Sailing to Colombia From San Blas

by Brenna Holeman

Sailing From San Blas 8

San Blas Islands, Panama

I was all alone. It was well past midnight; the sky had turned black hours ago. I was aware of the sounds of the boat, the strange creaking and cracking that a catamaran makes as it collides with the waves. I sat, hands glued to the steering wheel, staring out at the infinite ocean. The waves around me were five metres high, and water slapped against the boat as it heaved over each one. Each conquered wave felt like a victory, even if there were a million more waves until we arrived in Colombia.

Not only was I all alone, I was the only one on the boat who was awake. We were sailing from Panama to Colombia, and had already had a lazy three days floating around the San Blas Islands. This was the home stretch, a solid 48 hours in open water. The captain had to sleep, too, and so we all took turns at the helm, partnered up to keep each other company through the long hours. My partner, however, was violently seasick, and so I sat by myself, watching numbers on a dashboard, observing the sails, looking out for lights in the distance, inventing stories of tumbling overboard into the black waves. I’d be swallowed instantly, never to be seen or heard of again. Perhaps they wouldn’t even discover I was missing until hours later. To make matters worse, it had started to rain; the wind whipped the sails and pelted me with water, both from the skies and from the sea. I could barely see, but was vaguely aware of the flashing of lightning on the horizon, and a low rumble of thunder.

 

Although I somehow managed to record a voice memo while this was happening

My nightmarish imaginings of krakens, sea monsters, and white squalls were interrupted by a sudden spike in the numbers I was meant to be watching. Was I seeing this correctly? Everything felt like a hallucination; my wobbly days at sea, combined with sleep-inducing seasickness pills I had been taking for preventative measures, left me slightly delusional. I decided to wake up the captain, who was sleeping in the boat’s cabin.

“Captain?” I tried to make my whisper heard above the ocean’s many sighs and groans. He stirred, his eyes finally opening. He was seasick, too. When the captain’s seasick, you know it’s bad. “I think we’ve changed speeds.”

He came on deck to check the dials.

“Yes, we did, thank you for waking me,” he yawned once, stretching his arms out over his head. “We’re just sailing into a squall.”

“A squall?!” my voice jumped up a clean octave. Hollywood had taught me that squalls equal certain death, unless you are Jeff Bridges. “What am I supposed to do?”

“Don’t worry,” he tried to assure me in his Colombian accent. “It’s only a small one. It will just feel like a rainstorm. We’ll sail right through it.” With that, he returned inside to his bed, leaving me on the deck. I licked my lips; they were salty. My heart was beating at a rapid pace. I sat down at the wheel again, my eyes fixed directly on the blurry haze on the horizon: the squall.

“Shit,” I said out loud, and buckled down for what was sure to be a wild night.

***

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Our journey had started in Panama City, and we had travelled by van and another small boat before finally reaching our 14-metre catamaran that would take us all the way to Cartagena. We’d sail across the Caribbean, but spend the first few days in the islands of San Blas. Our crew, a father and daughter, were Colombian-American. The ten passengers were from around the world: Canada, Australia, Cyprus, Italy, Ireland, England, and Belgium. We’d grow to feel like a family after five days in such close quarters.

The first three days were spent puttering around the San Blas islands. There is really no way to describe these islands without using the word paradise; white sandy beaches, sparkling turquoise water, and blue skies with fluffy white clouds followed us as we island-hopped. The islands range in size and population, and most are inhabited by the Kuna people. They rely on tourism and fishing, and would row up to our catamaran to sell jewellery and seafood.

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We spent most of our time on one island in particular. We’d wake with the sun, eat an early breakfast on the boat. We’d then laze the hours away lounging on sandbars, or snorkelling nearby with starfish and sharks. Lunch was always followed by a siesta in the shade of the boat’s cabin, but then we’d jump from our catamaran and swim to the main island, clutching soggy dollar bills and bottles of rum above our heads. Once on the island, we’d buy fresh coconuts from the Kuna people. A young man would chop them down with a machete, and when opened, we’d mix in the rum, whiling away the afternoons like pirates. I bought bracelets from the young women on the island, the red and orange beads complimenting my ever-darkening skin. We’d swim back before the sun sank, or before the rum and the heat went to our heads.

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At night, after the sky turned gold and pink, we’d take the dingy back to the island for dinner with the Kuna people. They’d prepare great feasts of lobster and fish, and we’d wash it down with sweating cans of beer and boxed wine. Our lips were in a perpetual smile, greased with butter. Sunburnt and full, we’d fall asleep on the boat, the waves rocking us to sleep.

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On the fourth day, we set sail for Colombia, heading out into the huge waves. Within a few hours, most of the passengers onboard were sick. I was lucky; I have never been seasick before, and this fact combined with a few seasickness tablets to stave off any nausea meant that I felt fine. Others were not so lucky, and many a traveller lost his lunch over the side of the boat. There was little to do but lay in the sun, read, or sleep, and soon the day turned into night. That’s when the “night watches” began. I was woken up at 11pm to start my shift. By 12:30, the squall was enveloping the boat, lashing me with rain. By the time my shift was over, and I woke up the Irish couple to take over, I was read to collapse into bed again, not bothered at all by the rolling of the boat.

