Here are some of the more frequently asked questions we get about sailing on the Andiamo. This section is constantly being updated. Please review this FAQ before emailing us with questions, as you may find your answers here. If not, please DO email us! Or, return to our San Blas Information Page!
Are these sailing trips like yacht charters?
What itinerary does Andiamo typically follow on these trips?
What time does the trip usually start? When does it end?
How many people can get on a group sail trip?
Can we reserve a trip so we can have only our party onboard and no one else?
I'm a single traveler, any problems with going on a trip solo?
So all meals and beverages are really included?
What kind of food/meals can we expect on the trip?
What kind of drinking water will be available? Is it safe? Should we bring bottled water with us?
What should we take with us on the sailing trip? What should we NOT take?
Are there stores and/or supermarkets in San Blas? How about ATM's?
Can you "hold" spots for us if we don't submit a deposit right away?
How are cancellations handled?
Do you have snorkeling gear aboard?
What about scuba diving? Anyway we can scuba dive while we're on the trip?
Will we be able to go ashore on other islands?
What about seasickness? Should I be concerned about it?
How far in advance do you schedule sailing trips?
Should I be concerned about weather conditions?
Start of Answers:
Are these sailing trips like yacht charters?
No, these sailing trips are NOT charters. Yacht charters tend to be more "exclusive" and service-oriented. In a yacht charter situation, you are essentially "hiring" the boat and its crew. They are also more expensive. Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $300 or more per person/per day for a sailing charter anywhere in the Caribbean.
These trips are casual group sails. Our casual group sails allow us to mix and mingle different guests and groups. We like to get at least 6 people on a trip, and will take a maximum of 8 or 9 (depending on the guest breakdown). We schedule these trips in advance, and try to get the boat filled up for the trip. Guests reserve space for the trip that best meets their schedules. We're usually quite lucky and get a great, diverse mix of people aboard, and a good time is had by all.
Unlike most crewed charters, our sailing trips are rather informal, casual and involve more guest participation. Guests get to have a hand in the daily operation of the boat, including sailing, line-handling, cooking, dishwashing, among other duties, as part of the crew. These trips are definitely more "hands-on" than a typical charter trip. But don't worry, we won't work you like a slave either. With anywhere from 6-9 guests aboard, no one will ever be asked to do too much.
To best illustrate the atmosphere on a typical Andiamo trip, picture this scenario:
A bunch of friends get together for a weekend sailing trip on another friend's boat. Everyone pitches in for the costs of the trip, food, fuel, etc. The boat's owner, the captain is essentially in charge, and makes sure that everyone knows what they are going to do on the trip to contribute. And of course, to make sure everyone knows the do's and dont's of the boat, safety requirements, gets things organized, etc. Everyone gets together, sails together, pitches in on cooking and prepping food, fishing, and so on, and has a great time.
That's the Andiamo mentality when it comes to making these trips. Everyone aboard is treated as friends/crew, not as "catered-to guests". The trips are not organized "tours" or "cruises", nor are they "canned vacations". Our sailing trips are individual, free-standing adventures in one of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean. The trips go off on whatever wavelength is established by the people aboard. That's what makes these trips so unique. We never do the same trip twice, EVER.
It's also why people from different walks of life and parts of the world bond after what we like to consider nothing less than an amazing, unique experience. Just check out our Facebook group and you will quickly see what we mean. We truly strive for the goal that you come aboard as guests, and leave as friends!
The benefits to these trips are obvious on the economic side as well. The costs per person are far lower because there are less staff and service costs, without sacrificing the quality and comfort of the boat. This is why we are able to keep the cost at around $100 per person/per night.
All this said...
If you are looking for or are accustomed to the amenities and the service of full-service yacht charters, please do yourself a favor and book a charter yacht. 
What itinerary does Andiamo typically follow on these trips?
