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Frequently Asked Questions: FAQs
Preguntas frecuentes
General
Sailing in San Blas
Sailboats
Catamarans
Restaurants
Activities
How long does a tour to San Blas last?
If you chose a day pass to San Blas, the duration is approximately hours. It would start at 5:30am with your pick up, you will arrive at the sailboat or catamaran at around 9:30am, the sailboat or catamaran will depart at 3:00pm after lunch and you will be back at your hotel or residence in Panama City at 7:00 or 7:30pm.
If you chose a day tour, one night would be approximately 22 hours.
You can check out some of our sailing or catamaran tours in the San Blas Islands, Panama.(https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/toursenveleroocatamaranensanblas)
How much does a tour to San Blas cost?
There are a wide variety of tours to San Blas. The price of the tour will depend on the type of tour you choose. If you want a day trip, you can find one from 115 USD per person. If you are interested in multi-day tours, you will find options from 195 USD per person per day on a sailboat (https://www.clickandsailing.com/veleros-en-sanblas)and from 245 USD per person per day on a catamaran (https://www.clickandsailing.com/catamaranes-en-sanblas). In both cases, lunch and drinks are included.
We also offer day tours by speedboat (https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/pasa-d%C3%ADa-en-san-blas-panam%C3%A1-en-lancha-r%C3%A1pida). The price is only $145, which includes round-trip car and boat transportation, lunch and drinks.
If you are interested in knowing a little more about the prices of tours to San Blas, you can visit our website https://www.clickandsailing.com (https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/toursenveleroocatamaranensanblas). There we explain in more detail the price of the different tour options to San Blas.
Do San Blas tours offer pickup at Tocumen Airport?
Pickup is offered at Tocumen Airport as it is on the way to San Blas.
The only thing you need to keep in mind is that you have to wait for your driver in the airport parking lots.
Pick-up time at the airport parking lots is between 5:45 and 6:15 in the morning. It is not possible to pick you up later than this time because the drivers have to be at a specific time at the port of San Blas and if they pick you up later than 6:15am, you run the risk of not arriving at the port in time to board the transfer boat to the Islands.
https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/como-llegar-a-san-blas(https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/como-llegar-a-san-blas)
Can I bring a copy of my passport instead of the original?
It is not possible to enter San Blas by showing a copy of your passport. You must bring your original passport because to enter the San Blas reserve there is a police checkpoint where you will be asked to show your original passport. I recommend that you bring a small plastic bag with a “Ziploc” zipper to ensure that your passport does not get wet.
Can I bring my snacks or drinks to San Blas?
Yes, you can bring your own food, snacks, and even drinks and a cooler if you wish. On the way to the port of San Blas, there is a mandatory stop at a supermarket. You can take advantage of this stop to buy whatever you need, the only thing we ask is that you make sure you don't leave any trash on the islands.
See what is included in our sailing or catamaran tours in the San Blas Islands of Panama.(https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/que-est%C3%A1-incluido-y-que-no-esta-incluido-en-su-velero-o-catamaran-en-san-blas)
Can I make the full payment online?
It is usually not possible to pay the full amount of the tours to San Blas online, only the deposit. The payment method for the reservation can be made by transfer to a bank in Panama, to an account in the United States, Paypal or through a bank payment link with a credit card.
The rest must be paid directly to the carriers and captains. But in some special cases we could manage it for you or you could agree on it with the captain.
Some tips.(https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/algunos-consejos-para-ahorrar-a-la-hora-de-alquilar-un-barco-en-san-blas)
Can you give me the name and number of my driver?
Yes, there is no problem in providing you with the driver's number for both the car and the boat, as well as the captain's number, so that you can finalize any details directly with them. Although of course you can also call us for any questions or clarifications.
How to get to San Blas.(https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/como-llegar-a-san-blas)
Are there any additional fees?
Yes, the cost does not include entry to the San Blas reserve.
The entrance fee is 5 USD for residents and 20 USD for foreigners. There are some tours that also do not include the port tax fee which costs 2 USD for both residents and foreigners. The cost of these fees is per person.
https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/preparar-viaje-a-san-blas(https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/preparar-viaje-a-san-blas)
How long does it take to drive from Panama City to San Blas?
The time it takes to travel by car from Panama City to Puerto Cartí is 3 hours.
https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/como-llegar-a-san-blas(https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/como-llegar-a-san-blas)
What time does my driver pick me up?
If your pick-up location is in Panama City, your pick-up time is between 5:30am and 5:45am. If your pick-up location is in Playa Bonita, your pick-up time will be between 4:30am and 4:50am. However, after you make your reservation, your pick-up time will be confirmed. It is very rare for pick-up times to change, but if there is a change, your tour operator will contact you to inform you of the new pick-up time.
Is there cell phone signal in San Blas?
Cell phone service on the San Blas Islands is with Digicel and also Tigo. You can buy these chips in Panama City malls or at the airport.
Frequently asked questions about going to San Blas
How far in advance should I book a tour to San Blas?
