Paddling for Glory: The Adventure of Cayuco Paunch and Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel
At Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel, located in the vibrant heart of Bocas del Toro, Panama, we believe in more than just offering extraordinary stays—we believe in fostering a sense of community, embarking on thrilling adventures, and celebrating the spirit of sport! Since 2016, we’ve teamed up with @cayucopaunch, a dynamic cayuco paddling powerhouse that has helped turn Bocas into a hub of excitement and pride, earning national victories.
A Shared Mission: Elevating Cayuco Culture in Bocas del Toro
Our partnership with Cayuco Paunch kick-started with one electrifying vision: to invigorate paddling as a breathtaking and essential aspect of Caribbean coastal culture in Panama. What started as a grassroots initiative has exploded into a national sensation! After revamping Cayuco Paunch into one of the sleekest, fastest canoes in the region, this team skyrocketed to stardom, capturing national titles and setting records that reverberate through the paddling community!
Cayuco Champions: From Bocas Waters to National Glory
The thrill of victory hit a new peak in 2017 when Cayuco Paunch clinched 1st place in the Open Women’s category, setting records that still stand firm today! They showcased their remarkable consistency the following year with a stellar 2nd place finish. By 2023, they roared back to reclaim the crown, and in 2024, they dominated the Mixed Category, racing their cutting-edge canoe “Torque” in Panama City, all while honing their skills in Bocas.
The excitement didn’t stop there! In 2025, the team triumphed again, taking first place in the exhilarating Ocean to Ocean Cayuco Race through the Panama Canal—shattering their previous best time by over seven minutes!
Investing in Adventure Sports’ Bright Future in Panama
At Divers Paradise, we don’t just cheer on paddling—we live and breathe it! Our hotel boasts an impressive fleet of training-ready vessels, from traditional cayucos to outrigger canoes, making us the ultimate playground for paddlers of every skill level.
During the off-season, our athletes generously give back to the community with free workshops that immerse residents and visitors in the exhilarating paddling world. These workshops forge strong connections with nature and the vibrant coastal lifestyle that defines Bocas del Toro. One paddle stroke at a time, we’re crafting a legacy that inspires!
Racing Beyond Borders: Showcasing Bocas Talent Globally
Our paddlers have proudly represented Panama on the world stage, taking part in thrilling events like the 40 km outrigger race from Chepillo to the stunning Contadora Island and competing at high levels in the South American Outrigger Championship in Brazil (2018) and the Va’a World Championships in Australia (2019). The excitement continues in August 2025 when one of our elite paddlers will showcase their skills at the Va’a Worlds in Brazil, flying the flag for Panama’s national team in the V1 Masters Women and V6 Open Women categories!
Supporting Athletes, Building Champions
Behind every champion is unwavering support, which is precisely what Divers Paradise delivers! Our athletes enjoy top-notch training spaces, high-quality gear, canoes, paddles, and ongoing technical support—all designed to break down barriers and empower our team to focus on what matters most: pushing their limits, training hard, and competing fiercely!
A Hotel Rooted in Sport and Community
In 2017, we were honored to sponsor the inaugural paddling competition in Bocas del Toro during Feria del Mar: the exhilarating Copa Feria del Mar, featuring SUP, cayuco, kayak, and prone paddling events. This electrifying moment forged an unbreakable bond with the paddling community, one that continues to thrive and evolve!
We’re more than just a hotel—we’re a vibrant launchpad for champions, a dynamic training ground for budding talent, and a lively hub for all who share an insatiable passion for adventure and the sea.
Join the Movement at Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel!
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious traveler itching to try something new, we welcome you with open arms! Dive into the beauty of Bocas, immerse yourself in its rich paddling culture, and discover firsthand why we’re the heartbeat of this thrilling movement.
