Setting Sail to Paradise

The sun was just beginning to rise as my wife and I set out from Panama City, our hearts full of anticipation for the day ahead. The journey to Portobelo was a scenic two-hour drive, with the first half on a main road and the latter on a more intimate path that wound its way through lush landscapes. We even made a quick pit stop at a local grocery store to grab some last-minute essentials, a reminder of the laid-back, spontaneous lifestyle we cherish.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by Jenny, our guide for the day. Her warm smile and wealth of knowledge set the tone for what was to come. As we boarded the catamaran, she briefed us on the day’s itinerary, explaining that some parts of the journey might be a bit choppy while others would be smooth sailing. Her attention to detail and willingness to answer all our questions made us feel at ease as we set off on our adventure.

Exploring the Mangroves

Our first stop was the enchanting Venas Azules, a lagoon of mangroves with crystal-clear waters. As we approached the lagoon, the vibrant greens of the mangroves contrasted beautifully with the turquoise waters, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. We hopped onto a dinghy to explore the lagoon up close, and it was here that the magic of Portobelo truly began to unfold.

The mangroves were teeming with life, and Jenny’s insights into the ecosystem were both educational and fascinating. As a surfer, I’m always drawn to the ocean’s mysteries, and this was no exception. The tranquility of the lagoon was a stark contrast to the adrenaline-pumping waves I’m used to chasing, but it was a welcome change of pace.

Snorkeling and Sloth Spotting

Our next destination was Playa Blanca, a pristine beach known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. As soon as we anchored, I couldn’t resist the call of the ocean and quickly donned my snorkeling gear. The underwater world was a kaleidoscope of colors, with wrasses, parrotfish, and sergeant majors darting around the corals. It was a mesmerizing sight, one that reminded me of why I fell in love with the ocean in the first place.

But the surprises didn’t end there. As I emerged from the water, I spotted a sloth lazily hanging from a nearby tree. It was a three-toed sloth, and not far from it, a two-toed sloth was making its way through the branches. The sight of these gentle creatures in their natural habitat was a highlight of the day, and it was made even more memorable by a cheeky howler monkey that seemed intent on making its presence known.

Lunch on the catamaran was a culinary delight, with a choice of dishes that catered to every palate. I opted for the shrimp, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The garlic sauce was the perfect complement to the fresh seafood, and it was the ideal way to refuel after a morning of exploration.

As we sailed back to Portobelo, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s adventures. The combination of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and the camaraderie of fellow travelers made for an unforgettable experience. It’s moments like these that remind me why I chose this nomadic lifestyle, and I can’t wait to share more of these hidden gems with you all.