Tours to San Blas can usually be booked at least two days in advance, to have time to organize transportation and check which sailboat or catamaran is available.
But our recommendation is that you make the reservation well in advance, this way you will have more chances of being able to take the tour on the boat that you like the most or that best suits your needs.
Are there tours to San Blas all year round?
Yes, there are tours to San Blas every day throughout the year.
What happens with meals if I am vegetarian or allergic to some food?
No problem, you just have to specify it when you contact us and when you arrive on board, and we will take care of everything.
If it rains, will they give us our money back?
Unfortunately not. San Blas is located in the Intertropical Zone The Convergence Zone and rain can occur at any time. The weather is impossible to predict. Our tours to San Blas operate every day of the year. Since all services in San Blas (car ride, boat ride, island operation) are run by the indigenous Kuna people who depend on income from their hard work, we hope you understand that after consuming their services we cannot refund you if it rains.
What is "moderate alcohol consumption"?
On our catamaran charters we include moderate alcohol consumption. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), moderate alcohol consumption is equivalent to 2 glasses of beer or wine per day, to this we add some cocktails made by the crew in the evenings. Alcoholic beverages offered on board are beer, wine and rum, the client is always welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages if they wish. Included per person/day: 1/2 bottle of wine 2 beers evening cocktail Please note that this is not a booze cruise and any wasting to the point of endangering or disrupting the charter or our operations will not be tolerated.
https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/que-est%C3%A1-included-y-que-no-esta-included-en-su-velero-o-catamaran-en-san-blas(https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/que-est%C3%A1-incluido-y-que-no-esta-incluido-en-su-velero-o-catamaran-en-san-blas)
How to get to San Blas by plane from Panama?
Airlines and Charter: Some small airlines and charter services operate flights from Marcos A. Gelabert Airport (PAC) in Albrook, Panama City, to airstrips in San Blas, such as El Porvenir, Playón Chico or Corazón de Jesús. Reservations: It is advisable to book your flight in advance, especially during the high season. You can do this through local travel agencies or directly with the airlines that operate these flights. https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/how-to-get-to-san-blas
How long is it recommended to stay on a boat in San Blas?
It depends on how much you like the sea. It can be from 1 to 7 nights. To enjoy San Blas, we generally recommend 3 nights. Do boats sail during the day and at night in San Blas? In San Blas, sailing is only allowed during the day, the captains of sailboats and catamarans sail for about 3-4 hours a day.
https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/por-cu%C3%A1nto-tiempo-se-debe-alquilar-un-barco-en-las-islas-de-san-blas-catamar%C3%A1n- in-san-blas-panam%C3%A1(https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/por-cu%C3%A1nto-tiempo-se-debe-alquilar-un-barco-en-las-islas-de-san-blas-catamar%C3%A1n-en-san-blas-panam%C3%A1)
Do boats sail day and night in San Blas?
"Night navigation in San Blas is restricted for several important reasons. First, it is a safety measure intended to protect both passengers and vessels visiting this beautiful region. San Blas is dotted with reefs and sandbars, which can be difficult to spot and pose a significant navigation hazard, especially at night when visibility is limited. Additionally, it is important to note that night navigation in San Blas is prohibited by provisions set forth by the Guna Congress, the local authority that oversees and regulates this area. These regulations are put in place to protect the delicate marine ecosystem and to respect the interests and culture of the Guna community that inhabits these islands. Ultimately, our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our passengers. By adhering to these regulations and avoiding night navigation, we are committed to ensuring that our passengers are protected from the elements and hazards that may arise."
Do the crew on the boats in San Blas speak English or other languages?
Boat crews in San Blas may speak English, especially if they cater to international tourists. However, it is not guaranteed that all crew members will be fluent in English or other languages. The level of English proficiency among the crew may vary depending on the specific boat and operator. If you have specific language preferences or requirements, it is a good idea to let the boat operator know when making arrangements. They may be able to accommodate your needs by assigning crew members who are fluent in your preferred language. Additionally, carrying a basic Spanish phrasebook or translation app can be helpful for communicating during your trip, especially if you plan to interact with local communities or encounter crew members who may have limited English proficiency.
What is better, going to San Blas or Bocas del Toro in Panama?
Choosing between San Blas and Bocas del Toro in Panama depends on your personal preferences, interests, and the type of experience you are looking for. Here are some considerations to help you decide: Nature and beaches: Both destinations offer beautiful beaches and stunning natural surroundings. Culture and community: San Blas is a semi-autonomous Guna territory, providing the opportunity to experience the culture and traditions of the indigenous Guna people. Bocas del Toro, on the other hand, is a more cosmopolitan destination with a mix of cultures and a lively nightlife. In short, both San Blas and Bocas del Toro are amazing destinations in Panama, each with its own unique charm and appeal. If you are looking for a calm and authentic experience with a focus on nature and indigenous culture, San Blas might be the better choice. If you prefer a more lively atmosphere with a variety of activities and nightlife, Bocas del Toro might be a better fit for you.
Where or from which island do the catamarans leave in San Blas?
