this land of peace and natural equilibrium. Do not rush and stay longer than 4 nights if possible. You will miss out on the magic and what the San Blas islands have to offer. It you decide not to use one of our catamarans in San Blas and stay on land (island), please make sure that the island which you go to, has the capability to rent out kayaks, paddle boards and that they offer water taxi tours to Coco Bandero, The Pool in the Dutch Cays and other amazing locations. The San Blas islands are the only true Caribbean destination that has both an relatively easy access if approached correctly and still retains unspoiled nature and an amazingly interesting indigenous culture. The best islands in San Blas are just a 40 minute flight away from Panama City. Where else in the world can you swim in turquoise waters, snorkel in reefs teeming with life, easily sail through the more than 365 tropical islands while enriching yourself with the most authentic Caribbean culture? Whether you choose to visit the region with a group of friends or family, on a boat or on land, the San Blas islands are indeed worth it.

Instafamous Dog Island along with most of the islands in the Lemon Cays of San Blas are ok to snorkel if you don't have much time, but in order to experience the absolute best snorkel in San Blas you must venture out to the Dutch and Coco Bandero Cays. The archipelago of the San Blas islands, also referred to as Guna Yala, and more specifically, the 20 miles that stretch from El porvenir to Corazon de Jesus and constitute the last unspoiled and best Caribbean sailing charter destination is literally dotted with hundreds of islands of coral origin. All of these islands can be reached while on a catamaran charter in the San Blas islands. Some of the islands closest to land are densely populated by the Guna indigenous, other islands are merely a patch of white sand with a coconut tree or two and with no possibilities for inhabiting them. Islands with higher density are the ones closest to shore mainly because they are the easiest to reach and since pre colonial times have established trade with mainland. Island densely populated and close to mainland The Islands out in the Cays of San Blas were for years to out of the way and too wild to even be considered as a place to establish a community. Small inhabited island out in the Cays of San Blas. Islands near the shore and the ones with easy reach by road transfers are basically close to the river mouths that carry the sediment which in turn becomes the nutrient for the vibrant sea life all along the archipelago. This same sediment from the rivers and the consequent murky waters can ruin a snorkeling session if not planned correctly, this is why the best snorkeling in San Blas is not close to mainland and communities but out in the Cays where crystal clear turquoise waters are prevalent throughout the whole year including the raining season .

Salina 48 Catamaran San Blas "Mambo Diablo": Air conditioning and a huge list of amenities. Maximum guests: 10 Total cabins: 4 doubles with private bathroom and 2 singles with shared bathroom Why Choose this catamaran? Our best option for families and friends wishing all the comfort, water toys, vessel stability and crew. It doesn't get any better than this. Air Conditioning and electric capabilities Air conditioning is available in all interiors including private cabins and salon Cabins with fans fo those guests not needing A/C 110v and usb outlets throughout the catamaran 2 automatic toilets Onboard electric watermaker makes fresh water from seawater Generator for 110v electricity Water Sports 2 kayaks single 4 Sups or Stand up paddle boards Snorkeling equipment for up to 10 guests 2 seabobs 1 underwater drone Dinghy with outboard motor Food Great selection of local and international dishes using locally sourced ingredients (Catch of the day) based dishes with the emphasis on healthy and fresh produce. No limitations in lobster when made available by the kunas All dishes are prepared in the catamaran by our professional chef Dietary needs or allergies can be met. Vegetarians and vegan along with other requirements can be accommodated at no extra cost. XL outdoor BBQ Entertainment Outdoor sound system Board games: Monopoly, chess, checkers, and more Open Bar: Beverages Bottled water for drinking Huge beverage refrigerator Soft beverages including Coke, Coke Light, Fresca, Ginger Ale, and LaCroix sparkling water Abuelo dark and Bacardi light rums, Tanqueray gin, Smirnoff vodka, Mixers: tonic water, club soda, ginger ale, bloody mary Margarita mix, and pina colada mix Beer Bottled Wines: White Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc and Red: - Malbec Ice on demand Safety Life jackets for adults and kids Personal protection: SPF 50 1st aid kit with common medications, Motion sickness (very rarely needed)Internet Fishing Fishing gear for trolling and bottom fishing is provided and free to use Any fish caught will be served as food if the guests requests so 2 standard fishing rods Lures Others A mobile WiFi hotspot, will be configured upon request. Please consider having your own Tigo sim Card from that can be bought in Panama City at very little cost. We can provide such local sim cards upon request

