There are three options to cross from Central America to South America.

  1. The Death Option – overland travel via the Darien Gap. Crossing the Darien Gap is only for the overly adventurous type due to the risk of kidnappings, treacherous jungle, crazed drug traffickers, and guerilla warfare. If one decides to cross the Darien gap by foot, then it is necessary to hire a guide, which can be costly. Since this option is expensive and dangerous, I’ll pass.
  2. The Boring Option – Fly. A one way flight between Panama and Colombia will range from $300 to $600, which is pretty expensive for a short distance.
  3. The Best OptionSailing the San Blas Islands! Yes! Yes! Yes!

Details for Sailing San Blas:

  • Duration: 4 to 5 days
  • Cost: $375 – $550
  • Itinerary: Visit the San Blas Islands for 2/3 days (sleep on the boat) and then sail for 30 hours to Colombia

Why Sailing is the Best Option

There are many boats, ranging from speedboats to catamarans, with different vibes you can choose to get from Panama to Colombia, It is important to research the boat that is a best fit for you. I recommend booking via Blue Sailing since they can match you with the appropriate boat. I told Blue Sailing that I was in my twenties and desired a social atmosphere, so they recommended the Gitano Del Mar, a Catamaran for 18 people, or the Gitanita, a monohull for 13. These two boats sail together so I decided to choose the Catamaran. Taking the Gitano Del Mar has been one of the highlights of my trip. My expectations were blown!

The Gitano Del Mar Experience

Gitano Del Mar is translated as “Gypsy of the Sea”. When I stepped on the boat I was greeted by our bubbly captain, Dingo, who took my shoes since he said I wouldn’t need them for the next 4 days. As Gypsies we were cut from the outside world with no worries. Things like showers, clothes, and cell phone reception did not matter. We entertained ourselves by playing card games, snorkeling, watching sunsets, drinking beers and rum(I learned that rum mixed with water is an acceptable mixed drink that keeps you hydrated!), and random activities like the beach Olympics. We had an international crew filled with Irish, Swiss, Germans, Canadians, Kiwis and more. It’s easy to bond with people on this trip since we are around each other 24/7.

 

 

The food was absolutely delicious! 3 meals a day are included in the cost for the boat. We had two chefs on board and each dish was sublime. My favorite meals were the seafood! Our captain would purchase fresh lobster and octopus from the local Kuna people. On our last day we caught tuna and had fresh sashimi. $550 does not feel expensive when it includes 5 days of accommodation and a happy, full belly.

 

After a couple days of visiting the San Blas Islands, the next step is a 30 hour sail to Colombia. Half of the boat got seasick, but I loved being in the middle of the ocean and riding with the waves. The ocean is serene, calm, and provides a beautiful setting.

Once we finally got to Cartagena, we stayed on the boat a little longer and enjoyed the hot sun and some beers. Eventually it was time to depart the Gitano and find some hostels in the city. For the next two days I hung out with my new friends before jetting off to Peru for the Inca Trail. It would of been nice to continue traveling with everyone, but it was time to go!

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