- Best Time to Sail:
- December to May: This period corresponds to the warm season in the Galรกpagos, with calmer seas and more predictable winds.
- Look for stronger northerlies bloing across the isthmus of Panam to head South – they develop in Mid January through Mid March
- June to November: Expect cooler waters and stronger currents due to the Humboldt Current, along with a higher chance of overcast skies.
- Avoid the ITCZ (Intertropical Convergence Zone):
- The ITCZ lies north of the equator and can bring light, variable winds, thunderstorms, and squalls. Monitor forecasts to avoid prolonged doldrums.
Winds
- Trade Winds:
- Expect light to moderate northeast trade winds near Panama.
- As you cross the equator, winds can shift or become variable.
- Galรกpagos Convergence:
- Winds near the islands are generally light and may require motoring.
Ocean Currents
- Panama Current:
- Eastward-flowing, opposing your path. It can slow your progress.
- Humboldt Current:
- A cold, southward-flowing current near the Galรกpagos that can enhance sailing speeds if properly leveraged.
- Equatorial Countercurrent:
- A westward-flowing current that supports your passage after crossing the Panama Current.
Challenges
- Light Winds:
- Motoring may be necessary for parts of the journey, especially near the equator. Carry extra fuel.
- Squalls:
- Common in the ITCZ; prepare for heavy rain and sudden gusts.
- Navigation:
- Approach the Galรกpagos cautiously. Numerous islands and rocky outcrops require precise plotting.