When I awoke on the fifth day, I was told that we were not far from Cartagena. Within a few hours, we’d sail into the port, dolphins accompanying us on our journey in. They played alongside our boat, jumping and flipping for our amusement, or perhaps for their own. The waves had calmed down, and nearly everyone was out on deck, watching the city change from a tiny speck to a great expanse of buildings.

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I often think back to those five days spent sailing, the feeling of the wind as it blew through my hair, as it blew us all the way to Colombia. I only got a taste of a life at sea, but something tells me I’m going to need to go back and take a bigger bite.

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If you are ever in Central or South America, I highly recommend sailing from Panama to Colombia (or vice versa); it truly is an unforgettable adventure. The only other option is to fly, as crossing the infamous Darien’s Gap between the two countries by land is tantamount to suicide; countless kidnappings and murders have occurred here, as it is home to many guerrillas and drug smugglers (though this does not indicate safety in either country, as the danger lies only in this small section that tourists never venture to). I sailed with Sailing Koala and loved it, but there is an abundance of boats that do this route (I recommend booking through Mamallena in either Panama City or Cartagena). The cost of the trip (including the transport, accomodation, and all meals) ranges from about $400 to $600, but I felt the money was well worth it, as this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Sailing to Colombia From San Blas

 Have you ever been sailing for an extended period of time? If not, would you like to?

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43 comments

Lindsey January 27, 2014 - 5:23 am

My cousin captained a boat that sailed around the San Blas Islands for a year or so whilst he was travelling in Central and South America. He said it was the best thing he’s ever done. Your experience only increases my longing to do the same!

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Brenna Holeman January 27, 2014 - 12:10 pm

Oh wow, that’s so cool. You should definitely do it one day, it was truly fantastic!

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Kiara Gallop January 27, 2014 - 9:15 am

Wow, a beautiful bit of escapism to combat these cold English winter mornings 🙂

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Brenna Holeman January 27, 2014 - 12:09 pm

I wish I was back on that boat right now!

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Kaelene @Unlocking Kiki January 27, 2014 - 9:51 am

This sounds like such a wonderful trip, and those pictures, so beautiful! I am dreaming of a tropical vacation and a break from this dreary winter weather.

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Brenna Holeman January 27, 2014 - 12:10 pm

Thank you! It was hard to take a bad photograph there, it was all so beautiful. I’m dying to go back.

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Jessica Wray January 27, 2014 - 12:48 pm

Sounds like an absolutley breathtaking experience. I would love to do it. Those dolphins were probably the icing on the cake too. Much better of an experience than flying, so thanks for exposing me to it!

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Brenna Holeman January 27, 2014 - 1:10 pm

I hope you get to do it! I always prefer taking the long way if I can… I travelled mostly by bus and boat through Central and South America (with the exception of one flight). I would highly recommend sailing between Panama and Colombia instead of flying!

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Pete January 27, 2014 - 1:14 pm

Well, if I wasn’t sold on South America before, I certainly am now. This is a fantastic piece and I am now finding it very difficult not to run off and do exactly this in the immediate future!

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Brenna Holeman January 27, 2014 - 1:20 pm

Thanks, Pete! Part of me wants to be selfish and say, “No! Don’t go! Stay in London!”… but the other part of me totally thinks that you should book a one-way ticket and see what adventures await in South America.

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Sarah January 27, 2014 - 2:09 pm

I’ve always dreamed of sailing from Panama to Colombia! This story and the photo’s just helped me remember, since I had kind of forgotten about it. Love it!

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Brenna Holeman January 27, 2014 - 2:14 pm

Oh good – I hope you get to do it soon!

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Linda January 27, 2014 - 4:45 pm

This is such an amazing “adventure” post – and the photos unbelievable in their beauty. Anyone reading this will surely dream of taking such a sea voyage.

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Brenna Holeman January 27, 2014 - 8:31 pm

Thank you! I really want to go back. Those waters look an unbelievable blue to me today, especially since I just emerged from London rush hour on the tube……….

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Chinye January 28, 2014 - 4:23 am

I’ll be traveling to Panama only for 8 days, and I reallyyyyy wish I could fit this in. My number one priority is to become open water certified in Bocas which will unfortunately take 4 days. I know I’ll have to come back for this experience.

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Brenna Holeman January 28, 2014 - 12:35 pm

Wow, have an incredible time in Bocas! I did a bit of diving there, I’m sure you’ll love it…

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Alexandra January 28, 2014 - 6:27 am

Really enjoyed this post! I was in San Blas last year so it brought back some great memories, but unfortunately I wasn’t able to do the sailing trip, just stayed overnight for 2 days. The most beautiful islands I’ve ever been to!

