San Blas Private vs. Shared Charter Sailing Experience

You’ve done the research and skipped Bocas del Toro. You’ve set your heart on the 365 untouched islands of Guna Yala. If not, take a moment to check out our article “San Blas or Bocas del Toro”. Now you’ve reached the final, critical decision: Should you book a private vs. shared charter?

As the captain of the Nomade, I’ve been sailing these islands for over a decade. I’ve seen travelers on both types of trips. And I can tell you, with 100% confidence:

A private charter and a shared charter are not the same vacation — each with its own pros and cons.

One is a floating, all-inclusive luxury villa. The other is a floating hostel. Both are on the same beautiful water, but the experience is worlds apart. Before you book, let’s talk about what you’re really paying for.

What is a San Blas Shared Charter (or “Cabin Charter”)?

A “shared charter” or “cabin charter” is when you book a single cabin on a boat, much like a cruise ship. You share the boat, the captain, the crew, and all common spaces with a group of other travelers who you’ve never met before.

Pros:

• More affordable than a private charter
• Great for meeting like-minded travelers
• Ideal for solo or small-group travelers
• Enjoy the same route and meals as a private charter

Cons:

• Limited privacy and shared spaces
• Fixed itinerary (less flexibility)
• You may not choose your cabin mates
• Less personal attention from the crew

👉 If you’re interested in booking a shared-cabin charter, send us a message and we’ll check if any of our catamarans have availability.

This is a great option for solo backpackers or very-low-budget travelers. However, if you’re a couple, family, or group looking for a true escape, we highly recommend choosing a private charter instead. Have you already seen our Experiences page with the list of available packages?

What is a San Blas Private Charter?

A “private charter” is exactly what it sounds like. You charter the entire catamaran for yourself, your partner, your family, or your friends.

• The Itinerary is Yours: Want to stay at that one perfect island all day? You can. Want to find a new snorkel spot? Captain Boris knows the one. The pace is 100% yours.
• The Menu is Yours: Your private chef builds the menu around your preferences. Vegan? No seafood? All seafood? Your wish is their command. (Read our Private Chef article).
• The Vibe is Yours: The boat, the music, the schedule… it’s all yours. It is your private, floating villa, moving through paradise.

The Core Difference: A Side-by-Side Breakdown

This is the most important part of the decision.

Why a Private Charter is Worth Every Penny

Here’s the truth: the magic of San Blas isn’t just the water. It’s the silence, the privacy, and the feeling of being the only people on earth, anchored off an island with one palm tree.

A shared charter fundamentally breaks this magic.

You don’t get silence and privacy; you get small talk with strangers and a shared dinner table.

You might “save” a few hundred dollars, but you have sacrificed the very essence of the San Blas experience.

“I’ve seen it a hundred times: a couple on a shared charter wants to stay for a perfect sunset, but the boat has to leave to pick up another guest. Their ‘dream trip’ is ruined by compromise” – Captain Boris

Book Your 100% Private or Shared Journey with Nomad Sailors

The most valuable thing you have is your vacation time. See Our Fleet Page.