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.

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 .

A 4 night minimum stay including at least the Dutch or Coco Bandero cays is highly recommended. Shorter 2 or 3 nights stays can be an excellent experience if your catamaran and crew are up to the standards we have commented in other posts. With Panama being the most important business hub in Latin America and an important travel destination with many other locations worth visiting, such as Boquete, Bocas del Toro and interesting attractions spread throughout the whole territory, it is at times difficult for travelers to focus in only one region for more than a couple of nights. Choose only the best San Blas sailing company and catamarans Renting a catamaran in the San Blas islands for a couple of nights is a great way to broaden your horizons, but be careful, if you limit the nights and go too fast from anchorage to anchorage, from island to island, you will definitely miss the real magic of the Guna Yala region and their ancestral culture. Pay attention, sit still and you may watch a turtle popping up not far from you, a manta ray swim underneath the catamaran or a tropical bird pass in front. Be loud, rush and none of that will happen! Abundant marine life is just there and will show if you take it easy How many days should you stay in San Blas? 4 nights as mentioned above is the minimum recommended and enough time to at least see at a good pace, the most beautiful parts of San Blas, Dutch Cays and Coco Bandero Cays. Following is a list of recommendations depending on the nights you choose: * 2 night charter with road transfer - Do not attempt to come only 2 nights and use the road, you will be "stuck" in your road transfer for a minimum of 8 hours from our perspective, it is totally not worth it. You have been warned. * 2 night charter with flight transfer - Makes sense for a celebration like a birthday or completion of business goal. Also if you really do not have any extra time on your hands and absolutely need to charter a catamaran in the San Blas ​ * 3 night charter with road transfer - This option includes Cayo limon and basically go through all the islands we have taken off the list of our recommended spots. Still, choose this if you need to keep your transfer costs down. * 3 night charter with flight transfer -Things here start to make a bit more sense: you will be able to see Cayo Coco Bandero along with Cambombia and other amazing spots of the archipelago and pristine Caribbean sailing destinations * 5 night charter with road transfer- Dutch Cays, the Pool and BBQ islands at your reach, the amazing San Blas opens up to you * 5 night charter with flight transfer - Fly in and you will see both Cayo Coco Bandero and Cayos Holandeses ​ * 7 night charter with road transfer - Multiple islands in the cays, experiences and time to blend with the environment and culture * 7 night charter with flight transfer- Total disconnection from the busy world, an immersion in Paradise Whatever itinerary you choose for sailing the San Blas islands, we will make sure you make the most of if. Contact us now for your catamaran sailing charter in the San Blas islands, Panama.

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

Flying to the San Blas Islands is done through the local terminal at Albrook in Panama City. Private flights to San Blas, Panama are done with 2-8 seater planes with 40 minutes flight time. ------------------------------------ Check out our latest post: Flights from Panama City to San Blas: Ultimate Guide on CatamaranAdventures.net ------------------------------------ Flying to San Blas has never been easier. There are no regular flights and Air Panama does not fly to the archipelago but private planes can be easily booked through us. Hassle free private flight transfers to the heart of San Blas. Corazon de Jesus. Air transfers to San Blas are mainly indicated for guests reluctant of the typical 4 hour total road and water taxi transfers that depart from your hotel in Panama City and take you to our catamarans in San Blas. Road transfers to San Blas start at around 5:00 AM and location for pickup is the lobby of your hotel or residence. Road transfers are a popular way to getting to San Blas. The vast majority of travelers to San Blas, Panama choose this transfer method mainly because of the lower cost which for most cases is $75/person/way. Other expenses of road transfers are local Kuna taxes of total $20/person and port fees of $3/person/way. If you choose to fly in, and unlike the option of road transfers, there is no need for boarding a water taxi since the catamaran will be located and anchored right next to the runway at Corazon de Jesus, the island where the airport is located. After very light customs formalities and a $12/guest tax, you will be taken to the catamaran; that is a 2 minute water transfer. Choosing a road transfer from Panama City requires you boarding a water taxi which will take around 50 minutes, so take that into consideration when deciding. Flights to San Blas; useful information (PAC) Panama, PA Panama City / Albrook Int. is the code for Albrook terminal and your starting point if you choose to fly to San Blas. We can take care of all your transfers also from your location to Albrook terminal. If you would like to be transferred from Tocumen International airport to Albrook, we can also provide the necessary private road transfers. Tocumen International airport to Albrook local airport is around 30 minutes ride. Make sure you detail your needs upon making your reservation. Alternatively as an option, we can also send our private planes to Tocumen international airport to pick you up and transfer you to San Blas. This option is also available on the way back from San Blas and we can fly our planes directly to Tocumen International so that you can catch your plane back to your country or next destination. Flight time from Corazon de Jesus, San Blas islands is 40 minute, but just to be sure, please book your flights back to your country for 12:00 midday or later so that you have enough time to comfortably catch it. Flying in and out also gives you the flexibility to choose your own flight departure hours, so you may depart from Panama City to San Blas at the time you are most comfortable with. Check out time of the catamaran will be adapted accordingly and fixed to the same time your landing was. How much does it cost to fly to San Blas? Private planes total prices carrying: - 2 passengers for $650/way, maximum carrying weight of 450 lbs - up to 5 passengers for $690/way, maximum carrying of 750 lbs - up to 8 passengers flying in two separate private planes for $1600/way, maximum carrying 1500 lbs -up to 8 passengers flying in one single private plane for $1900/way, maximum carrying 1600 lbs 8,5% tax not included in the flight prices Prices shown are one way for the whole cost of the plane carrying the indicated guests Mandatory $20/guest airport tax paid to the indigenous. Make sure you visit www.catamaranadventures.net for updates and latest news on traveling to San Blas and specially transfers available. Contact us for any questions related to types of air transfers to San Blas.

