New Ferry Between Colon and Cartagena Will Increase Tourism

A new way to promote tourism in Panama is the ferry trip to Cartagena in Colombia, said the Administrator of the Tourism Authority of Panama, Solomon Shamah. According to Shamah, the ferry has a capacity for 1,600 passengers, 250 cars at a cost of $ 99 per person. (See Comment) Shamah added the ferry will leave from the Port of Colon 2000 and will travel to the port of Cartagena in Colombia. "I do not know the exact days when trips will be taken, but it will go three times a week," he said on News AM. On another issue, Shamah said they have already approved the act for the construction of a new convention center, and they asked for some changes so that most companies can participate in the bidding. (Panama America)

Editor's Comment: The posted price is $99 per seat, but there will be additional taxes of about $95 dollars, bringing the most basic seat up to about $194 round trip - still cheaper than an airplane. You will depart from Colon at about 6:00 pm and arrive just after dawn the next morning in Cartagena. All seats are round-trip. The following was posted to the Americans in Panama Yahoo email group:

• "The new ferry has a hotel, bar, stores, a theater, two restaurants, as well as a lobby and open areas to enjoy. The departures are from Colon on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and from Cartagena on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Only round trip tickets can be purchased - it's not possible to buy a one-way ticket. Reservations are valid for 48 hours until payment is made. Food and beverages are not included in the price of the ticket. Meals can be requested for an additional $40 per person, which is additional to the ticket fare, and it includes a dinner and breakfast buffet both ways for this price. It is very important to point out when you board the ferry you must leave a $50 deposit, money that can be used at the bar or the store on-board. Children under 2 years of age only pay the taxes - those aged three and above pay the regular fare. Travel documents required are: for Panamanians, a current passport with at least 6 months validity. For foreign residents, a current passport and immigration card according to law. Foreign tourists; current passport and immigration status according to law (economic solvency at the time of entering Panamanian territory and an airplane ticket back to Colombia). Luggage: two suitcases per person with a maximum weight of 50 pounds each. If the luggage weights more than 50 pounds there will be a charge of $35 dollars to be paid at the port. The Ferry has three different options: Cabins, Dorms (standard, deluxe, suite or presidential suite) and Pullman Seats (coach, standard, deluxe) according to the fares. Payment can be made with check, cash, or credit card. A 3% surcharge will be added if payment is made with a credit card.