Private Whale Watching & Pearl Islands Yacht Charter from Panama City
Board a private Viking 46ft yacht from Flamenco Marina for full-day whale watching and island hopping in the Pearl Islands. Combine humpback sightings with snorkeling, fishing, and a private BBQ on white-sand beaches.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time your booking for whale season
Book between June and November for the highest likelihood of humpback sightings; mornings are typically calmer for transit and viewing.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Transit can be 1.5–2.5 hours; take medication or use patches before boarding if you’re prone to seasickness.
Protect electronics from spray
Use waterproof cases or dry bags for cameras and phones — salty spray and snorkeling excursions can damage gear.
Follow crew instructions for wildlife viewing
Keep noise low and stay in designated areas to avoid stressing whales and other marine life; the crew enforces safe viewing distances.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Visit secluded coves on Chapera for shallow snorkeling away from crowds
- •Short beach walks on Mogo Mogo reveal tidal pools with rays and small reef fish
Wildlife
- •Humpback whales
- •Dolphins
Conservation Note
Operators follow viewing distance guidelines to minimize disturbance to whales; visitors are encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid anchoring on coral to protect fragile marine habitats.
The archipelago was noted by Spanish explorers for its pearl beds and later served as waypoints for colonial shipping; some islands retain remnants of early 20th-century settlements.
What to Bring
Motion-sickness medication or patchesEssential
Prevents nausea during the open-water transit to the islands.
Waterproof dry bagEssential
Keeps electronics, passports and dry clothes safe during snorkeling and spray.
High-SPF reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin in tropical sun while minimizing reef damage.
Light windproof jacket
Useful for early-morning chill and breezy conditions on the flybridge.
Common Questions
When is the best time to see whales in the Pearl Islands?
Humpback whales are most commonly seen from June through November when mothers and calves frequent the sheltered bays.
How long is the boat ride from Panama City to the Pearl Islands?
Transit to the main islands typically takes 1.5–2.5 hours one way depending on sea conditions and the exact island visited.
Is the tour suitable for children and non-swimmers?
Yes — the tour is family-friendly and suitable for non-swimmers; life jackets are provided and snorkeling is optional.
What should I bring for the full-day charter?
Bring ID/passport, reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, dry clothes, motion-sickness remedies, cash for tips or beach purchases, and a waterproof bag.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours (full day)
Location
Panama City, Panama Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to board small ladders and move on a rolling boat.
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