Taboga Island Catamaran Tour: Open Bar, Lunch & Panama City Views

Summary

Catamaran escape from Panama City to Taboga’s peaceful bay and village

You’ll leave Panama City behind for a full day on Taboga Island: cruise past city landmarks by catamaran with open bar and snacks, swim in a quiet bay, stroll through flower-filled village streets, then relax over lunch before heading home—all with local crew who make it feel easygoing and real.

What’s the experience like?

"You ever seen the city from this angle?" That’s what our guide asked as we pulled away from the marina, and honestly, I hadn’t. The skyline of Panama City looked almost soft in the morning haze—tall glass buildings, ships waiting their turn at the Canal, all of it sliding by while I nursed a coffee and tried not to eat all the pineapple from the snack tray. There was music playing (not too loud), and I caught myself grinning like a kid just because the breeze felt so good. The crew joked around with us right away—one of them, Jorge, pointed out the Amador Causeway and told us about his favorite seafood place there (I wish I’d written it down).

It took maybe an hour or so to reach Taboga Island. We stopped first at this quiet bay on the far side—no other boats, just pelicans and that salty green-blue water. Jumping in felt like hitting reset; I floated on one of those pool noodles they handed out and just listened to people laughing and splashing around. The sun was already strong but not punishing yet, and you could smell sunscreen mixing with something sweet from the bar (rum? Could’ve been). A couple of folks stayed on deck dancing with the crew—I watched for a bit but chickened out when they started teaching salsa steps. Maybe next time.

After swimming we headed around to the main dock. Disembarking was easy—there’s something about stepping onto an island that makes you feel like you’ve gone way further than just a quick day trip from Panama City. The village is called "Island of Flowers" for a reason; even in June there were bursts of color everywhere. We wandered up narrow streets past old houses and this tiny church that’s apparently one of the oldest in Latin America (our guide offered a tour if anyone wanted more history). Mostly I just liked watching locals wave at each other or chat in doorways—it felt slower than anywhere else I’ve been lately.

Lunch back on board hit the spot—chicken, rice, pasta salad, cold beer if you wanted it. Nobody rushed us; some people napped in shaded spots while others kept dancing or swapped stories with Jorge about growing up near here. Heading back toward Panama City later that afternoon, music still playing, I realized how much lighter everything felt—not just my shoulders but my mood too. Funny how six hours can do that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour to Taboga Island

• Depart from Panama City marina
• Enjoy morning snacks and open bar
• View Panama City landmarks from water
• Sail to virgin bay for swimming
• Dance or relax on catamaran nets
• Disembark at Taboga Island dock
• Visit village and historical sites
• Relax at the beach
• Board catamaran for lunch
• Enjoy onboard entertainment and amenities
• Return to Panama City

Top questions

How long is the Taboga Island catamaran tour from Panama City?

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours round-trip from Panama City.

Is lunch included on the Taboga Island day trip?

Yes, lunch is served onboard after visiting Taboga Village.

Can you swim during the catamaran tour?

Yes, there’s time to swim in a virgin bay at the back side of Taboga Island.

Are drinks included on the Taboga Island catamaran?

An open bar with cocktails, beer, soft drinks and mixers is included throughout the tour.

Is there a guided tour of Taboga Village available?

If you’re interested in a guided walk through Taboga Village, let your crew know—they can arrange it during your stop.

What should I bring for this day trip?

Bring your swimsuit under your clothes (no towels provided), sunscreen, ID copy or photo on your phone—and leave coolers or outside alcohol at home.

How many people are on each group for this catamaran tour?

The maximum group size is usually 10 travelers per day (with some exceptions).

What’s included

Your day includes morning snacks like fruit and cake as you sail from Panama City to Taboga Island by catamaran; swimming stops in a quiet bay; time ashore exploring Taboga Village or relaxing at its beach; an open bar with cocktails and local beer; full lunch onboard; plus music and friendly animation led by your local crew before returning to port later that afternoon.