Each trip is entirely unique and the itinerary is dependent on several factors. Including wind/weather conditions, anchorage capacities, fish availability (we typically get our fish and lobster freshly caught from Kuna fishermen at each anchorage we go to, and dependent STRICTLY on availability), among others. We will usually venture out to the outer islands and Cays such as Lemon Cays, Holandes Cays, and Coco Banderos on our longer-length trips. We try to focus on anchorage areas where there tend to be more good fish and snorkeling! But then again, we're always going to new anchorages and discovering new places! 
Note: Check out our new Handy-Dandy Map to get a visual of Andiamo's cruising area!
Our goal in making up an itinerary is to: give our guests a good broad view of the San Blas archipelago from the water; check out different ways that the Kunas live; and most of all, get some good sailing and snorkeling in! There is nothing better than having a beautiful day's sail among beautiful islands, reefs and scenery, and end it all by dropping anchor in a beautiful, protected, serene anchorage for the night. Make no mistake about it. These trips are all about sailing, but you'll get plenty of time to enjoy the islands as well!Return to Top
Fortunately, it's easier than most people think to travel to San Blas. The standard, most feasible way to get there is via van or SUV service from Panama City. It's a fun and safe 2+ hour drive from the city via the Interamericana highway, to a road that has been steadily improved since a major improvement project started in 2009 and completed now. There is a BRAND NEW bridge that spans Rio Carti, which cuts even more time off the trip, and no more potentially treacherous river crossings! The cost is $25 per person each way, and you will also have to pay $6 road tax per person to the Kuna (subject to change at any time).
NOTE: the policy goes through various changes and modifications by the Kuna. At the present time, we're able to arrange transportation directly with our preferred drivers. However, the Kunas reserve the right to require that all tourists going to San Blas must be booked through their central transportation office. We may have to adjust our procedure in getting our guests picked up in order to go to/from San Blas. In any case, we will make the arrangements to get you picked up where you are staying in Panama City the morning of your trip (NOTE: You DO have to be in Panama City no later than the night before your trip! Plan for it!). We will do all we can to coordinate that our guests will travel in the same car or cars, and with our preferred drivers . However, understand we cannot guarantee that will happen every time. Guests will pay the driver directly or at the transportation office before leaving Panama City, at their discretion. The current rate is still $25 per person each way as published, but that is subject to change.
While we will do everything we can to ensure your transportation is coordinated and executed properly, please understand that we cannot be responsible for any delays, issues, or errors that arise. All responsibility lies solely with the central transporation office and the driver(s). The vast majority of the time, things happen without any problem whatsoever, just bear this in mind.
Once you arrive to San Blas, you'll be picked up by a Kuna lancha (a small outboard-driven boat) that will take you to directly to Andiamo, which is almost always anchored off the village island of Carti Yantupu. The cost for that ride is $3-5 per person each way (depending on which lancha takes you). You may also be charged a $2-3 port tax at the river port, which at times can be VERY arbitrary. Be aware that these charges and taxes are levied DIRECTLY by the Kuna. We have no control over them, they can change at any time, and they often do.
NOTE: El Porvenir Airport is closed until sometime early 2012! To fly, currently there is one flight on Air Panama every morning from Albrook Airport in Panama City (the national airport) to El Porvenir. Flights leave very early in the morning, approximately 5:30-6 AM, so be prepared to be in Panama City at least the night before heading to San Blas. Costs for flights are around $70 per person, each way. You will get to hang out a few hours in Porvenir before the trip starts. There's a basic hotel, bar/restaurant and beach on the island, so you won't be bored. Andiamo should arrive to pick you up around noontime.Return to Top
How do you suggest we plan our onward travel plans after the sailling trip? Is it ok to book a flight out the same day the sailing trip ends?
Logistics to get people to/from San Blas are not as perfectly efficient, straightforward, or timely as many travelers would like them to be. There are simply too many variables. Remember, San Blas is still trying to develop its tourism infrastructure. For this reason, it's not a good idea to plot your travel plans too closely together. You have to leave some room and flexibility for error. I always tell people that it's best you give yourself at least ONE DAY of flexibility after your sailing trip ends to be spent in Panama City. Do any traveling you're planning on doing the NEXT DAY. That way, you don't have to panic if things don't happen as efficiently as they're supposed to.
