Hi everyone,

I have seen a couple different threads that mention this topic, but I just want to get as straightforward an answer as possible: is there a ferry or boat service from Panama to Ecuador, more specifically from Panama City to Guayaquil? I won't have a car or a bike, and I will be alone. I am not high maintenance and I'd like to pay as little as possible. Is there anyway to get to Ecuador without going through Columbia or flying? Websites, other forums, names of companies...anything would be helpful. Anybody know anybody else who has done this? Many people say it's impossible to do, but then again I can't imagine that it is that outrageous to get a boat from Panama City to Ecuador. Anyway, if there is any information out there, it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

The only way you might find this is to check private yacht forums or, if in Panama City, check the Traveler Hostal and the restaurants at the end of the Causeway to find a yacht owner looking for crew or willing to take you on as a paid traveler. Otherwise, there is no other way period.

As mentioned above, you might find a private yacht, but I wouldn't count on it. However, there are plenty of boats that go around the Darien Gap and will bring you to a safer part of Colombia, so that's likely your best option. Although I've only been to the airport in Bogota, everyone I've met who's spent time in the country raves about Colombia, so I'm not sure you should bother going to extra effort to avoid it.