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.

Flights from Panama City to San Blas have become increasingly popular mainly due to the cuts in costs. In this guide we cover the ins and outs of flying to San Blas. Needless to say that flying to San Blas is the right option in most cases and that a yacht charter in the San Blas islands is definitely improved when choosing a flight transfer over of a road transfer. Top 5 reasons why flying to San Blas is highly advisable: 1 Flying time is 40 minutes instead of the 4 hour road/water taxi transfers 2.Depart location can be Albrook local or Tocumen international as an option 3. Fly in and you skip the road and water taxi which is not comfortable for some 4. Landing at Corazon de Jesus is a stone throw away from the Cays. Coming in by road and water taxi puts you 2 hours sail away from the tip of Dutch Cays 5. Costs of flying is down compared to previous years Where do you catch the plane for San Blas? Albrook local airport which is in Panama City or Tocumen international airport as an option which is nice because you can get to San Blas without having to change airports Where do flights land? Corazon de Jesus and el Porvenir Which of the 2 landing locations is the best? We prefer Corazon de Jesus because it is an easy reach to the Cays but we could fly to el Porvenir at times if needed How long are the flights to San Blas Corazon de Jesus or el Porvenir? 40 minutes What times do private flights to San Blas depart? Since they are private, they can take off at any time you decide. ALthough 6-8 AM flights are the standard and we prefer our guests to leave to San Blas early morning,we can always adapt to whatever time in the day. Note that the airports in San Blas do not have lights and flying in and out must be done during daylight. Is it safe to fly to San Blas? Some of our guests are generally afraid of flying in small private planes. It goes without saying that the air industry in Panama is 100% regulated and inspections are implemented as they would be back in the US or any other western country. With no flying issues on record, we can determine that flights to San Blas are totally safe. Are the flights to San Blas private or shared? Flights are private. Regular airlines such as Air Panama do not fly to San Blas, only small private planes do. How do I go from the airport in San Blas to the catamaran? The captain of the catamaran will be waiting for you next to the runway and will take you onboard using the dinghy on a short 2 minute ride. Is weight a problem when catching a private flight to San Blas? It can. you have to pack light and observe the weight limits on the plane booked How much does it cost to fly to San Blas? 2 passengers for $650/way, maximum carrying weight of 450 lbs up to 5 passengers for $690/way, maximum carrying of 750 lbs up to 8 passengers flying in two separate private planes for $1600/way, maximum carrying 1500 lbs up to 8 passengers flying in one single private plane for $1900/way, maximum carrying 1600 lbs Prices shown are one way for the whole cost of the plane carrying the indicated guests 8,5% tax not included. Mandatory $20/guest airport tax paid to the indigenous. How do you book the flight to San Blas? Simply send us your total personal and luggage weigh along with your names and passports. We will take care of the rest. San Blas Islands Yacht charters

