Choose the Right Charter Company in San Blas
Choosing the right charter company in the San Blas islands involves several important considerations to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable sailing experience. Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:
Define Your Needs and Budget: Determine your group size, trip duration, and budget. Having clear criteria will narrow down your options. Catamaran with or without air conditioning, amount of water toys and size of the vessel, are the most important factor to consider.
Research Charter Companies and read reviews: Start by researching charter companies in San Blas. You can use online search engines, travel forums and review websites such as Trip Advisor to find a list of reputable companies. Beware of charter agencies not responsive enough, that have no phone or direct contact available, and that do not offer clear and public conditions on their FAQ or service review.
Check Availability: Confirm that the charter company has availability for your desired dates, especially if you're planning a trip during peak seasons. Having some flexibility with dates can significantly facilitate all the process. If possible, before booking your international flight to Panama, contact the catamaran charter agency to request availability.
Catamaran details: Visit the charter company's website. Make sure the boats are well-maintained, clean, and equipped with the amenities you require.
Check out the BBQ
Ask About Included Services: Inquire about what is included in the charter package. Be clear on what you'll need to bring or purchase separately. All this info should be clearly displayed in their website.
Review Terms and Conditions: Carefully read the charter company's terms and conditions, including cancellation policies, insurance coverage, and payment schedules. Again, All this info should be clearly displayed in their website and accessible to all visitors through their FAQs.
Seek Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from friends or fellow travelers who have chartered in the San Blas islands before. Personal experiences can be valuable in making your decision.
Road Transfer or Private Flight to San Blas: we prefer you take the private plane in and out of San Blas, but it is up to you. Please get informed of the duration of both means of transfers and possibilities they offer.
Guna indigenous as part of the crew: check if the catamaran has a guna indigenous working as deckhand. Having a local onboard, not as captain but as deckhand. preferably, can open many doors in this part of the world.
Jose, our deckhand for years in Mambo Diablo, Salina 48 catamaran
Check with your Embassy Regarding any Travel Disruption or Recommendation: Visit your embassy’s website periodically before your private catamaran charter in San Blas. As an example, the US embassy in Panama
Trust Your Gut: Ultimately, trust your instincts. Choose a charter company in San Blas that makes you feel comfortable and confident about your sailing adventure in the San Blas islands
Remember that safety, reliability, and the overall experience should be your top priorities when choosing a catamaran charter company in the San Blas Islands. Taking the time to research and ask questions will help you make an informed choice for a memorable sailing vacation.