Best period to visit the San Blas islands ranges from November to August. Leaving the out the months of September and October might be a good idea due to the rain and squalls that occasionally appear in the region. The Archipelago of San Blas and the more than 365 islands that compose it is known to be the best and very last untouched Caribbean sailing destination. We mentioned in other posts how Panama has no recorded hurricanes and no major storms like for example the windward islands, including the BVIs, USVIs, Bahamas, St Maarten, Antigua and Barbuda, etc. This point might seem irrelevant, but it is not. Hurricanes are something very serious that can wipe out entire fleets like it die some years ago in the BVIs As said , luckily, San Blas and the whole Panama is not in the way of such destruction. Adverse climatological episodes in San Blas, although not common, can happen. Tropical storms or the famous local "chocosana" or "culopollo" are local storms that can occur from May to October, originate in Colombia and run through the whole San Blas to later continue up to Costa Rica . This phenomenon brings rain, thunder and wind to the San Blas region and can last up to 45 minutes. This adversity is taken into consideration not only for deciding which anthorages are the right ones but also for inbound and outbound flights as well as road and water taxi transfers. Best time to visit San Blas depends on your interests. High season December - April brings more sailboats and tourists to the region, not that it gets very busy though, whereas May to November tends to be much quieter and laid back. High season - Low season charter conditions are somewhat similar Rain is basically a rare episode during the high season. Adverse climatological circumstances in the busiest months are something very are limited to higher winds than usual that can be forecasted and taking into consideration when designing the corresponding catamaran charter itinerary. During the central months of the year, we might see sporadic rain showers that tend to last up to an hour. Tropical weather in Panama translates to humidity and heat which is a match to take into consideration. When booking your catamaran during summer or if someone in your group is sensitive to the heat, no matter the season. it is is highly advisable to choose one with air conditioning like the Salina 48. You might not need the A/C during the day, but at night and while sleeping it's a different story and a good night sleep puts you in the right mood. Turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking and inviting locals are the norm in San Blas throughout the year. Abundant marine life is also persistent throughout the year and a delight to observe while on your catamaran cruise. San Blas is an inviting travel destination that with plane transfers is an easy reach from Panama CIty and offers a complete change of scenery if approached the right way. An enriching and life changing experience that can bring new perspective and understanding. San Blas Islands Sailing Charters.

Yes there is, but not everywhere. Dutch Cays and BBQ islands or the Pool for example do not have internet nor cellular signal or the quality of the service is extremely poor. Check our internet coverage map and be prepared for your next catamaran charter in the San Blas islands. Internet and cellular coverage in the San Blas islands does not include all parts of the Guna Yala region There are very few antenas and the ones there are, do not reach the whole archipelago . When booking your next San Blas islands sailing charter and if you require internet onboard for work purposes, or simply for a way of being in touch with the "real world", please let us know in advance and we will adapt our itinerary to meet your connectivity demand. Below is a signal coverage map to know which islands in San Blas have internet available Our catamaran sailing charters in the San Blas islands have internet which is mostly provided by our captains hotspot and it can be used by our guests but limitations in data transfer imposed by local operators limit substantially the amount of data our hotspots can deliver. The absolute best for being connected to the internet is to buy a Tigo sim card and top it up with an internet plan once in Panama. it's extremely cheap and you will have full internet for just a few $. You can buy sim cards very easily in any conveniente shop in the streets of Panama City. Do not buy sim cards at the airport arrival, they inflate the price there. You also have roaming in San Blas if your phone is configured for that matter. Do check with your home operator for roaming tariffs AT&T Roaming plans for Central America including Panama No internet in Dutch Cays or Cayos Holandeses in San Blas, but who cares.....!!!! Catamaran Adventures San Blas.

