ABC'S to COLOMBIA
ABC’S to COLOMBIA
this is a downwind run – fast and furious
Route Overview
Distance: Approximately 350 nautical miles
Estimated Duration: 2–4 days, depending on weather, vessel speed, and stopovers
Route Highlights:
- Aruba’s protected leeward coast
- The open Caribbean Sea crossing
- Venezuelan Waters – don’t get too close
- Santa Marta’s dramatic Sierra Nevada backdrop
Weather Considerations
- Trade Winds:
The prevailing northeast trade winds (15–25 knots) will likely be on the beam or quarter. Expect steady winds but prepare for gusts.
They can pipe up to 35 knots – accidental gibes and risk of rig breaks due to heavy sea state and winds. - Seas:
The waters ill be choppy, with swells ranging from 4–8 feet. It can become rough near the Guajira Peninsula due to accelerated winds.
You can expect up to 12 – 15 foot seas and massive following seas
- Season:
- Best time: November to May
- Caution: June–October is hurricane season. Though storms skew north of thi route
rare in this region, the sea can be unpredictable with squalls and lightning
Route Planning
- Departure from Aruba:
- Depart from Oranjestad or Barcadera during daylight.
- Clear customs and immigration before leaving.
- Open Crossing:
- Stay south to avoid the rougher central Caribbean.
- Monitor weather updates for squalls.
- Guajira Peninsula:
- The region can have strong katabatic winds and high seas.
- Approach with caution; night passages are not recommended.
- Arrival in Santa Marta:
- Santa Marta Marina provides excellent facilities and a secure anchorage.
- Clear customs and immigration upon arrival.
PILOT CHARTS FOR THIS ROUTE
WEATHER
CURRENTS
SWELL AND WAVES
COLOMBIA DIGITAL CHARTS
COLOMBIA DIGITAL CHARTS IN MBTILES FORMAT
AHOY !
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COLOMBIA 🇨🇴 CRUISING CENTRAL AMERICA WITH THE OCEAN POSSE
COLOMBIA 🇨🇴 CRUISING CENTRAL AMERICA WITH THE OCEAN POSSE
Cruising the Caribbean Waters of Colombia
The Caribbean coast of Colombia offers a treasure trove of experiences for yacht enthusiasts. From the historic city of Cartagena to the pristine beaches of Tayrona National Park, this region is a haven for sailors looking to explore diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. This guide provides detailed information on destinations, anchorages, sailing conditions, costs, and practical tips for cruising the Caribbean coast of Colombia.
Cartagena
Cartagena is a prime starting point for cruisers. The city’s protected harbor is one of the safest and most accessible along the Caribbean coast. The Club Náutico Cartagena offers excellent facilities, including mooring, fuel, water, and repair services.
Anchorages:
- Bahía de Cartagena: Located just outside the walled city, this anchorage provides good holding in mud and sand. Be mindful of the heavy boat traffic.
- Isla de Barú: South of Cartagena, offers a more tranquil anchorage with clear waters and beautiful beaches.
Shore Excursions: Explore the historic walled city, visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and culinary scene.
Rosario Islands
Coordinates: 10.1741° N, 75.7396° W
A short sail from Cartagena, the Rosario Islands are part of a national park known for their coral reefs and clear waters. This area is ideal for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing.
Anchorages:
- Isla Grande: Offers several good anchorages with sandy bottoms. Be sure to anchor outside the designated swimming and diving areas.
- Isla del Rosario: Offers a marina with mooring buoys and services for yachts.
Activities: Snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and visiting the Oceanarium to learn about marine conservation efforts.
Santa Marta
Coordinates: 11.2408° N, 74.1990° W
Santa Marta is Colombia’s oldest city and a gateway to the Sierra Nevada mountains. The Marina Santa Marta is well-equipped, offering modern amenities and 256 berths for yachts.
Anchorages:
- IGY Marina Santa Marta: Offers secure berthing with excellent facilities including fuel, water, electricity, and is an Ocean Posse Sponsor
- Taganga Bay: Just north of Santa Marta, this bay offers a quieter anchorage with good holding in sand.
Shore Excursions: Visit the historic center, the Gold Museum, and the nearby beaches of Rodadero and Taganga.
Tayrona National Park
Coordinates: 11.3193° N, 73.9128° W
Tayrona National Park is a pristine natural area with stunning beaches and lush forests. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Anchorages:
- Cabo San Juan: Offers a scenic anchorage with good holding in sand. Be mindful of the reef and approach slowly.
