Description:
This port is a known hurricane hole. Puerto de Boca Chica is a small fishing village on the west coast of Panama about 45NM south of the border with Costa Rica. It is set on the mainland and surrounded by several small islands including Boca Brava and Isla Cedro. It has a small marina which as of March 2019 is only partially developed.
Cruiser Highlights:
It is possible to arrange clearance here for a fee; nearby diving; basic marine services; fuel; basic shopping; restaurants; sport fishing.
Entrance Notes and Cautions:
Yachts should not try to enter from the west - it is a bar crossing with breaking waves and shallow water. Best to enter at the east entrance and try to come in at high tide.
The current runs very fast in the narrow channel in front of the town. A non charted power-line crosses from Boca Chica to Boca Brava Island. Its depth is unknown but has been reported as 18 meters (60ft).
Position:
08° 13.11' N, 82° 13.15' W (anchorage)
Last updated: March 2019
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It is possible to check in/out of Panama at Boca Chica. The officials can come from Pedregal with an additional fee.
The fees for our vessel with two pax were $167 on a holiday. This was $67 for the sanitation/health inspection and $50 each for two of the other officials. Four officials in total (port captain, health, customs, and immigration).
The cruising permit is $185.
The health and customs officials had to go out to the boat for the inspection.
Everything was handled very expeditiously and professionally. Less than an hour for the full process.
POC in Boca Chica is Carlos Moorings.
Carlos cell/whatsapp: +507 6600-6191
No problem entering anchorage at a mid-tide via waypoints in the sv Sarana guide. Lowest points at mid-tide ~14ft.