Our sailboats and catamarans are already in San Blas, since this way we save the 5 hours that it takes to travel from Colon to San Blas and avoid sailing with clients in the open sea. Sometimes there are clients who prefer to do this navigation.
Can I make the full payment online?
It is usually not possible to pay for the full amount of tours to San Blas online, only the deposit. The reason is that the rest must be paid directly to the transporters and captains. But in some special cases we could arrange this for you.
How to know if a sailboat or catamaran is available?
To receive our best offers with updated availability, simply fill out the contact form. You can also send us an email to clickandsailing@gmail.com.com, contact us by phone at +507 61042415 or by WhatsApp at +34 609100101. After making your request, you will receive a confirmation email with all the details and we will reply with an email with the available boats that best suit your preferences. If you do not receive this email, do not forget to check your Spam folder.
What is the distance by car from Panama City to San Blas?
The trip from Panama City to the port of San Blas is around 2.5 to 3 hours each way. The first hour of the trip is on Panamanian highways, while the rest of the trip is on slow, windy jungle roads with frequent potholes and off-road sections. If you are prone to motion sickness, plan ahead accordingly.
What is the total cost to get from Panama City to the ship?
Basically, a round trip costs approx. US$120. We always recommend that you check these details with us because the price is subject to change without notice.
https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/como-llegar-a-san-blas
Flying from Panama City to the San Blas Islands? Flights from Panama City to San Blas.
https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/ir-en-avion-a-san-blas- desde-la-ciudad-de-panama
We would love to go fishing in the San Blas Islands, do the sailboats and catamarans have fishing equipment?
Yes, all our sailboats and catamarans in San Blas have fishing equipment. We can also organize traditional fishing tours with Gunas from the region.
https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/pescar-en-san-blas-panama(https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/pescar-en-san-blas-panama)
We are 15 people for a birthday, do you have boats available for large groups and celebrations in San Blas?
Yes, there are boats available in San Blas that can accommodate large groups and are ideal for celebrations such as birthdays! Here are some details about the available options and what you can expect for your group of 15 people.
https://www.clickandsailing.com/catamaranes/cat82
We are a kosher family, can we bring our own food on a catamaran in San Blas?
Bringing your own kosher food on board a catamaran in San Blas is completely feasible with proper planning and communication with the charter company. By ensuring that all logistical details and your dietary needs have been discussed and agreed upon in advance, you will be able to enjoy your trip with peace of mind and without worry. We also have boats that have plenty of experience preparing kosher food on board.
We have rented a car for our vacation in Panama, can I drive to San Blas and take the boat there?
Yes, you can go in your own car or a rented one, but only 4x4 vehicles are allowed. No sedans, SUVs or 4x2s.
How can I know if the weather will be good?
San Blas has a particular microclimate that makes it a unique destination. Although the rainy season in Panama is usually from May to November, in San Blas it is common that even if it rains a couple of times a day, the sun quickly returns to shine. This behavior means that weather apps are not always accurate for this region. You may see bad weather or rain forecast, but in San Blas there can be bright sunshine. In fact, it can be raining in Panama City while you are enjoying splendid weather on the islands. For a more reliable forecast on the weather in San Blas, you can check clickandsailing.com/clima-en-san-blas (https://www.clickandsailing.com/clima-en-san-blas), which offers you up-to-date and more accurate weather information for the area.
What are the requirements to enter Panama?
To enter Panama, it is essential to meet the following requirements:
• Valid passport : Must be valid for at least six months upon entry into the country.
• Proof of departure : It is necessary to present a return ticket or a ticket to the next destination, which demonstrates your intention to leave Panama.
• Financial solvency : You are required to prove that you have at least $500 USD to cover your expenses during your stay. This can be proven by cash, credit cards, bank statements, employment letters or traveler's checks. Please note that some nationalities may need to prove a higher amount; it is advisable to verify this detail with your local Panamanian consulate or consulate.
• Accommodation address and purpose of trip : You must provide the address where you will be staying in Panama and explain the reason for your visit.
It is also important to ensure that your nationality is not subject to any additional restrictions or requirements. It is recommended to check with the Panamanian consular authorities or the airline before travelling to confirm that all documents are in order and to avoid any setbacks in the immigration process.
What are the requirements to enter San Blas?
To enter the San Blas region (Guna Yala) in Panama, visitors must meet the following requirements:
1. **Passport or identity document**: - Foreigners must carry their valid passport. - Panamanian residents can present their identity card. 2. **Permanent
2.Personal tax rate: $20 for non-residents, $5 for Panamanian residents.
Make sure you meet all these requirements before your trip!
Can you arrange my trip from Panama City to the ship?
Yes, we take care of everything, we do not charge anything for providing this service. You normally pay the driver of the car and the driver of the boat.
The price per person for the car is $60 and for the boat $50 round trip.
Remember to bring your passport and identification card.
You can see more information at: https://www.clickandsailing.com/post/como-llegar-a-san-blas
Do the boats have air conditioning and private bathrooms?
Some luxury boats have air conditioning and private bathrooms. This depends on the model chosen; see our options for more details.
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