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Zenith 48' - catamaran.

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Gemini 50' - monohull.

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Private Crewed Charters – Starting from 3 days & 3 nights

Enjoy the exquisite anchorages of Cayos Holandeses or Coco Banderos.

The shared San Blas catamaran cruise with the best privacy (double cabin with en-suite bathroom) and a Native Guna crew.

Captain Morgan’s cruise for 12 days

Discover San Blas, the Caribbean coast of Panama with its historical sites and the Panama Canal.

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Embark on a comfortable all-inclusive adventure on the VIP ONE Catamaran - Lagoon 500.

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We also encourage SUSTAINABLE TOURISM by training and employing NATIVE GUNA captains, first mates and hostesses in conformity with the wish of the local Guna authorities.

The Lost Archipelago of the Guna people

Sailboat rentals with crew in San Blas (Guna Yala), Panama since 1997. Our packages offer more activities than any beach resort. Whether you are on your honeymoon , traveling with friends or on your family vacation, our all-inclusive packages will transform your plans into a relaxing, yet exciting trip through one of the most beautiful archipelagos on the planet.

© 2024 San Blas Sailing. All Rights Reserved. Telephone (507) 314-1800 Telephone (507) 314-1288 Edificio 795B, La Boca, Calle Principal, Balboa, Panama City, Panama.

Sailing the Panama Canal

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

Last Updated on September 13, 2023 by Amy

Sailing the Panama Canal is one of the most amazing experiences of our trip. 

It is expensive to get your boat through, but getting to see the Panama Canal up close and personal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and sure as heck beats sailing the long way around. 

You don’t have to have a boat to have your own canal experience, all it takes is a bit of travel and some luck and you can sail the Panama Canal FOR FREE!

Plus, Panama is a fascinating country to visit.  While we would have liked to stay longer and sail to places like Bocas Del Toro , San Blas Islands, and Las Perlas, it just wasn’t in the card for us!

Note: prices are based on our experience in 2016 and are subject to change.

Table of Contents - Click to Jump

Planning to Sail the Panama Canal on Your Boat

Shelter bay marina.

Shelter Bay Marina is definitely the hub of yachties doing the canal transit.  It’s a convenient place to get work done, pick up crew, and make your plans.  It’s also got quite the cruising network.  We attended happy hours, domino games, movie nights, and went on walks with the pleasure of other cruisers for our company.  Use caution though, as many boats get “stuck” in Shelter Bay.

Read our tips & tricks for staying at Shelter Bay Marina .

Should You Use an Agent?

In Grenada, we contacted several agents for Panama, and we decided on Roy Bravo. We kept in touch with Roy on our passage over to Panama, and he met us a few days after we arrived.

Our Agent Experience

It is not required that you use an agent, but there are a lot of difficulties that the agent will help you with. For example, we didn’t have to go into Colon to clear into the country, Roy took care of that for us. We also didn’t have to post a bond, which saved us from spending I think $800, which we would get back in Panama City but might have to wait to receive it. Roy also saved us from a trip to the bank to post that bond. Also, Roy arranged our fumigation certificate, which is required to enter the Galapagos.

We had hoped to meet with Roy, clear in, get measured, and then leave to spend some time in either the San Blas or the Chagres River. However, we decided to make a few trips to Panama City instead, so we kept the boat in Shelter Bay Marina.   When we met with Roy, he walked us through the process, gave us advice, and scheduled the measurement.

Organizing without an Agent

Our friends on S/V Blanchette didn’t use an agent, and it sounded a lot more complicated.  Overall, we paid Roy $450 for the “Transit Agency Fee”.  The toll itself was $800, in addition to several other fees.  It was great to work with Roy, we highly recommend him.  You can reach him at roybravo67 at yahoo dot com.

Measurement

A few days later our admeasurer, Hiro, came. He went through all the paperwork with us for the canal, inspected the boat, and of course, measured. Starry Horizons came in at just over 45′, including the bowsprit. If you are over 50′ there is an additional fee.

There are four options for how a small boat can go through the canal:

• Center solo: you are in the center of the canal behind or in front of a ship, and tie to the wall by four lines, one on each corner.  This means you need four GOOD and ACTIVE line handlers to manage your lines.  This also means you might have to wait longer to transit, as you’d be going in a row all by yourself.
• Against the wall: you tie to the wall with two lines, your fenders between you and the wall.  In this case, you need two active line handlers, but you would need your additional crew to manage fenders and the risk is greater of your boat being damaged against the wall.
• Side tie: a boat (usually commercial) ties to the wall, and then one or two small boats stack up next to the tug.  There’s no active line handling as your boat rises or lowers, the vessel tied to the wall handles it.
• Rafted: two or three small boats tie up together in the center of the canal behind or in front of a ship.  The two outside boats have two lines each going to the wall.  This means you might need two active line handlers or none.

When you are filling out the paperwork with your admeasurer, they will ask you which options you are willing to do.  We said all except for against the wall.

At this time of year, after your measurement, the soonest you can transit is 3-4 days later. We opted to wait until the 9th so that all of our friends could make it for the transit. During the slow season, you can transit the next day if you want.

Supplies and Crew

Each boat sailing the canal will have six persons onboard for the transit.  There’s the captain, the agent, and four line handlers needed. If you are only double-handed like us, there are a few options for getting additional crew: have friends fly into Panama to crew (for us, we easily found four friends to come, meaning we actually had an extra hand onboard), take on a line handler for free (see below), or hire someone.  You can hire a line handler at $120 per person through your agent.

There is a really interesting article titled Shipwrecked on a Panama Canal Transit,  written by Carolyn Lambert.  As always, don’t come in at night or in a situation you are uncomfortable with relying on information from someone you don’t trust 100%.

Fenders and lines are available through your agent as well.  We went ahead and did this, as the thick, long nylon ropes are ideal for transiting and we didn’t want to use our nice dock lines.  The fenders provided are huge, as you will see in the photos.  All the better to prevent damage.  The rates were $120 for four lines and $120 for six large fenders.  Some people use tires or rent through other means.  Tires will leave big black marks on your boat though.

Going on Someone Else’s Boat

Believe it or not, it’s actually fairly easy to volunteer as crew on someone else’s boat.  Everyone needs to have four line handlers aboard, plus the captain and agent.  Since most cruising boats are two people on board, cruising boats need three additional crew to go through the canal.

Where to Find a Boat

Most boats travel from east to west in general, and that stays true for the canal.  Shelter Bay Marina has a few rooms for let, so you can fly into Panama City and travel down to Shelter Bay.  We recommend taking an Uber – it’s a long haul but fairly cheap.  There is a train first thing in the morning to Colon, where you can then pick up a taxi to Shelter bay.  Or, the cheapest route is to take a bus from Panama City to Colon and then a taxi to Shelter Bay.

How to Find a Boat in Shelter Bay

Once you arrive in Shelter Bay, just as with any boat hitchhiking, there are a few tips to find your boat.  Walk the docks every day and talk to people.  Post a flyer on the bulletin board.  Attend events at the marina like the swap shops and happy hours.  A cruisers net operates every morning on the VHF.  One of the sections is crew wanted or needed, and there’s almost always someone either looking to crew or looking for crew.

Crewing on S/V Blanchette

While in Shelter Bay, we talked to several boats about crewing for them.  Eventually, we met our neighbors just down the dock, a boat named Blanchette.  Dave and Stephanie are on a Leopard 44 with their two kids.  A friend of theirs from back home in Canada, Taylar, was also flying in, rounding out our four deckhands.

We were very glad to transit with or friends first because it gave us a taste of what the transit would be like for us.  And because our configuration ended up being different from Blanchette’s, it was a slightly different experience.

Blanchette went through all the locks rafted up. That meant that two line handlers on each boat really had to be paying attention and properly paying out the lines.

While you are being a line handler, you can expect to have a place to sleep during your one night on the transit, and you can expect to be feed over the two days.

Our Transit Through the Panama Canal

The day before sailing the Panama Canal, Roy came by with our rented lines and fenders.  We sent out a link to the webcams so that friends and family all over the world could watch our transit.

Flying A Drone in the Panama Canal

We asked Roy Bravo if we could fly our drone in the canal.  He said you have to get permission to fly it from your agent on the boat.  Our first set of locks, Carlos said that we could fly the drone, but after a few minutes, security told us we had to bring it down.  Edgar, our second agent, said we couldn’t fly it in the lock but we could fly it in the Gatun Lakes.

We had four friends fly in to join us for our transit.  Hans, another Helia owner who we originally met in Miami flew in from Brazil.  One of my best friends, Sara, flew in with her friends Trevor and David from New York.  They were such troopers!  Everyone was very easy going and self-entertaining.  There was definitely a high excitement level on the boat, as everyone was just excited to be here and participating in such a momentous event.

The day of the transit we departed Shelter Bay at 3:20 pm to head over to the Flatts Anchorage. While small boats can anchor here anytime, most chose not to due to safety concerns and lack of amenities.  As soon as we anchored I got dinner ready. I cooked chicken curry, and when our adviser, Carlos, arrived at 5:15, we all sat down to have dinner. Carlos has been an adviser for a long time, and he advised Honeymoon when they went through!

The Gatun Locks

After dinner, we waited for our large ship to come through the channel, and discussed our arrangements to get through. Our configuration and timing changed about 4 times!  As soon as our ship passed we upped our anchor and headed to follow our buddy boat, Plane to Sea.

At the first lock, we spent quite a bit of time holding, waiting for the tanker to get settled. Then, one of the tugs for that boat tied up to the wall on their port side. Plane to Sea motored in and tied up to the tug, and then we tied up to Plane to Sea. There is a lot of discussion about who should go where. Generally, we have more maneuverability and horsepower than monohull sailboats, so that factors into the equation.

We were the last boat in, so as soon as we passed through the gates they started closing. We had to wait a little while for the water to start to rise, so we all just kind of hung out on the deck. The best part about this configuration is that the tug does all the work adjusting their lines on the wall.  Once we tied Starry Horizons to the tug, we didn’t do a thing!

The Gatún locks are three locks, one after another. After the water went up, the ship in front started up and moved forward. Once they were secured in the next lock, we detached from Plane to Sea and moved backward.  Plane to Sea then detached from the tug and moved back as well. It was a tight fit, but this allowed the tug to move forward and secure on the next lock, followed by Plane to Sea and then Starry Horizons.

Gatun Anchorage

After we went up three times, we detached for the last time and instead of moving back, we took off towards the anchorage.  We anchored for the night just off of the small yacht club, where we were able to find wifi. After we anchored, the pilot boat picked up Carlo, and we all quickly went to sleep.

Motoring to Pedro Miguel Lock

On the 10th, we woke up at 7 am and got ready for our day with a big breakfast. Our adviser, Edgar, arrived at 8 am and immediately we took off. I made breakfast for him underway (sausage, eggs, and bread). It’s a 28 mile motor to the next lock, so the rest of us settled in for the long haul by busting out the playing cards. When we sailed with Blanchette, we saw several crocodiles, but unfortunately, we didn’t see any this time.

Pedro Miguel Lock

We arrived at the Pedro Miguel lock at about 11 am.  It’s just one lock, and we waited a long time for our buddy boats to catch up with us. Again, we had no idea what the arrangement was going to be until these boats arrived. For these next three locks, we ended up having a small cruise ship named Discovery against the wall. We tied up to them, and then another catamaran, a Lagoon 410 named Pavo Real , tied up to us. Once the ship was behind us, the water level dropped and then we detached and traveled the mile to the Mira Flores locks. These two locks have a visitors center and high-quality webcam. At the visitor’s center, people can watch the traffic coming and going through the canal.

If we were to do it again, it’s a great idea to have your website or email address on the boat. That way, anyone on the visitor’s center viewing area can send you pictures they take.

After dropping down twice, the gates opened up to the Pacific!  It was a one-mile motor to Balboa Yacht Club, where Roy came out with the launch boat and picked up our fenders and lines. From there, we motored to the La Playita anchorage and settled down. We all took cold showers, toasted some sparkling wine, and got the drone out to take some pictures and video.

After our photoshoot, we piled into the dinghy and went out on the town for a night in Panama City.

