Shuttle from Santa Catalina to Bocas del Toro
Departures & pickup
- Departure time: 7:30 AM (arrives around 3:00 PM) from Santa Catalina.
- Pickup: at your hotel or hostel in Santa Catalina — tell us where you are staying and we confirm the pickup time by WhatsApp the day before.
- Drop-off: the Almirante water-taxi dock, for the short boat into Bocas town.
- Includes: air-conditioned van, room for regular luggage, and a rest stop on the way.
About this route
Pacific to Caribbean in one go — the longest route we offer, crossing the entire isthmus and the continental divide. The road leg ends at the Almirante dock, where a short water taxi carries you the last stretch into Bocas town; we time the van so you make the crossing without a long wait.
It is a full travel day, so bring snacks, a jacket for the mountain stretch over the Fortuna reserve, and swimwear at the top of your bag for arrival.
Travel guides for this trip
Frequently asked questions
How do I reserve and pay?
Use our booking form or message us on WhatsApp. We confirm availability, and you secure your seat with a $10.85 deposit per person — by PayPal (booking@panamashuttles.com), Wise or a secure card payment link (card payments include the processing fee). The rest is paid in cash to your driver on the day of travel. Please wait for our confirmation before sending any payment.
What if I cancel or miss the pickup?
The $10.85 deposit is non-refundable if you cancel — even at the last minute — or if you are not at the pickup point at the agreed time, so please be ready 10 minutes early. If road closures or blocked roads stop us from reaching your destination, we refund the deposit in full. Read the booking & cancellation policy.
What time does the shuttle leave Santa Catalina?
The shuttle leaves Santa Catalina at 7:30 AM (arrives around 3:00 PM). We confirm your pickup by WhatsApp the day before travel.
Where do you pick me up?
At your hotel or hostel in Santa Catalina. Tell us where you are staying when you book and we confirm the pickup time by WhatsApp the day before.
How does the water-taxi connection work?
The road leg connects with the short Almirante water taxi. Tell us your plans when booking and we coordinate the timing so you are not left waiting at the dock.
Can I bring a surfboard or extra luggage?
Usually yes — tell us the sizes when you book so we confirm the space in the van.