Newish Diver Planning Trip to Panama, Please Help!

[fichtler]

My brother and I recently got certified and have decided to take a trip to Las Perlas archipelago in the Bay of Panama (about 50km South of Panama City) at the end of the summer. I am running into a few issues that I need help with though:

1. We want to rent a boat to tour the islands at our leisure and we do not want a captain along with us. I cannot find a boat for rent without a captain or shipmate accompanying us or for less than $600 per day. How could I find a boat for a reasonable price without a captain coming along (it doesn't need to be big or nice)?

2. We will be touring the islands for two weeks and don't want to go fill up tanks every two days. I cannot find a compressor in Panama city that will work for us. Can someone point me in the right direction of one (specs, model, price, where to buy)?

Thanks for any help!

 

[tadeotadeo]

I have a compressor for sale it is gas and needs some work. Has less than 50 hrs on it but left in sailboat for 5 years and looks well used . Metal gas talk has rusted and needs replased, new belt ect.
PM me if interested.
Ciao
Tad

 

[cappyjon431]

I can't speak for that particular area of Panama, but in the Bocas del Toro archipelago there are no operators willing to let their boats go out without a licensed captain. The maritime authority here requires even gringos to get their Panamanian captain's license (I just got mine even though I have my USCG 100 Ton masters with international and STCW endorsements). In addition, taking a boat out for a significant period of time is a risk that very few (if any) operators are willing to take. If you are not familiar with the area, it is way too easy to lose a prop or accidently damage the vessel. All of my boats go out with licensed captains, as their local knowledge is essential for the safe operation and return of my boats. You might find someone in the Pearl islands, but what happens if you develop mechanical difficulties or have a diving accident? Are you prepared for being in foreign and unfamiliar waters? I am making no judgements about your ability to operate a vessel, but I am concerned with recently certified divers being out without a captain/guide. Please be careful.

You might consider posting your questions on the Central America section as someone with knowledge of Las Perlas might be more likely to see your post.