Charter guests who have been dreaming of seeing the rare olive ridley sea turtles will be in their element at Canas Island. This wildlife reserve is one of the most important nesting sites in Panama and a nesting site for five different kinds of sea turtles including the pacific green, loggerhead, leatherback, hawksbill, and the aforementioned olive ridley. Being a safe haven for these turtles means that Canas is a little tricky to reach but can be found on the southern shores of the Azuero Peninsula. Turtle lovers will find the best time to visit is between September and November when up to thirty thousand turtles will make their way to the island to lay their eggs. The island is also home to a small village of turtle enthusiasts who dedicate a lot of their time to protecting this remote and special place.
White sand beaches, sperm whales breaching the waters, and stashed away anchorages and secret resorts - it’s no wonder that charter guests fall hard for the perfection of Las Perlas. The Pacific version of the San Blas Islands, Las Perlas is made up of over 250 smidges of tropical islands scattered across the Gulf of Panama. While it does wax poetic, the name ‘pearl islands’ is also a reference to the pale pink pearls that can be found around these waters. Most charter guests make a beeline for Isla Contadora with its upmarket vibes and millionaire mansions perched on the shores but Isla del Ray is the largest and has plenty to keep you entertained. For a more remote vibe, you could head for Saboga. Laden with beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and exceptional diving and snorkelling, the pearl islands are as precious as can be.
Blessed with an expansive sandy beach and waters teeming with tropical marine life, Chapera is a blissful bolthole in the northern reaches of the Pearl Archipelago. Encircled by its equally stunning neighbours Contadora, Mogo Mogo and Saboga, it’s a sublime anchorage spot where guests can swim, snorkel and simply soak up their stunning surroundings. Known for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets, this dream destination boasts enviable proximity to the equator and lies outside of the hurricane belt, essentially cementing its status as a superyacht mecca. A popular destination from Panama City itself, this idyllic island would form a perfect part of an intoxicating itinerary that delves into the beating heart of this captivating country.
A stone's throw away from the dazzling displays of art and architecture that make up Panama City, you can find the island of Saboga. Saboga is the stuff of dreams - all hidden coves, sweeping beaches, verdant greens, and a wealth of wildlife. Birds, turtles, reptiles, and all manner of creatures make their home here in the shady rainforests while in the liquid blue you can find humpback whales and other marine creatures. In fact, Saboga is famous for its shell middens and fish traps which date back to the original indigenous people who made their home on this land long before the Spanish. To make the most of the expanse of blue water, charter guests can make the best of their yacht's water toys and those who want to try their hand at windsurfing may find favourable conditions right on their doorstep.
Close to Contadora, the chattering island of Isla Pacheca can be called home by no less than eight thousand nesting pelicans. Part of the beautiful Pearl Islands, this island is cloaked in greenery framing a soft white sandy beach and surrounded by glittering shades of sunlit blue. For charter guests who want to witness the natural drama that Panama has to offer, you can make the most of bird watching here before heading to the nearby islets of Bartolome and Pachequilla where snorkelling and diving opportunities can be found in abundance.
Taboga, Panama's "Island of Flowers," is a tranquil retreat in the Gulf of Panama, a short ferry ride from Panama City. It is enchanted with lush landscapes, vibrant flowers, and excellent birdwatching. The island's beaches, especially Playa Larga, offer golden sands and clear waters. Taboga's village boasts colonial architecture and the historic San Pedro Church. Seafood is a culinary highlight. Whether for a day trip or a more extended stay, Taboga's natural beauty, history, and laid-back vibe make it a tropical paradise worth experiencing.
Fresh ceviche, UNESCO splendour, and brimming with trendy wine bars and boutiques - there’s a lot to love about the capital of Panama City. While the Panama Canal is undoubtedly a must-see on the circuit, there are plenty of other amazing sites to see too. Wandering the romantic 17th-century Casco Viejo district invites you to admire the Venetian-inspired architecture, gaze at the cathedrals, and learn all about its fascinating history on a walking tour. Sipping drinks on a rooftop bar, sampling tantalizing tamales, and visiting the well-curated art galleries and museums all lend a cosmopolitan air to this colourful place. For charter guests wanting a must-have souvenir - the artisan market is one of the best spots to pick up a famed Panama hat.