- Bahía Concha: Another popular anchorage with calm waters and beautiful surroundings.
Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, snorkeling, and exploring the archaeological site of Pueblito.
San Andrés and Providencia
Coordinates: San Andrés (12.5847° N, 81.7006° W), Providencia (13.3726° N, 81.3590° W)
These remote islands offer crystal-clear waters and a laid-back atmosphere. San Andrés is known for its duty-free shopping, while Providencia offers some of the best diving spots in the Caribbean.
Anchorages:
- San Andrés Marina: Offers secure berthing with all necessary services.
- Southwest Bay (Providencia): A sheltered anchorage with good holding in sand.
Activities: Diving, snorkeling, exploring the island on scooters or bikes, and enjoying local cuisine.
FLAG HISTORY OF COLOMBIA

MARINAS IN COLOMBIA
PANAMA POSSE SPONSORSHIP MARINAS
- IGY Marina Santa Marta
- Club Nautico de Cartagena
- Marina Puerto Velero
- Club de Pesca Marina Cartagena
- Manzanillo Club Marina
- Marina Portobello
PANAMA POSSE SPONSORSHIP Agents
WEATHER
Prevalent trade winds bend along the coast from east really hard, especially along the northern eastern coast between late December through April. All year long however every near-shore winds will let up producing manageable jumps for vessels heading east. May through September, Colombia on the Caribbean side, faces long periods with hot and sticky conditions followed but thunderstorms and as a consequence you have minimal near-shore winds. Early fall can even produce westerlies. Winds and waves are significantly reduced closer to shore. As always do not sail on this coast on a schedule !
PILOT CHARTS
Pilot Charts depict averages in prevailing winds and currents, air and sea temperatures, wave heights, visibility, barometric pressure, and weather conditions at different times of the year. The information used to compile these averages was obtained from oceanographic and meteorologic observations over many decades during the late 18th and 19th centuries.The charts are intended to aid the navigator in selecting the fastest and safest routes with regards to the expected weather and ocean conditions. For an explanation of historic Colombian Climatology and how to read Wind-roses follow this link.
PORTS OF ENTRY
Caribbean Coast
- Cartagena
- Description: Cartagena is a popular entry point with excellent marina facilities, including Club Náutico Cartagena and Marina Club de Pesca.
- Coordinates: 10.3910° N, 75.4794° W
- Santa Marta
- Description: Santa Marta Marina provides modern amenities and is an ideal spot for exploring the historic city and nearby natural attractions.
- Coordinates: 11.2408° N, 74.1990° W
- Barranquilla
- Description: A significant commercial port that also handles yacht clearances.
- Coordinates: 10.9685° N, 74.7813° W
- Puerto Velero
- Description: Located near Barranquilla, this port offers a marina with haul-out and dry storage facilities.
- Coordinates: 10.9598° N, 75.0345° W
- Riohacha
- Description: A less frequented port but available for yacht entry.
- Coordinates: 11.5449° N, 72.9076° W
- Sapzurro
- Description: Located near the Panama border, Sapzurro is a picturesque village offering a sheltered bay for anchoring.
- Coordinates: 08° 39’N, 77° 21’W
Off-lying Islands in the Caribbean
- Isla de San Andrés
- Description: Known for its duty-free shopping and vibrant atmosphere.
- Coordinates: 12.5847° N, 81.7006° W
- Isla de Providencia
- Description: A quieter island with excellent diving spots.
- Coordinates: 13.3726° N, 81.3590° W
Pacific Coast
- Bahia Solano
- Description: A port on the Pacific coast with entry facilities.
- Coordinates: 6.2251° N, 77.4056° W
- Buenaventura
- Description: The largest port on Colombia’s Pacific coast, primarily commercial but also handles yacht clearances.
- Coordinates: 3.8833° N, 77.0667° W
- Tumaco
- Description: Another entry port on the Pacific coast, less frequented by yachts.
