How do you Reach the San Blas islands and Board the Catamaran?
Transfers are not included in our charter prices but we will guide you through the whole process of setting up all transportation needed in and out of San Blas.
Reaching the catamaran in San Blas can be done in two ways: Road or Flight
In the table below you will find a comparison of all details regarding the road and flight transfers:
Road | Flight | |
|---|---|---|
Total Transfer Time | +4 hours each way | 40 minutes each way |
Departing Time from Panama City | Fixed at 5:15 AM | Any time until 16:00 PM |
Departing Location | Pickup from your hotel or residence in Panama City | Albrook Airport |
Water Taxi Needed | Yes, included in total price | No |
Duration of Water Taxi | Around 50 minutes | 0 |
Boarding Catamaran Time | Around 10:00 AM, depends on traffic | As early as 7:30 AM, flexible |
Standard Checkout Time from Catamaran | 7:00-7:30 AM | Mornings, flexible |
Arrive Back in Panama City | 11:30 AM | Mornings, flexible |
Late Checkout Possible? | Yes: Checkout at 15:30 PM, Arrival in hotel or residence in Panama City at 19:30PM | Yes: Checkout at 16:00 PM, Arrival in Albrook Panama City at 16:40PM |
Cost | $75 person way | $175 person way + 8.5% tax |
What’s Included | Shared 4×4 and water taxi | Flight, this is all you need |
Other Fees | $21 per person tax paid to Gunas | $21 per person tax paid to Gunas |
Tips | Bring motion sickness tablets and water/food | Bring your camera |
Why Flying to San Blas Is the Preferred Choice
When it comes to reaching the San Blas Islands, air transfers offer clear advantages over road travel. Here’s what makes flying the smarter, more convenient option:
1. Fast & Time-Saving
Flying takes just 40 minutes, compared to the 4-hour journey by car and boat. That means more time relaxing in paradise and less time in transit.
2. Breathtaking Aerial Views
From the air, take in stunning views of Panama’s lush rainforest and the turquoise waters of San Blas—a scenic start to your adventure.
3. Direct Arrival to Your Catamaran
Once you land, you’re only a 2-minute dinghy ride away from boarding your private catamaran—no extra transfers, no delays.
4. Smooth, Stress-Free Travel
Avoid traffic jams, bumpy roads, and unreliable water taxis. Flying offers a seamless, hassle-free way to begin your sailing journey.
5. More Flexibility, Better Planning
Flight schedules can be tailored to fit your itinerary, unlike fixed road transfer times—ideal for guests with limited time or specific travel needs.
Important Note on Air Transfers:
Flights to San Blas are limited and fill up quickly, so we highly recommend booking well in advance.
How much does it cost to fly to the San Blas islands?
Cost of private flights to San Blas is on offer:
$175/person/way (flat fee, year-round)
Private airplanes to the main landing strips in the San Blas islands can carry from 2-9 guests and their luggage.
How do you fly to the San Blas islands?
Flying to San Blas is the most efficient way to access the region. We recommend a departure time of 7:30 AM, but we can adjust this to fit your schedule—just let us know upon booking.
Booking a private plane to the San Blas islands is a smart choice, as it reduces transfer time to just 40 minutes, compared to over 4 hours by road.
Avoid the lengthy, often uncomfortable water taxi ride of up to 1 hour. Most importantly, you’ll arrive in the most isolated and unique part of the San Blas islands, just a stone’s throw from the stunning Cayo Coco Bandero, Dutch Cays, and Cambombia area.
Once you arrive at Corazon de Jesus, our captain will welcome you and transfer you to the catamaran anchored just beside the runway. The transfer from the runway to the catamaran takes only 1-2 minutes.
Aerial view of the breathtaking Dutch Cays in the San Blas Islands, the Caribbean’s last true paradise.
Flight Safety
It’s important to note that Panama enforces strict aviation regulations similar to those in the US and EU. Aircraft are periodically certified by the Panamanian Aviation Authority. The planes used are Cessnas, the most trusted commercial brand in their segment.
The plane’s captain will only fly if the meteorological conditions are 100% safe and everything is in order. We’ve even grounded planes due to minor issues, like the radio volume not being high enough. Safety is our top priority, and we’ve maintained a perfect safety record for 12 years.
Where is Albrook local airport?
We will send you all practical info as soon as your catamaran charter and flights are confirmed.
Road Transfer Overview
Departure from Panama City:
Pick-up is scheduled at a fixed time of 5:15 a.m.
Drive to the San Blas Border:
Expect approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes of travel by car.
Border Crossing:
Bring valid identification and be prepared to pay local border taxes.
Note: Wait times at the border can vary, with potential queues.
From Border to Port:
Continue with a 40-minute drive to the port. A 15–20 minute wait for a shared water taxi may follow.
Water Taxi Ride to Your Catamaran:
The boat ride takes at least 40 minutes, often with multiple stops before arrival.
Estimated Arrival at Your Catamaran:
You can expect to board around 10:00 a.m.
Important Note About Road Transfers
Road transfers are operated exclusively by the Guna indigenous authorities, who manage all transportation within the Guna Yala region. As these services are independently run, we are not responsible for any delays or inconveniences that may occur during the journey.
Self-Drive Option
A regular car won’t suffice—you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle to navigate the border crossing. This method is quicker than the standard road transfer since there are no scheduled stops, such as supermarket breaks. It’s an economical choice that adds a sense of adventure to your journey.
You can safely park your vehicle at the San Blas port for a small fee, with secure surveillance provided. For detailed directions and a map to the port, feel free to contact us.
For additional information, check out our blog.
Whether you choose an adventurous road journey or a picturesque flight to San Blas, each option delivers a unique travel experience tailored to your preferences.
In the end, the decision depends on what matters most to you—whether it’s maximizing time, prioritizing comfort, or embracing adventure. Plan ahead, book early, and prepare to enjoy an unforgettable escape in this stunning tropical paradise.
