THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Experience an unforgettable overnight sailing adventure to Playa Estrella in Panama's Bocas del Toro. Explore historic forts, spot vibrant wildlife, and relax beneath the stars on this exclusive private tour with SwayStays.
Experience an unforgettable overnight sailing adventure to Playa Estrella in Panama's Bocas del Toro. Explore historic forts, spot vibrant wildlife, and relax beneath the stars on this exclusive private tour with SwayStays.
Book with SwayStays
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by SwayStays · Bocas del Toro, Bocas del Toro Province
Set sail on a unique overnight adventure to Playa Estrella, or Starfish Beach, located in the spectacular Bocas del Toro province of Panama. This private sightseeing tour with SwayStays begins from the historic town of Portobelo, where you board a comfortable sailing catamaran for an unforgettable journey. Navigate the bustling shipping channels and witness a variety of vibrant wildlife unique to the region, including colorful birds and marine life. A highlight of the trip is exploring Fort San Lorenzo, a UNESCO World Heritage site with rich colonial history and impressive views of the Chagres River. Your overnight stay anchored near the Panama Canal offers a serene night under the stars, with optional hiking opportunities in the adjacent national park. The tour perfectly blends history, nature, and adventure in an intimate setting, making it an ideal escape for travelers looking to experience Panama's rich cultural heritage and stunning coastal environment. Whether you’re relaxing onboard, photographing the breathtaking views, or discovering local wildlife, this overnight expedition promises a refreshing and immersive experience.
moderate.
15–18 hours.
Participants should be in reasonable physical condition to enjoy light hiking and manage moving around a sailboat comfortably.
No prior sailing experience is needed; expert crew members handle navigation and operations.
Yes, please inform SwayStays in advance to arrange suitable meal options.
Pack lightweight clothing, insect repellent, swimwear, sturdy shoes, and personal toiletries.
Children aged 8 and above are welcome, but the tour is best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity.
Wi-Fi is generally unavailable to help guests disconnect and enjoy the natural setting.
Basic snorkeling gear is available on board, but you are welcome to bring your own for a better fit.
Fort San Lorenzo, built in the 16th century, served as a key defensive stronghold guarding the Chagres River corridor against pirates and colonial rivals.
Local initiatives focus on protecting coral reefs and mangrove ecosystems vital for marine biodiversity and coastal protection.
SwayStays is a tour operator based in Bocas del Toro, Provincia de Bocas del Toro, offering sailing and catamaran experiences across the archipelago. The company operates a range of day and overnight trips that showcase local highlights such as Starfish Beach (Playa Estrella), Bird Island, the Zapatilla Islands, and Hospital Point. Many itineraries include swimming, snorkeling, beach time, and scenic sunset sails; select tours feature onboard barbecues, music, and refreshments. Overnight options anchor in calm bays for starry nights and morning snorkeling. SwayStays offers specialized experiences including guided spearfishing sessions and an Intro to Spearfishing where participants learn breathing techniques and fish identification, as described in the trip summaries. Snorkeling sessions at Hospital Point explore vibrant reefs and tropical fish, and an Intro to Sailing covers steering, safety, and knots with land and on-water practice. A Stargazing & Bioluminescent Swim departs at night to secluded islands for swimming in bioluminescent plankton and stargazing. Several listings reference sailing catamaran trips and overnight passages. One overnight entry also describes an expedition from Portobelo to the Chagres River with hiking and historical site visits near Fort San Lorenzo. Trip summaries emphasize exploration, relaxation, and natural beauty, catering to guests seeking snorkeling, diving-adjacent activities, spearfishing practice, or a peaceful island overnight. All descriptions are based on provided trip summaries and location information.
Book with SwayStays