Bareboat Charter San Blas Islands. Amazing 365 islands trip
With bright turquoise water, remote islands, and sunny days, San Blas is a sailor’s dream. The islands off the coast of Panama were once a well-kept secret. However, more and more adventurers are now discovering their beauty. As a result, San Blas is becoming a top destination for sailors.
But before you look for a bareboat charter in the San Blas Islands, there are a few important things to know.
Sailing Conditions in San Blas
Sailing around the islands requires deep knowledge of the coral reefs and sandbanks. In addition, sailors must be able to perform technical maneuvers to anchor safely and return without risk.
For this reason, we do not offer bareboat charters. Other companies also avoid them. If someone does offer one, it should be considered a red flag.
Why We Don’t Offer Bareboat Charters
In this article, we explain why bareboat charters are not available in the San Blas Islands. At the same time, we still want you to experience this incredible region. Therefore, we offer a different charter option that ensures both safety and enjoyment.
Why We Don’t Offer a Bareboat Charter in San Blas Islands
We know how special sailing trips are, especially when you are the captain of the boat. However, the ocean is unforgiving, and San Blas is not the place to face an emergency.
The region is made up of more than 365 islands and cays, most of them very remote. Only 49 are inhabited by the local Guna people. In addition, there is minimal infrastructure and no marinas.
As a result, when sailing in the San Blas Islands, you are far from outside support and exposed to changing weather conditions. If something breaks down and you need a replacement part, it is very unlikely you will find it on any of the islands.
* NON UPDATED SHOALS AND ROCKS ON CHART PLOTTERS
*Â CULO DE POLLO (STRONG AND SHORT WIND)
* SHALLOW WATER
Of course, solitude is one of the best parts of sailing—and probably something you enjoy as well. However, in the San Blas Islands, things can go wrong quickly if you are not familiar with the area.
Most islands and cays are surrounded by shallow waters, sandbanks, and coral reefs. As a result, one wrong move can cause the hull to scrape the seabed, damage the reef, and put both the vessel and passengers at risk. There is nothing worse than running aground on a remote island, far from any help—piña coladas will definitely have to wait.
Fast-Changing Conditions at Sea
To give you an idea of how quickly conditions can change, a strong local wind phenomenon regularly occurs in the region. The locals call it Culo de Pollo. During these short bursts, winds can reach up to 50 knots. As a result, sailors can be pushed toward reefs or rocks, leading to serious damage and ruined trips.
Why Experience Matters in San Blas
Even if it were possible to book a bareboat charter in the San Blas Islands (which it is not), your freedom to explore would still be very limited. The large number of coral reefs restrict safe navigation in many areas.
As a result, you would miss some of the best locations the archipelago has to offer. And that is exactly what the experience is meant to be about, right?
Bareboat Charter in San Blas Islands with A Professional License
Even if you have a professional boating license, a bareboat charter still won’t be possible. It’s not because we, and other companies, don’t believe you’re a qualified sailor. No, no, no, it’s because every year, we see experienced sailors who know the area well damage their vessels and sometimes even lose them to the ocean. It’s an expensive risk we can’t take, nor do we want to put anyone in harm’s way!
So, what can you do if a bareboat charter in San Blas Islands isn’t possible?
The Best San Blas Islands Charter Option
Well, we do have good news for you! You can charter a lovely catamaran with a captain who lives and breathes the San Blas Islands. He or she will be able to shimmy the vessel through tight sections and bring you to some of the most gorgeous locations you’ll ever see. The captains are aware that many people wish they could be sailing on a bareboat charter in San Blas Islands, so some of them will allow experienced passengers to help with the sails. Not all captains will do this, but you can verify before booking your trip. And maybe–just maybe–you’ll even be able to touch the helm!
Your chances of finding a captain who is willing to let you help are high since there are plenty of catamarans to book on our website. Private charters are available, so you’re more than welcome to be the only passenger on the boat if solitude is what you’re looking for.
A catamaran charter includes a small crew consisting of a captain, a private chef, and sometimes an additional deckhand (depending on which vessel you choose). On the boat, you’ll be able to kick back, relax, and take in the stunning beauty around you. There will be opportunities to go kayaking, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and much more. Once you anchor at an island or cay, your captain will take you to shore on a dinghy, where you can explore, have a BBQ, and sit by a bonfire. Sounds pretty nice, right?
Once you’re a few hours into your trip, you’ll see that not being able to do a bareboat charter in San Blas Islands isn’t so bad after all.
Â
Benefits of a Classic Catamaran Charter
On a classic catamaran charter, you won’t have to worry about one single thing except deciding what fun activities you want to do. The San Blas Islands are truly fascinating, not just because of the beautiful scenery. Your captain will take you to the best locations and ensure you get the full-on cultural experience as you visit inhabited islands where you can see how the Kuna people live. Not to mention, having a private chef onboard ain’t too bad!
Final Thoughts: Bareboat Charter in San Blas Islands
We wish we could offer a bareboat charter in San Blas Islands, but for everyone’s sake, it just isn’t possible. Luckily, our classic catamaran charters are world-class, and you’ll see a side of the region not many people get to experience. If you have any questions, we’re more than happy to help guide you through the booking process. Enjoy your trip!