Mira Flores Visitor’s Center in Panama City

On Friday all six of us took a taxi to the Mira Flores Visitor’s Center.  We walked through the small museum, watched the 10-minute, slightly-cheesy but informative video, and then watched the boats come and go through the locks.  We actually had great timing – we saw our friends Lanny and Ginger on Swiftsure go through!

Watch the Video:  Sailing the Panama Canal

Panama city for boats.

There are three marinas right by the Pacific side of the Panama Canal: Balboa Yacht Club, La Playita, and Flamenco Marina.

All of these are on the Panama City side (north) of the channel. Balboa YC is closer to town; the other two are out on Flamenco Island, which has a road connecting it to Panama City. It’s very long with no public transportation, so you have to hire a taxi if you want to leave Flamenco Island.

La Playita has an anchorage right in front of the entrance. The anchorage is free but you do have to pay for dingy access.

Waiting to Sail the Pacific

It was an El Niño year when we sailed through the Panama Canal, which means that it was pretty calm out in the Pacific. We waited around La Playita for a bit until we got bored.

We filled up our diesel at Flamenco Marina to prepare for our passage to the Galapagos, and then we went out into the Las Perlas.

This quiet archipelago about 35 miles from Panama City. We first stopped at Isla Chapera . It was beautiful but more remote than we thought – no cell phone service.

We still had a few things we needed the internet for, so after two nights we headed over to La Contadora , the biggest town in the Perlas.

No free wifi, but good cell phone service meant we were able to wrap up a few things (like handling our 2015 taxes!) and keep an eye on the weather. And then we just…relaxed. David’s done a few small projects, but mostly we’ve been reading, exercising, and watching some tv.

For the weekend though, La Contadura got a bit more full. There were several yachts (in the 75′ range) complete with water sports – jet skis and ski boats. Oddly enough, in the center of a bunch of anchored sailboats, a fishing vessel plunked down. They were a bit loud, smelly, and I’m pretty sure they were causing a slick over the water, so we decided to up and head further south.

We anchored at Viveros Island next, and although we were in a large bay, the only other boat there was a catamaran tucked behind an island from us and out of sight. Our 360 view was nothing but beaches (some black sand) and jungle shores.

Cruising Guide to Panama

The best cruising guide to Panama is Eric Bauhaus’ The Panama Cruising Guide . We bought ours at Shelter Bay Marina 2nd hand.

Books on Panama

• Fodor’s Panama
• Empire of Blue Water
• The Path Between the Seas
• How Wall Street Created a Nation

16 Comments

Sounds like a fantastic adventure that I never even thought about or heard of until now! It sounds like Roy was amazing and made this trip perfect for y’all. And that boat WOW it is nice. Thanks for sharing your lovely adventure.

• Pingback: Happy 100th Anniversary: Visit Panama Canal | Luggage and Lipstick

That looks like a fun experience!!

Now I want to fly there and volunteer as a crew 😉 I had no idea it was such an adventure to traverse the canal. It sounds awesome! 😀

WOW! Hope I can traverse the Panama Canal someday via my boat. We’re cruising around the Bahamas currently but maybe in a couple years!

It’s a pretty amazing experience!

I thought it was cool watching the boats cross, but this is such an interesting perspective from someone actually making the crossing!

What a cool adventure! I would really explore the world a bit more from the sea. I just wished I knew how to sail, haha.

No sailing skills required to hitch a ride most times.

Oh, that’s good to hear!

This is such great information! And I loved seeing the A&M shorts and Cowboys hat in your pic!! <3

Haha. Thanks!

Sailing culture is so foreign to me – I’ve paddled through locks before, but nothing near the logistics of this voyage! I think I’d opt for hitching a ride and letting someone else figure out all the hard work! Shelter Bay sounds like a fun place to hang out, though!

Shelter bay was fun. The nearby jungle is wild – we have another post about that. Howler monkeys!!!

Congratulations on a successful passage! I am glad it was such a smooth experience for y’all!! 🙂 Jan / Mom

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• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Sailing Panama: Exploring idyllic islands just miles from the famous canal

• March 18, 2020

Sheridan Lathe shares her veterinary skills with the locals on a unique cruise of the Panama islands of Las Perlas

Photo: Age Fotostock / Alamy

We looked out at the expectant faces before us: kids with footballs in hand, an elderly woman yelling at the teenage boys to turn down their reggaetón music, and two dozen dogs ready for their first ever trip to the vet. As the storm clouds began rolling in over our makeshift clinic on a local islander’s porch, with our yacht anchored in the bay in front of us in just 1m of water, we couldn’t help but wonder what exactly we had got ourselves into.

That feeling was typical of our new way of living. After buying our first boat in December 2016, only to poke a hole through the aluminium hull with a toothbrush (more on that later…), we were certainly learning that boat life is anything but boring.

Chuffed is a 37ft Gamelin Madera, built in France in 1990. And, despite a few challenges, her name reflects how we feel about living aboard: it is British/Aussie slang for feeling content and pretty pleased with life.

Chuffed ran the gauntlet of squalls and encounters with whales in the Gulf of Panama – but there were also peaceful anchorages

After living the 9-5 routine in Australia I decided to take a chance on a unique job providing veterinary care to rescued bears in China. This in turn inspired my husband, Joel, to pursue his dream of working with boats and he managed to land himself a job as an assistant shipwright in Northern Queensland.

A year later we decided it was time for us to combine our passions for animals, the ocean and boats, and sold all our material possessions to purchase Chuffed . We’ve been living aboard ever since, sailing the Pacific Coast of Panama providing free veterinary care and education to local organisations and communities in need.

There was a lot of work ahead of us before we could reach the Islands of Las Perlas. As with many boats bought cheap, Chuffed needed some care and attention before we could cast off. While I was working in China I received an anxious voice message from Joel in Panama. “Hi Sheddy,” he said. “I’ve just got my toe over a hole in the hull, we’re taking on a bit of water… But it’s all good, my toe is doing the trick and my friends are coming over with some epoxy.”

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With a cork poking out of the toothbrush-sized hole we booked an emergency haul out with a full hull overhaul; this included scraping off the barnacle beard, welding some questionable areas and new antifouling. Once she was back in the water I arrived on board to find Chuffed in complete bedlam. Tools littered the cockpit and saloon, there was no running water and the heads consisted of a yellow five-gallon bucket. This was not the yachting life I’d dreamed of.

Soon enough we sorted out the major problems; a new water pump, a repaired toilet, and Chuffed ’s hull had never looked better. However, there was still work to be done. I tackled Panama’s chaotic public transport systems to obtain much needed anaesthesia, pain relief, surgical equipment and other veterinary supplies we’d need for our trip.

Finally, it was time to raise the sails and make our way to the islands of Las Perlas, 40 miles south of Panama City. Humpback whales migrate through these waters from July to October, so we were constantly in the midst of these gentle giants. We couldn’t resist the opportunity to swim alongside with snorkels and waterproof camera. One whale nearly ran into our boat, but thankfully we avoided collision and made it safely to anchor.

Islands on the horizon in the Gulf of Panama

Near whale collisions were not the only difficult part of sailing in the Gulf of Panama. Weather in this area is difficult to predict, with unexpected squalls, sudden changes in wind direction and large swells. The weather is heavily influenced by the Inter-Tropical Conversion Zone (ITCZ), where the southern and northern tradewinds meet, creating a band of confused weather.

From May to November the ITCZ moves to its northern-most position, which was of course the time we chose to visit Las Perlas. Not only that but weather from both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans can affect the Gulf, with only a narrow strip of land separating the oceans.

The journey began under motor, there was no wind in sight but thankfully we’d chosen to make the short journey to Isla Taboga first, only nine miles from our anchorage in Las Brisas, Panama City. After an hour of motoring the weather took a turn, and with the wind blowing directly on our nose we decided to tack our way to Isla Taboga.

Once settled we took advantage of the calm waters in the anchorage to do a final hull clean; the Gulf of Panama is rich in nutrients – great for marine life but not so good for the lifespan of the antifouling and Chuffed had accumulated a beard of algae and barnacles.

We were then off to Las Perlas, once again with very little wind. We managed to raise the sails for a few hours but the majority of the trip was spent motoring the Doldrum-like conditions of the Gulf of Panama, with seas so flat you could see a perfect reflection of the boat gliding along.

As we neared the archipelago we had to pass the narrows between Isla Mogo Mogo and Isla Casayete; a difficult task with a whale and her calf blocking the way. Thankfully we’d already dropped the sails and were able to drift past them as they played.

Chuffed is a 37ft Gamelin Madera, built in France in 1990

We finally ended up in the village of San Miguel, the largest in the Las Perlas archipelago towards the northern end of Isla Del Rey. San Miguel is home to 1,000 people and approximately 120 dogs. The villagers mostly work as fishermen, supplying their catch to resorts on surrounding islands. Tidal changes of over 5m makes anchoring in the shallow bay a bit of fun, though thankfully our swing keel means we can convert Chuffed to a flat-bottomed boat so she can float in just 1m of water.

As we made our way to shore aboard our dinghy a beautiful sight greeted us: brightly coloured fishing boats lined the beach, in front of a hill crowded with makeshift houses with dense jungle surroundings, while a pack of dogs played in the sand. We unpacked our plethora of veterinary supplies, jammed tight in suitcases, dry bags and toolboxes, and made our way through the vivid thoroughfare of the village to the small orange dwelling that was to be our veterinary clinic for the next five days.

As soon as we began setting up, we had people and their dogs already waiting to see us, with a long list of appointments our local contact had arranged – not that appointments have much meaning when everyone runs on ‘island time’. Our surgery suite was a small undercover porch, with just enough room for Joel, myself and our surgery table.

Sheridan Lathe treated and operated on dozens of dogs in Las Perlas – more often than not under the curious eyes of the locals

It also provided the perfect viewing platform for locals, and we were to be the best entertainment in town. The combined kitchen, dining and lounge area, totalling around 10m 2 , was converted into a patient recovery, storage and cleaning space.

Working in a remote area with limited supplies turns you into a bit of a veterinary cowboy – rigging up contraptions to deliver intravenous fluids, stabilising our patients’ surgical position using towels and tying up patients wherever you could to prevent escape.

Many of these dogs had never been held, let alone restrained by a vet, so we administered a sedative half an hour before surgery to help them feel calm. This would often leave the dogs acting like a drunk and more than once we had to rescue a patient that was weaving their way down the hill after escaping their confines.

Maintaining a healthy pet population improves health outcomes for people too

San Miguel does not get a lot of foreign visitors, let alone foreign visitors wielding scalpel blades. As soon as the school bell rang children would come running and screaming down the street to watch the surgeries take place.

These surgeries were not pretty, with blood and organs appearing regularly, much to the delight of the local kids. The only doctor on the island also turned up to watch: he does surgery so infrequently he had many questions and thought it was a great learning opportunity.

It was like no veterinary clinic I have ever worked in. With errant soccer balls flying at my head, patients trying to mate each other and music blasting from every house on the street it was hectic to say the least!

Joel and I averaged eight surgeries and 20 patients a day, while also cleaning and preparing all our own equipment. By the time evening rolled around it was all we could do to take the dinghy back to Chuffed , eat some instant noodles and fall asleep ready to start all over again the next day.

The language barrier also provided entertainment to the locals and added an extra challenge for us. We learned quickly, with broken Spanish and hand gestures proving sufficient to explain even the most bizarre of medical conditions, including one hermaphroditic dog. Explaining that their beloved pet had both female and male parts caused much hilarity, especially for the watching teenagers.

Living, sailing and working in San Miguel was one of the most amazing experiences we have ever had. The community invited us into their homes and lives. Locals would walk up with bottles of soda, handfuls of apples and fresh fish for us to enjoy. They would tell us about their lives, the economy and their struggles.

They trusted us because we were providing a completely free service to their community. We learnt about the difficulties young people face finding work in the city, the constant problems with power and water supply and the lack of veterinary care for their animals. The closest vet for these islands is in Panama City, a 40-mile boat journey.

It was a rewarding experience providing veterinary care for the animals and their humans. The health of the environment, animals and people is intricately linked and if one suffers they all suffer. An overpopulation of dogs has increased risk of disease to the dogs, wildlife and humans, and puts a strain on the community trying to feed, shelter and care for a growing dog population.

