Trip details

The navegation
The trip includes 30-50 hours of navigation in the open sea between Panama San Blas Cartagena / Cartagena San Blas Panama. These are sailboats, catamarans and they depend on the wind but they also have motors. If there is no wind, you may need to motor for at least part of the crossing. If there is a rip current or the wind is against you, sailing may take longer, so it is highly recommended that you allow yourself a flexible schedule. Please be patient with your captain and allow him to operate the boat in the way he deems most appropriate.

They are doing everything they can to get you to your destination as quickly and safely as possible. During the time in the open sea, the ship usually does not stop. This is a great time to read a book, socialize, relax, hopefully see some dolphins and maybe some fishing.
 
Depending on sea conditions you may be able to move around and sit on the deck, but once the sun goes down the captain will restrict being on the foredeck.
 
The captain will ask you to keep the ship's hatches closed during the voyage. It can mean that the cabins get a bit crowded, but listen to your captain and understand that there are certain rules in place for safety, not to annoy you. If you are concerned about motion sickness, you can take tablets, which serve as a preventative.
 
It is similar to any motion sickness, some people feel it more than others. It is completely normal to feel a little dizzy. If you start to feel unwell, get some fresh air, lie on your back, and stay hydrated.
 
You should feel much better during the three days of island hopping, as the sea is more sheltered.

Food / Accommodation
Throughout the voyage, your accommodation will be your designated berth on the ship, which can be a single or double berth, in a shared dormitory or private cabin. There is limited availability of private double cabins and you can reserve a specific bed based on availability. If you don't get the specific bed you booked, it's important to let the crew know. This is likely just a mix-up and can only be resolved at the beginning of the journey.

You'll be sharing a relatively small space with people you've just met, so be flexible. Single travelers may be required to share a double bed with another passenger. If this concerns you, please let us know before finalizing your reservation.

Algunos barcos utilizan el área del salón para dormir más, generalmente a un precio con descuento. Aunque no es tan privado, el salón tiene un buen flujo de aire y es una buena opción para aquellos preocupados por el mareo o la claustrofobia.

It is normal for the crew to sleep outside on mattresses or in common areas. They often prefer to be outdoors to keep an eye on weather conditions and listen for any changes in the wind. Please respect this as your sleeping area.

 
General comfort on board
Most boats are not equipped with proper showers and fresh water is limited so everyone must conserve it. You will have the opportunity to rinse off on the deck with fresh water at the end of the day and some islands offer showers that you can use for 1-2 USD, a salty bath in crystal clear water is free. The captain is in charge of the water supply and at any time can change the rules if he deems it necessary. Your dishes are likely to be washed with salt water. Fresh water is like gold on a sailboat, once you run out you can't get any more (unless it rains) so be flexible and mindful of water consumption, for example don't let the water run while brushing your teeth. teeth. If something hasn't traveled through your body first, it shouldn't go to the bathroom. Ship sanitation systems use salt water, so you don't need to worry about how many times it is flushed, but the contents will circulate back out to sea. Avoid putting inorganic items down the toilet; this includes toilet paper, tampons and pads, and trash. Traditional boat toilets have hand pumps that your captain and crew will explain how to use. Pay attention and, if in doubt, pump more times than you think necessary. If you have any issues, don't be embarrassed to let a crew member know, they've probably been dealt with many times before.
The person
The trip is not a guided tour, but your crew is there to provide you with the tools you'll need to make the most of your time on board. Safety is priority one and then comes your comfort. Please understand that the crew may not always be available to socialize or entertain as they have many tasks to perform. Each captain has their own way of doing things, but their main responsibility is to operate the ship and get it safely from one place to another. Many ships have contract captains and these are subject to change at times like any job. Ask us if you are interested in knowing who your captain will be. Many of the captains are local sailors, while others are foreigners who have moved here. There will be an English speaking crew member on board. It is extremely important to communicate with your crew if you have any concerns or questions during your voyage. The support and attitude of the passengers are important. If everyone works together as a team and helps the crew, the trips are much more enjoyable for everyone.