Panama City: Isla Taboga Catamaran Tour with Lunch & Open Bar

Summary

Catamaran to Taboga Island for swimming music village lunch

You’ll sail by catamaran from Panama City to Isla Taboga, relax in an unspoilt bay for swimming, enjoy a fresh lunch onboard with open bar, and wander through a colorful fishing village before heading back as the sun dips low. It’s easygoing, social, and full of little surprises—perfect if you want something simple but memorable.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what Panama City looks like from the water? I didn’t, honestly, until I found myself barefoot on the catamaran deck, shoes in hand (they make you take them off before boarding — kind of funny watching everyone wobble around at first). The city skyline faded behind us as we drifted past the Bridge of the Americas. Our guide, José, pointed out bits of history between sips of coffee and bursts of salsa music. I remember the air being thick with salt and sunscreen — someone nearby was already on their second rum punch and it wasn’t even 10am.

The main keyword here is “catamaran tour to Isla Taboga,” but that doesn’t really cover how good it felt lying on those nets with the sun poking through patchy clouds. We stopped in this quiet bay behind Taboga Island; the water was cool but not shocking, and there was this weirdly perfect silence except for laughter and splashes. Lunch was served right on real plates (no plastic — small detail but it stuck with me), stewed chicken and rice with a bit of tangy cabbage salad. At some point I tried to say “plátano” properly and Li laughed at my accent — probably deserved.

After lunch, some folks stayed lounging on deck but I went ashore to check out the village. It’s just a few minutes’ walk — painted houses, fishermen fixing nets, kids playing soccer barefoot. The beach isn’t huge but there’s this easygoing energy everywhere. I bought an ice cream from a woman who smiled without saying much; maybe she could tell I was just another day tripper from Panama City trying to soak up something real. When we headed back around 3pm, everyone seemed quieter — maybe tired or just sun-dazed. The ride home had more music and more drinks if you wanted them.

I still think about that moment floating in the bay, sunlight flickering through my fingers underwater. You know when you don’t expect much from a day trip and then you end up wishing you’d lingered longer? That’s what this felt like.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour to Isla Taboga

• Check in at 8:15am
• Sail from Panama City at 8:45am
• View Bridge of the Americas and Amador Causeway
• Arrive at unspoilt bay at 10:45am
• Swim and relax in the bay
• Enjoy musical atmosphere and open bar
• Sail to main beach and town at 11:45am
• Arrive at main beach at 12:15pm
• Have lunch on catamaran with table service
• Option to visit village or stay on catamaran
• Pick up guests and sail back at 3:15pm
• Disembark in Panama City at 5:00pm

Top questions

How long is the catamaran tour to Isla Taboga?

The tour lasts about 8 hours total, including sailing time and stops.

Is lunch included on the Isla Taboga day trip?

Yes, lunch is served onboard the catamaran with table service (not plastic).

Do I need to bring anything special for this catamaran tour?

You only need your towel and personal items; everything else is included.

Can I visit the village on Taboga Island during the tour?

Yes, after lunch you can go ashore to explore the village or stay on the catamaran.

What drinks are available during the open bar?

The open bar includes rum, vodka, national beers, juices, sodas, water, plus snacks.

Where does the tour start in Panama City?

The meeting point is near central Panama City; allow 15-50 minutes travel time depending on traffic.

Is hotel pickup included for this Isla Taboga tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at a set location in Panama City.

What happens if it rains during the tour?

The tour goes ahead rain or shine—bring appropriate clothing just in case.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing from Panama City to Isla Taboga aboard a maxi catamaran with open bar (rum, vodka, beer, soft drinks), guided commentary about local sights like Amador Causeway and Bridge of the Americas along the way, swimming in an unspoilt bay behind Taboga Island before enjoying a fresh lunch onboard (stewed chicken with rice and salad), time ashore to visit Taboga’s fishing village or relax on its main beach if you wish—all tableware provided (no plastic), plus snacks throughout before returning late afternoon.