As I placed the closing suture in our final patient, storm clouds rolled in. Gusts of wind were blowing the surgical equipment all over the porch, and we couldn’t help but feel the gods were telling us we had done enough. We’d spayed every female dog in the village, effectively stopping the growth of the dog population, at least for now. We’d provided treatment for more than 100 dogs, with a range of conditions from intestinal parasites to fleas and respiratory infections. We had truly made a difference.

Las Perlas offers amazing cruising waters for short or long-term stays. With over 200 islands in the archipelago, many of which are completely uninhabited, there are endless opportunities to explore.

Anchoring in some areas can be difficult, especially for boats with deep draught because there are many rocks and shoals scattered between islands, and some passages that are only a few metres deep at high tide.

But this island playground is perfect for a modest boat like Chuffed , with her lifting keel we were able to anchor close to the beach, and sit on the sandy bottom. Our favourite spot to explore was Isla Espiritu Santos (Holy Spirit), a tiny uninhabited Island located on the eastern side of Isla Del Rey that is rich with wildlife, including iguanas, waterfowl and plenty of fish – not that we managed to catch any with Joel’s Hawaiian sling harpoon.

We explored miles of coastline, not all without incident. Entering the south-eastern anchorage of San José is tricky in the best conditions – a shoal in the middle of the bay creates a huge rolling break and massive pillars of rock form dangerous islands on both the northern and southern points.

Sailing Panama in the wet season guarantees regular squalls, and one such storm kicked up the waves before we entered this bay. It was at the exact moment we passed one of the rock pillars that our engine cut out. We quickly unfurled enough headsail to keep momentum, and fortunately managed to restart the engine within minutes to make it to anchor.

The islands of Las Perlas are barely 40 miles south of Panama City, but are rarely visited. Photo: Hemis / Alamy

The Pacific coast of Panama offers much to the sailing community; with a cruising permit of nine months (and six months on your personal visa) it allows you plenty of time to explore. While anchored in the free anchorage of Las Brisas in Panama City we were able to take advantage of being close to civilisation and taking the opportunity to visit the Miraflores Museum, which documents the construction and history of the Panama Canal.

We had some amazing experiences: rescuing a critically endangered marine turtle, hiking the jungle in search of rare frogs and enjoying some spectacular sunsets, cocktail in hand. We’re privileged to be doing what we love, and even a bad day on board still beats the daily grind of our old lives.

About the author

Sheridan and Joel Lathe are sailing around the world, offering free veterinary care to communities in need. They blog and vlog their adventures, you can follow and donate to support their work at: vettails.com and facebook.com/vet0tails

First published in the September 2018 edition of Yachting World.

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Land Tours and Activities

Panama city bike tours.

• ** All Panama City Bike Tours
• Amador Causeway Bike Tour
• Casco Viejo City Bike Tour

Panama Mountain Biking Tours

• ** All Panama Mountain Biking Tours
• Cocoa Plantation Mountain Bike Tour

Panama Canal Tours

• ** All Panama Canal Tours
• Monkey Island + Sloth Sanctuary Panama
• Panama City & Canal Tour
• Jungle Land Floating Lodge Panama Canal Tour
• Miraflores Locks Express Tour
• Fort Sherman, San Lorenzo, and Canal Historical Tour
• Panama Canal Partial Transit
• Panama Canal Full Transit

Nature & Eco Tours

• ** All Nature & Eco Tours
• Monkey Island Tour
• Monkey Island & Indian Village Combo Tour
• Metro Park & Punta Culebra Discovery Eco-Tour
• Hiking Metropolitan Natural Park Nature Trails
• Bird Watching Metropolitan Natural Park
• El Valle de Anton Explorer
• Kayaking Lake Gatun, Panama Canal & Monkey Island

Shore Excursions

Public panama shore excursions departing panama city.

• ** All Public Panama Shore Excursions Departing Panama City
• Hop On Hop Off Panama City Sightseeing Tour
• Taboga Island One Day Tour

Express Panama Shore Excursions For Limited Times in Port

• ** All Express Panama Shore Excursions For Limited Times in Port
• Casco Viejo Panama Express Tour
• Panama City Past to Present Combo Tour
• Indian Village Tour
• Private Guided Shore Excursions - Panama City
• Private Guided Shore Excursions - Colon

Private Boat Charters in Panama City

• ** All Private Boat Charters in Panama City
• Panama City Boat Rentals - 27' Proline

Sightseeing Tours

• ** All Sightseeing Tours
• San Blas Islands One Day Explorer
• Panama La Vieja Express Tour
• Customized Private Sightseeing Tours

Water Tours and Activities

Taboga island & pearl island boat tours.

• ** All Taboga Island & Pearl Island Boat Tours
• Panama Catamaran Tour to Taboga Island
• Sonny Island Resort Day Pass in the Pearl Islands
• Pearl Islands Sunday Funday Catamaran Cruise & Beach Break

Panama Canal & Lake Gatun Boat Tours

• ** All Panama Canal & Lake Gatun Boat Tours
• Lake Gatun Kayaking & Horseback Riding Combo

Boat Trips to the San Blas Islands

• ** All Boat Trips to the San Blas Islands
• San Blas Islands Overnight Tour

Private Boat Rentals in Panama

• ** All Private Boat Rentals in Panama

Pagot 56´ Private Catamaran Charter

Pearl islands, taboga & pearl islands beach hopping tours.

• ** All Taboga & Pearl Islands Beach Hopping Tours

Pearl Islands Whale Watching Tours

• ** All Pearl Islands Whale Watching Tours
• Whale Watching Pearl Islands & Isla Bolaños Beach Break
• Pearl Islands Whale Watching & Chapera Island Beach Break

Private Taboga & Pearl Island Excursions

• ** All Private Taboga & Pearl Island Excursions

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Tours

• ** All Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Tours
• Snorkel and Zip-line Caribbean Adventure
• Caribbean Snorkel & Private Island
• Caribbean Scuba & Private Island
• Caribbean 2 Tank Scuba
• Discover Scuba Resort Course

Whale Watching Tours

• ** All Whale Watching Tours
• Pearl Islands Whale Watching & Contadora Beach Break
• Whale Watching Tour from Contadora Island
• Panama Whale Watching Private Charters

Airport Transportion

• COMING SOON

Ground Transportation

Domestic flights.

• Bocas del Toro to San Jose Costa Rica Shuttle
• Bocas del Toro to Puerto Viejo Costa Rica Shuttle

(Private Boat Charters From Panama City to Pearl Islands, Taboga Island or Panama Bay)

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Half Day Panama Bay Morning or Sunset Panama City Boat Rental

You don't need to go far from Panama City to have a wonderful day in Panama Bay. In fact, some of the best views of the Panama City skyline are from just offshore in the Panama Bay. For the best photo ops, plan your trip for sunset. If you have a great camera, the skyline at night is magical! On a 4 hour Panama Bay trip, you can catch a glimpse of the Bridge of the Americas and new Panama Canal expansion at the Cocoli Locks. You will navigate around the Amador Causeway and get a unique view of the iconic and colorful Biomuseum. Your Panama Bay tour will take you up close to the giant ships waiting to enter the Panama Canal before finally heading out towards open sea and the Bay of Panama. You also have the choice of cruising the bay and taking in the spectacular skyline, making a quick stop at Taboga Island, or trying your hand at sport fishing Panama Bay.

Full Day Panama Bay & Taboga Island Exploration

With our Panama City boat rentals, you can customize your own Taboga Island Tour! Take a mini tour of the Amador Causeway before throwing out a couple of fishing lines in Panama Bay. Then park the boat just off the beach on Taboga Isand and start up the BBQ. Choose between more time exploring Taboga Island or more time fishing and exploring Panama Bay. That is the beauty of a private Taboga Island tour, the choice is yours! Private yacht excursions to Taboga Island are actually one of the most popular Panama City bachelor party options. If you like a good crowd, the weekends are packed with boats all anchored off Taboga Island packed with overflowing coolers, blasting music, and a festive weekend scene. If you prefer less crowds, book your private Taboga excursion on a week day. You can explore the island, hang out on the beach, or hit one of the local restaurants for some fresh seafood. This 6 hour private boat charter is perfect for all types of travel styles.

Overnight Panama City to Pearl Islands Excursion Private Catamaran Charter

Want to explore secluded beaches and secret coves of one of the well over 100 islands that make up the Pearl Islands? Our captain and crew know all the best beaches! Looking to snorkel the best reefs? You better believe we know where the best snorkeling in Panama can be found. A big fan of Survivor Island in Panama's Exile Island? We can take you to the real set in the Pearl Islands too! Needless to say, there is no better way to explore the Pearl Islands in Panama than on your own private boat charter. Contact us for your custom quote on this once in a lifetime experience in Panama’s Pearl Islands.

56' Fountain Pagot Catamaran Panama City Catamaran Boat Charter Details

56' Fountain Pagot Catamaran Panama City Catamaran Boat Charter Details Includes:

• * Half day, full day or overnight private charter on 56’ Fountain Pagot sailing catamaran up to 15 people
• * Captain and deck hand
• * Sound system
• * Air conditioned cabin
• * 4 Restrooms & showers
• * Full kitchen
• * Inside and outside dining area
• * Snorkel equipment
• * Fishing gear
• * Boogie board
• * Cooler with ice
• * Bottled water
• * Case of national beers
• * Juice and sports drinks

Departures: Any time any day you choose! Departs from Amador Causeway.

Length: Half day, full day or 2 day charters (additional hours can be added to any itinerary).

56' Fountain Pagot Private Catamaran Boat Charter Panama City Recommendations:

• * Swimsuit & towel
• * Change of clothes
• * Eco-friendly sunscreen (bio-degradable to protect the coral reef)
• * Sun glasses & sun hat
• * Additional snacks and alcoholic beverages if you wish (no glass!)
• * Cash for charter balance, tips and any additional add-on options
• * Your Passport (required at all times in Panama!)

Children: All ages welcome! Bring the whole family!.

Additional Options: Let the crew take care of your lunch for an additional $49 per person. Includes BBQ beef, chicken or sausage, tortillas, arepas and corn salad. Vegetarian options also available.

Insider Tip: This is a great party boat for bachelor parties in Panama, but equally perfect for families with young ones. Sleeping cabins with AC, full kitchen and spacious layout enable the whole family to have fun while affording the young ones the comforts they need.

Cruise Ship Passengers: Explore Panama Bay in style. If you are arriving to Fuerte Amador, the departure point is nearly walking distance.

NOTE: Pearl Islands pricing is per day and requires a minimum of 2 days.

About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.

IMPORTANT NOTICE!!! If you are not a Panamanian citizen, you MUST have your passport on you at all times in Panama.

Reserve Your Pagot 56´ Private Catamaran Charter Now

Panama bay:.

Retail: $1,440.00

The Real Deal: $1,400.00

Taboga Island:

Retail: $2,040.00

The Real Deal: $2,000.00

Pearl Islands:

Retail: $2,880.00

The Real Deal: $2,800.00

::: OPTIONAL ADD ONS :::

BBQ (Per Person):

Retail: $55.00

The Real Deal: $49.00

Inflatable Pool:

Retail: $150.00

The Real Deal: $140.00

Retail: $75.00

The Real Deal: $70.00

Round Trip Transportation (Per Person):

The Real Deal: $20.00

** PLEASE NOTE: Due to strictly enforced sales tax laws in this region, 7% sales tax will be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax already included in the deposit amount.

Half Day Panama Bay Morning or Sunset Panama City Boat Rental deposit is $200.00. (The balance of $1,200.00 in cash must be paid the day of the tour) Full Day Panama Bay & Taboga Island Exploration deposit is $300.00. (The balance of $1,700.00 in cash must be paid the day of the tour) Overnight Panama City to Pearl Islands Excursion Private Catamaran Charter deposit is $400.00. (The balance of $2,400.00 in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs on your schedule.

::OPTIONAL ADD-ONS::

The Panama Tours Site

We are here to assist you!!! Our team visits these countries often to be sure that we bring you the most current and updated information on accommodations, activities, restaurants and more.

