Sail a luxury catamaran along Panama's unspoiled Caribbean coast to the historic harbour of Portobelo, snorkel over coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, and indulge in a gourmet open-air lunch anchored in a UNESCO bay. The ultimate blue-water day.
What to expect
Cast off from Colón's marina in the early morning, sails filling as the city skyline recedes. The catamaran reaches Portobelo — where Spanish galleons once loaded silver from Peru — in about an hour; a brief shoreside visit takes in the cannon-studded Spanish forts, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Back aboard, snorkel gear is distributed and the captain anchors over a coral reef: parrotfish, angelfish and the occasional sea turtle are regulars here. Lunch is served at anchor — fresh ceviche, grilled snapper, tropical salad — as the afternoon sun turns the Caribbean jade-green.
Good to know
Confirm all-aboard time before booking — most full-day sails return to dock by 16:30–17:00. Sea conditions on the Caribbean coast can be choppy November–February; check with operator. Bring reef-safe sunscreen; it is required on board. Seasickness patches recommended for sensitive travellers.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Colon — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Colon
- Panama Canal Full Transit: Locks, History & Pacific in One Day
- Gatun Locks Close-Up & Gatun Lake Kayak: Panama Canal from the Water
- Fort San Lorenzo: UNESCO Jungle Fortress & Chagres River Wildlife
- Private Panama City & Miraflores Locks: Casco Viejo to Canal in One Day
- Emberá Drua Village: Living Culture Deep in Chagres Rainforest