- Coordinates: 1.7981° N, 78.7887° W
These ports provide various services and facilities to accommodate cruising yachts, from modern marinas in Cartagena and Santa Marta to more remote and tranquil anchorages in Sapzurro and Providencia. It’s advisable to check the latest entry requirements and communicate with the marinas in advance to ensure a smooth arrival process
CHARTS
AIDS TO NAVIGATION
Download the official Colombian Government Cruising Guide (SPANISH) from here :
http://cecoldodigital.dimar.mil.co/51/1/dimarcioh_2012_2256-5914_guia_nautica_turistica_colombia.pdf Cruising Guides for the area can be found here : BOOKS PORT GUIDE CRUISING GUIDE TO CARTAGENA
GOOD NAUTICAL
- 261 Bahía de Cartagena
- 263 Bahía Interna de Cartagena
- 264 Entrada a la Bahía de Cartagena
- 843 Canal Acceso a Bahía de Cartagena
- BBA-1 Bahía De Las Ánimas
- BBT-2 Terminal Turístico
- BID-3 Isla del Diablo
- BCO-4 Sector Del Bosque Marina Manzanillo (Contecar)
- 255 Archipiélago Islas del Rosario
- BIR-4 Isla Tesoro
- BIR-5 Islas Del Rosario a Isla Grande
- BIR-6 Isla Grande
- BIR-7 Isla Periquito Cholón
- BIR-8 Islas Del Rosario Islas Rosario
- BIR-9 Isla Arena
- BIR-10 Isla Arena a Isla Barú
- COL 259 Archipiélago San Bernardo
- BSB-1 Isla Tintipán
- BSB-2 Isla Múcura
- BSB-3 Isla Múcura a Isla Panda
- BSB-5 Isla Palma
- BSB-6 Isla Panda
- BSB-7 Isla Ceycen
- BIF-8 Isla Fuerte
- 040 Península de la Guajira
- GCV-1 Cabo de La Vela
- GMA-2 Manaure
- GRI-3 Riohacha
- GDI-4 Dibulla
- MEC-1 Ensenada Cinto
- MEN-2 Ensenada Nenguange
- MEG-3 Ensenada Gairaca
- MEC-4 Ensenada Concha
- MBT-5 Bahía de Taganga
- MBS-6 Bahía de Santa Marta
- MRO-7 Bahía de Gaira (El Rodadero)
- APC-1 Puerto Colombia
- APV-2 Puerto Velero
- SPB-1 Punta San Bernardo
- SST-2 Tolú
- SCO-3 Coveñas
- SBC-4 Bahía de Cispatá
- SSA-5 San Antero
- SBV-6 San Bernardo del Viento
- CMO-1 Moñitos
- CPE-2 Puerto Escondido
- CLC-3 Los Córdobas
- 412 Golfo de Urabá
- 295 Bahía Colombia
- CBT-1 Triganá
- CAC-2 Acandí
- CCA-3 Bahía de Capurganá
- CSA-4 Bahía de Sapzurro
- COL 004 Archipiélago de San Andrés y Providencia
- SAI-1 Rada el Cove
- SAI-2 Club Náutico San Andrés
- SAI-3 Bahía de Santa Catalina
- SAI-4 Aproximación a Santa Catalina
- SAI-5 Agua Dulce South West Providencia
CHARTS COLOMBIA PACIFIC
- INT 6000 / 003
- CBS-6 Bahía Solano
- INT 6105 Golfo de Cupica a Buenaventura
- INT 6110 Bahía de Buenaventura a bahía Ancon de Sardinas
- 153 Bahía de Buenaventura
- 730 Puerto de Buenaventura
- 521 Isla de Malpelo
- 520 Isla Gorgona
- 101 Aproximación a Tumaco
- 100 Puerto de Tumaco
GOOD NAUTICAL
DOCUMENTS
DOCUMENTATION | COLOMBIA |
Passport | Valid for at least 6 months; requires one blank page |
Boat Documentation | Coast Guard Doc (Original) |
Proof of Insurance | Liability |
Crewlist | Required at checkin/out |
Zarpe | Required at checkin/out |
OFFICIAL PROCEDURES | MUST USE AN AGENT |
Official Country Visa | NA if your country is on a list |
Immigration Visa | Colombia’s instant tourist visas to citizens of many countries good for 90 days. It is quite easy to extend a Colombian tourist visa to enable staying in Colombia a maximum of 180 days in a year.
