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Boat transport in Panama covers road moves by trailer or lowboy, on-water towing, and crane launches. For trailerable boats, crossing between the Pacific and the Caribbean by road (about 2 hours) costs $800-$3,000 and is an economical alternative to a Panama Canal transit.
Overland boat transport, on-water towing, crane launches and ocean-to-ocean transfers by road.
Trailer and lowboy transport, wide-load permits and escort, on-water towing to a marina or boatyard, crane lifting and launching, and ocean-to-ocean road transfers between the Pacific and the Caribbean.
You bought a boat in another province, your engine left you adrift or at anchor, you're switching marinas or oceans, or you need to move the boat to a workshop ashore.
Valid cargo insurance, a trailer or lowboy suited to your length and weight, proper cradles and supports, experience with boats (not just general cargo), and photos of previous moves.
On-water towing (local): $150-$500. Road transport within Panama: $500-$2,500. Ocean-to-ocean road transfer: $800-$3,000 depending on length. Crane lift or launch: $300-$800.
It depends on length, beam and weight. A trailerable boat costs $500-$1,500 depending on distance. Larger boats needing a lowboy, wide-load permits and escort can run $1,500-$3,000 or more. Ask for an itemized quote with permits included.
Yes, if your boat can travel by road (generally up to about 40 feet, depending on beam and weight). The move takes one day, costs $800-$3,000 and includes crane lifts at both ends. For small boats it's usually cheaper and faster than a Panama Canal transit.
Yes. A local tow to the nearest marina costs $150-$500 depending on distance and boat size. In remote areas like San Blas the cost is higher. Keep a contact handy before heading out: Panama has no public towing service like other countries.
Length, beam, height above the keel, approximate weight, keel type and whether you have your own trailer. With that they can confirm whether a lowboy, wide-load permit or escort is needed, and give you a fixed door-to-door price.
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