• TERMS & CONDITIONS

TOLL FREE +1-866 217-8950

WITHIN PANAMA 836-6036

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Email: [email protected]

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Tips for Transiting the Panama Canal

• By Diane Gorch
• Updated: December 16, 2019

I scrambled out of the ­dinghy onto Minh ’s transom steps as a last-minute addition to the crew, the required fourth line handler needed for a transit of the Panama Canal. The French-flagged 41-foot Fountaine Pajot catamaran was weighing anchor in the Flats anchorage near the Port of Colon, a staging area for vessels preparing to enter the waterway, bound for the Pacific.

Amid a flurry of activity, Bruno, the only English speaker, offered me a kindly welcome aboard as we felt a bump on the port side: Mr. Tito, the rental agent, was delivering four tires wrapped in plastic bags to use as fenders, and four stout 125-foot polypropylene hawsers, which were also necessary for the passage through the canal. In another moment, on the starboard side, a 40-foot steel pilot boat nosed within inches of our hull, and the Canal Authority adviser stepped aboard Minh . Right away, he instructed the captain to get underway and proceed along the 2-mile channel toward the Gatun Locks.

For many cruisers, a transit of the Panama Canal is a milestone accomplishment. The canal itself is an engineering wonder of the world. Completed in 1914, it consists of six locks and 45 miles of waterway, a shortcut between continents connecting the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. It is immense in scale. Each lock is 85 feet deep, 1,000 feet long and 110 feet wide. For the original canal, the maximum dimensions for a Panamax vessel—the term used to describe the midsize cargo ships that will fit the locks—are 965 feet long and 106 feet wide. With only 2 feet to spare on each side, there is little room for pilot error. The design of this canal has dictated the parameters for shipbuilding worldwide for nearly a century.

There are three ways a yacht can proceed through the canal. Perhaps the most common is center-chamber lockage, where boats are rafted up two or three abreast. Yachts can also moor alongside a tugboat or small tourist cruise ship. Or they could be tied against the rough cement walls of the canal, less common and also less desirable because water turbulence can crash your rigging into the side wall. Our adviser told us we would raft up for a center-chamber configuration—one less thing to worry about.

As we motored ahead, we prepared the boat by covering the hatches and solar panels with seat cushions and other thick padding to protect them from the monkey’s fists, which are used by canal workers to heave messenger lines to the boats. We were gradually approached by another yacht, the 42-foot Froot Salid from Australia, to which we rafted up, as instructed by the advisers on each boat. Spring and breast lines held us firmly together. We entered the first Gatun lock after the ship ahead of us was secured. Canyonlike walls rose up on both sides. The captains kept the boats centered under the watchful eyes of the advisers, and soon the canal workers atop the high walls threw down the monkey’s fists with messenger lines to be tied to our hawsers. The workers hauled up our lines, and together the men and boats moved slowly forward to the proper position, where the workers secured our lines to bollards.

The advisers and canal workers communicate effectively with each other using walkie-talkies, but also by sharp whistling, reminding me of Scottish shepherds directing their dogs. I jokingly asked our adviser whether a man who couldn’t whistle could get a job here. He thought for a minute, laughed and said, “Probably not.”

In his book The Panama Cruising Guide (fifth edition) , Eric Bauhaus gives comprehensive information pertaining to transiting the canal. As a line handler, there were two things I needed to keep in mind. First, having a hawser or any other line go afoul of the prop during the transit is bad—really bad. The water churning around the vessel while the lock is filling is turbulent, made even more dangerous by undercurrents and the mixing of fresh and salt water of different densities. Do not fall in; even if your dog falls overboard or your prop gets fouled, do not enter the water for any reason.

The line handlers had to keep a steady tension on the hawsers, holding the boats in position against the turbulent waters.

The second hazard is when the monkey’s fist is thrown to your boat. The fist consists of a ball of lead, covered with woven rope, and it’s enough to crack the cranium of the unlucky swabby who wanders into its path. I was vigilant when the lines were thrown to Minh but was startled when the monkey’s fist intended for Froot Salid landed just ahead of me on Minh ’s deck!

When all was ready with the ship ahead and our rafted yachts, the massive lock gates behind us slowly closed. These impressive doors weigh 800 tons apiece, and are made from massive steel plates joined by hand-forged and hammer-driven rivets from the Steam Age. They are so precisely balanced on their hinges that only a 40 hp engine is required to open and close them.

When they were closed at last, the water began to swirl up in massive, powerful eddies, and the boats slowly rose. As this happened, the line handlers had to keep a steady tension on the hawsers, holding the boats in position against the turbulent waters. Pressures on the mooring cleats can be tremendous and in an upward direction, which the cleat installations must be able to withstand.

The churning water quieted, the lock was filled, and with a metallic rumble, the lock gate ahead opened. Four chunky electric locomotives, weighing 20 tons each, towed the ship forward into position inside the second lock. Once it was in position, our advisers directed us to move our rafted boats forward. Both vessels motored at dead slow into position, and the canal workers manning the bollards walked the hawsers along the wall and up the steps to the top of the next lock. Sharp whistles reminded us line handlers to raise our lines overhead as workers climbed the steps. When we moved into the canyon of the second lock, our lines were secured and the whole process slowly repeated, and again for the third Gatun Lock. After transiting these three locks, the boat lay 84 feet above the level of the Caribbean Sea from which we had started.

Halfway There

As the evening sky ripened to tangerine and scarlet, we left the third Gatun Lock and headed into Lake Gatun. This meandering lake was formed when the Rio Chagres was dammed to create a navigable waterway leading farther on toward the Pacific. The advisers guided us to a giant mooring float, where both boats moored securely with bow, stern and spring lines for the night. This is more convenient for prompt departures because anchors dropped in Lake Gatun might foul on 100-year-old logs or stumps still rooted beneath the dammed waters. As a chorus of howler monkeys heralded the approach of twilight, I dived overboard for a delicious swim in the sweet fresh water, and was soon joined by everyone on both boats, in spite of rumors about lurking crocodiles. Refreshed and relaxed, the wine was poured, the stars came out, and we slept.

After a French breakfast of coffee with fresh crepes and jam prepared by Annick and Charles-Henri, our advisers rejoined us around 0715 and we resumed our passage. We had to maintain a speed of at least 6 knots to stay on schedule. The well-marked shipping channel meanders just over 20 nautical miles through the lake. We kept to the side, as container ships and roll-on/roll-off ferries—or roros—passed us from both directions. It was a quiet passage, revealing glimpses of jungle vegetation, bird life and the geology of the isthmus as we went. Using a mixture of French, Spanish, Portuguese and English, we crewmembers and our cheerful adviser got to know each other a little better throughout the day.

Eventually, we approached the village of Gamboa, where Rio Chagres flows into Lake Gatun near the head of the Gaillard Cut. It is the only settlement along the canal because the waterway lies within a secured area of a large national park. Here the current running toward the Pacific becomes noticeable. Also, there is massive construction on the north side to widen the canal, so the water became muddy, and dreams of splashing in fresh water again slowly expired, if only for a minute. A drenching rain began, which continued for most of the afternoon.

Along the Gaillard Cut—also known as the Culebra Cut, which spans about 7.5 miles—the scenery changes. Here the canal was blasted and carved through rock and shale, right through the Continental Divide, making it the only continental divide on Earth you can sail across. It is still susceptible to landslides. There are sections where the steep, terraced cuts across mountainsides resemble Mayan step pyramids standing silent watch along the passage. Flanked on both sides by those pyramidlike mountains, we passed under the elegant Centennial Bridge, gracefully soaring above the canal.

I asked our Canal Authority adviser about the breakdown of yachts transiting the waterway. He estimated that of recreational boats moving into the Pacific, about 40 percent are French, 20 percent British, followed by German and Australian vessels. Relatively few American yachts pass through. Perhaps they are lured to stay in the Caribbean by the beautiful San Blas Islands, or the ease of obtaining permanent visa or residency offered by the Panamanian government. Fewer yachts pass from the Pacific to the Caribbean because the winds and currents to reach Panama’s Pacific coast are often contrary.

We approached the Pedro Miguel Locks, the first descent toward the Pacific. We rafted this time to a brand-new Amel 64, crewed by at least 16 cheerful 20-somethings. Now the raft of yachts entered first, with a ship looming behind us. We stared at its bulbous bow, thinking that this is as close as we ever want to come to a yacht crusher like this. Over came the monkey’s fists and messenger lines; we secured the hawsers and prepared this time to slowly ease them out as the water fell. In the outgoing locks, the turbulence is much less.

Exiting the Pedro Miguel Locks, the system of buoyage changes. We were now outward-bound, so green markers were kept to starboard; it was “port wine” from here on out.

We proceeded on through the man-made Lake Miraflores to the final two Miraflores Locks. In these chambers, we were lowered another 54 feet. As we approached the first lock, the sky opened up and rain poured down again, continuing for the entire transit of both locks.

The young people on the Amel were singing, dancing and playing guitar in the downpour. On Minh , Andre gallantly stood with a little umbrella over Annick, who was handling the port bowline on the final lock; both of them were soaked to the skin. Bruno mimed a shower scene using his line like a scrubber to wash his back. Laconic Charles-Henri would’ve been chewing a cigar if he’d had one, hunkered down at the wheel. All of this was observed by hundreds of tourists in the cozy, dry observation tower overlooking the second lock. As we exited into the Pacific, there, floating like a log in the water, lurked a fair-size crocodile.

We were now outward-bound, so green markers were kept to starboard; it was “port wine” from here on out.

Waving farewell, we separated from the Amel as the sun melted in the west, and proceeded to the Balboa anchorage where a Canal Authority vessel nosed alongside to pick up our adviser. We anchored at La Playita near the Flamenco Marina in Panama City. Already we were starting to feel the creeping nostalgia of a passage completed.

Our final dinner together was at a little cafe with great wood-oven pizza, wine and multilingual chat. In the morning we would go our separate ways. Annick and Andre would return to their boat in Portobelo, to bring it through the canal in a few weeks; Charles-Henri and Bruno would sail Minh on to the Marquesas and Tahiti. I would rejoin friends Claudia and Rolf aboard Tika and continue our cruise along the steamy Caribbean coast of Panama.

A lifelong sailor and licensed captain, Diane Gorch has been voyaging on yachts around the world for the past eight years.

Know before you go

When do boats go through: Most cruising boats transit from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean, and traffic peaks in February and March. This backs out to an optimal arrival time in French Polynesia’s Marquesas Islands (nearly 4,000 nautical miles away) as the Southern Hemisphere’s cyclone season wanes. To avoid the crush, plan to transit before the World Cruising Club rally passes through in late January. Earlier departures allow an interlude at the Galapagos; it’s easy to bide time in the beautiful Pearl Islands on Panama’s Pacific side too.

Plan ahead: Cruising boats can’t reserve a date in advance; it’s determined after official measurement and payment are completed with canal authorities. Even a quick transit will take a few days to complete these steps. During peak season, it might be several weeks from the time your boat is measured until your assigned transit date.

Cost to transit: Tolls for transiting the canal are set to hike on January 1, 2020, for the first time since 2012. Boats up to 65 feet will be charged a toll of $1,600; for most, that’s double the prior toll. Fees for measurement and security add nearly $200 in additional fixed costs. Other expenses include a Panama cruising permit; the cost to rent lines and fenders (standard boat gear is not sufficient); line handlers, if you need them; and, if you choose, an agent to handle arrangements. It’s easy to add another $1,000 in expenses to the transit.

Equipment required: Four robust lines of 1 to 1.5 inches diameter and at least 125 feet long are obligatory. Fenders too are necessary, and the standard kit on most cruising boats won’t cut it. Many boats use car tires wrapped in plastic to prevent scuffing, but large, sturdy fenders can be rented. Hiring an agent can be a shortcut to quality gear at reasonable rental rates, but it’s also entirely achievable to do this on your own. One requirement we didn’t anticipate was sufficient cockpit shade for the adviser; Totem was required to add canvas to our Bimini frame before transiting. It’s your responsibility to provide meals, snacks and beverages (Coca-Cola preferred) for your ACP (Panama Canal Authority) adviser.