If you are a tourist from Canada, may have to pay an entry fee of 201,000 pesos. |
Required Permits | TIP / Customs via agent |
Upon Arrival Visit: | Immigration; Customs; Port Authority |
Upon Departure Visit: |
Immigration; Customs; Port Captain |
Entry & Exit Fees: | $ 150+ for agents – Julian $ 50 PP special |
Notes: | Expect to be boarded by Navy upon entering and/or leaving the country |
OTHER | |
Required Vaccinations | YELLOW FEVER |
Pets | Vaccination Certificate |
Currency: Peso |
PORTS OF ENTRY
ALL REQUIRE USE OF AGENTS
Caribbean Coast
Barranquilla, Cartagena, Puerto Velero, Riohacha, Santa Marta, Sapzurro
Caribbean Islands Colombia
Isla de Providencia, Isla de San Andres
Pacific Islands
Gorgona (non POE), Isla Malpelo (non POE)
Pacific
Bahia Solano, Buenaventura, Tumaco
Crime Index | Safety Index | Corruption Index | Corruption Score | GDP | Pop (M) | Life Ex. | Cost of Living | Groc. | Rest. $ | Loc.Purch.P. |
54.94 | 45.06 | 96/198 | 37% | 6,508 | 49.65 | 76.92 | 30.19 | 25.69 | 23.61 | 29.90 |
US EMBASSY
TEL +57 1 2752000
Cl. 24 Bis #48-50, barrio, Bogotá, Colombia
https://co.usembassy.gov/
WEATHER
Prevalent trade winds bend along the coast from east really hard, especially along the northern eastern coast between late December through April. All year long however every near-shore winds will let up producing manageable jumps for vessels heading east. May through September, Colombia on the Caribbean side, faces long periods with hot and sticky conditions followed but thunderstorms and as a consequence you have minimal near-shore winds. Early fall can even produce westerlies. Winds and waves are significantly reduced closer to shore. As always do not sail on this coast on a schedule !



MUST SEE
1. Cartagena’s Colonial Walled City and Fortress
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (1984)
Description: Cartagena’s colonial walled city is a beautifully preserved example of Spanish colonial architecture. The city was a major trading port in the 16th to 18th centuries and played a significant role in the Spanish empire. Key attractions include the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the city’s extensive fortifications, and the charming streets of the historic center.
2. San Agustín Archaeological Park
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (1995)
Description: San Agustín Archaeological Park is home to the largest group of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in South America. The park contains more than 500 statues, tombs, and other archaeological remains of a pre-Columbian civilization that existed between the 1st and 8th centuries AD.
3. Tierradentro National Archaeological Park
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (1995)
Description: Tierradentro is famous for its elaborate underground tombs, known as hypogea, which were created by a pre-Columbian culture between the 6th and 9th centuries AD. The tombs are decorated with intricate carvings and paintings, offering insights into the funerary practices and beliefs of the ancient inhabitants.
4. Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (2011)
Description: The Coffee Cultural Landscape encompasses a series of landscapes and towns in the central Andes that showcase the cultural traditions of coffee growing. Visitors can explore coffee farms, traditional towns such as Salento and Manizales, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the rolling hills and coffee plantations.
5. National Archaeological Park of Tierradentro
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (1995)
Description: Tierradentro National Archaeological Park is known for its underground burial chambers, which are among the most elaborate in the Americas. The hypogea, or subterranean tombs, are richly decorated with carvings and paintings, reflecting the complex funerary practices of the pre-Hispanic culture.
6. Los Katíos National Park
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (1994)
Description: Located in the Darien region, Los Katíos National Park is a region of high biodiversity and ecological importance. The park features tropical rainforests, wetlands, and a variety of wildlife, including many endemic species. It is also an area of significant scientific interest due to its unique geological formations.
7. Historic Centre of Santa Cruz de Mompox
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (1995)
Description: Santa Cruz de Mompox, often simply called Mompox, is a colonial town that has preserved its architecture and atmosphere since the 16th century. Situated on the banks of the Magdalena River, the town played a crucial role in trade and commerce during the Spanish colonial period.
8. Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (2006)
Description: Malpelo Island and its surrounding waters are a sanctuary for marine life, particularly sharks. The area is renowned for its biodiversity and is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts. The sanctuary provides a critical habitat for a variety of marine species and is an important site for scientific research.
9. Chiribiquete National Park – “The Maloca of the Jaguar”
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (2018)
Description: Chiribiquete National Park is one of the largest national parks in Colombia and is known for its unique tepuis (table-top mountains) and extensive rock art. The park’s rock shelters contain thousands of paintings that date back thousands of years, depicting the spiritual and cultural practices of indigenous peoples.
10. Port, Fortresses, and Group of Monuments, Cartagena
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (1984)
Description: Cartagena’s extensive fortifications, including its walls, bastions, and forts, are a testament to the city’s strategic importance in the Spanish colonial era. Key sites include the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the largest Spanish fort built in the Americas, and the historic center with its beautifully preserved colonial buildings.
