sea of cortez

[dennis23685]

I need some advise from all you experienced trailer sailers. I live in Colorado and am considering trailering my Cataline 22 to The Sea of Cortez. Have heard wonderful reports about the sailing and beaty of the area. Of course I have many questions.
1. How is the drive
2 any issues putting in.
3. can a slip or mooring be rented.
4. How safe is area for gringos - I will be going alone
5. are there accomodations on shore or must you camp in boat.
6. best time of year to go.
7. most important - is my 22" too small for the waters.
8 Lots more my I'll let everyone elaborate.
Thanks so much
Dennis

 

[txtowman]

If its in mexico

No way I am going to mexico in the near future they are having a big p-i-ssing match between the cartels and feds they are at every border town if my info is correct. Come on down to texas the water is great, beer is cold, and people are friendly. O.K. I am prejudice. Lots to do and plenty of great sailing in either corpus christi or houston/galveston area.

Send me a PM for info on my favorite places.

all the best,
Sid in texas.

 

[Jack - La Paz Mx]

We have had a Catalina 30 in the Sea of Cortez for 11 years. She is berthed in La Paz. We drive down each year (1500 miles to La Paz) and live on our boat for 6 months. You are close to San Carlos, by Guaymas, and would have an easy drive on a 4 lane road. The two marinas at San Carlos are excellent, however the last hurricane gave them a spanking. So there is some damage to the roads that is usually repaired quickly. Wait until hurricane season is over, about the end of October, then you are good in the Sea until August. A 22 ft boat is fine, we sailed a 23 ft Columbia many years out of San Carlos. There are hotels in towns, or you can camp in your boat. There is little or no surf in the Sea. The news loves to elaborate on the drug cartels etc. over and over, but we never have had a problem nor have the many many cruisers in the Sea. Stay out of the dark places (seedy bars etc.) and you will be fine. Sure are a lot of us gringos enjoying Mexico and the warm winters, but if you are afraid of Chicago, New Oleans, Miami and their problems you might not be comfortable. There is a Sea of Cortez sailing forum, primarily based in San Carlos, that can give you further information.

 

[JIM B]

Sea Of Cortez & Marina San Carlos

Dennis,
If you do visit the Sea of Cortez you will love it. I reccoment you consider San Carlos / Guaymas in Sonora. The Tucson Sail Club has a lot of boats down there or trailer them down. Here is the address to their web page: http://www.tucsonsailingclub.com/calendar.htm

I think the links will be very helpful. Because of flood damage from hurricane Jimana I suggest you google Marina San Carlos, etc... It would be a good idea to call them before heading down as well. Also there is a cruise and a regatta the beginning of November you may want to check out.

To give you straight answers to your questions:
The drive is pretty easy, I try very hard not to drive after dark though. Crossing the boarder is easy - refer to links for Tucson Sail Club for details. You do need Mexican auto and boat insurance, shop for it because the rates vary a lot.
Both marinas in San Carlos rent slips- call ahead. They can also help with what ever permits are required (something that has been know to change).
San Carlos has plenty of hotels. Lots of close and beautiful anchorages too.
The best time to go is spring or fall.
Your C22 will do just fine!

Good luck