San Blas All-Inclusive Sailing Charter: 3-Day, 3-Night Island Hopping in Guna Yala
Sail away from Panama City to the Guna Yala archipelago on a 3–4 day all‑inclusive charter. Expect private sand cays, vibrant reefs, crew‑prepared meals and flexible island‑hopping driven by wind and weather.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
The reefs are fragile—use biodegradable, reef‑safe sunscreen and apply before entering the water to protect corals.
Prepare for motion and rough roads
The trip includes a 2.5–3 hour 4x4 transfer with bumpy roads and a 30–45 minute lancha that can be wet; bring motion‑sickness remedies and a waterproof bag.
Pack light, soft luggage only
Cabins and storage are compact—soft bags fit better and make boarding quicker.
Respect local culture and rules
Guna communities have their own customs and entrance taxes—ask before photographing and follow the captain’s guidance on island access.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Anchor overnight in the Lemon Cays for calm waters and dramatic sunsets
- •Request a detour to the Holandes Cays for fewer boats and expansive sandbanks
Wildlife
- •Tropical reef fish (parrotfish, angelfish, surgeonfish)
- •Seabirds such as frigatebirds and brown pelicans; occasional sea turtles
Conservation Note
Coral health is sensitive—practices like limited fresh‑water use, proper waste handling and reef‑safe sunscreen reduce impact. Respect local guidelines to help preserve these islands.
The Guna (Kuna) people have long governed Guna Yala with autonomous structures; their craftwork and community rules influence access and visitor etiquette.
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects coral reefs and reduces your skin’s sun damage during long days on deck and in the water.
Light waterproof daypack or dry bagEssential
Keeps electronics and clothes dry during lancha transfers and when on the beach.
Snorkel mask and fins
Reusable gear often fits better than rental equipment and makes reef time more comfortable.
Light windbreaker or rain shellEssential
Evenings on deck can be breezy; a packable shell cuts wind chill and handles tropical showers.
Common Questions
How do I get to the boat from Panama City?
The operator arranges roundtrip shared 4x4 transport (2.5–3 hours) and a lancha transfer; meet at the agreed pickup point in Panama City.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—use of snorkeling equipment is included, though many guests bring their own masks and fins for fit and comfort.
Are the islands private or inhabited?
It varies—itineraries include both inhabited Guna villages and remote uninhabited cays; visits depend on passenger preferences and weather.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Inform the operator in advance—crew prepare fresh meals, often with seafood, and can adapt menus when given notice.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 days
Location
Cartí, Guna Yala
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in normal health; able to climb ladders/steps to board a lancha and stand for short snorkel swims.
Ready to Explore Cartí?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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