Additional Noteworthy Sites
Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)
Description: Ciudad Perdida, or the Lost City, is an ancient city in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains. It is believed to have been founded around 800 AD by the Tayrona people. The site is accessible via a multi-day trek through the jungle, offering a unique glimpse into pre-Columbian civilization.
Villa de Leyva
Description: Villa de Leyva is a colonial town known for its well-preserved architecture and large cobblestone plaza. Founded in 1572, the town has retained its historic charm and is a popular destination for those interested in Colombia’s colonial past.
These sites offer a diverse and enriching experience for anyone interested in Colombia’s rich history and cultural heritage. From ancient archaeological sites to well-preserved colonial towns, each location provides unique insights into the country’s past and its cultural evolution.
SERVICES
EMERGENCIES
COLOMBIA SEARCH AND RESCUE SAR
MRCC Pacífico
Type: MRCC, Country: Colombia, SRR: SRR COLOMBIA PACIFIC COAST
Latitude, Longitude:
(3.9740000,-77.3253326)
Telephone:
+57 315 731 7401 or +57 316 452 1124
Email:
Fax:
57 (1) 3692000 ext 12010 / 12011 ectmcp01@dimar.mil.co
www.armada.mil.co:
https://www.armada.mil.co
INMARSAT:
881631539303
Cartagena Coast Guard Station
Search & Rescue Contacts
Type: CRS, Country: Colombia, SRR: SRR COLOMBIA CARIBBEAN COAST
Latitude, Longitude:
(10.41666985,-75.53333282)
Telephone:
57 5 655 0316
Email:
Fax:
57 5 655 0316
Website:
INMARSAT:
Iridium 8816 3172 0013
Telex:
Notes:
ANM 7/05<
San Andres Coast Guard Station
Type: CRS, Country:
SRR:
Tel: 57 8 513 2153
operacionesegsai@armada.mil.co
Telephone57 8 513 2153
Emailoperacionesegsai@armada.mil.co
Fax +57 8 513 2153
Websitehttp://
INMARSATIridium 8816 3171 0711
Telex
Location,
Notes ANM 7/06
Barranquilla Coast Guard Station
Type: CRS, Country:
SRR:
Tel: 57 5 344 1428 Ext 206
cegbar@armada.mil.co
Telephone57 5 344 1428 Ext 206
Emailcegbar@armada.mil.co
Fax57 5 655 0316
Websitehttp://
INMARSATIridium 8816 3172 0013
Santa Marta Coast Guard Station
Type: CRS, Country: Colombia, SRR: SRR COLOMBIA CARIBBEAN COAST
Latitude, Longitude:
(,)
Telephone:
57 5 423 1666
Email:
Fax:
57 5 423 1608
Website:
INMARSAT:
Iridium 8816 3171 0710
Telex:
Notes:
ANM 7/06
COLOMBIA TO ARUBA - THE IMPOSSIBLE UPWIND ROUTE
Sailing from Santa Marta, Colombia to Aruba – An Uphill Battle
Attempting to sail from Santa Marta to Aruba is one of the more challenging passages in the southern Caribbean. On paper, it’s a short hop , roughly 260 nautical miles , but in practice, it’s a slog dead to windward in one of the most notorious stretches of water between Panama and the ABCs. The consistent easterly trade winds funnel along the South American coast, often accelerated by the Venturi effect between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Caribbean Sea, creating near-constant 25 to 35-knot headwinds and steep, short-period seas.
This region is infamous for its confused, breaking waves and frequent gale warnings, especially between Santa Marta and Cabo de la Vela. The coastline offers few safe bailouts, and anchoring along the Guajira Peninsula is exposed and risky. Boats attempting this passage often experience slamming, gear fatigue, and crew exhaustion , especially monohulls beating into the trades.
The crux of the problem is not distance, but direction. You are heading almost due east into the prevailing conditions with limited leeway. Most cruisers either wait months for a slim weather window or opt for the longer but easier route , sailing downwind to the San Blas or Bocas del Toro, then heading north through the Windward Passage or looping up through Jamaica and the Dominican Republic before reaching the ABCs.
However, there are rare windows when a sail from Santa Marta to Aruba becomes feasible. These occur primarily during the transition periods between seasons , late May to early June or mid-October to early November. During these times, the trade winds temporarily weaken as the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) shifts. Light easterlies or even westerly anomalies may occur for 24 to 72 hours. These brief windows are usually preceded by several days of stillness or light air and may be accompanied by unsettled weather or isolated squalls.