90% or so of the time, everything works out fine. Lanchas show up on time, planes take off and land on time, the 4x4 picks up on time and doesn't break down on the way back, and so on. But when things DON'T happen right, or work on time, you need to be ready for that. Remember, this is Panama! That's where having some flexible time really comes in handy. Do yourself and your trip a favor, and heed this! Stay flexible for at least one day after your trip, plan NOTHING other than getting back to Panama City and spending at least the night there before you go on to your next spot. You will be glad you did, and you won't feel rushed or any need to panic if something does go wrong. Return to Top
What time does the trip usually start? When does it end?
When you get to San Blas, you will very soon find out why there are no hard-set schedules . That said, we like to try to set sail around noon. We are usually preparing the boat in the morning to receive guests. Early-arriving guests can wait on the island of Carti Yantupu. During that time, you will be able to walk around the village, have some coffee and lounge out in a special casita our Kuna crew will have arranged for you so you can relax. You will also be able to shop for local art and molas, until it's time to get aboard and go sailing.
We try to arrive back in Carti Yantupu around the same time, noon, on the day the trip ends. This is a good time because it gives guests heading back to the city sufficient time to catch a pre-arranged 4x4 heading back to the city. It's also good for guests who are continuing to stay in San Blas to get to where they are staying and enjoy some day at their island lodging. Though we remain flexible, these are the times we shoot for.Return to Top
It looks like we need to stay in Panama City the night before we start the trip and the night of the last day of the trip. Any suggestions where to stay?
Funny you should ask. We're happy to announce that Andiamo keeps a VERY nice apartment for our staff, crew and guests in Panama City! At the present time, we have at least one room in the apartment available for guests. It's an unbeatable deal, and Andiamo guests get a nice discount from our standard AirBnb rate! So check it out at this link for complete information! (a new browser window or tab will open!). That said, if our apartment is not available or if you can't utilize for whatever reason, or just want other accommodations, just let us know. We can give you recommendations that will be the best fit for your needs and budget.
How many people can get on a group sail trip?
These group sails are designed for a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 8 or 9 people (we'll go up to 9 people if the trip comprises of four couples, otherwise, the max remains at 8). Return to Top
Can we reserve a trip so we can only have our party onboard and no one else?
Group sails can be blocked out for just your party. If your group is 8 or 9 people, you'll be guaranteed the sail upon a confirmed reservation with your paid deposit, as long as no one else has reserved and confirmed for that same trip date. Our rates are posted on our San Blas page for private sails, so check that page out for the current rates. Return to Top
We are a family with young children and would love to do a group sail. Do kids onboard pose a problem?
The answer to that question largely depends on the age of the kids. In my experience, kids ages 7 years old and up seldom have problems with the sailing, and almost always enjoy themselves. They also tend to not be a damper on the trip for the other adult guests. Younger kids, however, age 6 and below, tend to NOT enjoy the trips as much as parents expect them to. They also tend to be a damper on the trip for the other "grownup" guests. In my opinion, infants and toddlers should not do the group trips with other guests on board.
I always suggest that if you would like to do a sailing trip with your family, and if it consists of younger children, consider locking out a trip for just your family. This way, you have the whole boat to yourselves, there is more space, and no other guests to get on the nerves of. Yes, you'll pay more per person because of the lockout cost. But in all likelihood, your kids will have a better time, and that means YOU will have a better time. The private sail rates are posted on our San Blas page, so check it out. Return to Top
I'm a single traveler, any problems with going on a trip solo?
Absolutely not. We get single guests all the time. You will feel completely at home, no worries. Return to Top
So all meals and beverages are really included?
