Sir Francis Drake Island Full-Day Scuba Diving Adventure

Panama City, Panama

Visit Portobelo Bay, on Panama’s northern coast, and dive into the historic waters surrounding Sir Francis Drake Island. The water in Portobelo Bay is crystal clear and offers an abundance of marine life. On this exciting day trip from Panama City, you’ll enjoy a two-tank dive while you keep an eye out for the lost coffin of Sir Francis Drake!

Portobelo is a small, beautiful fishing village with many historical ruins on Panama’s north coast. The history of this harbor town is obvious upon arrival; the town was founded in 1597, and the colonial Spanish forts, including the famous San Lorenzo Fort, have since been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Portobelo Bay is a notable location for more than one reason. It was the area where all the treasures from South America were transferred to Spanish galleons and taken back to Spain. This activity became very attractive to pirates and buccaneers, who would attack the boats and steal the treasures.

The bay is also the final resting place of Sir Francis Drake, who met his death in 1596. He was placed in a lead coffin and cast out to sea off Isla Drake; divers still look for his coffin today, and you can join in on the search!

Your two-tank dive includes a professional diving instructor, who is there to answer any questions you may have.