Experience a private overnight sailing tour to Starfish Beach, exploring Panama’s wildlife and historic forts. Enjoy hiking and stargazing in one incredible adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
14–16 hours (overnight)
Fitness Level
Participants should have average fitness for moderate hiking and endurance for overnight travel on a boat.
Wildlife
History
Fort San Lorenzo, built by the Spanish in the 17th century, was a key defense point guarding the Chagres River and trade routes.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to protect the delicate marine ecosystems and forest habitats, with guidelines to minimize human impact during visits.
SwayStays
Experience a private overnight sailing tour to Starfish Beach, exploring Panama’s wildlife and historic forts. Enjoy hiking and stargazing in one incredible adventure.
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.
Location
Bocas del Toro
Operates from Bocas del Toro
Tours Offered
11
Day and overnight options available
Boat Type
Catamaran & Sailing
Sailing adventures and overnights
Overnight Trips
4
Anchor under starry skies
Reserve day sails, overnights, spearfishing or bioluminescent swims — limited spaces on night trips and overnight passages.
Bring insect repellent
Mosquitoes can be active especially near the water and forested areas, so insect repellent is essential.
Wear waterproof footwear
Expect wet conditions when boarding the catamaran and exploring nearby trails.
Pack a headlamp or flashlight
Nighttime hiking and onboard activities benefit from a reliable light source after sunset.
Stay hydrated
Bring sufficient water or hydration packs to stay refreshed throughout the sailing and hiking portions.
Lightweight hiking shoes
Provides comfort and grip for forest trails and boardwalks around the beach.
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and other insects active in tropical environments.
summer
Waterproof jacket
Useful during sudden rain showers common in Panama’s spring season.
spring
Headlamp or flashlight
Essential for night-time navigation around the boat and trails.