Monday, August 25, 2014

All About Boat Panama To Colombia Ride

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By Colette Foreman


Travelling from Panama to Colombia is not possible by road because of the infamous Darien Gap the break in the Pan-American Highway. That leaves travel by air and boat. Travel by air is fast but non eventful for adventure seekers. Boat Panama to Colombia is one of the greatest journeys to make in the world.

Through beautiful tropical beaches and breathtaking islands it takes 3 to 5 days to arrive in Colombia. The main departure point is San Blas which is off Panama City and may cost you a little bit. There are other departure points in Portobello and Puerto Lindo towns. Navigating through the islands takes almost three days while it is a two day journey to Cartagena in Colombia via open sea.

Boat hire is the first step to making this trip. Talk to the captain when hiring or book via an agency. Inquire about the number of the other passengers on the trip with you. Do not forget to get to the departure town before the actual sail time. Besides, have enough cash with you as there are no ATMS along the journey. Withdrawing the cash at Panama City is the best option.

The fare is inclusive meals, water, fees for departure and arrival as wells as taxes. The captain takes care of all immigration requirements for you. Fare is paid by cash to the captain once you get to on board the boat. The captain takes your entire luggage away for storage. Therefore you may want to prepare a day pack in advance. The day pack should continue all the things you need for the trip such as toiletries, sunscreen, shorts, tees and sunglasses.

Different boats have different drinks policy. In some, alcohol is prohibited, in others it is allowed but you have to bring your own. Diabetic, vegetarians, vegans and other special diet people are provided the meals of their choice but have to request in advance. There is also fishing and snorkeling gear present in case you want to try out some.

Before the journey, you are informed of the safety requirements by captains. Sailing is not a game it often gets dangerous and risky. Storms may occur while at sea, even people may fall overboard or even food running out. There are even cases of drunk or sleepy captains. The best thing for you to do is not have many expectations and look for every chance you can get to have fun.

This trip is also an opportunity to meet the local tribes, interact with them and get to know a little bit of their culture. The Kuna Yala people in San Blas Island are an interesting social people. You may even want to try out their food or buy their handmade craft as souvenir. There are other islands also with indigenous people.

Know the credentials of your captain while booking the trip. Look for professionalism, experience and those permitted by the law to operate. Their boats should also have equipment for safety such as life jackets and a GPS tracker. Remember that Cheap does not always mean safe. Panama to Colombia boat ride is a life changing experience.




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