Panama Update - October 2009

Created by sue. Last modified on 2009-11-02 15:38:10
Countries: Panama

Weather permitting the Rainy Season and Hurricane Season should be over by the end of November and then the Dry-Season starts which is also our sailing season here in Panama. Only a few yachts have been calling during the past months and the "big rush" is between January and May.

For the forthcoming season we do not anticipate lengthy delays for yachts transiting the Canal, commercial traffic is still less due to the world economical situation and like last season, yachts should be transiting within a week after all arrangements have been made with the Canal Authorities. I shall keep you advised hereon.

Regarding anchoring Cristobal/Colon, the Authorities have not assigned any dinghy landing for yachts anchored at Anchorage "F" (The Flats), the anchorage area for small crafts. I also feel that they will not do so as they are advising yachts to go to Shelter Bay Marina. Some watertaxis, like Tito who mention in your report June 20th 2009, are offering an unofficial service to yachts using anchorage "F", but Shelter Bay Marina is offering better facilities including assisting with clearance, transportation to Colon etc. Also the Canal Authorities are now accepting inspection of yachts at Shelter Bay Marina.

The outstanding question is whether Shelter Bay Marina can handle the additional traffic during the Dry-Season and to what extent yachts must use anchorage "F". I shall also keep you advised hereon.

Otherwise conditions and facilities at Cristobal/Colon and Balboa are generally as previously reported and as you have recorded on your website.

Karsten Staffeldt
(Contact Panama for DOCA and OCCD, Denmark and OSK, Sweden)

Note: Cruisers have commented that Shelter Bay Marina is "quite expensive". Contact the marina at info@shelterbaymarina.com for current rates.