Funny enough I’m now in Colombia on my way south so once again skipped the sailing. Hopefully I’ll get a cool sailing experience at some point because that sounds like half the fun!

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Brenna Holeman January 28, 2014 - 12:34 pm

Thanks, Alexandra! I think that even visiting for a few days is definitely worth it – I agree, the islands are so incredibly beautiful.

I’m jealous that you’re in Colombia, it’s my favourite country!

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The Irie Explorer January 28, 2014 - 8:36 am

I’m leaving for a sailing trip through the BVI’s in a few days, and your post has only increased my excitement for it! It looks absolutely lovely!

Liane xx

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Brenna Holeman January 28, 2014 - 12:33 pm

Oh wow, have fun! I love the Virgin Islands.

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Zalie January 28, 2014 - 12:45 pm

You have always said what an incredible experience this was and I wish that I would have done it while I was in SA! I guess that means that I will have to go back 😉 I can’t believe how beautiful the water looks!!

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Brenna Holeman January 28, 2014 - 4:04 pm

Yes, you will have to go back! Maybe we can go together. 🙂

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Zalie January 28, 2014 - 7:49 pm

I would LOVE that!! xo

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Christine January 30, 2014 - 7:31 pm

What an amazing experience!

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Alyssa James January 31, 2014 - 6:33 pm

That sounds like it was both amazing and scary! I remember when we sailed to Dominica (which was only a few hours…) but we slept on the catamaran at night with it anchored. I was so scared that I would fall asleep and wake up dead, having drowned… so I think I would be even more nervous sleeping while the boat was actually sailing!

You are a brave, brave woman, Brenna.

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Brenna Holeman January 31, 2014 - 7:14 pm

Not sure how one can wake up dead (unless it’s in the movies) but I understand the nerves! I’ve thankfully gotten over my fear of water in the past few years; ten years ago there’s no way I would have done that trip.

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Daidri | Thee Getaway Gal February 4, 2014 - 4:45 pm

What an adventure! Glad you didn’t get as sick as everyone else. Your pictures are so colorful!

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Brenna Holeman February 4, 2014 - 4:48 pm

Thanks, Daidri! I’m glad I didn’t get sick either.

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Caitlyn February 6, 2014 - 10:02 pm

Wow, that all sounds amazing! Thanks for entertaining me with a story about an area (and people) that I had never heard of before.

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Brenna Holeman February 7, 2014 - 2:13 am

Great, I’m glad you enjoyed the story!

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rebecca February 17, 2014 - 8:21 pm

I am now convinced that I must sail between Panama and columbia. Your story was amazing! I was reading the first few paragraphs about the rough ride and the second i scrolled down to the paradise photos I had a huge smile on my face. I felt as if I was there with you (being the seasick partner – of course) and then… we finally made it to paradise island. I can only begin to imagine how you must of felt.

I recently went on my first sail boat and discovered a certain love for it so I understand how you just know you want more!. You should read “love with a chance of drowning” great story!

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Brenna Holeman February 18, 2014 - 2:24 am

It certainly was a scary ride at times, but I loved it! I’ve read Love with a Chance of Drowning, I’m so glad I didn’t get as seasick as Torre…

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Amana Quintero September 2, 2014 - 11:37 pm

Hello, Brenna Holeman
I found your Photo and experiences. I consider it was wonderful. I live here in Panama. I have never thought to have such experience. for many reason one of them is that how do you plan it. the weather ‘s cloth. the vaccination, the food, the hospedation and so on. Do you have a logistic touristic trip if it is please share with me some ideas. Please send it to my e-mail.

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Brenna Holeman September 2, 2014 - 11:59 pm

I’m sorry Amana, but this is the kind of thing that a travel agent can help you with. As I said in the article, I arrange my tour through the hostel, so you can contact them for details, too. I hope you end up planning a fantastic trip!

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Ashley December 28, 2014 - 2:16 am

I was completely captivated as I read about your experience sailing through the storm! These photos are gorgeous, and I’m now convinced that I need to take this sailing trip whenever I make it to Panama!

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Brenna Holeman December 28, 2014 - 5:42 am

I hope you do – it’s truly incredible! I loved the experience.

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Elen May 26, 2016 - 11:18 am

I spent two days in Panama City last year on a stopover, and became fascinated by the molas that the Kuna people make. I wanted to visit the San Blas Islands before, but after reading this, now I REALLY want to! You say boat trips are $400-600, but how long are they on average?

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Brenna Holeman May 26, 2016 - 11:41 am

Sorry, it isn’t said explicitly in the post, but the trips are usually 4-5 days, depending on sailing conditions. Also, I would check the prices again, as this trip was a few years ago.

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Elen May 26, 2016 - 11:43 am

Thanks! I guess $400-600 isn’t bad value if it’s a multi-day trip, even if the price has increased since.

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