Linton Bay

Linton Bay is a small harbour between Colón and the San Blas Islands, used mainly as a service stop for yachts. The bay is home to marinas and boatyards, both of which offer haul‑out, storage, and repair options.

The mangrove channel to Panamarina is a narrow mangrove channel used as a scenic dinghy route and shortcut between Linton Bay and Panamarina, with reported sightings of monkeys, raccoons, birds, and other wildlife; depths can be shallow at the entrance.

On the north side of the main anchorage in Linton Bay, Isla Linton is known for its semi‑wild monkeys and occasional sloth sightings.

In the historic harbour of Portobelo, Fuerte de San Fernando is an old Spanish fort reachable by dinghy, offering views over the bay. Nearby, The Customs House museum provides insights into the region’s role in the slave trade and local Afro-Caribbean culture. The paths through the fort’s ruins can be steep, overgrown, and slippery after rain, so take suitable footwear.

When approaching from the north at night, keep a good lookout for the permanent unlit platforms outside the bay. The shoal area in front of the marina is well charted but busy with moored boats, so manoeuvre with care here. There are reports of obstructions on the seabed in the main anchorage that can foul anchors (see the map for location).

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Portobelo North anchorage	4.5 ★	Review summary: Protected anchorage with great holding in muddy bottoms. Visitors appreciate the calmness, room for multiple boats, and access to amenities. The local town features friendly residents and dining options, though one popular restaurant may close occasionally.
	Playa Blanca	4.4 ★	Review summary: Anchoring is possible in a scenic cove with room for 1-3 boats. The area features clear water and visible reefs. Visitors should be aware of potential noise from nearby speed boats and busy weekends with local beach activity.
	Portobelo Anchorage	4.0 ★	Review summary: The anchorage is spacious with good holding and protection. Visitors highlighted available dinghy docks, shops, and restaurants in the vicinity. Some mentioned historical aspects and favorable interactions with locals, despite noting occasional issues with abandoned vessels.
	Isla Grande	3.7 ★	Review summary: Protection from trade winds and swells is offered, making it accessible for visitors not regularly needing to reach the marina. However, it can be rolly with active boat traffic, and derelict boats near the shore raise concerns.
	Linton Bay Anchorage	3.3 ★	Review summary: Anchoring conditions vary significantly. Many reviews indicate uncomfortable swells, particularly on the outskirts, with some mentioning good holding closer to the island. Access to services is noted, including a nearby marina with amenities.

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Marinas

	Linton Marina	3.6 ★	Review summary: Electricity is available for $5 per day. The restaurant received positive feedback for its quality and staff were noted to be excellent. Visitors reported issues with warm showers and cautioned against hiring a particular repair service.
	Turtle Cay Marina	3.0 ★	Review summary: Water and electricity are available at the marina. Depth concerns were noted, with some experiences indicating shallowness at the entrance. Several visitors faced issues with cleanliness and amenities, while staff engagement was inconsistent.

Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Boatyards

	Linton Bay Marina Boat Yard	4.7 ★	Review summary: The boat yard provides haul-out services. Experiences indicate that slings and lift operations are handled calmly and efficiently. However, the presence of inadequate facilities like toilets and unpleasant conditions when dry or wet may detract from visitors' experiences.
	Panamarina	3.0 ★	Review summary: Difficulties arose regarding haul-out services, with reports of delays and mishandling of boats. While some appreciated the DIY atmosphere and convenience of the chandlery and restaurant, several negative experiences highlighted operational challenges. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.

Chandlers

	SUMINAPA (Suministros Nauticos Panama)	5.0 ★	Review summary: Service capability is strong at this chandlery, with many critical products in stock. Staff are reported as friendly and knowledgeable, providing helpful installation services. Visitors often recommend making a stop to meet marine supply needs.
	Total Chandler at Panamarina	4.0 ★	Review summary: Service involves sourcing marine equipment and related needs. French, English, and Spanish speaker Sylvie assists with various needs, and items ordered can typically be available within five days from carbonestore.com. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.

This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to this part of Panama.

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