Panama with the family Panama City and the San Blas Islands by private catamaran

For over a century, the Panama Canal - a landmark feat of engineering - has saved ships sailing between the Pacific and Atlantic thousands of nautical miles, leaving Cape Horn to explorers seeking the wildest nature. One of those legendary places where everything comes together - from gigantic ships flying the flags of every continent to the most varied merchandise. A place worth visiting, whether briefly or at length, to truly understand it and let its story unfold. From lakes to locks, from natural viewpoints to historic buildings that tell the story of its tumultuous construction, you’ll become acquainted with this major commercial crossroads that played a key role in the rise of Panama City, a global hub. The capital’s economic and urban dynamism is certainly interesting, but here the focus is on its roots - and more specifically on the Casco Antiguo district. The cradle of a delightfully old-fashioned Panama City, it is best explored on foot, with eyes and ears wide open to take in every detail of its fascinating colonial heritage. After three days rich in discoveries and encounters - including a new culture, architecture and cuisine - we’ll slowly head towards the coast and the San Blas Islands, a Caribbean paradise best reached by a four-day sailing cruise. First, you’ll notice the palette of blues. They are relentless, endless and almost unreal. The water, the sky - it’s hard to tell where the Caribbean of the air begins and where that of the waves ends. No matter - the catamaran glides delightfully somewhere between the two. There are also the islets. Countless, mostly wild like something out of a tropical engraving. The boat carves its path from one side to the other. White sandy beaches, wind-swept coconut palms, teeming underwater life: this décor may appear throughout the archipelago, but the eye never tires of it. On the contrary, during this gently paced private cruise, you’ll (re)discover the curious explorer within. If the catch of the day is good - and it always is! - the chef will be all smiles, and so will we. In the meantime, nothing stops you from taking out the kayak to work your arms a bit. Home to the indigenous Kuna islanders, the archipelago also offers the chance for rich interaction with a little-known ancestral culture. 

Your journey

Direct international flights, private transfers, a city hotel with rooftop and pool in the capital, comfortable cabins on a catamaran reserved for your group… This trip will be easy, or it won’t happen at all. It’s also an educational experience, thanks to two highlights planned in Panama City: a hike in the jungle followed by a boat trip on Lake Gatún - an integral part of the Panama Canal - and exploring the Bayano Lake caves, on foot and by kayak. Two wonderful experiences suitable for everyone, organised by private guides. On the catamaran, everything is decided on the spot, based on your wishes and the weather: which island to anchor off of, which waters to dive into, which beach to lay your towel on… And for anything you would like to add to the itinerary or for any minor setbacks, you have the contact details of our on-site Concierge, who is available throughout your trip.