Stories & Reviews
Real people. Real experiences. Stories that stayed with them.
Real stories from guests who sailed with Water World in San Blas and Guna Yala — shared with their permission. Video captions below are editable as approved names and trips are confirmed.

“I had an amazing experience with my family (4, 7, 10 year olds) aboard Water World! San Blas islands are incredibly beautiful and we were so lucky to have Danielle and Josh guide us through the islands, sharing all their knowledge of the ocean, coral reefs and sailing — we learned a lot during the trip. We snorkeled different coral reefs every day, did lots of swimming and exploring the islands. Danielle is a fantastic cook; we ate really well at breakfast, lunch and dinner. I appreciated how attentive and accommodating they were, giving us options every day to make each day customized to what we wanted to do. They set up a day tour with a local guide to the Guna Yala island villages to see their daily life and learn about the culture, which was an enriching experience for the whole family. We caught fish in the evenings off the back of the sailboat and never had a lack of things to do. My wish would be for everyone to have the opportunity to experience time on this boat and the raw beauty of the islands. If you're reading this and debating making the trip, I could not recommend it enough — stop reading and immediately go ahead and book your trip!”
John Wayne
Family multi-day expedition · kids 4, 7 & 10
“Huge shoutout to Water World Micro Expeditions for an unforgettable island-hopping sailing adventure in San Blas, Panama. I can honestly say this experience exceeded every expectation I had. Danielle, Josh, and their son Silas were absolutely top-tier when it came to hospitality, knowledge, energy, and making me feel welcome from the moment the trip started. By the end of it, it genuinely felt less like a tour and more like spending time with family. The islands they took me to looked like something straight out of a movie or nature documentary — crystal-clear water, untouched beaches, and scenery that honestly didn't even feel real at times. The snorkeling was unreal. From reef sharks and nurse sharks to stingrays and vibrant reefs, the marine life was incredible everywhere we went. Every stop somehow kept getting better than the last. From start to finish, this was one of the best travel experiences I've had — relaxing, adventurous, authentic, and unforgettable all at the same time. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.”
Tino Avincula
Multi-day expedition · San Blas
“We have just spent 3 days on the boat here in San Blas islands…. Our trip was cut short due to future work, so to be able to squeeze in this treasure has been an absolute treat. Filled with authentic sailing living, a calm sun-filled atmosphere and healthy fresh food delivered by local boat and fresh-caught catches, it's been a blast. They helped us find a trip from Panama City central all the way to the dock and then to the zone — it was quite organised. Living surrounded by crystal-clean waters and great island adventures! I would suggest longer than 3 days to experience the local restaurants and the secluded coconut-filled oases. Would be great for families and light-minded people looking for a new perspective on peaceful living. With paddleboards, snorkeling gear and the dinghy, the possibilities are endless. A wholesome and open-minded experience for all!”
Jess Jackson
3 days in San Blas
“Kudos to this family of 3 for an unforgettable adventure. Island hopping, snorkeling, fishing was amazing. The food was great and their son Silas could not have been more joyful. We really enjoyed Chkm8, she's comfortable and sails beautifully and San Blas is a dream. Don't hesitate to book NOW!”
Dena Brock
Family adventure aboard Chkm8
“Absolutely incredible experience with this boat. We have been extremely well looked after by the whole family and been shown loads of great things around the San Blas islands. I've been taught how to fish and have eaten the fish that's been caught, been snorkeling, visited different local islands, eaten well, slept well. It can be as adventurous or tranquil as you like. I would highly, highly recommend. I'm here for 3 nights only — wish I could stay longer!! Thank youuuuu.”
Jack Manbro
3 nights in San Blas
“I'm Eli, traveling a bit around South America, and one of the most beautiful experiences I had was spending a week sailing in San Blas with a three-person family: Danielle, Josh, and their little boy. A friend and I had the chance to stay on their sailing boat. From the very first moment, we felt welcome. Their boat quickly became more than just a place to sleep — it became a floating home filled with laughter, good conversations, and a strong sense of community. During the week, we explored the stunning islands of San Blas together. We went snorkeling in crystal-clear water, surrounded by colorful fish and coral reefs. Every day brought a new small adventure — discovering quiet beaches, watching the stars on the deck if it wasn't raining, and falling asleep to the gentle movement of the sea. What made this experience so special was not only the beautiful surroundings, but the people. We shared meals together and exchanged stories from our travels and lives. This time was a time of connection and reconnection — to the ocean, to community, and to a slower, more intentional way of living. It's a memory I will carry with me for a long time.”
Elisa Seon
A week sailing with a friend
“Such a great time, with a great family, on a great boat, in an amazing place! The San Blas Islands are spectacular — the native Kuna people, the turquoise water and sandy beaches, one of the last untouched gems of the Caribbean! And there's no better way to experience it than on Chkm8 with this knowledgeable family. Captain Josh is competent and capable, maneuvering the boat into isolated anchorages next to stunning islands and coral reefs. Danielle is a charming hostess who can bake — on the boat! — and Silas is one of the coolest kids I've ever encountered. The little dude was even teaching me fishing techniques! We could not have had a better time. Highly recommend.”
Bill Brock
San Blas Islands adventure
“We spent four nights on the boat with Danielle, Josh and their son, and it became one of those experiences we know we will still be talking about years from now. What made it so special was not just the beautiful places we visited, but the way they welcomed us into their life. For a few days, they shared their home, their routines and their way of living with us, and we felt comfortable from the very beginning. Everything was organized so well, but nothing ever felt formal or planned down to the last detail. It was relaxed, personal and simply easy. We loved getting a glimpse into what life on a boat is really like. The days were full of little highlights — we stopped at different islands, often in places that felt completely untouched, and went snorkeling at several spots. We saw colorful fish, turtles, nurse sharks, rays, beautiful coral and so much more. Danielle is a fantastic cook; we were spoiled with wonderful meals every day, and she even made our kids' favourite dish: pancakes! By the end of the four days, it did not feel like we had simply booked a trip. It felt more like we had been invited into someone's home. Thank you, Danielle, Josh and your son. What we will remember most is how welcome you made us feel.”
Claudia R.
Four nights · family of five
“What an experience! Kind, positive, and motivated family who made our stay tailored and amazing. Great food, beautiful surroundings, comfortable boat. Loved all the snorkeling and reef exploration — certainly helped that they are experts on reef fish and other aquatic wildlife! All together a great stay, would definitely recommend!”
Guiseppe Sadler
Snorkeling & reef exploration
“My family and I (kids 14 and 12) had an absolute blast on the boat. I can't recommend chartering with Danielle and Josh highly enough. We spent 6 days and 5 nights with them, visiting three different anchorages, and every part of it was wonderful. Danielle and Josh are genuinely lovely people, and their son is just fantastic. They're full of adventure and clearly love sharing their world in the San Blas Islands with guests. They were always attentive to our needs and made us feel completely taken care of the entire time. Josh did an excellent job keeping us safe and getting us everywhere we wanted to go, while Danielle kept the water stocked and cooked us the most amazing meals on board. We couldn't have been happier out on the water with them. If you're even thinking about booking a trip with them — stop thinking and just do it!”
Justin Barth
6 days, 5 nights · family (kids 14 & 12)
Video testimonials
Hear it in their words.
Read every review on our Google Business Profile — no invented ratings, only verified guest feedback.
See all reviews on GoogleGuest photos
Moments from the water.



Authentic Water World content only, with appropriate consent.
Ready to write your own story?
Start with a day sail or plan a full expedition.