How to Visit the Pool in the San Blas Islands? Due to the distance that separates it from mainland and the landing strip, reaching the famous Pool in the outer Cays of San Blas and what can be considered Paradise within Paradise, is only recommended for 5 or more nights yacht charters. The Pool, which lies in Eastern Dutch Cays or Cayos Holandeses and South of Turtle island, is the furthest island from mainland and due to this has the clearest water visibility throughout the year. With no rivers close by and unperturbed crystal clear waters, the Pool remains best snorkeling area in San Blas Other activities in which to engage while at the Pool and that are included in our all inclusive catamaran trips, are kayaking and paddleboarding to the nearby mangroves, swimming or plane relaxin onboard. Reaching Turtle island for a beer ashore is also a must, be sure not to miss that. Visit San Blas and charter a catamaran with Catamaran Adventures San Blas

There are a number of sailing charter agencies that operate in the San Blas islands, but few meet the necessary standards for running quality private catamaran and sailboat charters and not fall into the backpacker standards. Here's a list of things to look for when deciding who to trust in San Blas. A quick search on Google will display numerous possibilities for your next San Blas sailing charter. Deciding on one of them and putting the 1st payment down, purchasing your plane tickets, making hotel and transfer bookings and setting your mind for the ultimate Caribbean sailing experience is definitely a great effort and one that can be totally put to waste if you do not choose wisely your intermediary for such an exotic and special vacation. Here is a list of things to look for when choosing the best San Blas Sailing Company and boat charter agency. 1. Dual purpose: some agencies focus in both giving service to backpackers and regular sailing charter guests such as families, group of friends etc. Needless to say that quality standards are not the same for the two types of guests. Food, cleaning, security, type of experience are a few of the totally different aspects that differentiate a backpacker travel agency and a sailing charter company. How to find out? simply review their website, their logo and web structure, pay close attention at the activities offered, presentation of food, state of the catamaran etc. 2. Not their own boats and no alternative if your catamaran encounters a technical problem. This is not what you need, absolutely not. If one of our catamarans is down, another option is offered. You are most likely to get a free upgrade, we will try our best to provide you with a higher category catamaran at no extra cost. 3. No preset itineraries means that the captain will decide by him/herself where to go and what to do. Having the possibility of going for a preset itinerary takes much of the worry off and sets the scene for an ordered vacation. Note that itineraries will be modified by the captain depending on your special interests and if the weather does not permit such a pre organised sailing route. 4. Not visible on TripAdvisor or what is worst, displaying their "own client" reviews on their websites with no audit on them. Being public hurts at times, but a reputable sailing charter company must be on Trip Advisor. End of the story. 5. No covid and other cancellation policies clearly stated in their Faqs with no link from their homepage. Clearly these times we live in need serious and clearly detailed cancellation policies, specially due to Covid reasons. You are putting your energy into this. 6. Not 100% dedicated to San Blas and offering sailing charters in other Caribbean sailing areas or continents. A consistent charter agency in San Blas must be 100% dedicated to the San Blas islands. Being focused and offering the right information to guests is crucial and takes a lot of time and effort to put together. 7. Not fluent in english and sloppy/not agile communication can derive in important confusions that can put to risk your experience in Kuna Yala. Language and other communication barriers can test your patience and alter the normal course of your sailing vacations just when you least expect it. 8. Not showing the "not-so-spectacular" side of sailing in some of the most famous areas and islands and not being frank on some of the "not-so-comfortable" of what sailing in San Blas is. Like all, this archipelago has some places you can directly skip. 9. With professionals onboard you can rest assure the captain and crew will know what to do at all times. Amateurs or what is worst, newcomers to the area and with no ties to the indigenous community are not what you need. Not employing a Kuna guide or not mixing with the locals means missing out on the most important of what San Blas has to offer. 10. No offense to backpackers and backpacker agencies, they are an amazing community that must be respected and understood like any other. We love them and they have for ever been a crucial part of the traveling community. Cheers to them!

