Situated in Latin America, between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Panama is a popular destination for those passionate about the superyacht industry. This superyacht hotspot offers an amazing blend of superb infrastructure, rich culture, desirable climate, and delectable cuisine. Read this article by Panama Yachting Agent by Norton Lilly and discover the amazing benefits of Panama.
Infrastructure
Panama’s infrastructure encompasses the Panama Railroad, more than 5 international airports, over 10 landingstrips around the country, a network of highways and roads, and the renowned Panama Canal. The country also offers an extensive range of superyacht facilities and services, with easily accessible provisions, repairs and supplies. Panama’s recent expansions resulted in the development of 17 cutting-edge marinas, enhancing the experience of maritime enthusiasts.
Panama boasts 3 modern marinas on the Pacific capable of accommodating superyachts. 2 of these marinas feature heliports.
Red Frog Marina, positioned in the protected bay on Isla Bastimentos’ leeward side, is a popular choice for superyacht enthusiasts. The marina is able to welcome yachts and superyachts up to 91.4 metres. Offering 95 floating docks, 12 superyacht berths, high-speed fuel pumps, an outside hurricane belt, full resort amenities, and customs and immigration services, this marina is an excellent choice for any type of guest.
Shelter Bay Marina, next to the Caribbean/Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal, is another key marina in Panama. It includes 6 slips for 45.7-metre yachts, space for vessels up to 99 metres, free drinking water, and metered electricity.
Culture
Panama is a country with a rich culture with influences from Spanish, African and indigenous cultures. This diverse blend is also reflected in architecture, festivals, cuisine and various products, such as pottery and wood carvings.
Besides this, Panama also has 7 different flourishing indigenous communities. Guna and Embera communities can be visited by those keen to learn more about their traditions and views. Visitors can discover the traditional customs and folklore in the central provinces of Los Santos and Herrera, as well as immerse themselves in Panama’s rich Congo culture in Portobelo.
Visitors in Panama will get a chance to see some of the oldest colonial relics, such as the first European settlement in the Pacific and the oldest Spanish fort in the Caribbean. In addition, they will have opportunities to visit the ongoing excavations of the burial grounds of an ancient civilisation at the El Caño Archaeological Park.
Climate
Due to good sailing winds and its closeness to the equator, Panama is a perfect destination for superyachts throughout the whole year. The country rarely experiences bad weather as it is situated outside of the hurricane belt.
In Panama, the dry season lasts between mid-December to mid-April, while the rainy season runs between late April to late November. Temperatures range from pleasant 29°C to 35°C.
Cuisine
The influences of African, indigenous and Spanish heritage on Panama can also be seen in its cuisine. The most commonly used ingredients in local dishes are rice, corn, roots, potatoes, tubers, meat, seafood, wheat, plantains and yucca.
Fans of savoury dishes can try Arroz con Pollo, Pesca’o Frito, Platano en Tentacion, Sancocho, Saus, Tamales, Ceviche and Carimañolas, while dessert lovers can enjoy Manjar Blanco, Pesada de Nance, Cocada, Bienmesabe, and Milk Eggs. These dishes give you a chance to explore the rich culinary culture of Panama.
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