Isla Escudo de Veraguas Tour – Luxury Boat Trips from Bocas del Toro
- Fernanda Venegas
- Sep 8
- 4 min read
The Jewel of Panama: Isla Escudo de Veraguas
A Luxury Boat Experience from Bocas del Toro
The adventure to Isla Escudo de Veraguas begins early in the morning. From Isla Colón, we set out on a smooth and fast ride of about 1 hour and 40 minutes aboard a custom-made luxury speedboat. Unlike the traditional panga boats, which can take up to 3 hours each way, Pangea Bocas’ fleet makes the journey efficient and comfortable.
The route takes us through the mangroves of Crawl Cay, and from there the landscape opens dramatically into the Caribbean Sea. The horizon stretches wide, broken only by pristine isolated beaches fringed with jungle and dotted along the way. In the distance, we pass tiny coastal communities, where traditional wooden homes stand by the shore. From time to time, we catch sight of local fishermen in cayucos, paddling skillfully across the waves — a living tradition that has connected the people of Bocas del Toro with the sea for generations. These glimpses of authentic life at sea blend seamlessly with the natural beauty, making the ride itself an unforgettable part of the journey.
Anchoring near Escudo de Veraguas, we hydrate and then switch to a cayuco led by local guides. Slowly drifting beneath arching trees and over turquoise waters, we are immersed in the sounds of birds, waves, and jungle life.
Along the way, we make a stop to swim — and if lucky, catch sight of Escudo’s most famous resident: the three-toed pygmy sloth, a critically endangered species found only on this island. Watching one swim across the lagoon is an unforgettable moment that reminds us of the uniqueness of this ecosystem, home to many endemic plants and animals.
A Taste of Bocas
Back on board, we’re welcomed with a colorful spread of fresh tropical fruits and traditional Caribbean snacks. Our captain, Mario, proudly explains that everything is sourced from local Bocatoreñas to guarantee authentic flavors—like pati, a golden empanada-style pastry filled with spiced ground meat; plantintart, a sweet indulgence made with ripe plantains; and pinetart, a flaky pastry bursting with pineapple. These handmade delights, paired with cold beers and sodas, set the perfect tone for an afternoon of snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on deck.
Isla Tiburón (Shark Island)
From Escudo, we continue 40 minutes east to Isla Tiburón, a small and secluded island maintained in partnership with local communities. Pangea Bocas has invested in keeping it clean and equipped with basic amenities like shaded ranchos, bathrooms, and a potable water system.
Here, the water is crystal-clear and full of life. Guests can snorkel among clouds of tropical fish, encounter small reef sharks, and enjoy vibrant coral gardens in a pristine, low-impact environment.

Sunset at Boya de Vida
After a full day, the ride back to Isla Colón takes about an hour. Before returning to the Pangea Hub, we make one last optional stop at Boya de Vida, a floating bar near headquarters. From its rooftop deck, we enjoy cocktails and charcuterie boards while watching the Caribbean sunset — the perfect closing chapter to a magical day.
What’s Included in Your Escudo Tour
Private certified captain and crew
Cold water, sodas, beer & tropical fruit
Traditional Caribbean pastries made locally
Snorkeling gear and safety equipment
Option of a cayuco tour or nature hike with local guides
Transparent paddle board (subject to group size)
Onboard amenities: bathroom, WiFi in remote areas
Why Choose Pangea Bocas for Escudo de Veraguas
Flexible Options for Every Traveler
Pangea Bocas makes Escudo accessible for all kinds of adventurers. Guests can purchase tickets per person on open excursions, charter a private trip designed exclusively for their group, or rent a vessel by the hour for complete freedom. Every option is backed by our signature luxury service, ensuring comfort, safety, and eco-conscious travel.
Corporate, Events & Group Experiences
Beyond leisure trips, Pangea Bocas specializes in organizing tailor-made experiences for groups and special occasions. From birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries to corporate outings and retreats, our team curates every detail — food, music, décor, and entertainment — to create a once-in-a-lifetime celebration on the water. With a capacity to move up to 80 guests across two 46-foot vessels, and up to 150 guests in total across the fleet, we are uniquely equipped to deliver seamless group adventures with style and precision.
Support Services for Yachts & Cruises
For private yachts and international cruises arriving in Bocas del Toro, Pangea Bocas offers comprehensive support services. From pier pick-ups and provisioning to luxury day tours that fit within port schedules, our network ensures a smooth process in every sense of the word. Close ties with the local community allow us to streamline logistics while maintaining authentic connections, making the journey effortless for you and unforgettable for your guests.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Beyond service, the company is committed to sustainable ecotourism. As a carbon-neutral operator, Pangea Bocas actively supports conservation, local community projects, and a blue economy that benefits the archipelago. Choosing this experience means your adventure contributes to both social and ecological well-being.
How to Book Your Isla Escudo Experience
You can plan your personalized Escudo de Veraguas trip directly with Pangea Bocas:
For special inquiries and itineraries 📧hello@pangeabocas.com
Or, if you’re already in Bocas del Toro, visit the Pangea Hub for a one-on-one consultation with the team.
✨ Bottom line: If you want an exclusive, safe, and sustainable adventure that showcases the best of Panama’s Caribbean, Pangea Bocas’ Isla Escudo de Veraguas Tour is the experience of a lifetime.
















If you’re looking to explore Isla Escudo de Veraguas in style, I highly recommend checking out Palmara. They specialize in luxury boat trips from Bocas del Toro, offering a comfortable and personalized experience while you enjoy the stunning scenery. Palmara tours are perfect for anyone who wants to combine adventure with a touch of luxury.