Yes. All food, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages (which includes water, juices, coffee, tea, soda, and fruit drinks) are included. We also provide simple mixers for your cocktails. We always do our best to have a good stock of food, snacks, fruits and vegetables before every trip. We will almost always be able to get fresh fish and/or lobster for dinners. All you need to do is provide the liquor, wine, and/or beer you wish to consume during the trip. NOTE: Due to a new law in Panama, you have to purchase your wine, beer, or liquor, THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR TRIP! You will not be able to purchase it on the morning of your trip due to selling restrictions! TAKE HEED! Your best bet is to buy these items while you're in Panama City or on the way if you're going to come by 4x4. The 4x4 usually stops at a large supermarket on the way out of Panama City or in La Margarita/Chepo, which is about an hour or so away from San Blas. There are two well-stocked supermarkets at that stop in case you forgot to get something in the city.Return to Top
Breakfast and lunch can be either organized or "serve yourself" style, simply depending on the group and taste differences, etc. Dinners are a coordinated effort by everyone, crew and guests. Various duties will be shared in preparing, cooking, and of course dishes and cleaning of the galley afterward. Understand with 7-10 people onboard (including captain and crew), it's very easy to split up duties where no one will be overburdened with chores. And yes, cooking and eating great meals onboard is a huge part of the fun of these trips. Especially when you're dealing with fresh seafood. Return to Top
What kind of food/meals can we expect on the trip?
You eat what we eat, and we like to eat well. We always strive to have a good stock of fresh fruits, vegetables, bread, eggs, deli meats, and a good selection of snacks. We also fish off the boat during the trip, so whatever we catch usually ends up being that night's dinner. We'll also arrange with local Kuna fishermen whenever possible to get us fresh seafood during the trip (what we get is STRICTLY dependent on what is available!), lobster (when in season) bonito, wahoo, snapper, sea bass, and tuna are quite usual. Don't worry, you will eat well on the trip. Return to Top
What kind of drinking water will be available? Is it safe? Should we bring bottled water with us?
In San Blas, the water is for the most part supplied by river sources high in the mountains in Kuna Yala's mainland. In our experience, the water is clean and safe, and we drink it everyday. For good measure all the drinking water is filtered through a 5 micron filter system we run onboard before being bottled. During most trips, however, we produce our own fresh water via our onboard reverse-osmosis watermaker. This fresh water is for all general use as well as drinking, including bathing, cooking, and any other freshwater needs. The product water that we make is the best tasting water I've ever had on the boat.
It is of course your option to bring along anything you want, including bottled water. However, it's important to reiterate that the water we use for drinking is safe, good-tasting very clean and re-filtered onboard. And thanks to our latest upgrades to our reverse osmosis and filtration system, has a very good taste.
But it's also important to point out that bringing plastic bottles to the islands where it is also ultimately disposed, is really NOT a good idea. The Kuna are already have major issues with proper waste management as it is. Tourists bringing bottles and other plastics to the environment only adds to the problem. I believe that it is simply not worth the negative impact, especially when there is perfectly safe and clean water available locally and made onboard.
What should we take with us on the sailing trip? What should we NOT take?
You don't need to bring much with you, but here's a quick list:
- At least one bathing suit
- A towel for each person
- Sunscreen
- personal toiletries
- seasickness medication (only if you're really worried about seasickness)
- a light rain jacket or windbreaker
- any special medications, foods or supplements you may require or wish to have on the trip.
- insect repellent (recommend deet) in the event of sand flies getting on the boat when at anchorage. Happens, but not very often.
- your passport (It is REQUIRED by Panamanian law that you have your passport on you at all times! You will go through checkpoints, don't think you can get to San Blas without it!)
If you are planning on returning to Panama City after your trip to San Blas (as almost everyone does), we respectfully ask that you NOT take all your luggage with you on the trip. Please take only what you need. Space on the car rides over can get highly limited during busy times, and excessive bags can and will cause logistical problems. Pack a small day pack or consolidate your stuff into one bag to take with you. Store any other baggage with your hotel or hostel. Most hotels, hostels and bed and breakfasts, will GLADLY hold your luggage while you're on the trip, even if you have checked out. Doing this will save you, your drivers, and us here on the boat lots of planning and logistics. Please help us out and pack wisely!
