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Preparing your boat for the Caribbean season

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TL;DR

To prepare your boat for the season in Panama, start 4 weeks out with engine and battery service, 2 weeks out with hull cleaning and safety checks, and the week before with provisions and paperwork. The dry season (December-April) offers the best sailing conditions.

Panama's dry season (December to April) is the best time to sail. Here's how to prepare your boat.

4 weeks before

  • Schedule engine and generator service
  • Check and charge batteries
  • Inspect sails and rigging (sailboats)
  • Get antifouling quote if due
  • Take inventory of spare parts

    • 2 weeks before

  • Hull cleaning by diver
  • Check navigation equipment
  • Test navigation lights
  • Verify safety equipment (life jackets, flares, extinguishers)
  • Inspect anchors, chains and lines

    • 1 week before

  • Fill fuel tanks
  • Fill water tank
  • Provision (food, bottled water)
  • Check first aid kit
  • Update navigation charts
  • Verify boat documents and insurance

    • Day before

  • Check weather forecast
  • Verify all electronic equipment works
  • Test VHF and emergency channels
  • Share navigation plan with someone on shore

    • Popular destinations from Panama

  • San Blas (Guna Yala) — Crystal clear waters, deserted islands. Requires clearance.
  • Bocas del Toro — Relaxed atmosphere, good infrastructure.
  • Pearl Islands — Close to Panama City, excellent fishing.
  • Portobelo — History, diving and quiet anchorage.

    • Required documents

  • Clearance from Panama Maritime Authority (AMP)
  • Valid boat registration
  • Marine insurance
  • Passports for all crew members
  • Navigation permit for San Blas (Guna Yala)

    • FAQ

    When is the best time to sail in Panama?▾

    The dry season from December to April offers the best conditions. Winds are more stable and there's less rain. San Blas is particularly good during this period.

    What documents do I need to sail in Panama?▾

    You need a zarpe from the AMP (Panama Maritime Authority), current boat registration, marine insurance, and passports. For San Blas, an additional Guna Yala navigation permit is required.

    How much does it cost to prepare a boat for the season?▾

    Depends on the boat's condition. An engine service ($300-600), hull cleaning ($150-300), and provisions ($500-1,000) are the main expenses. Budget $1,500-3,000 total.

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