BVI Catamaran Sailing Charters Vs San Blas Catamaran Sailing Charters There is no clear winner in this battle, it ultimately depends on what you are looking for and what you call "Paradise". The exponential increase in large cruise ships carrying vast amounts of tourists to the major sailing charter destinations in the Caribbean including the BVIs has bought the corresponding deterioration of the once peaceful and picturesque anchorages and other locations. What was once the most requested sailing locations are not only losing their charm, but also giving way to a totally different type of tourism, and one that will completely change the scene. Not that the BVIs, the USVIs are totally lost, but hey! it is just not the same as years before. Back in 2019 before the pandemic, the number of cruise ships were already noticeable. Fast forward to 2022 and in the post pandemic scenario, the numbers are well above the 500k cruise passengers/year. Unexpected boost | More than 64K in cruise passengers coming this season Let’s face it: for tax collection purposes, governments of the major sailing charter destinations will always prefer to profit from major operators like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Lines and others, rather than trying to collect their taxes from a myriad of small charter operators or even worst, yacht owners licensed to charter their own catamaran or sailboat. This fact plays a major role in the transformation of the off the beaten path sailing destinations into a more "tourist-friendly" locations with all kinds of services, including popular tourist attractions... Not all in the BVIs is bad, for one, for once you have the best catamarans available in the market and a lot of them can be rented as bareboat, such thing does not occur in San Blas. Our catamarans have attached an all inclusive service including captain, cook and provisioning and the cost at a first glance is higher than renting a catamaran elsewhere. Main reason why bareboat charters are not possible: San Blas is a labyrinth of reefs and hidden navigation dangers Why is it like this and why is the price of catamaran sailing charters are more in the San Blas islands in comparison to the BVIs? San Blas and the more than the 365 islands that comprise this archipelago, not only are the most secluded part of the Caribbean, but they are also extremely hard to navigate and that should only be attempted by local captains. Food, water, decent diesel etc, is not only overpriced but 40 miles out of the away No marinas or any repair facility within easy reach. Added to this scenario there is also the peculiarities of the Guna people and their "shailas" or chiefs who do not permit any major player not connected in any way and to the local population of indigenous. Moorings, Sunsail and Dream Yacht Charter in San Blas? Conclusion: Choose a catamaran charter in the BVIs for the regular sailing experience, social exposure and similar culture and ways. Choose sailing San Blas on a catamaran for a mix of secluded anchorages, untouched nature with vibrant underwater life and an the cultural enrichment derived from interaction with the Guna Indigenous. Catamaran Adventures San Blas

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.

Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid on a Private Yacht Charter in San Blas Being prepared for such an out of this world sailing trip is vital. Don’t think San Blas is anywhere similar to the British Virgin Islands or Croatia, it’s much better! We’ve said it before: embarking on an all-inclusive catamaran trip in the San Blas islands is a unique experience in a unique part of the world. Peculiarities of the topography with the more than 365 islands and the interesting and perfectly preserved Guna indigenous culture, make for an inviting scenario not only sailors but for all kinds of travelers, including families with children, friends and couples. Best is to be prepared. follow thee simple recommendations as possible. Avoid these 10 typical mistakes when coming to San Blas: Try to use the air transfer instead of the road. You will cut down your transfers from +4 hours to 40 minutes and your starting point will be the runway deep down in the best part of the San Blas islands Cultural shock ahead: leave your prejudices aside, there are other ways to approach life and living the "here and now" in symbiosis with the ecosystem like in Guna Yala is perfectly fine Do not rush: relax and watch the magic unfold Try not to connect from your homeland directly to San Blas and be careful with your plane ticket times in and out ot San Blas. It is advisable to book your planes in and out of Panama so that you can have a night rest in Panama City before your departure to San Blas, likewise upon return from San Blas, try to book a night in Panama City if possible. Having a decent buffer time in between transfers will give you peace of mind. Bring appropriate clothes for Tropical weather. Avoid thick fabrics. Bring along a nice cap and sunglasses, a rash guard and flip flops. Do not overpack, you will regret it Do not drink too much onboard, do not think this is Ibiza and be focused on what is in front of you You think you can use your credit card... not here. Bring some cash along to get yourself some of the amazing mola handcrafts Rent a catamaran that has all the water toys you need, air conditioning if possible and is big and stable enough to satisfy your needs. Choose only professional crew with 5 star. You do not need a “fake nice crew” you need a professional, consistent, open to suggestions crew that will go that extra mile in order to show you the best islands and experiences in San Blas but also is respectuous of your privacy and know when and how to act and what to propose. Lookout for Daniel, Paloma and Jose: our awarded crew on the Salina 48 catamaran "Mambo Diablo". Clients reviews on this crew are astonishing Book your catamaran cruise in San Blas with a specialist not only in San Blas but also in catamarans. Booking your sailing trip with a company that has no solid reputation, takes along regular charter clients as well as backpackers, does not show their conditions in their FAQ section or is not responsive enough will definitely put not only your money but also your dream plan on the verge of disaster. We´ve said it. Now you can be as prepared as one can be. Catamaran Cruise in the San Blas Islands with Catamaran Adventures San Blas.