Are there stores and/or supermarkets in San Blas? How about ATM's?
One of the truly beautiful things about San Blas, is its utter remoteness from the "real world". Thus, there are very few and very scarcely stocked stores in San Blas. Supermarkets are non-existent. Beer and rum can usually be purchased in tourist-oriented islands and village islands. But be prepared to pay high prices (as much as $1.50 per can of beer for example). It's always best to buy while in the city. As for ATM's the answer is no. There are no ATM's in San Blas, despite the GROSS MISINFORMATION in some of the major guidebooks! And although there has been talk about installing a couple on the populated islands like Nargana and Carti' it just hasn't happened yet. Apparently the logistics and communications are just too prohibitive.
You need to bring your cash to cover your time in San Blas with you from the city. Return to Top
We accept cash, in US Dollars. Due to new constraints in Panama regarding travelers checks, we are no longer able to accept them. We apologize for the inconvenience. We will arrange to meet you prior to your trip to receive all final payments if you choose to pay this way. We also accept credit/debit card and E-checks via Paypal. Paying your deposit via Paypal is EASY. To get full details, just go to this page, which is the same screen you will be brought to after you submit a reservation for your sailing trip.
NOTE: If you are new to Paypal, you may have to go through a verification process before you can submit your payment, so allow some time for that (it can sometimes be 1-2 days or more). Typically, deposits can be paid in advance using paypal, and final balances can be paid in cash or travelers' check. We prefer arranging to collect the remaining funds while guests are in Panama City usually the day/evening before the trip. If you wish to pay the remaining balance via Paypal, that is no problem. We just ask that you submit your final balance no later than 1 day before your trip date, thanks!Return to Top
Can you "hold" spots for us if we don't submit a deposit right away?
Reservations can only be confirmed with a paid deposit. With Paypal, it's quick and easy to make a deposit from almost anywhere in the world using your bank account, credit card, or debit card. We'll gladly "hold" a reservation pending a deposit being received. But please understand that if we get a reservation with a deposit for those spots before we receive yours, and there is no other space on the trip, the one with the paid deposit will get the spots. In any case, we'll do our best to work with you and get you booked and reserved on the trip you want. Thanks for understanding!Return to Top
How are the bunks laid out on the Andiamo? Can we expect a private cabin if we're a couple?
Andiamo has three or four cabins available for guests, depending on the group breakdown. All cabins have queen size beds that will sleep two (making the total who can sleep in cabins - 8). There are also four individual bunks located outside of the cabins. There are two in the salon (one full-length, one suitable for kids) and two full-length bunks in the cockpit. This brings the total number of bunks to twelve total. Couples will get their own private cabin 99.999% of the time.
In the event that the total group comprises of four couples, The captain's cabin (also with a queen bed) will be made available. Otherwise, the cabin will be available at captain's discretion. The cockpit is weather protected at night in the event of rain. In the event that the other cabins are filled by couples, single guests will have their option of sleeping in any of the remaining bunks and will be perfectly comfortable (bear in mind, that if the trip doesn't fill up completely, there will still be a good chance that even single guests will get a cabin at least some time during the trip).
As for heads, (bathrooms), there are two working heads aboard adjacent to the aft cabins. Both heads are fully equipped with fresh water showers.
Here is a fairly accurate deck plan of Andiamo:
And finally, be aware that there is plenty of space above decks for sleeping. And yes, many guests elect to sleep above decks on clear, starry nights. We have rollup mattresses and cushions for sleeping on deck available for your convenience. We provide fresh linens for all beds and for sleeping in the salon. You are, however, responsible for having your own towel.Return to Top
We have a group and would like to do a custom trip in San Blas that's more than two or three nights. Is it possible?
