Yacht Latina - Business opportunity

So, the past couple of months have been a whirlwind of a new thing for me.  I started working.  Yes, my nose is back into actually having to remove myself from household duties (thank God!) and driving a lot that does not include kids in my car.
In March 2012, we started a business adventure: Yacht Latina.  We offer a sailing or motor yacht experience around the North West side to the mid north side of the San Blas Archipelago Islands.
After experiencing this first hand back in September 2011, I'm amazed how many local people, expats, and other folks have not done the San Blas islands.  Its not more than traveling to the Pearl Islands and might in fact take less time.

Map of San Blas - we anchor off Nalunega (far west by El Porvenir)

San Blas you have the option to be driven, drive or fly.  If you drive, you will need a 4x4 to get up the rollercoaster hills and in some cases, cross rivers.  If you are driven, you reserve the space on a Kuna 4x4 who will pick you up from your hotel or hostel in the city around 5:30 in the morning.  The good news is you at least arrive by 8:30, and are cruising by 9 AM to an island.  If you decide to fly, you fly from the city (Albrook airport) and arrive in El Porvenir or Corazon in less than 30 minutes.  These are small planes and weight is something they take seriously - so don't over pack!

We had a great start in March. April slowed down (typically end of tourist season) and we picked up in May - much needed advertising and contacts worked with emails and promotions.  I think the price of $150 a night per person is fairly reasonable since we include all meals, non alcoholic drinks and the water toys (snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing rods, etc).  Not to mention we take the off beaten track for our guests to feel like they are on the islands by themselves.

The Lady Lu

We have two vessels: Lady Lu and Low Keys.
Lady Lu is 63' Goudy and Stevens classic motor yacht. This is possibly the ONLY motor yacht out there and that makes it really fun.  She has 4 cabins - one with a queen bed and full A/C. Although we don't really promote the A/C because of fuel burning and high costs! $5 gallon for diesel here....

The Low Keys is a 41' sailboat with 7 bunk beds.  I have yet to go on this, but it sounds likes sailing this around the islands would be a good adventure.

The Liliana - coming soon near us.  I can't wait.  Now that is a dream vessel.  Hopefully we shall see her after August.

Our Lady Lu "crew" includes Captain Phil Morris.  He is a savvy captain who loves boats, people and also is a great cook. He also hires a local Kuna to help with the cleaning and maintenance of the boat.  As for Low Keys, we have Captain Ed.  Both are great to chat with about sailing and adventures from the US to Panama can fill your mind better than pirate stories. LOL

Kayaking with a sail - like the Kuna Yala

My job is basically to fill the boat.  I take in the email inquiries, coordinate dates, take the deposits coordinate with the 4x4 Kuna drivers, shop for food, and make sure they have the provisions on board before they cruise out.

Its fun, busy work.  Especially when we have back to back trips.  We are still going through the motions like taking a minimum on board. Communication between the captain (crappy reception and phone service when its raining out there). And of course when the boat is not moving - what to do.  We have had many guests sharing their stories: from retirees to back packers.  Its all so interesting chatting with these people.

I spy starfish

Personally: I've had the greatest time visiting San Blas more than a few times now and it really feels like something new each and every time.  You never know what to expect and which islands have what.  Too many to choose and too little time.

If you feel the inclination to explore islands and experience the indigenous Guna Yala (formerly known as Kuna Yala), drop us a line at www.yachtlatina.com or find us on facebook or twitter @yachtlatina.  Let the adventures continue.....