Is it Safe to Sail in the San Blas Islands? The San Blas Islands is the safest and most unique year round cruising grounds for all kinds of travelers in the world. Unlike other parts of the Caribbean, the archipelago of Guna Yala is a hazard free region thanks to the indigenous communities and their close watch on all situations. If you have traveled or sailed the Caribbean for sure you have at least had an encounter with some of the pushy locals that often show up next to the boat demanding some sort of collaboration in one way or the other. Merchandise and tours of dubious nature at unreasonable prices are offered from their colorful boats; pricey lobster and other goods are also pushed with insistence. Cordially denying any of the offers might work at times but the reality is that most of the times it just doesn’t work and if the situation is not handled correctly it quickly escalate into and uncomfortable situation. Touristic sail grounds all over the Caribbean and the rest of the world for that matter come together with that sense of uneasiness not found in parts of the world where tourism is limited and no big yacht charter agencies are found like the San Blas Islands. Throughout the years, locals indigenous have had the chance to continue developing their own approach to what a conscious and respectful with the ecosystem life should be. Having sailed the San Blas islands for years we can say that the only reason San Blas is still for the most part intact and the best Caribbean sailing destination is due to the fact that the land, the islands, cannot be sold to foreigners or any outsider not part and the indigenous community. With self determination like in the San Blas autonomous region comes the agility in any process needed to maintain order in any way and that includes security. Closed indigenous communities are excellent when it comes to dealing with any security issues. In case of any event or alert such as the approach of a local squall or culopollo-chokosana, response by not only the Guna authorities but also from all chiefs or sailahs and the whole boating community is swift. A catamaran cruise in the San Blas islands is not only completely safe but also a mind enriching experience that will stay with you for years to come.

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.

It depends on your interests: for isolated and natural locations visit Dutch Cays and Coco Bandero. Those looking for bars, restaurants and a little action, head over to Cayo Limon or Lemon Cays. The archipelago of Guna Yala, also called the San Blas islands, lies in the East coast of Panama and it stretches all through the coast and well into Colombia. More than 365 islands with not even 50 of them inhabited make traveling in San Blas and sailing around the islands a monumental task that can only be successfully approached by experienced sailors with profound knowledge of the area and its peculiarities. The territory of San Blas is not only the islands within it but also part of the tropical jungle ashore. For years the fact that the region of San Blas has been owned and administered by the Kuna Indigenous has kept deforestation and construction away for the most part of the territory thus conserving an amazingly intact tropical ecosystem. * Our tours in San Blas offer not only the possibility to visit the islands and the cays but also the chance to venture upstream into the lush jungle. Jungle tours are run from Corazon de Jesus and Nargana islands where the airport lies; costs are $10 person or less depending on the size of your group. San Blas is safe, completely safe, and opportunities to explore the deep San Blas region should not be overlooked. Let us know upon reservation if you are interested in this 1/2 jungle tour as an addon to your sailing holidays. Our main sailing area in San Blas is the gulf and the islands within it. All inclusive yacht charters are run in the 20 Nautical miles gulf of San Blas area that is protected from the weather and any possible climatology adversities. San Blas sailing is definitely a unique experience and one that will leave you memories for life. But be aware, a catamaran experience such as a crewed catamaran holiday and specially in this remote areas can be served in many ways... For the most part we advise not to visit and stay away from the most famous islands in San Blas, like Isla Perro, Perro Chico, Robeson, Banedub, El Porvenir and Cayo Limon or Lemon Cays. Main reason to keep away from these islands it that they receive vast amounts of mostly Panamanian tourist and tend to get crowded and uncomfortable. Yes, this islands mentioned are also amazingly charming and we do visit them at times, but only during the summer days when tourism declines. The perfect Caribbean catamaran sailing charter must deliver a unique experience that is adapted to your needs, one catamaran experience with that special touch and uniqueness that stands out from the rest of other Caribbean sailing vacations. The ambitious goal of the perfect sailing vacation in San Blas is achieved by sailing away from the more frequented islands and venturing into the true and deep San Blas. Main rule is to set the starting point away from the vicinity of the road access to San Blas and the ports of San Blas. Day tourists can only reach the islands not so distant from the mainland access so as to maximise their time in the San Blas islands. There is an exception though, some very interesting islands to visit such as Aguadup and Soledad Miria must not be overlooked and they are relatively close to the road entrance. If you want a total immersion into the Kuna society and their way of living, these are your islands. Be warned: these islands and the traditional way of living are definitely not your typical tourist attraction. No snorkelling or clears waters in these islands, the proximity of the rivers and their murky waters make this sites not interesting for swimming. Our sailing grounds are basically the islands that compose the outer San Blas, including the vast number of islands and isolated anchorages in Cayo Coco Bandero, Cayos Holandeses (Dutch Cays) with BBQ island, Nargana surrounding islands like Bapurgana and Cambombia along with the great number of inhabited islands easily reached with our dingy or our paddle boards. When found, Kuna indigenous locals are appreciative of our visit and our cordiality and will open their lives and knowledge to us. Unlike other tourist beaten destinations, San Blas still preserves the untouched and calm atmosphere dreamed by many. Embark on a sailing expedition onboard our crewed all inclusive sailing charters in the Caribbean side of Panama. Chose your catamaran, set your dates and let us take care of the rest. We would love to show you the true San Blas.

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.