Heading to the Cayos Holandes
Exploring the Bandera Islands
Our next stop was the beautiful Bandera Islands. As we approached the eastern island, we noticed a lively group of tourists who had arrived by small boats. This style of eco-friendly, low-impact tourism is particularly popular among students and young travelers — a great way to experience the natural beauty of the San Blas Archipelago without causing harm to its fragile environment.
After dropping anchor, we quickly located the nearby coral reef and set off to explore its vibrant underwater world. The reef was alive with colorful fish, intricate coral formations, and the serene beauty that makes snorkeling here unforgettable. It felt like swimming through a living painting.
Later, we visited the western Bandera Island, which offered a completely different charm. Here, a quiet, shaded walk under towering coconut palms led us along pristine sandy beaches. The atmosphere was peaceful and inviting, perfect for a relaxing stroll or simply sitting back and soaking in the untouched natural surroundings.
Each stop in the San Blas Islands brings its own special flavor — and the Bandera Islands gifted us with both the thrill of underwater exploration and the calm of a tropical paradise.
Green Island: An Unwanted Pause in Paradise
Our arrival at Green Island marked a milestone in our journey—it became our anchorage for over two weeks as we paused due to very sad family circumstances: my father passed away in Kyiv, and I went to Ukraine for the funeral. Iryna was staying on the anchored sailboat, taking care of its safety.
Green Island, true to its name, is blanketed in thick vegetation, mostly swaying palm trees that line its sandy shores. A small group of young Guna Yala locals operates a rustic camp here, renting tents to backpacker tourists and bringing a touch of community life to this otherwise remote paradise. The island’s plentiful coconut palms became a natural bonus, allowing us to supplement our diet with fresh coconut meat and milk, which are rich in nutrients and, let’s be honest, pure tropical joy.
Anchored off this lush island, we found ourselves surrounded by a flotilla of sailboats and catamarans for the first time in a while. After the solitude of previous anchorages, we were suddenly back in the vibrant buzz of dinghies zipping around and lively conversations with fellow cruisers. What really stood out, though, was the sense of camaraderie among sailors. Families with young children gathered on the beach, sharing stories and laughter in the shade of the palms, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
This stop also marked our first proper encounter with coral reefs. Accessing them wasn’t easy—breaking waves over the shallow reef demanded careful timing and navigation—but the reward was worth it: crystal-clear water, vibrant corals, and a chance to reconnect with the underwater world.
Green Island may have been an unplanned pause, but it became a chapter of connection, community, and quiet beauty.
