One of the most common questions we receive at AMPA Tours is: “How much does a San Blas catamaran charter cost?” The answer varies significantly depending on the type of charter, the size of the boat, the duration, and the time of year. This guide gives you everything you need to budget accurately for a San Blas sailing vacation in 2026.
Private vs Shared Charter, Which is Right for You?
Before discussing pricing, it’s important to understand the two main types of San Blas catamaran experience:
Private Charter
You book the entire catamaran exclusively for your group. The boat, the captain, the chef, and the itinerary are entirely yours. You choose where to go, when to eat, and how long to stay at each island. This is the premium experience, and the one AMPA Tours specialises in. Private charters are ideal for couples, families, groups of friends celebrating a special occasion, or anyone who values privacy and flexibility.
Shared (Cabin) Charter
You book one or two cabins on a catamaran alongside other guests you don’t know. You share meals, the cockpit, and the itinerary. It’s the budget-friendly option, popular with solo travellers and backpackers. The trade-off is less privacy and less flexibility.
San Blas Private Catamaran Charter Prices (2026)
AMPA Tours private charter pricing is structured by boat and number of guests per night. All prices below are all-inclusive, meals, crew, water toys, transfers, and fees included. No hidden costs.
Lagoon 42, Private Catamaran (Up to 4 Guests)
- Catamaran only (1–2 guests): from $1,200/night + $250 captain fee
- 2 guests: from $1,700/night all-inclusive
- 3 guests: from $1,950/night all-inclusive
- 4 guests: from $2,200/night all-inclusive
The Lagoon 42 is our most popular boat for couples and small families, air-conditioned cabins, fully equipped galley, and exceptional performance under sail.
ELBA 45, Private Catamaran (Up to 8 Guests)
- 2 guests: from $2,200/night
- 4 guests: from $2,700/night
- 6 guests: from $3,200/night
- 8 guests: from $3,700/night
The ELBA 45 is ideal for larger friend groups or two families sharing a charter. More space on deck, more cabins, and the same all-inclusive service.
Salina 48, Private Catamaran (Up to 10 Guests)
- 2 guests: from $2,540/night
- 4 guests: from $3,130/night
- 6 guests: from $3,720/night
- 8 guests: from $4,310/night
The Salina 48 is our flagship for larger groups. Spacious cabins, a large outdoor living area, and the smoothest ride across open water.
What is Included in the Price?
All AMPA Tours private charter prices include:
- ✅ Round-trip 4×4 ground transfer from Panama City hotels
- ✅ Full professional crew, experienced captain and onboard chef
- ✅ Three meals per day, freshly prepared on board
- ✅ Snacks, fresh fruit, and non-alcoholic drinks throughout
- ✅ Snorkeling equipment and fins for all guests
- ✅ Dinghy with outboard motor for island excursions
- ✅ Stand-up paddleboard and/or kayak (varies by boat)
- ✅ Guna Yala territory entrance fees
- ✅ Boat mooring and anchorage fees
- ✅ Fuel for the entire charter
What is NOT Included?
- ❌ Alcoholic beverages (available to purchase on board or bring your own)
- ❌ Optional lobster dinners (purchased fresh from Guna fishermen, typically $15–$25 per lobster)
- ❌ Mola purchases from Guna craft markets
- ❌ International flights to Panama City
- ❌ Panama City hotel nights before/after the charter
Cost Per Person Breakdown
To make the pricing more tangible, here’s what a 5-night private charter works out to per person depending on group size:
- Couple (2 people), Lagoon 42, 5 nights: approx. $4,250 per person
- Group of 4, Lagoon 42, 5 nights: approx. $2,750 per person
- Group of 6, ELBA 45, 5 nights: approx. $2,667 per person
- Group of 8, ELBA 45, 5 nights: approx. $2,313 per person
The more people sharing the boat, the lower the per-person cost. Larger groups of 6–8 people get exceptional value, comparable to a high-end resort but with an experience that’s genuinely priceless.
How Much is a Shared Charter in San Blas?
Shared cabin charters in San Blas typically cost $500–$900 per person for a 4–5 night trip, depending on the operator and season. This is significantly cheaper but comes with shared spaces, a fixed itinerary, and the social dynamics of living with strangers. For budget-conscious solo travellers, it can be a great option.
Peak Season vs Low Season Pricing
Prices at AMPA Tours remain stable year-round, we don’t charge peak season premiums. However, availability is much more limited from December through March. If you’re planning a holiday during this window, we strongly recommend booking 3–6 months in advance to secure your preferred boat and dates.
Is a San Blas Catamaran Charter Worth the Cost?
Overwhelmingly, yes. Our guests consistently tell us that their San Blas charter is the best travel experience of their lives, not just the best of a particular trip, but across all the travel they’ve done. When you consider that the price covers accommodation, all meals, all activities, all transportation within the islands, and a dedicated crew of two for your entire group, it represents exceptional value compared to a comparable luxury resort experience.
And unlike a resort, you wake up somewhere different every morning, a new island, a new anchorage, a new piece of the 365-island archipelago that most people on earth will never see.
Get a Custom Quote for Your Group
Every charter is different, different group sizes, different dates, different durations. The best way to get an accurate price is to send us your details and we’ll respond within a few hours with a personalised proposal.