Water Taxis

What to Expect

Water taxis are the main transport system between the islands, and you need one to reach anything off Isla Colón. Many docks are located around Bocas Town. The easiest approach is to walk to the dock of your choice and say where you need to go. Some docks focus on transfers, while others also run tours.

The main routes run throughout the day. Boats also run at night, but fewer are available.

Water Taxi Prices in Bocas del Toro

Typical fares per person from Bocas Town:

• Carenero: around $1–3
• Bibis on Carenero: around $2
• Floating Bar: around $2
• Old Bank: around $5
• Almirante: around $6
• Red Frog Beach / Bahía Honda: around $8
• Blue Coconut: around $10
• Punta Vieja: around $25

Treat these as a rough guide only. Prices vary with the season, the time of day, the driver and the operator, and rides in the evening are usually a bit more expensive. Always agree on the price before you get in. Payment is usually in cash.

Riding at Night

In the evening, only go with boats that have lights. If a boat has no lights, don't board it. For later rides or less common routes, ask about return options in advance.

Recommended Docks in Bocas Town

Cooperativa Costeño

• A very trustworthy option for regular transfers
• Water taxi transfers and tours
• Transport to Almirante

Open in Google Maps

Transporte Valencia

• One of the better local options for regular transfers
• Water taxi transfers and tours
• Transport to Almirante

Open in Google Maps

Coopeguitours

• A reliable option with a dock on the southern side of town
• Water taxi transfers and tours

Open in Google Maps

Certified Captains

Some local boat captains have completed the "Boteros Conscientes" course by Hope Spot Bocas del Toro, which covers marine conservation and safe practices. Hope Spot keeps a list of these captains, with phone numbers for many of them, on its certified captains page. It is a good starting point if you would rather book a captain directly and in advance.

Good to Know

• For less common routes or later rides, ask about return options before you go.
• Arriving by road from the mainland? From Almirante, a water taxi to Isla Colón is usually much faster and simpler than the car Ferry Bocas, unless you travel with a vehicle or bulky luggage.

Getting Around on Isla Colón

• Yellow Taxis: flag one down in Bocas Town, with typical fares and driver numbers
• Turismo Transportation: pre-arranged private rides, including airport pickups
• Colectivos: the public minibus to Bluff Beach and Bocas del Drago

Plan Your Trip

• Where to Stay in Bocas del Toro: which island and area fits your trip
• Best Time to Visit Bocas del Toro: when to go
• Best Things to Do in Bocas del Toro: what to do once you arrive