Crew aboard: In addition to the ship’s captain, four line handlers are required. It’s common to pick up crew from other cruising boats, since transiting as a line handler is a time-tested way to gain valuable experience before taking your own vessel through. Experienced handlers can be hired if necessary for about $100 per person. In addition, you’ll also have an adviser assigned by the ACP on board for the duration of the active transit (advisers don’t spend the night aboard in Gatun, but line handlers will).

Greatest risks: Situations such as a line handler thinking about capturing the scene on a GoPro or cellphone instead of listening for directions; cleat access that’s encumbered by deck clutter; or a language barrier between adviser, captain and line handlers all present risks to crew and vessel safety, and are all too common in creating stressful situations during a transit.

Greatest assets: The assigned adviser is key to a safe transit: They have years of canal experience to understand the nuances of current flow in particular locks. A strong adviser, as well as a crew who listens and responds to that adviser, are the greatest assets for an uneventful transit.

Transit duration: Most cruising boats transit in two days, anchoring overnight in Lake Gatun. For boats that can motor at least 7.5 knots, a single-day transit might be assigned; this pre-dawn start winds down by late afternoon and is assigned at the ACP’s discretion.

Canal resources: The official Panama Canal site (pan canal.com/eng) is packed with information, but it’s not terribly user-friendly. By contrast, Mad About Panama’s website has a downloadable eBook with a clear orientation to all aspects of a canal transit. Outside the canal, Eric Bauhaus’ book, The Panama Cruising Guide , is a recognized authority.

Canal transit isn’t just about execution; it’s about the experience. Thanks to the historical nature of the canal, a wealth of books exists to increase your appreciation: The Path Between the Seas by David McCullough is one of the more exceptional reads. A visit to the museum at the Miraflores Locks for a real-time view and interpretive exhibits enriches a later transit. Don’t forget to have friends grab screenshots of your boat in one of the many webcams when your canal day arrives!

For Totem ’s posts on costs, process and experience, visit sailingtotem.com .

—Behan Gifford

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All-Inclusive Taboga Island Excursion

Limited time offer.  - 10% off per person  -  book now -, step in on the biggest catamaran in panama departing from flamenco marina. after a 1hr sail, we visit the back side of taboga island , a virgin bay to swim in open but calm waters. enjoy a cold beer or dance with our crew and sail back to the beach/town for a 2 hour stop. after a tasty lunch on the way back to the city, enjoy the big nets with views of the big ships and skyscrapers..

What´s Included?

• Complete Lunch
• 1 Stop to swim
• 1 Stop at the Beach & Town
• Dancing and Activities
• Lot's of Fun

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Mega-Catamarán Panamá. Excursiones todo incluido a Isla Taboga, Panamá. Para más información RedCatPanama.com

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Aboard the Sea Cloud Spirit

Costa rica and panama expedition cruise.

Costa Rica, Panama

From $9,595

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

The tiny countries of Panama and Costa Rica are home to more species of plants and animals than can be found in all of Northern America and Europe combined, with more than a quarter of their total area under protection of more than 200 national parks, forest reserves, and game sanctuaries. From rainforests and tropical flower paradises to mystical mangrove woods and beautiful beaches, there is no end to the natural highlights that await your discovery on this exciting voyage. The sea surrounding Costa Rica is the perfect place for sailing—and the Sea Cloud Spirit is the perfect yacht to sail in. The ship will cruise between far-flung national parks, ensuring that you arrive completely refreshed and ready to begin each new adventure on land. Highlights include the fascinating Panama Canal, a phenomenal masterpiece of engineering—passing through the mighty locks during the day is a special experience!—and the UNESCO world heritage site of Granada, Nicaragua, with its astounding colonial legacies dating back 500 years.

Arrive: San Jose, Costa Rica (or reverse)

Depart: Panama City, Panama (or reverse)

• Small countries with a lot of natural diversity: Costa Rica and Panama
• Sail the fascinating Panama Canal
• Granada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The green paradises of Costa Rica's national parks
• Expert lecturers accompany each departure

Note: This trip is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as an agent in booking your reservation with the operator. Please download the Rate Sheet in the Dates & Pricing section to see the full pricing details and contact our Cruise Collection Specialists to check availability.

Dates & Pricing

Payment & cancel schedule.

At time of reservation: 25% of trip cost 50 days prior to departure: Balance Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Minimum Cancellation Fee: 10% of trip cost 209-150 days prior to departure: 20% of cruise cost 149-50 days prior to departure: 35% of cruise cost 49-22 days prior to departure: 50% of cruise cost 21-15 days prior to departure: 70% of cruise cost 14-1 days or less: 100% of cruise cost

Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

• All meals onboard, including 5-course gala dinner
• Selected wines and beers with lunch and dinner
• All soft drinks and juices throughout the cruise
• All Alcohol-free coffee and tea specialties
• Bottled water provided on excursions
• Daily fresh fruit basket
• English-speaking tour guide
• All port fees/taxes
• Use of water sports facilities such as snorkeling equipment, stand-up-paddles and towable tube
• Free laundry service for cabin categories A and B

Not Included

• Airfare to/from points of embarkation and debarkation of the boat
• Internal Airfare
• Any additional hotel nights that may be need pre/post-trip
• Items of a personal nature such as laundry (depending on cabin category) and additional internet
• Optional travel insurance
• Shore excursions

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Sea Cloud Spirit

Days 1-11 (11 nights)

What the Trip is Like

The trip is rated Level 1, Easiest , and is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active. Zodiac landing crafts are used to transport passengers ashore for walks to wildlife sanctuaries, scenic nature areas, and local towns and villages. There are also opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. Some agility is required for getting in and out of landing crafts.

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From $4,236

Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

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Why Panama Sailing Tours?

We are a detailed oriented Company; from the moment you board our boat, our objective is to make you feel at home. With the highest maintenance and service standards, you can be sure to trust us, whatever your destination may be.

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Our main quay is located at Flamenco Marina, Amador. We have a map and can offer detailed directions for you to easily reach this location.

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Our Taiti 80 has all of the amenities necessary for you to have an unforgettable day. Bathrooms, Big nets, Speakers, Dance floor, Bar station and much more!

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PANAMA YACHT CHARTERS

Discover your perfect yacht or sailing charter.

REPUBLIC OF PANAMA

YC YACHT CHARTER DESTINATIONS FULL YACHT CHARTERS ANYWHERE IN PANAMA

Imagine dinner on the deck of your private catamaran with the sun setting over the numerous San Blas islands that dot the horizon. Or do you visualize yourself and your family diving the cays and catching your own lobsters, catching that prize marlin off the continental shelf of the Pearl Islands, or letting loose with your friends amongst other yachts in party mode off the shore of Isla Taboga.  

Find yourself on tropically secluded, palm tree filled islands and peaceful coves, off the beaten path and inaccessible by road, unspoiled islands rising out of crystalline waters. Or how about waking up for a tranquil morning swim in clear waters of the Pearls, followed by an afternoon lunching in Contadora?

Whether you crave escape-from-society solitude, cultural trips and tours, thrill packed watersports, or want to host an event / party for family and friends - there is a yacht, an activity, and a destination with your name on it.

With a Panama charter yacht holiday, you’ll experience the best of Panama and its abundance of natural beauty.

With 1,547 miles of coastline on both the Pacific and Caribbean Oceans, Panama was meant to be experienced by sea.

On the Pacific Side Not far off the coast of Panama City, you’ll find treasured Islands, whales, sea turtles, and luxurious beachside communities like Taboga and Playa Blanca. 

Take in the harbor view of Panama's Skyline, which has the third most skyscrapers in the Western Hemisphere (behind New York City and Chicago), which provides a great backdrop for your yacht adventure any time of day, but is most beautiful during a sunset dinner cruise.  

Or discover the Pearl Islands where Jeff Probst extinguished the torches of many hopeful survivors before exclaiming, "You've been voted off the island!"

On the Caribbean Side Whether you take a one-of-a-kind ride through the Panama Canal to get to the Caribbean, or launch your yacht experience directly from the city of Colon, the Caribbean side with its clear turquoise waters, snorkel friendly wildlife, and the uniquely beautiful San Blas islands is a destination not to be missed. There is no shortage of great destinations during a multi-day cruise in this equatorial paradise.

YACHTS SPOTLIGHT  

44' lagoon, 60' searenity, 80' pendennis.

Travel the way you want Want to take in the views in style with luxury cruisers that have all the amenities like open bar, freshly prepared food, personal valet, and ample guest quarters for private moments?

Or do you want to soak up the sun and ride the wind on a 57' Catamaran?

Maybe battle a swordfish on a sport fishing boat all geared up for deep sea fishing?

Depending on your budget and the number of guests, we'll help you get the right-sized vessel for the excursion you want!

Just want to Party  When it's time to party, no one does it better!  Our Yacht Parties feature an open bar, a fully equipped sound system, transportation to and from the marina, and of course, a visit to Isla Taboga!

A typical itinerary includes 4-8 hours on the water, pitching anchor at Isla Taboga close to other like-minded partying vessels.  Then you can stay on board and party, or jump off the boat and soak up the sun.  Or go ashore and explore the town's great local restaurants and large public beach. What happens at sea stays at sea, so feel free to get wild and enjoy the High Life!   When chartering yachts in Panama, people choose YC Yachts for our transparency in providing an experience that's accurate to the commitments made during your booking.  We pride ourselves on providing amazing service with no headaches at affordable market rates.  So contact us today to set up your perfect Panamanian Yacht Charter!

FIND YOUR ADVENTURE AT SEA

Our top picked panama city day charters.

YACHT PARTY

DEEP SEA FISHING

Catamarans & Sailboats for rent in Panama

All-inclusive tours and rental of catamarans and sailboats for private parties and corporate events in the Bay of Panama, Isla Taboga, Río Hato, or Buenaventura.

Taboga Island Catamaran Chater - Lagoon 44

So do not expect more. Embark on an unforgettable experience aboard the Lagoon 44 Luxury Catamaran on Taboga Island and discover the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure and luxury in the heart of the Panamanian tropical paradise!

Contadora Island Catamaran Charter - Lagoon 44

Discover the crystal clear waters of Contadora Island on the luxurious Lagoon 44 catamaran. Beaches, snorkeling and comfort in a tropical paradise.

Catamaran Charter Suncat: Taboga Island

Catamaran rental [party boat] for events and private parties in Isla Taboga, Panama.

Pearl Islands Luxury Sailing: Pennendis 80

Luxury sailing charter from Panama City to the Las Perlas Archipelago. On board this luxurious sailboat you will have the best gourmet food, central air conditioning and the best crew.

Taboga [Luxury] Sailing Day Charter: Pendennis 80

The most luxurious sailboat in Panama. The Pendennis 80 is the perfect boat for those looking for a luxury and adventure tourism experience in Panama. From the impressive views of the city from the sea to the natural beauty of Taboga Island.

Discover the Panama Bay Sunset Sailing in the Pennendis 80

The Pennendis 80 is the perfect ship for those looking for a luxurious and romantic sightseeing experience in Panama. From the impressive view of the city from the sea to the unique experience at the entrance of the Panama Canal.

Catamaran Charter Taiti 75: Taboga Island

Sunset Tour Panama Bay - Lagoon 44

Enjoy the sunset in the bay of Panama aboard the luxurious Lagoon 44 catamaran. Panoramic views and comfort in an unforgettable experience.

Locked Up, Let Down and Set Free – Transiting The Panama Canal

The big day has arrived and we’re all giddy like a bunch of kids on the last day of school. The Panama Canal wasn’t something I dreamed about and honestly, it wasn’t even on my radar before buying a sailboat. Now, here I am about to wet my pants like its something I’ve been waiting my whole life to do.

Our choice of crew might have a little something to do with it.

Peter and John (AKA The RV Geeks ) are good friends but it’s more than that. Put them in front of any sort of electrical or mechanical gizmo and you’d think they were given a sack of candy.  They bring a childlike excitement to learning how things work.  MythBusters doesn’t know it, but they need to add these guys to the cast.

