Panacetacea was founded in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization by an international group of marine biologists that shared a common mission. Panacetacea has largely focused its research on two main areas in Panama: the Chiriquí Gulf and the Archipelago of Bocas del Toro, and is currently expanding to other parts of Panama including Coiba National Park and the Wildlife Refuge Isla Iguana. In 2017, Panacetacea incorporated new members and created a complementary branch in Panama called Fundación Panacetacea Panamá.

To produce high-quality scientific studies on the biology of marine mammals of Panama and develop capacity building, educational, and outreach activities that ensure the optimal management and conservation of these animals.

Our organization's vision is a future where scientists and the public work together to protect marine ecosystems.

We conduct cetacean monitoring studies in both the Caribbean and Pacific waters of Panama with the goal of collecting scientific data that can be used to establish conservation strategies to protect marine mammal habitats and their populations.

To make our data available to the public through peer-reviewed journals, government reports, media, meetings, and symposia to ensure the public and the scientific community gets access to our results.

Through our collaborations, internship programs, and small grants program, we provide opportunities to Panamanian and other Latin American students, scientists, and non-government and government organizations.