Top 10 Things to Do in the San Blas Islands BBQ island and the adjacent crystal clear waters of the Pool, snorkel the vibrant outer reefs in Coco Bandero, dinner at any of the islands in Dutch Cays and a bonfire in the amazing island of Cambombia are some of the best plans. San Blas: empty anchorages in the best Caribbean charter destination. A yacht charter in the San Blas islands opens the possibility of exploring this vast archipelago of more than 365 islands to any visitor. Regardless of the group composition, families, friends or couples,there's always a plan onboard, whether it is simply relaxing and sipping on your sundown pina colada while watching the scenery from the catamaran or engaging in the multiple activities available and proposed by the captain. The Pool: featured our Salina 48 catamaran Our itineraries cover stays of 2-10 nights but in order to experience and what is more important, integrate the grandioseness of this, the last Caribbean Paradise, 5 nights is the minimum stay recommended. Relaxing at Coco Bandero Top 10 things to do in the San Blas Islands: 1. Swim in the Pool and spend 1/2 day discovering the islands close by 2. Dinner at any of the islands of Dutch cays 3. Snorkel the outside reef ot Coco Bandero Cays 4. Bonfire in Cambombia 5. Take home some of the best Molas (local handicraft) 6. Jungle trail with Lisa, the mater Mola maker 7. Visit the tight local communities close by shore 8. Meet Jose´s family and spend some time with his family down in Maoqui island 9. Night fishing from the catamaran 10. Visit the legendary BBQ island ....11th is paddleboarding Be warned, San Blas has two different parts: the islands close to shore and the ports which receive mostly day trips from local Panamanian visitors and the outer islands and cays along with the area close by the Corazon de Jesus airport which are not possible to reach by day travelers due to the distance and that offer the most isolated, unique and preserved scenery found in the Caribbean. Make sure you read our post: Top 5 Islands Not To Visit In The San Blas Visit the San Blas island on a catamaran cruise.

Arranged itinerary, perfectly equipped catamaran, 5 star crew and a reliable and specialized charter agency are the 4 key features needed for a successful yacht charter in the San Blas islands. With popularity of the San Blas islands on the rise, new agencies, catamarans and different yachts operating solely have sprouted and offer their services in the last Caribbean Paradise of the San Blas islands. First of, language and cultural barriers of this unusual sailing destination in the Caribbean are factors to consider when deciding on your next charter vacation. The Guna Yala region or San Blas has its own unique dialect and culture aside form Panama's and even though the islands are part of Panama, they have the status of autonomous region and they are non dependent on the Panamanian Government for the most part. Apart from considering the noted cultural uniqueness, follow the next recommendations before booking a yacht charter in the San Blas 1. Arranged itinerary: Having a preset itinerary not only gives you peace of mind, but also takes away the chance of being caught in one of the islands included in our very much sincere post "Top 5 Islands Not To Visit In The San Blas". A few of the islands in the San Blas region can be affected by overtourism, specially during high season, so, better to stay away from them. San Blas, if visited the right way is the complete opposite of a tourist trap, in fact, the more than 365 islands that stretch for more than 20 miles is, without a doubt, the most secluded and best preserved part of the Caribbean. 2. Perfectly equipped catamarans: famous Caribbean sailing destinations such as the BVIs or Bahamas have great access to provisions, supplies and spare parts. Not in San Blas,no. We rely on the Guna indigenous for the fresh lobster and other sea delicacies. All other provisions and spare parts we fly in. Having a water maker of considerable size, a potent outboard and dinghy to land in the most remote islands, paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment, fishing gear and optional water toys such as seabobs are very much appreciated for guests and something you cannot rent outside the catamaran simply because there are no shops or rental facilities of any kind in the region. Air conditioning catamarans are a very popular option due to the fact that it does get hot at times and a good night sleep is needed in order to fully enjoy the next day. 3. The right crew: imagine having to share a place with someone else you do not previously know. Our catamarans are big and spacious with different areas where you will feel comfortable and at ease, but since they are still a boat, you will have to share some of the space. We employ only 5 star crew, knowledgeable of the San Blas, professional, competent, attentive and at the same time respectful of your privacy. This year's Best Crew Award was given to our Captain Daniel, cook Paloma and deckhand Jose. Lookup their names on TripAdvisor for that matter. 4. The Best San Blas Sailing Company: do your research and look out for inconsistencies in the information provided through their webpages Do not commit to a charter if you do not have all the booking info requested and if their response is vague or not in detail. Do not book your sailing trip with companies that offer the same services to backpackers with no quality itineraries and have both catamarans and monohulls on their catalog. Look for specialist specifically offering private catamaran charters in the San Blas. Again, Tripadvisor plays a major role in determining which is the best San Blas Sailing Company. Cruise San Blas and book your catamaran charter: more info on www.catamaranadvebntures.net

