If you want to see the absolute best of Bocas del Toro without blowing your budget, this is the one. Shared boat trips to the south pack in everything—snorkeling, wildlife, turquoise waters, and those iconic white-sand islands you’ve definitely seen on Instagram. Dolphins, sloths, coral reefs, and the legendary Zapatilla Cays… all in one easy, fun, and very affordable day.
Island Hopping Bocas Del Toro & Bastimentos National Marine Park
This route is basically a highlight reel of southern Bocas. Cruise into Bahía Honda to spot the famous pygmy sloths tucked into the mangroves (keep your eyes peeled). Then it’s off to Coral Cay, where colorful reefs and tropical fish make for some of the best snorkeling in the area. Next up, Hollywood Cove—shallow, calm waters dotted with starfish and perfect for a relaxing float before heading out to the grand finale.
Destination: Bocas Del Toro's Famous Zapatilla Cays
Welcome to the crown jewels of Bocas del Toro. The Zapatilla Cays are straight-up postcard material—powdery white sand, swaying palms, and crystal-clear Caribbean water in every shade of blue. You’ll have free time to explore jungle trails that lead to the untouched backside of the island, part of the protected Bastimentos National Marine Park. Swim, wander, or just claim a shady spot and enjoy a laid-back beach picnic. Not a bad way to spend the day.
Book Your Bocas Del Toro Day Trip with the Best
There are plenty of boats offering this trip—but not all experiences are created equal. We work with a company that owns their fleet and employs their captains directly, which means consistent service, well-maintained boats, and a crew that actually takes pride in what they do. No guessing, no hit-or-miss days—just a smooth, well-run adventure to the best spots in Bocas. Spots fill up fast, so lock yours in and let’s get you island hopping Bocas Del Toro!
South Bocas Island Hopping Tour Details
Zapatilla Cays Boat Tour Includes:
- * Bilingual captain & shaded panga with seating depending on size of the group
- * Visit to Bahia Honda
- * Visit to Coral Cay
- * Visit to Hollywood Cove
- * Free time to explore Zapatilla Cay South
- * Entrance fees to Bastimentos National Marine Park
- * Snorkeling equipment and safety briefing
- * Life vests and all safety equipment on board
- * Bottled water & 1 beer per person
- * Fresh fruit snacks
- * Large cooler with ice on board to bring whatever extra food and beverages you like
- * Optional stop for lunch (cash only)
Departures: Daily at 10:00 am from Isla Colon. Exact meeting location and instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher.
Length: Approximately 6 hours.
Zapatilla Cays Boat Tour Recommendations:
- * Swimsuit & towel
- * Light layered clothing
- * Biodegradable sunblock or UV protective clothing
- * Sunglasses / Sun hat
- * Rain poncho
- * Refillable water bottle
- * Camera / phone with protective casing, if possible, to prevent water damage
- * Whatever additional food and beverages you wish to store in the cooler on board (no glass)
- * Cash for food & beverage purchases at Coral Cay & tips for your amazing guides
Children: All ages are welcome! This is a great boat for a family adventure in Bocas Del Toro. If traveling with toddlers, we highly suggest you bring your own appropriately fitted life vest with you on vacation in Panama.
Insider's Tip: Island hopping should be on your list of the top things to do in Bocas Del Toro. And this trip south is the most popular, but for good reason. They have it dialed in to hit all the best spots in one day. However, keep in mind these economical trips are very popular with weekend visitors. So if you want less crowds, book your trip mid-week.
IMPORTANT NOTICE!!! If you are not a Panamanian citizen, you MUST have your passport on you at all times in Panama.
Reserve Your Bocas Boat Tour South - Zapatilla Cays Now
Pricing
Adult:
Retail: $45.00
The Real Deal: $40.00
Bocas Boat Tour South – Zapatilla Cays deposit is $5.00 per person.
(The balance of $35.00 in cash per person must be paid the day of tour)
This tour departs at 10:00 AM.
The Real Deal Tours 