Then there is Jason’s mom. Mary is hands down the most spontaneous, reckless in all the right ways and ready for adventure person I know.  She has instigated, or participated in, some of our biggest adventures ( like ice climbing in Alaska ).  She is a hard working business woman but she knows how to cut loose.

Put them all together on Curiosity and their enthusiasm is infectious. As expected, they are the perfect fit for this journey.  So, grab a beverage and settle in for the ride! We’re floating through history, getting locked up, let down and set free into the Pacific Ocean.

Peter and John were busy tending to lines but managed to capture footage of their experience too. In true Geeks style, they dig into the man-made wonderment and engineering. They illustrate how the canal cuts through a country and uses water to lift us up 85 feet and set us down in the Pacific Ocean.

Planning Your Panama Canal Transit?

Turns out planning and preparing for the Panama Canal wasn’t as difficult as we expected. We shared everything we learned about how to transit the canal with or without an agent here:  gonewiththewynns.com/no-agent-transit-panama-canal   Spoiler alert…we saved the cash and didn’t hire an agent.

Extra fun facts…

The Panama Canal at night is reminiscent of a river walk.

Talk about a mooring ball! I think this thing was made for a tanker. It’s an interesting way to moor up but let’s hope it doesn’t catch on. This is closer than I would want to be to my neighbors on a regular basis.

In all the excitement, I forgot to get my written approval to fly our drone while transiting the canal.  Doh…Face Palm!  However, we did have just enough time for a quick flight around Gatun Lake before we took off on day two.  The new locks for the big ships are very impressive from up here.

As part of our transit duties, we are expected to provide bottled water and lunch for the adviser.  I was super nervous about this. I read a horror story about an adviser being displeased with the offerings and requesting a pilot boat to deliver take out at the expense of the boat.  It’s a nasty $250 fee!  Yikes!

I am sure that is a rare instance, and who knows what the full story is, but I didn’t want to take any chances!  So, I provided a build your own sandwich buffet.  Tuna salad, chicken salad, hummus, veggies, fruit, an assortment of meats and cheeses, granola bars, chips, sodas, juices and anything else I could come up with.  Everyone was satisfied and stuffed to the gills!

Most importantly we made sure our galley, salon and cockpit were all clean & tidy. Nobody wants to dine in a messy, grimy, gross area.  If you’re boat is tidy and the food looks fresh you’re less likely to get complaints from the adviser.  Also we didn’t know we’d have to feed 2 people.  Thankfully we had plenty of food for the adviser and the adviser-in-training.

Our adviser and trainees were awesome!  Roy was relaxed, incredibly nice, laughed at my jokes (extra brownie points of course), gave us tidbits of history along the way and was professional all at the same time.  We lucked out big time.  Thanks for being awesome Roy!

Mary drew the short stick and in this instance, its winning! Because we were rafted up to another boat, we really only needed two line handlers.  That meant Mary got to sit back, relax and enjoy the transit!

Our raft buddies, (french delivery captain and his first mate) were rad dudes.  We had fun chatting in broken English, French and Spanish. We bonded after I let them borrow my iPad with the  Predict Wind Offshore  app to see what the weather looked like for their passage to Mexico.  Their eyes lit up like Christmas lights.  They were blown away by the information and had never seen an app with weather routing capabilities.  It was exciting to share and talk about passage making with a captain…while on passage.  Made me feel like a real salt.

A Whole New World!

It feels like we’ve been let out into a whole new world.  So many possibilities and route options, which way to go?  South America, Galapagos, Easter Island, French Polynesia, New Zealand, Thailand…oh who knows. No matter which direction we decide to point our sailboat, it will be an adventure.

Sharing Is Caring

Thanks for joining us and making it this far!  We’re able to keep the sails up because of viewers like you.  If you liked this video and post, please share it.   You could email it to a friend, share it on your facebook or twitter page, pin it to your future sailing destinations board or even send it to your favorite news anchor (extra bonus points if you know Ron Burgundy).  It helps us out tremendously and for that, we thank you.

Sailing Report

• Dates: November 28 – 29, 2017
• Nautical Miles Sailed: 42
• Cell & WiFi: We had good cell reception through most of the canal.

Gear Used In This Video

• Quatix 5 Watches: https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/product/quatix-5-marine-watch
• Chartplotter:  Garmin 7612xsv Multi-touch
• iPad Mount at Helm:  http://amzn.to/2fT84PG
• iPad Pro http://amzn.to/2d9Oopf Sailing Apps Used:
• iNavx:  http://bit.ly/2vGgC51
• Garmin Bluecharts with Active Captain:   http://bit.ly/2tgnRmA
• Iridium Go and Predict Wind for weather and communications:  bit.ly/PredictWindIridium

Cameras Used to Capture This Video

• Full Review Of All Our Camera Gear: gonewiththewynns.com/camera-gear-review-2017
• Sony A7ii:   gonewiththewynns.com/product/sony-a7ii
• Rode Mic: https://bhpho.to/2hUNFA8
• Sony 24 – 70mm f4 lens:  gonewiththewynns.com/product/sony-24-70
• Sony 70-200 F4: gonewiththewynns.com/product/sony-70-200
• Sony RX: gonewiththewynns.com/product/productsony-dsc-rx100m-iii-cyber-shot-digital-still-camera
• Sony Action Cam:  gonewiththewynns.com/product/sony-as300
• GorillaPod:  gonewiththewynns.com/product/gorillapod-focus-x
• DJI Mavic Pro:  http://amzn.to/2vUFXa6 
• Drone Filters:  http://bit.ly/sandmarc-mavic

Hello there! I honestly don’t know what to say, so I am going to tell you a bunch of random facts instead. I'm a fish eating vegetarian who hates spiders and loves snakes. I almost never took vacations growing up. I wanted to be Pippi Longstocking (still do). I misspell about every other word I write and still struggle with grammar. I love splurging on a good high tea (which is really hard to find these days). And whatever you do, don’t tell me I can’t do something, because then I'll HAVE to do it!

Comments (38)

What a great video. The best part is we are in Panama right now and we’re able to tour the Miraflores Locks and see the incredible work that went into their construction. Now we get to see what they look like from a boaters perspective. I know you two are long gone by now but hopefully you got to see the land side of the locks as well. Keep having fun and stay safe. Mike

Bill Lampkin

Top Notch Video! DIESEL JUGS; one comment. Jason, you can save your back when you pour diesel from your yellow jugs into your tank. The spout has a nib on it that you rest on the deck fill plate, that depresses the spout and allows fuel to flow. No need to crunch up your back and pull the spout back to fill. twist the collar once to unlock,Let the spout and gravity do the work. Hopefully you have figured this out by now. I followed your transit on the Canal Cams, or whatever they are called. I could see Curiosity!!

That tiny tab flexes and causes more pain than just holding in-between my legs…or worse it spills fuel. Cool you saw us through!

Better still get a shaker siphon kit. Safety Siphon – Safe Multi-Purpose Self Priming Pump https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BG1X54/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_taa_i_uhwcBbQ0M4GRZ

Jamie Dillon

Very Awesome folks. Really enjoyed the first hand adventure. Lovely food and great company makes for a very memorable journey. Thrilled to have witnessed the passage. Keep up the great work and be safe. Kudos to the RV Geeks and your lovely Mom Jason! Great job! Greetings from Canada. Jamie

Deborah Kerr

1 word- AWESOME ? Thanks for sharing! It was good to see the RV Geeks video perspective too -you all are like Ying & Yang- the nerds at the Wynn’s party ? (said in a complementary way). And Mary is a lucky Mom!! Can’t wait for more video- Looking forward to seeing the other side of the World!?⛵️

Scott Webster

Love you guys and your adventures. We now watch youtube videos of your adventures nightly. Very entertaining and informative. Much thanks, Scott

Karin@yumandmore

That was fascinating! Well done you all! And Nikki that confirms what we always new, women are better drivers ;)))

Happy sailing in the Pacific and safe travels. xox Karin and Jasper

mary vancompernolle

Well, the Geeks said it all! Things I know and want to say but then I am your mom. I am a pretty lucky to have had so many great adventures with you. I did a class yesterday with singing bowls and gongs and the things flying through my head were times we have had together – Alaska and climbing those beautiful mountains (all of them), kayaking Glacier Bay, the crazy river where I had to grab Jason’s leg (or he grabbed mine), the toilet bowl when we were on the Rouge River and the caves at the Four Corners in the Indian dwellings when the wind sang to us. So many incredible, beautiful memories. I love you, you inspire me.

Hi Mary! We’ve had such fun the past few days re-living our first date. That’s right… you, and the two of us, will forever be joined by the memory of a first date in the Panama Canal! Getting to know you was a highlight of our trip, and we’re thrilled to call you our dear friend. Now we know how Jason got to be such a nice guy. He learned from the best. Hope our paths cross again soon. As a matter of fact, we’ll almost certainly be passing through Texas at least once, or even twice, next winter. Hopefully you won’t be off running around with these two salty dogs when come through, so we can see you! 😉 XOXO – Peter & John

You might want to try using a hand pump to transfer the fuel, at least untill you get down to less in the gas vessel, then you can poor what might be left, to avoid the what looked like and awkward possition to fuel at. Only a suggestion.

JOHN SCHRETLEN

Hi Jason, Hi Nikki, After watching the videos you (and Peter & John) just published I was delightfully impressed. As I said to the RVgeeks, “Great video guys. I could feel Peter’s excitement and John’s awe.”

Now a compliment for Nikki: 90% of J&P’s awe and excitement was just being there for the adventure of doing the locks on a ‘small’ cat. 10% of that awe and excitement had to be when they saw your buffet lunch!

Wish you could have added the looks on their faces when they first saw that spread. Which I’ll bet is still the #1 rated lunch by adviser Roy; and when his fellow advisers see this video they will be inviting your back.

Amazing videos RVGeeks and Gone with the Wynns. I was spellbound, watching you go through the canals. What an adventure. Happy Sailing.

WOW! Awesome video. Thank you for the drone video for a great perspective of both canals, meaning the new and the old. Tremendous experience to share with all of us.

Ellen Darby

Absolutely wonderful! Throughout the entire video, I kept realizing I had a big smile on my face. What fun–felt like I was experiencing it with you guys. Thanks, RV Geeks, for your video as well — very informative and well done!

What a grand adventure, brought back fun memories of my stay in Panama. I watched ships travel through the locks & this engineering marvel but have never gone through. Your video is the next best thing. As a single RVer I’ve enjoyed your videos on Land & now on sea. Love your spirit & willingness to share. Keep going & have fun. Thank you & huge California hugs to you both.

Douglas Stansbury

This was one fantastic video. You are absolute masters with that drone. What was its altitude for that gorgeous overview of the canal? I was a bit surprised that there weren’t security concerns there that would have restricted or even prohibited the use of the drone. Nikki-that lunch spread was fantastic. You do so much in such a small work area! As you travel internationally do your cats pose a complication when clearing customs?

Patrick Arseneau

Well done, guys! I started following your RV adventures a few years go but I kinda stopped after I sold my RV (divorce reasons). Now just recently I stumbled upon your new sailing adventures. What a nice surprise!! I am blown away with your desire and courage to chase your dreams. Needless to say, I am HOOKED on your sailing video series. Just when I finished catching up, you posted the very anticipated Panama crossing. Very inspiring stuff! I may not follow suit, but I will definitely learn to sail this summer and it’s because of you. THANK YOU!

B Bartholomew

Thanks so much for this video! My dad’s side of the family helped to build and maintain the canal. Seeing this really helped to bring my family history to life. My great grandfather was one of those who died in a dynamite accident during its construction. Probably in Gaillard Cut (aka Culebra Cut). My grandfather came back and lived in Gamboa, working in the dredging division. My dad was born and grew up there until he jumped on a merchant marine ship near the end of WWII. Thanks again!

supercalifragilisticexpialidocious !!! I also love those heart shaped sunglasses

Peg Crowell

Your AMAZING adventures continue. Nikki have you thought of writing a cookbook? Your meal photos are always mouthwatering. I’m glad you had a good experience transiting the canal. Looking forward to more. Travel safe!

Exciting time. I really liked the seeing the locks go up and down with the water increasing/decreasing.

