Bocas Marina and Yacht Club, Bocas del Toro, Panama

We ended up keeping our boat at Bocas Marina, from March 2009 until our departure almost a year later, in February 2010.  We personally however, only spent minimal time there.  The marina itself is off on a peninsula near town, but the only access is by boat.  When we needed groceries or flights or something from a store, we got in our dingy and headed off for the 1/4 mile ride.

The facilities were nice.  They really were. Chuck, the manager ran the business very well and one really could not ask for more.  The restrooms were white tile from floor to ceiling, with 4 large showers.  Always clean.

A well run office with quality staff, always willing to help with whatever your needs might be.

A cantina on the property, run by two south African sailors, was also very well run.  Quality food and near cold beverages were available most days.  Yes, the cantina was closed for brief periods each week so the owners could have a life.  Often though, there were special parties put on to spice things up. 

One night they had a group of drummers come over from the town during Mardi Gras.

An anchorage close by to the south, offered the option for cruisers.

They could still pay a $1 a day for internet wifi and use the showers, restaurant etc.  Occasionally a ship or other unusual craft would visit or be seen in the bay's deep waters.

Marine tourism is on the rise for sure and this is still a quiet underdeveloped location for anyone wishing such environment.

We enjoyed it!  Yes, there's even a traveling massuese, vegetable delivery boat and water taxi to various locations.