It is possible to reach Panama by sea but there are no longer any commercial ferries in operation. Travelling to Panama from another country by sea is now mainly done by cruise ships or commercial boats only.

Those who want to travel to the country by sea from other central and southern American countries might be able to hitch a ride on one of the trading boats, although this is not advised as these are often very basic and in poor repair. Furthermore it is difficult to distinguish between those boats that are genuinely trading and those that are involved in illegal activities.

It may be possible to reach Panama by hiring the services of a private sail boat. Journeys this way from Colombia can cost several hundred dollars – more than an air fare – and will take several days as they often involve a stopover on one of the islands.