If New York has yellow taxis, and Egypt has Tuk-tuks, then Boca de Tomatlán has Pangas. If you’ve ever visited Boca de Tomatlán, Puerto Vallarta, or ventured to any of the South Shore villages, you’ve likely seen the iconic Panga. This traditional boat plays an essential role in the region's everyday life.
These fiberglass boats are more than just a mode of transportation—they’re the backbone of the local economy, connecting water-only access villages with the rest of the world. Without them, life along the coast would be very different.
A Tradition Evolved: From Wood to Fiberglass
The story of the Panga starts well before fiberglass boats became the standard. Early versions were wooden plank skiffs, later replaced by plywood construction. But by the 1970s, the more durable fiberglass Pangas took over, thanks in part to outboard motors that revolutionized the boats' functionality.
There’s some debate about where the name "Panga" comes from—some say it’s named after the upswept hull that resembles a long knife, or machete, called a "panga," while others point to the name of a fish. Either way, the boat has become synonymous with coastal life.
After some economic turmoil, President Luis Echeverría in the 1970s launched a national program to build Panga fishing fleets, with financing from the World Bank and even the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to encourage efficient fishing practices. Japanese company Yamaha also jumped in, providing both engines and engineering support, leading to a Panga boom.
The Panga: Built to Last
The phrase "They don't make 'em like they used to," is true in many applications, but especially in the construction of Pangas in the 1970s. Many of these pangas built fifty years ago still look pretty new, albeit with some Mexican sun fading.
The introduction of fiberglass not only made Pangas tougher but also more versatile. They were designed to be durable, seaworthy, and easy to operate without the need for a dock or pier. Simply run the Panga up onto the sand and keep an eye on the tide. Many Mexican coastal villages at the time were accessible only by water, and that’s still true today for places along the South Shore like Yelapa, Quimixto, and Majahuitas. Even now, Pangas are the primary means of transporting goods and people to and from these remote areas.
While the Japanese designs initially found their way to the east coast of Mexico, a separate history on the Pacific side credits Mac Shroyer, an American boat builder in La Paz, with creating the modern Panga. He took inspiration from the traditional plank-on-frame boats he saw local fishermen using in the 1960s and created a fiberglass version with a sleek design, a notched transom, and a hull that could handle both rough seas and beach landings. These boats could handle a 40hp outboard motor and had a 20-foot length with a 6 foot beam, making them big enough for bigger fishing expeditions.
Panga Life in Boca
In a slightly more modern Boca de Tomatlán, the Panga remains as essential as ever. While fishing was once the primary use for these boats, today, Pangas serve a variety of roles. Here are just a few ways they contribute to life in Boca:
Transporting Villagers: Whether it’s locals commuting from villages like Yelapa or children heading to school, Pangas are the main mode of transportation. In fact, Yelapa recently upgraded its pier to handle the steady traffic of people coming and going via Panga.
Tourist Adventures: Boca de Tomatlán is a gateway for tourists seeking to explore the hidden gems of the South Shore. Pangas take visitors to remote beaches, snorkeling spots, and even on whale-watching and marine wildlife tours. Captains are known to drop off beachgoers at secluded spots for the day, returning later to pick them up.
Marine Activities: From surfing expeditions to deep-sea fishing trips, Pangas are the boat of choice for locals and tourists alike. Their lightweight design and ability to handle choppy seas make them ideal for a range of water sports and wildlife excursions.
Commercial Transport: The largest use of Pangas in Boca is hauling goods—everything from fresh produce and building materials to beverages and supplies—between Boca and the South Shore villages. It’s not uncommon to see a Panga loaded with crates of food, ice, and even cerveza. On the return trip, they’ll often bring back trash for proper disposal.
A Life Saved by Panga
While Boca’s location within the Bay of Banderas offers relatively calm waters, once far enough out, all bets are off the table regarding weather. Thankfully, the Panga’s design makes it especially adept at handling rough seas.
One time, on a long trip from the bay to Corbetena, a freak storm hit at around 5 a.m. Despite strong winds, heavy rain, and wild waves, the Panga held its own, proving just how seaworthy these boats are. The only damage after these hurricane-like conditions was a couple of tears in the sun canopy and my pride, temporarily.
Boca’s Heartbeat
For locals and visitors alike, the Panga is more than just a boat—it’s part of the rhythm of daily life. Whether it’s tortillas being ferried to the South Shore, or kids arriving in Boca for school (way cooler than a school bus), the Panga keeps life flowing smoothly. And while its design has evolved over the years, its role in connecting Boca with the surrounding villages and the open sea remains as vital as ever.
So, next time you’re in Boca de Tomatlán, take a moment to appreciate these hardworking boats. Whether they’re carrying food, tourists, or schoolchildren, Pangas are the lifeblood of the village—and a reminder of how tradition and innovation can come together to shape a way of life.
With every trip across the water, the Panga tells a story of Boca’s heritage, its people, and its connection to the sea.
At the Villa la Sirena, the beautiful coastline and these Pangas are only a curtain pull away.
Booking your Stay at the Villa la Sirena
If our little Villa sparks something inside of you- perhaps a longing to escape, to see for yourself the magic of quaint little Boca, we would be more than happy to talk to you about your stay. The villa features four fully furnished apartments, each offering stunning views of Boca de Tomatlán and the Bay of Banderas. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, Villa La Sirena offers a unique balance of relaxation and cultural immersion.
Booking directly through our website ensures you get the best rates. You can also contact our onsite manager for personalized recommendations to make your stay even more memorable. From arranging local tours to suggesting hidden dining gems like Carmen’s Tacos, our team is here to help make your vacation smooth and enjoyable.
Villa la Sirena is located in Boca de Tomatlán, Mexico, a short trip from Puerto Vallarta.
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