Be prepared for you next catamaran vacations and observe the following recommendations. We're the locals, we know what we are talking about. 1. Know what you are getting into: San Blas is definitely a special place that is mostly yet to be discovered, even by experienced travelers and sailors. This is not your typical catamaran charter destination. The labyrinthic sailing grounds with the hundreds of tiny islands, a strong and peculiar local indigenous culture and the tropical weather are a few of the unique factors that set aside this destination from other known and more developed charter destinations in the world. No big bars playing loud music, no social scene, no bling and no tourist "attractions". San Blas is only unspoiled nature, crystal clear waters, mild winds and a welcoming,relaxed and totally safe atmosphere. 2. Be very specific with your requests and charter personalization. Even though at a first glance, all islands might look similar, the truth quite the opposite and this region offers a vast amount of possibilities depending on your interests. Sports enthusiasts, travel buffs, nature lovers, family vacationers, event organizers all fit and are welcomed in San Blas, but again, the more precise you are with the info you send us, the better. 3. Predisposition is key: stay open to the experiences presented to you and do not judge. The right mood and approach will catapult you to a realm where all is in an unique and magical order and where everything works one way or the.other. "Ahorita ahorita" literally means "little now", our times are no longer valid in San Blas. Do not attempt to import our culture here, it does not work. The sooner you give up and let your guard down, the better. 4. Respect the Guna culture and local ways and traditions; the only reason San Blas still exists and the level of preservation is because of the Gunas and their eagerness to protect their ancestral land. Other islands in the Pacific side of Panama have not been that lucky and numerous hotels have been established thus contributing to the destruction of what once was and absolute paradise. The Caribbean islands of the San Blas cannot be sold to foreigners which keeps away any sort of development that would damage the ecosystem. Do not raise your voice, stand back, listen and watch the magic unfold. 5. Transfers in and out are key to a successful Catamaran Cruise in San Blas: During this past years and thanks to a slight improvement of infrastructure and the reconditioning of the airstrip, things are much easier and little by little accessing the region is starting to be less of a struggle especially if you fly in on a 40 minute private flight from Albrook local in Panama City. We provide all transfers in and out of San Blas. 6. Food is basic yet delicious and is mostly composed of sea delicacies brought in by the Guna indigenous. Fresh lobster and other crustaceans and local fish of various types are the highlights of our menu. Make sure you notify us of your food preferences and allergies with your reservation. We love to adapt and consider that cuisine is a extremely important factor. Food for picky eaters is programmed if required. 7. Bring a cap, a hat, rashguard and sun lotion. Catamarans have plenty of shaded area, but for guests not used to an intense sun, being prepared is a factor to take into consideration. No shops where to buy any of this in San Blas. You must bring all that in yourself. 8. Local currency is the USD, and there is no need to bring in large amounts of money since there is nowhere to spend it apart from traditional handcrafts sold by locals or the occasional beer ashore in one of the huts managed by the island owners. Dutch cays and specially BBQ island along with the Pool offer this possibility. Tipping etiquette for the catamaran crew is 15-20% if you consider they went that extra mile. Payment of that amount can also be done directly through us via wire or credit card. 9. No mosquitos at the catamaran but ashore is a different story and there might be some if you wonder deep into some islands and walk around shaded areas. Do bring some mosquito repellent, not too much, do not exaggerate, there is no need. 10. Heat throughout the year means that booking a catamaran with air conditioning is recommended. . Weather in winter is fine but air conditioning is definitely worth it if any in your group is sensitive to heat or humidity.