NEW ADVENTURE!
Sail from one ocean to another on an iconic journey through the Isthmus of Panama, and discover its rich history and surprising wildlife

At nearly 100 years old, the Panama Canal remains one of the singular engineering feats of the modern age. Aside from its historic and economic importance, this vital artery passes through areas of remarkably rich cultural and natural heritage. Sailing through the canal is one of life’s iconic experiences, a must-do for students of history and lovers of nature. On this exciting MTS voyage, we’ll take you aboard a small, exclusive 24-passenger motor yacht for an intimate exploration of Panama’s famed waterways, traveling between two mighty oceans on a one-of-a-kind, cross-continental journey. Along the way you’ll meet the indigenous Embera people, whose traditional lifestyles have remained unchanged for 600 years; kayak and snorkel the pristine beaches of the Pearl Islands; and spot abundant wildlife at Gatun Lake, the world’s premier location for viewing monkeys in the wild. On the canal’s Atlantic side, you’ll explore the magnificent Chagres River and tour quaint, historic Portobelo before returning to Panama City via a scenic, trans-isthmian train ride. Throughout your adventure, you’ll enjoy plush accommodations, our signature expertise, and deep immersions into the surrounding culture.

Activities

7 days of cruising with optional kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and zodiac boat rides

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise the historic Panama Canal and the narrow Gaillard Cut as you cross the continental divide aboard a deluxe, 24-passenger yacht
• Spot exotic birds, monkeys, sloths, iguanas and other wildlife at Gatun Lake, considered the world’s premier location for viewing monkeys in the wild—more than mainland Africa or Madagascar!
• Experience one of life’s iconic experiences, a must-do for students of history and lovers of nature
• Kayak and snorkel the pristine beaches of the Pearl Islands
• Navigate the wild, tropical Darien Jungle, and journey into the lives of the indigenous Embera tribe, whose traditions have remained unchanged for 600 year

Duration: 7 days Start Location: Panama City End Location: Panama City

BRIEF Itinerary

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  Day 1 : Panama City - Flamenco Marina

  We'll embark the Discovery and cruise toward Contadora, where we will stay the first night before navigating to the Darien Jungle. Welcome orientation and dinner.

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  Day 2 : Darien Jungle

  Cruising into the Darien Jungle, we will visit the village of the Embera Indians, who are master craftsmen of cocobolo wood carvings and basketry. Keep your eyes open along the way as this area is abundant with wildlife along the river's edge.

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  Day 3 : Pearl Islands – San Telmo

  Today, we'll snorkel and swim in the picturesque Pearl Islands, known for an abundance of pearl oysters. We'll kayak along beautiful beaches and visit the islands of San Telmo and Mogo Mogo.

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  Day 4 : Panama Canal Transit

  We'll wake up at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal and join the morning’s ship convoy for our northbound canal passage. We'll then navigate the famed Gaillard Cut, the narrowest section of the Panama Canal, and bisect the Continental Divide. Spend the night in Gatun Lake along the Panama Canal.

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  Day 5 : Panama Canal – Barro Colorado

  We'll explore Gatun Lake famous for its abundance of wildlife and visit Barro Colorado Island. Aboard small crafts, we'll reach lush rainforests and secluded areas of the jungle to see exotic birds, monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and crocodiles. The Discovery will exit the Panama Canal in the afternoon on its way to the mouth of the Chagres River.

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  Day 6 : Chagres River - Fort San Lorenzo

  Experience the magnificent Chagres River, the centerpiece of the colonial inter-oceanic route and the lifeline of the Panama Canal -- full of wildlife and tropical jungle. Explore Fort San Lorenzo on the Atlantic side. Later that evening, the Discovery will cruise to Colon.

• Day 7 : Portobelo – Caribbean

  Wake up to a farewell breakfast before you disembark the Discovery. Travel by motor coach to explore Portobelo, a town founded by Christopher Columbus on his fourth voyage to the new continent in 1597. Later in the afternoon, board the Panama Canal Railway train for a scenic journey back to Panama City.

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  The Discovery

  Panama

  The Discovery is a 33 meter catamaran with capacity of 24 passengers, to ensure that everyone can enjoy serenity and privacy together with the excitement and closeness of a true exploration cruise. All cabins have individual climate control, private bathrooms and windows extend the lenght of the cabin.  The Discovery is equipped with a unique platform that lowers kayakers gently into the water and also retrieves them in perfect safety and comfort.

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

photo credits: ©Panama Marine Adventures