Jeff Earnest

You guys are awesome. What’s up with the dates on your SAILING REPORT? Thought maybe it was a software setting or something.

Curious Minion

No, the dates are the actual transit dates. Videos will always be a month or more behind the current date. It takes a lot of time to sort through the hours of video that get shot and then to compile them into the finished product. And all that has to take a back seat to boat repairs and maintenance, trip planning, actual sailing, etc.

Sarah Babcock

Galapagos is incredible! You must go. Plus, I think you guys will really appreciate all the amazing efforts the park takes to preserve the Galapagos. Reassured me that they were in good hands.

Hey ! Good team work guys, Happy you got good fun advizors to make the trip through more fun, one good point only rafted with one other boat instead of two it makes life easier With a large tie dumbel at least you had a worry free night on the lake . Now we can see why its expencive to go through the canal its very hands on labour intencive, but I doubt in the future if it could ever be automatic similar to the french locks there is just too much that can go wrong, crocs in the local waters have they been known to board catamaran sugar scoops and what about debri in the waters logs ect in the lake I hear. Now the big question do we turn left or right ? I suspect left , hope so . Fab 33min vid nice to meet mum & friends from the past rv days, keep up the good work, stay safe cant wait for next weeks vid ..

That was so much fun seeing your transit. My wife and I retired from California Maritime in 2015 and we made the transit 3 times on our 500′ Training Ship Golden Bear (TSGB). We shared the lock with smaller vessels each transit. We are full-timers now and look forward to meeting you guys someday.

Been waiting for that video for some time. The only disappointing thing………..it was to short. Loved it. I hope you have more footage you can share with us. By the way Nikki, that lunch looked lie a something you’d find at a 5 star restaurant. I do have one question. That new bridge under construction, where does it go. I looked on google earth and it looks like it just goes out into the jungle and ends. I don’t see any populated area on your starboard side. Happy Sailing and thanks for sharing your adventures.

A quick internet search indicates that it is the only bridge that will cross the canal on the Atlantic side and it’ll give the coastal communities below Colon an easier way to cross (they currently can’t cross when locks are in use). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlantic_Bridge,_Panama http://vinci-construction-projets.com/en/realisations/atlantic-bridge/

Nancy Fernandez

This was Awesome! That must have been such an experience and the history Roy shared I just can’t imagine. Was well worth the wait seeing your excitement as well as Mom and the RV Geeks. Stay safe.

Robert Dawson

Congrats you all did a wonderful job, thanks for sharing. Looking forward to more adventures.

Alan Solomon

Thanks for videoing a great transit. It was truly Awesome and a great experience watching. i can’t imagine what it’s like to be there.

Did you guys know that Capt James and his catamaran from east coast Florida went thru the Panama Canal, heading for the Pacific, just YESTERDAY !!! His you tube is Sailing Zingaro. ENJOY !! Bruce in Cape Coral FL

Both videos were exceptional. Personally I would be a little intimidated by the larger ships ever so close. Didn’t know so much goes into a Panama Canal crossing.

Donna O'Klock

That was wonderful, exciting, and must have been a blast to have dear friends on board. You two are always upbeat, exciting, and inspirational – you inspired us to give in, give it all up, and go mobile! Love reading about your catamaran, we both sailed… but feel more at home on land. 2, 4, or 6 wheels works! Buen viaje!

Monica Blanton

That was amazing, I have been so waiting to see that, thank you. Now I know what it actually looks like to go through and transit the Panama Canal. You guys just rock and it makes me so happy to watch these videos and learn so much in the process. It has enriched my life. Great job by the way, you make it look so easy!

Mark Thorne

Thanks guys for taking me along, I have anticipated the canal ever sense you first said your going. I find my self emotionally involved with the journey and people I will never meet, very cool. Galapagos?

This video was so incredible, it’s almost as if we were right there! Oh yeah… WE WERE!! WOO HOO! Watching this brought back so many fantastic memories. We’re so jazzed, we’re not going to get any sleep tonight! Your mad video skills are on full display, and we loved every minute of it. Would it seem like we’re biased or conceited if we think this is THE GREATEST VIDEO YOU’VE EVER MADE?!?!?! ?

Seriously…. you two are absolutely the bomb. Thanks again for having us aboard, and memorializing our time together in such grand fashion. In case people who haven’t met you in person don’t realize it, you two are fabulous.

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Sailing Around South America (Cape Horn), Dangers, Distances, and Myths

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During our planning to sail around the world, we realized how incredibly expensive it is to pass through the Panama Canal; no big deal, we thought, we would just go around South America; it would give us more adventure for the money. We quickly found out that traveling around the southern tip of America is not a simple feat. Sailing the Cape Horn (southern tip of South America) is both dangerous and exciting, with many comparing it to climbing Mount Everest. 

It takes around 65 days or more to motor sail around South America, including stops at ports. You would travel about 15,987 nautical miles (29,608 km) and undergo the adventure of a lifetime with many stories to tell. 

There are also numerous health benefits that come along with sailing around the world, such as agility and motor skills. The remaining article will dive deep and explore the many reasons why people choose to sail around South America, what the benefits are, how long it takes, and explain what supplies you may need and the costs of sailing South America. 

Table of Contents

How Long Does It Take To Sail Around South America?

Sailing around South America, (from the west side of the Panama Canal to the east side, rounding Cape Horn) will take you around 44 days if sailing at 7.5kts, the trip is 8037nm and very difficult. This excludes any stops for sleep and repairs.

Most sailors also sail during the night so the added time will mainly come from escaping bad weather and taking time on land to recover and prepare the crew for the next stage.

How Long Does It Take To Sail Around South America on a Motor/Cruiseship?

If you travel on a motor ship the amount of time it would take to sail around South America can average anywhere between 22 to 65 days. This may depend on the weather, how many stops you make, and how much fuel you are willing to burn in return for higher speeds. 

Modern motor ships will cruise at around 20kts, more than doubling the speed of your average sailboat.

Why Sail Around South America?

Many people choose to sail around South America because they are interested in adventure. Because the waters surrounding this area are so fierce, it is sometimes called the Mount Everest of the ocean . 

You may wish to sail around South America because the sights are stunning, and the adventure and stories you come home with are something that you may never experience again. Several people choose to sail these waters because of races or other competitions. 

Many sailors died trying to face the raging winds and storms through Cape Horn. The areas heading towards the coastlines may be easier on boats and sailors, but once you reach the tip known as the “end of the world,” you will be faced with more challenging waters. 

The cost, accessibility, and experience required are all based solely on your freedom of choice and what you want to accomplish by sailing into Cape Horn. 

The Clockwise Route Around Cape Horn

There are a few different routes you could take to sail around South America, but the first decision to make is whether you’re going clockwise (starting on the Caribbean side) or counterclockwise (starting on the pacific side). Let’s discuss the differences.

While Cape Horn is a hazardous area, a clockwise route is recommended by many sailors (due to prevailing winds) to mitigate the risks. This approach usually means:

• Heading upwind and upcurrent from the Caribbean until the eastern tip of Brazil.
• Reaching from Brazil to Beagle channel.
• Upwind into strong winds through the Beagle Channel until Southern Pacific.
• Exiting the Channel and continuing north with favorable winds.

Each route has its dangers and its benefits, both ways are brutal on your boat and your crew. 

The Counter Clockwise Route Around Cape Horn

If you decide on going counterclockwise, maybe because you already are on the west side, then this is what you will probably experience:

• Upwind and probably motoring most of the way , the west coast of South America is beautiful but the last 100 miles or so can be very demanding as the weather starts getting colder and harsher. Take a look at the picture of the prevailing winds and you will understand why.

The Offshore Alternative Heading Counter Clockwise

If you are comfortable with long offshore passages and don’t mind visiting French Polynesia, then there is an option for you. This option includes many many more miles (you are basically heading for Australia and turning south before you get there) but it does offer some great benefits!

• From Panama to the Marquesas will mainly be with the wind in your back, which is very comfortable if you’re on a catamaran.
• Marquesas to Gambier Islands , same here, still downwind, and the Pacific is called Pacific for a reason.
• Gambier Islands to Puerto Montt, Chile now you have moved enough south to be able to use the trade winds going east, so once again, wind in your back.
• From Puerto Montt it is not far to the Beagle Channel entry, once inside the channel you don’t have many other options adn sailing should be a breeze.
• After exiting the channel, head east to the Falklands, then north east to St Helena and last stop Antigua in the Caribbean.

Starzinger, a very experienced sailor and active cruisers forum member, shares his experiences with this alternative:

” If you are up to or even enjoy pretty long ocean passages, the easiest way is actually counter clockwise “ Estarzinger

Some sailors want to spend months or even over a year away from home and in the ocean.  

However, many sailors enjoy a coastal experience rather than heading out into open waters. It depends on your sailing goals and what type of adventure you seek. 

The amount of time you spend depends on what type of adventure you want. If you have the time, money, and want to experience different side plans, or if you simply want to spend time on the open sea. 

Is Sailing Around South America Worth It?

It may be worth sailing around South America if you seek adventure, have many years of experience in sailing, have the correct equipment, and have the money and time to set sail during the best time of year. Sailing around Cape Horn is not cheaper than going through the canal if accounting for, repairs, fuel, port fees, etc.

Sailing around South America is a difficult journey, and many experienced sailors would recommend using a clockwise route to travel with the wind in your back. However, traveling along coastal lines could be beneficial when it comes to getting help if something goes wrong.

The closer you are to shore, the easier it would be to get help if needed. These waters are well known to sailors as being very difficult to maneuver. 

The crushing waves and intense storms make this area difficult even for experienced skippers. 

If this is a part of a greater circumnavigation then I suggest you also prepare by reading another article a wrote called How to sail around the world . I also have a list of catamarans suitable for liveaboards and offshore sailing .

When Should You Sail Around South America?

The best time to sail around South America is December through February . You may experience average temperatures in the daytime of 80°F (26.7°C). But when you travel through Chile, you may experience temperatures in the low 50s and 60s°F (10 and 15°C). The winds are better in the winter but the southern part could be icier than optimal.

As your boat sails through to the Southern tip of South America, the temperatures will get colder, but the waves and waters will be more still. While the waters might be calmer, Cape Horn is where different weather patterns meet, and storms will come unexpectedly. 

Comparing Motorships, Monohulls and Catamarans

Sailing is a more personal experience than a cruise ship or any other motorboat experience. When you sail, you use nature to guide you to where you want to go. 

A sailing catamaran boat is best for longer voyages such as sailing around South America. You would have more space for living than an average sailboat or motorboat. 

Read this article to find some examples of good catamarans for sailing around the world .

However, the best boat for you depends on how long you will be at sea and how long you plan to travel. 

If you are concerned about cost, sailing is cheaper than motor ships. You do not need much fuel to run a sailboat, and if you are sailing for months at a time, this might be the best bet for you and your circumstances. 

Here is an article I wrote on How much it costs to live on a sailboat , it’s way more than you think!

How Much Faster Is It To Sail Around South America Than Going Through the Panama Canal?

If you decide to sail around the world, you may take the Panama Canal, which is much safer and faster than going down to the end of the world. If you seek a less adventurous and safer experience, taking the Panama Canal would be much better for you. 

It is not faster to sail around South America than through the Panama Canal. Actually, it is faster to use the Panama Canal, as you will shorten the voyage by around 8,000 nautical miles (14,816 km) if you are sailing through the canal. 

It is also much less dangerous because you don’t have to round Cape Horn, one of the most hazardous Capes in the world. 

The length of the Panama Canal is about 40 miles (64 km) and about 50 miles (80 km) from deeper waters. You can still experience a wide range of scenery and oceanic adventures while staying safe.

The only real reason you would need to go around Cape Horn is racing or traveling with a veteran sailor who knows precisely what they are doing. 

How Much Cheaper Is It To Sail Around South America Than the Panama Canal?

Sailing is sometimes costly and may be expensive depending on where you go and what you do. Besides the supplies you should bring on a long sailing trip, you will also have to spend money on entry fees if you decide to sail through the Panama Canal. 