Of course! We do private sails all the time. Just let me know what you have in mind, and how many people in your group. Give as much detail as possible. The rates posted on our San Blas Page for private sails will apply.Return to Top
How are cancellations handled?
In the very rare event that we have to cancel a trip for any reason on our part, we will notify you as soon as possible and immediately refund your deposit, no worries. If you have to cancel on a trip, please let us know asap! If the trip is filled, we usually have people who are willing to jump in on a trip last-minute if space opens up. If we get someone else to fill your spot(s) on the trip, then we will gladly reimburse your deposit. However, if you cancel within ten calendar days before your trip date, and we are unable to get someone else to take your spot(s), your deposit is subject to forfeiture. Return to Top
Do you have snorkeling gear aboard?
Yes, Andiamo has a good inventory of snorkeling masks, fins and gear aboard for guests' use. We're always adding more gear and water toys to the inventory.Return to Top
What about scuba diving? Anyway we can scuba dive while we're on the trip?
At this time, the Kuna forbid scuba diving of any kind within the archipelago. This law was instituted by the tribe years ago due to excessive spearfishing and poaching being done by spearfishermen from other parts of Panama and even Colombia. There is some talk of the Kuna opening up some areas as controlled diving reserves, but nothing has been made official as of now. When this changes we will examine the possibilities of sponsoring dive trips around San Blas. But until then, no legal way to scuba dive exists in the archipelago. Return to Top
Will we be able to go ashore on other islands?
Of course! In most anchorages we go to in San Blas, guests will be able to easily swim ashore. We also have a dinghy to make getting on and off island easy. Feel free to walk around and check out the islands! There are a few simple rules you will need to follow when ashore, but other than that, guests are welcome in almost all cases by the local Kuna.Return to Top
Unlike yacht charters, tips are never expected, but they're always appreciated.
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Smoking is allowed on deck within certain guidelines, which you will be told about when you're aboard. Smoking below decks is prohibited, no exceptions. Return to Top
What about seasickness? Should I be concerned about it?
You don't have to worry about seasickness too much. Most of where we sail is protected by an outer reef. This is what makes San Blas such a primo cruising ground. Thanks to this outer barrier reef protecting the low-lying islands, you don't get the waves and swells like you do on the open sea. Be aware however, that at times we will be crossing channels to open sea, and there may be a bit more rolling motion during those brief periods on our sails.
If you feel you are extra sensitive and/or feel the need to protect yourself, use seasickness medication. I personally recommend Meclizine as a preventative or remedy (after you feel symptoms), or ginger tablets in the event of mild nausea or sour stomach.
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Return to TopOf course! You can reach Mitzy, Andiamo's tour manager, in Panama City at +50762335932 (fluent in both Spanish and English). The BEST way to communicate with us is via our website and email. You will almost always get a rapid response from us. Usually within 12 hours.
What if we want to spend more time in San Blas before or after the sailing trip? Can you help us arrange lodging and transportation?
Absolutely! We work very closely with the Kuna, and thus are incredibly well-connected with several Kuna hotels and lodges all over San Blas, and we'll give our best recommendations for island lodging for your budget. Your options will range from very basic Kuna-style lodging for anywhere from $20 to $35 a night, to more "deluxe" private island accommodations that will run anywhere from $50-$95 per person, including all meals. If you would like contacts and/or help in getting your trip planned, just let us know. We'll put you in contact with the right people. I am working on a contacts with information of all the Kuna lodges and services that are available for your convenience, so stay tuned.Return to Top
How far in advance do you schedule sailing trips?
We usually make our schedule according to the time curve of demand for future trips. We're currently working on approximately three months in advance, and can reasonably expect that lead time to increase. Our goal is to schedule sailings that can accommodate as many people's schedules as possible. We also have to take into account downtimes for maintenance, upkeep, boat service and other issues. If there's a specific time period you're interested in sailing, even if it's months from now, LET US KNOW! We'll do everything we can to forecast our schedule and make it happen!Return to Top
Should I be concerned about weather conditions?
