Top 5 Coastal Gems of Panama & Costa Rica Only Reachable by Yacht

Small expedition yachts are the key to accessing the hidden corners of Latin America’s Pacific coast.
Unlike large ships, they can navigate shallow waters, anchor close to shore, and land passengers directly on unspoiled beaches and protected reserves.

Each voyage aboard M/Y Wayra offers a combination of:

Personalized exploration: Flexible itineraries adapting to weather and wildlife sightings.

Sustainability: Low-emission operations and eco-friendly protocols.

Cultural immersion: Encounters with local communities and artisans.

This blend of intimacy and access transforms travel from sightseeing into storytelling.

Luxury travel in Latin America is no longer about visiting famous landmarks—it’s about discovering the places most travelers never reach.
Between Panama and Costa Rica, an intricate coastline of hidden coves, rainforest-backed beaches, and coral-filled islands remains largely untouched.

Thanks to boutique yachts like Kontiki Expeditions’ M/Y Wayra, travelers can now explore these secluded destinations in comfort, style, and sustainability.

For travel advisors and tour operators, these locations represent rare, high-value experiences that redefine luxury exploration for discerning clients.

Discover the Unseen Side of Central America

Aura Selections’ Role in Connecting Brands and Buyers

The growth of small-ship luxury travel in Latin America reflects a global trend: travelers want privacy, meaning, and purpose.
As regions like Panama and Costa Rica invest in sustainable tourism infrastructure, boutique yachts will continue to be the gateway to the continent’s most remote wonders.

For the travel trade, now is the time to lead this movement—to position exclusive yacht expeditions as the ultimate expression of discovery and design.

1. Coiba Island, Panama – The Marine Eden

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Coiba Island is often called the Galápagos of Central America.
Once a penal colony, it’s now a pristine marine reserve teeming with life: manta rays, turtles, sharks, and dolphins.

Why it’s special:

Home to 760 species of fish and 30 coral species.

Ideal for snorkeling, diving, and marine photography.

Accessible only by small boats and yachts like M/Y Wayra.

For travel professionals: Coiba is a top-tier selling point for clients seeking marine biodiversity comparable to the Galápagos without the crowds.

2. Isla Iguana, Panama – A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Located off Panama’s Azuero Peninsula, Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge is famous for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Above the water, it’s a haven for frigatebirds, pelicans, and sea turtles that nest along the shore.

Highlights:

Coral reefs are ideal for beginner snorkeling.

Birdwatching from mangrove trails.

Protected by Panama’s Ministry of Environment.

Why it matters for agencies: Isla Iguana adds a soft-adventure component to yacht itineraries—perfect for eco-luxury travelers looking for calm exploration.

3. Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica – The Rainforest Fjord

Hidden in southern Costa Rica, Golfo Dulce (Sweet Gulf) is a tropical fjord bordered by lush rainforest.
This unique marine environment supports dolphins, humpback whales, and hundreds of tropical bird species.

Activities include:

Guided kayaking along mangrove forests.

Rainforest hikes led by local naturalists.

Wildlife encounters featuring monkeys and sloths.

B2B Insight: Costa Rica’s reputation for ecotourism makes Golfo Dulce a premium add-on to luxury itineraries, balancing adventure and wellness experiences.

4. Isla Tortuga, Costa Rica – A Postcard Paradise

If there’s a single image that captures the spirit of boutique cruising in Costa Rica, it’s Isla Tortuga.
Known for its turquoise waters and palm-lined beaches, this small island is perfect for a day of relaxation or water sports.

Why it stands out:

Excellent snorkeling visibility.

Pristine picnic beaches accessible only by boat.

Calm waters are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.

For high-end travelers, Isla Tortuga offers the perfect interlude between exploration and indulgence, often serving as a sunset stop during M/Y Wayra’s voyages.

5. Isla San José, Panama – Wilderness and Solitude

Part of Panama’s Las Perlas Archipelago, Isla San José is an uninhabited island where rainforest meets reef.
It’s an ideal stop for nature walks, birdwatching, and snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens.

Features:

Rare tropical bird species and untouched beaches.

Opportunities for photography, wellness retreats, or private dining setups.

Often combined with nearby islands for multi-day charters.

Why it’s valuable for agents: The exclusivity of Isla San José is its strongest selling point; it represents the ultimate escape for affluent clients seeking solitude and nature immersion.

Why Yachting Unlocks True Exclusivity

The Future of Yachting in Latin America

As Kontiki Expeditions’ commercial representative, Aura Selections ensures that travel professionals worldwide have access to:

Up-to-date rates, itineraries, and marketing assets.

B2B introductions and charter coordination.

Sales materials optimized for agency presentations.

This partnership enables agencies to confidently feature Kontiki Expeditions as part of their Latin America portfolio while receiving continuous trade support from Aura Selections.

✉️ For partnerships, product information, or trade inquiries, contact us at info@auraselections.com