The Discovery is owned and operated by Panama Marine Adventures (PMA) and is a 33-metre purpose built catamaran capable of travelling up to a speed of 18 knots. There are 11 crew on board and passenger numbers are limited to just 24, ensuring everyone can enjoy serenity and privacy together with the excitement of a real exploration cruise.
It provides eight queen and four twin cabins and one master cabin (which is larger) — all of which are individually climate controlled with bathrooms and huge windows extending along the length of the cabin allowing you to enjoy the scenery in complete privacy. The dining area, bar and lounge are located on the mid deck which is fitted with floor-to-ceiling 'glass walls' providing a spectacular dining experience and plenty of space to unwind.
A wonderful range of tasty indigenous dishes are prepared daily by the onboard chef. A barbecue and sun deck are also located on the topmost observation deck. The Discovery is equipped with a unique platform that lowers kayakers gently into the water and also retrieves them in perfect safety and comfort.
Onboard you will find enthusiastic expedition leaders that are experienced and well trained naturalists ready to share their vast knowledge and understanding. They share a love for history and a passion for nature making your journey onboard the Discovery an unforgettable experience.
Please note PMA reserves the right to cancel, amend or alter any cruise schedule or cruise itinerary, shore excursion or any other service for any reason which PMA in its absolute and sole discretion considers desirable or necessary in the interests of the vessels and or passengers safety and/or well-being.
Various ports of call are provided as a guide only and in this regard no warranty, condition or guarantees given. The minimum number of passengers to operate the cruise is eight people. PMA reserves the right to cancel any cruise before the departure date in which case the full payment will be reimbursed.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Panama specialists
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
Emberá Indian Village
This tour goes up into the hills outside Panama City to the Chagres River where you transfer with your guide onto an open-top Emberá motorised canoe. You zip along the clear river waters by boat through beautiful scenery to visit the small indigenous community of Emberá Indians in the Chagres National Park.
Gatún Lake Boat Tour & Rainforest Hike
Travel along the scenic Gamboa Road to the Soberania National Park for a walk along the Pipeline Road, Plantation Road or El Charco Trail, all of which are fantastic for viewing the unique ecology of the canal watershed.
Panama City & Canal Tour
The tour of Panama City takes in the Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal, Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo. The tour begins with a visit to the impressive Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal.
Portobello & San Lorenzo Forts
After crossing the canal over one of the lock gates you continue to Fort San Lorenzo, which was constructed by the Spaniards in 16th century to defend against the constant threat of pirates seeking to interrupt the transporting of Inca gold. The fort is very isolated and accessed via a bumpy road, but the drive is worth it with stunning views out across the Caribbean Sea and the mouth of the Chagres River.
You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tours below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.
