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.
Taboga, the "Island of Flowers," is a charming escape just a short ferry ride from Panama City. This volcanic island is steeped in history, once a favorite retreat of the painter Paul Gauguin. Playa Restinga, the main beach, boasts soft sands and calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Explore the island's lush interior with hiking trails leading to panoramic viewpoints, where you can spot whales during migration season. Visit the historic Iglesia de San Pedro, one of the oldest churches in the Pacific. Savor fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants and soak in the island's laid-back atmosphere. Taboga offers a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxation, making it an ideal day trip or weekend anchor.
Part of the pearl islands archipelago, Isla Contadora sits in the balmy Gulf of Panama and has a strong history with the pearl trade which is how it gets its name. This was the spot where the Spanish would count the pearls harvested from the surrounding fertile waters. Now the pearl trade has turned to a trickle but the island is still a highly sought-after destination, particularly by wealthy families who live close by in Panama City. Isla Contadora boasts no less than eleven beaches with the best coral reefs for snorkelling and diving being found at Playa Larga and Playa Galeon. One of the prettiest beaches is Playa Cacique with its chalk-white sands and sense of sheer seclusion. When not beach hopping, charter guests can relish the ease of an island well-tailored to tourism.
The biggest of the shimmering Pearl Islands, Isla del Ray spreads out for over 90 square miles and yet despite its generous size, it has one of the smallest populations. As development on this grand island has been slow in the making, it still means that charter guests can access a wealth of wonderful pristine and clean beaches along with enjoying the vibes of traditional small-scale towns and jungle hikes that teem with life. In the dense interior, you can expect to see native animals like wild pigs and bright birds and in the crystal clear waters, you will find coral reefs, turtles and even dolphins and whales. Sports fishing is big news around Isla del Ray and even those who don’t want to cast their line will find plenty to do here. Isla del Day blends the best of the natural world alongside those local amenities with a few bars and restaurants for a local experience.
San José is the second largest island in the archipelago. Here, nature truly reigns, as the island is mostly deserted by humans. It has over 50 beaches, available for public use now that US mines from 1945-1947 have been cleared. Be aware that to enter the island, you must have the permission of the land owners, since it remains a privately owned island. Nonetheless, it would be a shame to miss this beautiful island which truly feels untouched and off the beaten track.
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.
Finish your charter back where you began. Reflect on your newly-formed memories, while 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.