Explore Bocas del Toro’s glowing oceans on a magical night tour. Swim with sparkling bioluminescent plankton and relax under a star-lit sky on this exclusive catamaran journey.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with basic swimming ability recommended for enjoying the bioluminescent swim safely.
Wildlife
History
Bocas del Toro was historically a hub for pirate activity and Afro-Caribbean culture, influencing local traditions and cuisine.
Conservation
Local operators prioritize protecting the fragile marine ecosystems through reef-safe products and minimizing plastic waste during tours.
SwayStays
Explore Bocas del Toro’s glowing oceans on a magical night tour. Swim with sparkling bioluminescent plankton and relax under a star-lit sky on this exclusive catamaran journey.
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 a waterproof flashlight
A dim red or blue waterproof flashlight helps you see without disturbing the bioluminescence.
Use biodegradable sunscreen
Protect the marine environment by applying reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen before the tour.
Wear a light jacket after the swim
Evenings on the water can be cool; a light jacket will keep you comfortable after your swim.
Book your spot early
This private tour fills quickly due to limited spaces, so reserve well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Waterproof phone case or camera
Capture glowing moments in the water without damaging your device.
Light jacket or windbreaker
Keeps you warm during cooler nights on the boat after swimming.
fall|winter
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin while preserving the delicate marine ecosystem.
summer|spring
Water shoes or sandals
Useful for boarding and returning from the boat or walking on rocky shorelines.