Red Frog Beach Marina
is the newest facility for cruising yachts and sportfishers on the Caribbean side of Panama. Located in a sheltered cove on the south side of huge Isla Bastiamentos (Bocas del Toro region), the marina opened a few weeks ago with 50 full-service slips, shore amenities, the first of two restaurants, and in association with the more established Red Frog Beach Resort – fancy cabanas in the jungle – all within the national park and wildlife preserve. As of mid September 2010, almost all the first 50 slips were filled – many with boats that are summering over well south of Hurricane Alley while their owners jet north. Yatistas report enjoying the Kayuco’s Restaurant in the jungle overlooking the marina. Another 60 slips are going in during October, should be ready for the fall migration of yachts into the tropics. I just spoke with Dan Cranney, the resort operator, so I’ll have more news and some photos next week. Meanwhile, if you’re considering cruising south to Panama this year or next, you should contact Red Frog Beach Marina – (800) 968-9906 from the US, or in country (507) 836-5311. Or email Dan at dcranney at Red Frog Beach dot com.
