Last updated: September 16, 2026

Why San Blas Is the Best Place for a Catamaran Charter in the Caribbean

The San Blas Islands (Guna Yala) offer something most Caribbean destinations cannot: 365 islands with virtually no commercial development, crystal-clear waters, and indigenous Guna communities that have preserved their culture for centuries. A catamaran charter is the ultimate way to explore this archipelago, giving you the freedom to anchor at uninhabited islands, snorkel pristine reefs, and wake up to a different paradise every morning.

AMPA Tours operates a fleet of 17 catamarans ranging from 37 to 62 feet, all crewed and all-inclusive. Whether you want a budget-friendly shared sailing experience or a private luxury voyage, there is a catamaran that fits your group and your budget. At the top of the range, the Lagoon 56 takes up to eight guests with air conditioning in every cabin and Starlink onboard.

Private Charter vs Shared Sailing: Key Differences

The biggest decision when booking a San Blas catamaran is whether to go private or shared. Here is how they compare:

Private Charters

A private charter means the entire catamaran is yours. You choose the itinerary, the pace, and who comes aboard. Private charters are ideal for families, couples celebrating special occasions, and groups of friends who want total flexibility.

• Price: From $725 per person per night at two guests, with the per-person rate dropping sharply as you fill the boat. A Lagoon 42 for 4 guests is $2,300/night total.
• Capacity: 2 to 12 guests depending on the boat.
• Includes: Captain, cook, all meals (fresh seafood, tropical fruits), unlimited drinks including alcohol, snorkeling gear, Starlink WiFi, and all island entry fees.
• Duration: Minimum 2 nights. Most popular: 5-day voyage.
• Itinerary: Fully customizable. Your captain suggests the best spots based on weather and your interests.

Shared Sailing Trips

Shared trips are a more affordable way to experience San Blas by catamaran. You join other travelers on a scheduled departure. These are social, fun, and perfect for solo travelers or couples on a tighter budget.

• Price: Typically $200-350 per person per night.
• Capacity: Usually 6-10 guests per boat.
• Includes: Same as private (meals, drinks, snorkeling, crew) but with a fixed itinerary.
• Duration: Usually 2-3 nights with fixed departure dates.
• Itinerary: Pre-set route. Less flexibility but well-planned to cover the highlights.

Our Top Catamarans for Different Budgets

Budget-Friendly: Lagoon 37 ($288/person/night for 4 guests)

The Lagoon 37 is compact but comfortable, with 3 cabins and plenty of deck space. Ideal for couples or small groups who want the catamaran experience without the premium price tag.

Mid-Range: Lagoon 42 ($2,300/night for up to 4 guests)

The Lagoon 42 hits the sweet spot of space, comfort, and value. Modern design, 4 cabins, and excellent sailing performance. Our most popular charter.

Premium: Leopard 50 ($2,760+/night)

The Leopard 50 offers serious luxury with a flybridge, spacious saloon, and 4 large cabins. Perfect for groups of 6-8 who want extra comfort.

Ultra-Luxury: Sunreef 62 ($2,280+/night)

The Sunreef 62 is the flagship of our fleet. At 62 feet with premium cabins, professional chef, and every amenity you can imagine, this is the finest sailing experience in Panama.

What Is Included in Every AMPA Tours Charter

Every catamaran charter with AMPA Tours is genuinely all-inclusive:

• Professional captain with extensive San Blas navigation experience
• Dedicated cook preparing fresh local seafood, tropical fruits, and international dishes
• All meals, snacks, and unlimited drinks (including alcohol on most boats)
• Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
• Starlink satellite internet on most vessels
• Kayaks and paddleboards where available
• All Guna Yala community fees and island landing fees
• Fuel and navigation

Not included: 4×4 transport from Panama City to the marina ($140/person round-trip, bookable through AMPA Tours) and the $22/person Guna Yala entry tax paid in cash at the checkpoint.

How to Book Your San Blas Catamaran

The booking process is simple:

1. Contact AMPA Tours via WhatsApp or the charter inquiry form.
2. Tell us your dates, group size, and budget. We will recommend the best catamaran for your trip.
3. Confirm with a deposit. Pay via credit card (7% surcharge), Revolut (@mbaade, no fee), or bank transfer.
4. Arrive in Panama City the day before departure. We handle everything from there.

Book at least 2-4 weeks in advance during peak season (December-April). Off-season bookings can often be arranged within a few days.

Tips for First-Time Catamaran Guests

• Pack light: Soft bags only, no hard suitcases. Storage on catamarans is limited.
• Bring cash: $22 per person for Guna Yala tax, plus extra for island handicraft purchases. No ATMs in San Blas.
• Reef-safe sunscreen: The reefs in San Blas are pristine. Help keep them that way.
• Motion sickness: The waters are usually calm, but bring medication if you are sensitive.
• Camera: Waterproof or in a dry bag. You will want to capture every moment.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

What is the best catamaran for a San Blas charter?

The best catamaran depends on your group size and budget. The Lagoon 42 is the most popular all-rounder at $1,450/night. The Leopard 50 offers premium space at $2,200/night. The Sunreef 62 is the ultimate luxury option at $3,100/night. All are crewed and all-inclusive.

How much does a private catamaran charter cost in San Blas?

Private catamaran charters in San Blas start from $450 per person per night at 2 pax on the Lagoon 37. The cheapest catamaran with A/C is the Leopard 40 at $725 per person per night at 2 pax. Rates drop for groups of 3 or more. Total boat prices range from $900 per night for a Lagoon 37 with 2 guests to $6,100 per night for the Ipanema 58 at 12 guests. All charters include captain, cook, meals, drinks, and snorkeling gear.

What is the difference between private and shared sailing in San Blas?

A private charter gives you the entire boat with a customizable itinerary. A shared trip puts you with other travelers on a fixed schedule at a lower price ($200 to $350 per person per night vs $250+ per person per night at 2 pax for private monohulls and $450+ for private catamarans, $725+ for a catamaran with A/C). Private is better for families and groups, shared is ideal for solo travelers.

What is included in an AMPA Tours catamaran charter?

AMPA Tours charters include on board: professional captain and cook, all meals (fresh seafood, tropical fruits), unlimited drinks (including alcohol), snorkeling equipment, Starlink WiFi on the luxury fleet, and kayaks where available. The Guna Yala entry tax is paid separately in cash at the Nusagandi checkpoint.