It will cost you more to sail around South America than through the Panama Canal. Sailing through the Canal will cost you somewhere between $800 to $3,200 depending on the size of your boat. There may even be other fees depending on what you bring along with you. But avoiding the canal adds the cost of 43 days of food, fuel, etc.

Because this area is so heavily regulated, you will need to be open and honest with what you are doing, where you are planning to go, and what you are bringing along with you. Fees are expensive, but they may be worth the price if you are concerned about safety. 

Danger vs. Expense

Sailing through Cape Horn is dangerous due to the rough seas. You could end up at the bottom of the sea rather than at your destination. But cruising through the Panama Canal is expensive for what you get, so it is up to you whether or not the price is worth the safety.

It should also be mentioned that the Panama Canal is not without risks, more on that here .

If you plan on a long cruise without much intervention from official regulations and are also seeking the adventure of a lifetime, then going around Cape Horn may be right for you. Be diligent and aware of the dangers when sailing through the area. 

What Supplies Are Necessary To Sail Around South America?

If you decide that sailing around South America is what you long for as a sailing adventurer, and you’re ready to begin planning your ocean voyage, there are some supplies you should consider before venturing out into open waters. 

To sail around South America, you will need a bluewater sailboat , the money to travel, the correct paperwork, and training such as mental and safety. You will also need the right equipment, such as a satellite phone and autopilot. Finally, the boat should be set up for singlehanded sailing . 

Once you have gotten the supplies you need, you should be aware of the dangers associated with Cape Horn. The area is remote, and many choose to sail through the Panama Canal instead of Cape Horn because it is safer, although more costly. 

Is Sailing Around South America Dangerous?

For adventure sailers, the idea of sailing around South America is considered one of the most challenging areas to sail. There are routes that sailors can take to experience less treacherous waters, but Cape Horn is one of the most complex and dangerous Capes to sail. 

South America is one of the most dangerous routes to take when sailing. The waters are treacherous, and people lose their lives each year during races and adventure sailing in these risky waters. 

These waters are no easy feat for even the most experienced sailor and should be considered dangerous and unpredictable. The waves are enormous, and the weather is challenging to plan around. 

Cape Horn in Southern Chile is also sometimes referred to as “the end of the world,” as it is the point where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. Low-pressure systems race across the sea, creating hazardous wind gusts known as Williwaw winds . 

These strong gusts are random and happen suddenly and unpredictably. Because of this, Cape Horn is one of the most dangerous adventures that sailors would take. 

If you decide that sailing South America is on your bucket list and something you have your heart set on, you should be prepared and ready to take on intense storms, large waves, and unpredictable sailing. 

Pick the correct route and apply safety measures the best you can. 

South America is gorgeous and brings many sailors to its waters because of the adventure it can offer. With these adventures come excitement but also danger. Be sure you have the experience and know-how to travel these dangerous waters before you set sail into the open sea. 

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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March 18, 2024

This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

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reputable news agency

The Panama Canal averts a crisis for now—but at a cost to drinking water

by Peter Millard, Michael McDonald and Eric Roston, Bloomberg News

The Panama Canal has avoided the worst of a shipping crunch that threatened to upend the global economy—but at a cost to marine life and the Latin American country's supplies of drinking water.

After imposing strict limits on vessel traffic last year as drought left water levels languishing, the Panama Canal Authority is increasing the number of ships that can cross. Thanks to conservation measures , water levels fell just over a foot for the year through March 12, compared with three feet during the same period of 2023.

Those measures, though, come with side effects. The canal recycles water from locks that vessels pass through, instead of simply flushing it into the ocean. This reused water gets saltier, and some of it infiltrates Lake Gatún, an artificial lake that forms part of the channel and is also Panama's largest source of potable supply.

The Panama Canal's challenges highlight how combating climate change carries inevitable tradeoffs. As policymakers take action to limit the effects of global warming, there can be unintended consequences for the environment and the economy. And time is of the essence: Drought is already altering the world's trade flows, creating chokepoints last year on the Mississippi River in the U.S. and the Rhine in Europe.

This year, Panama has had roughly two-thirds of its normal rainfall, said Fred Ogden, a former University of Wyoming civil engineering professor who has done extensive work in the country. Upgrades to the canal have made the situation worse, because new locks opened in 2016 to accommodate bigger ships that require more water.

Climate change means "things are changing at a pace that is basically surprising everyone," Ogden said. The canal expansion has "increased the likelihood of drought restrictions. When you throw a drought on top of that—oh my gosh. What a mess."

The Panama Canal's low water levels and efforts to conserve what's left have made Lake Gatún more salty. Salinity is at the highest since 2020, when the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute began collecting data, and still growing, said Steve Paton, the director of the institute's physical monitoring program.

The lake's salinity shot up after the new set of locks was inaugurated in 2016. Up until that point it was 0.05 parts per thousand, and with the increased trade flows it quickly rose and reached 0.35 parts per thousand four years ago. It's now nearing that level again and will probably hit or surpass it before the rainy season starts, Paton said.

The canal authority's chief hydrologist, Erick Córdoba, said during an interview in November that finding new sources of freshwater will be critical to ensuring Panama can meet growing demand from the population, shippers and local industry. One plan is to create a new reservoir at a river valley near Lake Gatún to supply additional water. The canal is also looking to invest in more rainwater collection to help reduce salinity in the lake, he said.

Under normal circumstances, the Panama Canal handles about 3% of the world's maritime trade volumes and 46% of containers moving from Northeast Asia to the U.S. East Coast. Bottlenecks at the canal can ripple throughout the global economy , particularly as attacks by Houthis in the Red Sea add to shipping disruptions.

Last year, the El Niño weather pattern led to one of the driest years on record for the Panama Canal and forced it to slash transit. But El Niño is now fading, which means the rainy season should hit in late April or May, allowing the canal to ease shipping limits. The authority will allow 27 vessels a day to transit by late March, up from the current 24 but still well below the pre-drought capacity of 38.

"The forced reduction" in vessels "is having the desired effect of lowering total water consumption," said Jorge Luis Quijano, a consultant and former chief executive officer of the canal authority. "However, it is difficult to predict if these favorable changes in weather will be enough to guarantee returning to 38 transits per day sometime later this year or next."

Quijano said the canal could possibly increase to 30 or 32 vessels a day after the dry season ends, and then progressively raise the limit further if rainfall is favorable. In a statement on March 11, the canal authority said it's monitoring water levels and will announce any further changes in a timely manner. It didn't respond to additional requests for comment.

Other observers are more optimistic. Volumes could return to normal in three to five months, said Julia Junnan Zhao, principal data scientist at Dun and Bradstreet, a global data and analytics provider.

Any increase in vessels through the canal will come as a relief to shippers, some of whom paid millions of dollars to jump the queue while others took longer, costlier routes around Africa or South America.

In the meantime, the threats to drinking water and marine life remain. The canal authority's strategy of recycling water could prompt marine species to start traveling between the Pacific and the Atlantic, disrupt coastal environments and even decimate fish stocks that communities along the Pacific and Caribbean rely on for food and tourism, Paton said.

Lionfish are an example of what can go wrong with invasive species. They are suspected to have escaped from aquariums along the U.S. East Coast during floods and storms, and now threaten native fish populations in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. A new saltwater corridor could wreak similar havoc on both sides of Panama.

Signs of that shift are already emerging. As rising salinity reduces the barrier between the oceans, researchers are seeing an increasing number of marine species in Lake Gatún, Paton said.

It's an example of the risks policymakers are grappling with as they confront the impact of climate change on freshwater supplies. Drought plagued regions all over the world last year, including the Americas, Africa and the Mediterranean.

The parched conditions have "given a big wake-up call to a lot of people," Ogden said. "The future does not look bright for the consistency of water resources that we've been able to rely on up until now."

2024 Bloomberg L.P. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Why the Panama Canal Didn’t Lose Money When Ship Crossings Fell

A water shortage forced officials to reduce traffic, but higher fees increased revenue.

• Share full article

By Peter Eavis

Low water levels have forced officials to slash the number of ships that are allowed through the Panama Canal, disrupting global supply chains and pushing up transportation costs.

But, remarkably, the big drop in ship traffic has not — at least so far — led to a financial crunch for the canal, which passes on much of its toll revenue to Panama’s government.

That’s because the canal authority introduced hefty increases in tolls before the water crisis started. In addition, shipping companies have been willing to pay large sums in special auctions to secure one of the reduced number of crossings.

In the 12 months through September, the canal’s revenue rose 15 percent, to nearly $5 billion, even though the tonnage shipped through the canal fell 1.5 percent.

The Panama Canal Authority declined to say how much money it earned from auctions. At a maritime conference last week in Stamford, Conn., Ilya Espino de Marotta, the canal’s deputy administrator, said the auction fees, which reached as much as $4 million per passage last year, “helped a little bit.”

But even now, during a quieter season for global shipping, auction fees can double the cost of using the canal. This month, Avance Gas, which ships liquefied petroleum gas, paid a $401,000 auction fee and $400,000 for the regular toll, said Oystein Kalleklev, the company’s chief executive. Auction fees are ultimately borne by the company whose goods are being shipped.

The canal’s financial stability in the face of a dire water shortage shows how the people who manage crucial links in global supply chains are adapting as climate change disrupts operations. It also helps that there are no viable alternatives in Latin America to the canal, an engineering marvel that opened in 1914 and handles an estimated 5 percent of seaborne trade.

If delays continue and the cost keeps rising, however, shipping companies may find ways to avoid the canal. Last year, as the canal became backed up, ships that wanted to travel from Asia to the East Coast of the United States began going through the Suez Canal, a far longer voyage that uses much more fuel.

Many vessels are still using a western route from Asia even after the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea forced shipping companies to avoid the Suez Canal and go around Africa. Mr. Kalleklev said that, after his vessels had delivered their cargo and were empty, they now typically returned to the United States via the Cape of Good Hope.

Though Panama is one of the world’s wettest countries, a sharp drop in rainfall last year deprived the canal of the water it needs for locks that raise and lower vessels into and out of the 40-mile passage between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Climate experts say such water shortages may become more common.

The weather pattern known as El Niño initially causes hotter and drier conditions in Panama, and scientists say climate change may be prolonging dry spells. Last year, there was 1.85 meters (six feet) of rainfall in the Panama Canal’s watershed, well below the historical annual average of 2.6 meters, according to the canal authority. Rainfall in the watershed was below average in six of the last 10 years, including years that were the second, third, sixth and seventh driest since 1950, the authority added.

To conserve water, the authority gradually reduced passages from a normal range of 36 to 38 vessels a day to 22 by December . But higher-than-expected rainfall and the canal’s water conservation measures enabled it to since raise crossings to 27 a day.

Though the number of passages is still below normal, the canal is in decent financial shape, analysts said.

Verónica Améndola, an analyst for S&P Global Ratings, expects that the canal’s revenue in the 12 months through next September will be roughly the same as a year earlier, primarily because of the toll increases. S&P Global estimates that the cost of shipping through the canal will rise to $10 a ton from $6 a ton.

This is good news for Panama’s government, which relies heavily on payments from the canal and is facing skepticism about its deficit from investors in the international bond market. The canal authority expects to pay the government $2.47 billion this year, down modestly from the record $2.54 billion that it paid last year.

Canal tolls and dividends were 24 percent of government revenue in 2023, said Todd Martinez, a co-head for the Americas at Fitch Ratings who analyzes Panama’s government finances.

“The good news is that the drought doesn’t have a terrible near-term impact on Panama’s public finances, because the canal has a lot of pricing power,” Mr. Martinez said. “But the bigger problem is the government can no longer keep relying on the canal to solve all of its other fiscal problems.”

Faced with the prospect of permanently lower rainfall, the canal authority plans to create a big new reservoir that would supply enough extra water to handle an additional 12 to 15 passages a day. Lawmakers still need to approve the project, which the authority estimates will take four to six years to complete. Panama has elections in May, but Ms. Marotta, the deputy administrator, said last week that all the presidential candidates had told the authority that they supported the reservoir.

“There’s a great understanding in Panama that life without the canal would be very difficult to deal with,” said Sebastian Briozzo, an analyst for S&P Global Ratings.

Peter Eavis reports on business, financial markets, the economy and companies across different sectors. More about Peter Eavis

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