WELCOME TO THE KONTIKI WAYRA
Sailing the Pacific coasts of Panama, Costa Rica and Ecuador, the Kontiki Wayra is a sleek nine-cabin yacht designed to slip into the places the big ships can’t – and the curious traveller very much wants to.
Kontiki calls it ‘neo luxury’. Strip away the label and the reality is quietly spoiling: a floating villa with a full crew, just a handful of guests, and a toy box that would make a Bond villain blush. You might snorkel over coral gardens in the Gulf of Chiriquí one morning; the next, paddle through mangroves or hike in search of scarlet macaws. Then it’s back to ceviche on deck and a glass of something cold in the hot tub. It’s intimate, off-grid, and all the better for it.
What we love about the Kontiki Wayra
- Just nine generous staterooms, four of them interconnecting – ideal for couples, families, or private charter.
- Interiors lean into a sort of barefoot bohemia: clean-lined, natural fibres, open space.
- The 13-strong Ecuadorian crew who are gracious, capable, and seemingly able to anticipate your next move before you’ve made it.
- Two naturalist guides onboard – rare for a yacht of this size – who bring life to the curated expedition programme, from diving and surfing to island visits and rainforest hikes.
- The seriously stocked toy chest: seabobs, SUPs, kayaks, a floating island, oceanic pool, even a 9m waterslide for the bold.
- Facilities include a spa area, compact gym, wine cellar, four outdoor lounges, and a vast sundeck, complete with hot tub – a fine place to watch the sun go down.
- Kontiki has a real, working commitment to sustainability and supporting local communities – from reforestation initiatives in coastal Ecuador to locally-run projects in southern Costa Rica.
What to do aboard the Kontiki Wayra
Itineraries are carefully-plotted, but never feel rigid, designed around tiny islands, little-known national parks and remote coastal villages.
The four-night Island Odyssey around Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí takes in the coral reefs of Islas Secas, the jungles of Coiba, and the mangrove labyrinth of Río San Juan – with plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing and getting horizontal with a good book. The seven-night sailings simply go further and deeper.
For those leaning into wellness, there’s morning yoga on-deck, fresh seasonal menus, a gym with sea views, and on-board spa treatments whenever the mood strikes.
When to Travel
Year-round
Sailings operate year-round, with slight variations depending on the itinerary.
Panama and Costa Rica’s dry season runs from December to April – all blue skies and calm seas. Ecuador’s coast is at its best from June to September. Between July and October, there’s a good chance of humpback whales.
Keen to combine it with time inland? We’ll tailor a route to suit – think cloud forests, coffee estates, remote beach lodges, or a few nights in a hacienda in the hills.
ENQUIRE NOWLooking for more inspiration? Peruse our favourite places to travel in Panama, or explore our collection of luxury yachts and boutique cruises.
