Here’s all the essential information needed for the trip in a quick snapshot.

For a more detailed guide, be sure to read further below.

<h3>Cost</h3>

Starting at $600 USD as of 2024, including 3 meals per day, snacks, immigration fees, and processing.

<h3>Duration</h3>

<h3>People aboard</h3>

At least 12 passengers and 2 crew members, depending on the company and boat.

<h3>Conditions</h3>

Generally smooth sailing between the islands, with some chop during the sea crossing. However, conditions can vary depending on the time of year and weather patterns.

<h3>Booking in advance</h3>

Securing a spot on the boat a couple of weeks in advance is recommended, as bookings tend to fill up quickly.

<h3>Tipping</h3>

Optional, but it is suggested to leave a tip if the experience was enjoyable.

<h3>How much does it cost to take the sailboat from Panama to Colombia?</h3>

The total cost of the journey depends on the company, boat, and departure location. As of 2024, expect to pay at least $650 USD.

This cost includes the trip fee, transport to the departure point (around $30 USD), and the mandatory $20 USD tax (2024 rate) to the Guna Yala indigenous people of San Blas.

The best option found was the Wildcard sailing company, priced at $640 for the base fee. An additional $25 USD was paid for transport from Panama City to Linton Bay Marina. Including the $20 USD Kuna Yala tax, the total cost was $685 USD.

Wildcard Sailing and Blue Sailing are the two primary companies offering the 5-day trip. Blue Sailing offers a wider range of boats and daily departures, while Wildcard has weekly departures and tends to be slightly cheaper.

<h3>Cheaper options: speedboat or flying</h3>

For those with a tighter budget, there are alternatives like speedboats or flights.

<h3>Speedboat</h3>

The speedboat journey lasts 4 days and starts at approximately $450 USD, including transport to the departure point. Main providers include:

- San Blas Frontera (typically the cheapest)

- San Blas Adventures

- San Blas Dreams

The speedboat offers a different experience, with overnight stays on the San Blas Islands and a few hours spent crossing the open sea. Comfort may vary, and it’s likely to get wet if the weather turns rough.

<h3>Flying</h3>

The cheapest flights from Panama City to Colombia start at about $100 USD, with luggage included. Prices fluctuate depending on the date and destination. Skyscanner is recommended for finding the best deals.

<h3>How many people are on board the boat?</h3>

The number of people on board varies depending on the boat. On the Wildcard, the boat was full with 20 passengers and 4 crew members. Some boats hold a maximum of 14 passengers.

<h3>How long does it take to sail from Panama to Colombia?</h3>

The overall sailboat trip takes around 6 days. Below is a breakdown of each day of the journey.

<h3>Day 1: Getting to the Departure Point</h3>

Though not technically part of the sailing trip, the day spent traveling to the departure point is worth mentioning. It usually takes a few hours, followed by some waiting time. During this time, the crew handles immigration procedures and provides a briefing before setting sail at night from Linton Bay Marina.

<h3>Day 2: Island #1 – Aca Dargana</h3>

Arriving at Aca Dargana early in the morning, the crew served breakfast as the boat anchored. The island, the largest of the trip, boasts pristine white sands and crystal-clear water. Snorkeling was enjoyed, with the coral reef being teeming with colorful fish.

Lunch was enjoyed on the island, followed by beach volleyball hosted by the island’s Kuna Yala family. The evening ended with stargazing and a bonfire on the beach before returning to the boat.

<h3>Day 3: Island #2 – Ogo Cibudu</h3>

After sailing through the night, Ogo Cibudu was reached the next morning. Though the snorkeling wasn’t as vibrant as Aca Dargana, the island’s beauty was undeniable. Paddleboarding and photographing the stunning views were favorite activities. The highlight was a breathtaking sunset that painted the sky in surreal colors.

<h3>Day 4: Island #3 – Coco Bandero</h3>

After breakfast, a scenic boat ride around Coco Bandero’s islands was enjoyed, with more opportunities for snorkeling at another beautiful reef. The island’s popularity meant more visitors, but it was still a serene spot to relax. The view from the boat was just as impressive.

<h3>Day 5: Crossing the Open Sea to Colombia</h3>

The final day featured a smooth sea crossing to Colombia. While some seasickness was experienced, the crew provided ginger tea to ease discomfort. By 6 PM, the group arrived in Colombia, marking the end of the journey with fond goodbyes and happy memories.