Weather conditions in San Blas vary almost all of the time. While you may see some rain and crazy weather during the trip, chances are also good that you will see plenty of sunny, clear weather as well. Bear in mind that San Blas has its own microsystem when it comes to its weather patterns. It simply does not follow the same weather patterns that affect the rest of Panama. So even if you see a lot of rain on the mainland, it DOESN'T mean you'll see the same thing in San Blas.
Another thing to note, is that one of the great things about Panama and San Blas is that it is the only cruising area in the WHOLE CARIBBEAN SEA that is safe to be in all year long. Being well south of the hurricane belt, this entire coast is for the most part unaffected by hurricane and tropical storms.
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It seems like there are quite a few boats doing trips and charters in San Blas these days. What makes Andiamo special or unique?
This is a question we've been getting more of lately, particularly since competition has sprouted up in recent months. Yes, there are other boats doing casual trips in San Blas vs. charters, no doubt. It seems that Andiamo has struck a cord that has resonated with other boats looking to offer the same kind of trips we do. Some have even gone as far as try to "emulate" our website to market themselves. One particular boat has even gone to the extent of copying this very FAQ section you're reading right now almost verbatim. I guess imitation really is the sincerest form of flattery. 
So what makes Andiamo different? Before I go on, let me say I'm not one to toot our own horn. That said, let me follow by saying that there are several reasons why Andiamo stands out. First of all, we're probably the ONLY boat that works as closely with the Kuna the way we do. In fact, I'm particularly proud of Andiamo's deep and lasting relationship with the community of Carti Yantupu and its surrounding village islands. Should I even mention that Andiamo's first mate is Kuna?
Second of all, Andiamo has been doing these trips for almost four years now. Which is an absolute record for any boat plying these waters full-time. There are several reasons for that, and all good.
Third, Andiamo is fully committed to giving real value to our guests. We don't scrimp on food and beverages. We don't ask our guests to pay extra for fresh seafood like many boats do. I can go on and on. We are committed to keeping the trips accessible to travelers of any budget. It's not about trying to be the cheapest or "best deal", it's about being committed to VALUE. And yes, there is a significant difference.
And finally, what makes Andiamo truly different is the unrivaled "community" that has developed and grown around her. It has mushroomed to levels that even I could not have possibly predicted when we started offering these trips. Just check out our Facebook Group and you'll see exactly what I mean. How is it that people who have not been aboard Andiamo in YEARS still stay an active part of our community? Which, I'm proud to say, is now pushing almost 600 members?? I for one am particularly proud of the crew and I having made real friends out of the vast majority of our guests. Watching them continue to stay involved, share their videos, pics and blog posts, send us their friends and relatives to share in the experience, and yes, come BACK aboard Andiamo, as many have. This amazing community is by far the most gratifying and valuable part of doing these trips. At least for me.
So yes, there are boats that try to knock off our trips. And sure, some of them may even go as far try to "emulate" our website, undercut our rates, etc.. But rest assured they will never be able to duplicate the REAL experience, incredible value we offer, as well as the amazing community that only Andiamo has. We're ok with that. ;)
We LOVE REFERRALS! If you're a Panama-based hotel, hostel, bed and breakfast, travel agent or a tour agency that deals with Panama, contact us. We love dealing with agents on custom trips and private sails, as well as scheduled trips when there is space available.
We do hope that our past guests are happy enough with their trips that they will recommend us to their friends and colleagues with passion and enthusiasm. A big part of why Andiamo is so busy and active on the water is because of the tremendous goodwill created by our past guests and passengers. We will do everything we can to keep that trend going. Again, we strive to make friends of all our guests, and hope you'll come aboard again! Maybe when we're even somewhere else in the world! Return to Top
If your question was not answered by this section, please don't hesitate to email us! And check back regularly, as we'll update this section regularly with new FAQ's.
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