Successful passages during these times rely on careful weather routing. Services like PredictWind, Windy, and Chris Parker’s forecasts are invaluable. A viable window looks like 10-15 knots of E or ESE wind, with swell under 1.5 meters. Departing Santa Marta at the start of this lull is key , any delay risks getting caught as the trades reassert themselves.
Fuel range also becomes critical. Many skippers motor the bulk of the way in calm seas if lucky, but boats with limited tankage may need to carry jerrycans or consider a stop at Cabo de la Vela or Puerto Bolívar, though facilities are minimal and security concerns linger.
Ultimately, while it’s possible to sail from Santa Marta to Aruba, the prudent approach is to wait for the rare weather break , or reverse course entirely and head downwind. Going east in this region is a game of patience, timing, and preparedness. When it works, it’s satisfying. When it doesn’t, it’s punishing.
CURRENT CONDITIONS
WINDS
Tides and Currents
SWELL AND WAVES
The rare wildcard:
sailing from Santa Marta to Aruba in the lee of a hurricane or tropical system.
This scenario can open up a temporary “reverse flow” opportunity that otherwise doesn’t exist in this region, but it’s not for the faint of heart and should be approached with extreme caution.
What Happens in the Lee of a Hurricane
When a named system (tropical storm or hurricane) tracks northwest or westward above latitude 13°N—especially if it’s located north of the ABCs—there can be a dramatic disruption in the typical easterly trade winds. On the southwest quadrant of the storm (its “lee”), the wind can temporarily shift to the west, southwest, or even south for 24 to 72 hours.
In this rare configuration, the otherwise brutal headwinds from Santa Marta to Aruba can go soft or reverse. The sea state also tends to flatten out in this quadrant, especially if the storm is moving steadily away from you and not intensifying. This creates a narrow but viable corridor for a vessel to motor or close-reach along the coast and up toward Aruba with relative ease.
How Often Does This Happen?
Rarely. But it does happen, particularly during peak hurricane season (August to October), and even more so in El Niño years when storms tend to track farther north and curve earlier toward the Atlantic. The key is that the system must stay well north—ideally above 14°N—so that you’re not in its destructive path but close enough to experience the altered wind and pressure patterns.
Risks and Requirements
• Timing is everything. The window might last only 36 hours. Departing too late means running into building seas or the return of strong trades. Too early, and you could sail into a strengthening system.
• Weather routing is non-negotiable. You must monitor real-time GRIBs, satellite imagery, pressure gradients, and updates from NHC and regional meteorologists like Chris Parker. ( sponsor of the Ocean Posse get your discount )
• Fuel reserves matter. Even with reversed winds, motoring is often required, so full tanks and jerrycans are a must.
• Storm surge and swell. Even in the lee, long-period swells can wrap around and affect the coast. Anchorages and marinas in Aruba may still be impacted.
• Insurance may be void. Many policies have named-storm exclusions or require vessels to be out of the hurricane zone entirely.
Conclusion
Yes—sailing from Santa Marta to Aruba becomes temporarily viable in the lee of a tropical cyclone. The winds can clock to the west, the sea state may lay down, and for a brief time, it’s like the trades took a coffee break. But this is a tactical move requiring expert-level planning, flexible scheduling, and full situational awareness. It’s not a strategy to count on—just one to watch for when the charts and clouds align.
In other words: sometimes, it takes a hurricane to go east.
COLOMBIA TO ARUBA – THE IMPOSSIBLE UPWIND ROUTE – FIRST HAND ACCOUNT BELOW
WIND GUSTS
WAVES
WIND AND SWELL
CURRENTS
2024-05-05 account from SV ROCHAMBEU
Beyond devastated. That’s how we feel right now. It’s been a while since I’ve really documented our nomadic lifestyle. We have sailed from California, USA through Mexico, Costa Rica, the Pacific side of Panama, through the Panama Canal, the Caribbean side of Panama, through Colombia’s “pirate alley”, and two thirds the way to Aruba, actually into the waters of the Netherland Antilles. We met some of the most amazing adventurous people along the way who will forever be in our hearts. Some of them we met in California and others in Mexico. Some have split up but then we meet back up and call it “bungee-boating”. Some we will never see again. But yesterday morning we split up unexpectedly, heart wrenchingly. After motor sailing for 2 days and 2 nights in benign sea conditions, the weather took a drastic turn. Suddenly while on night watch, 25 knots of steady wind came out of the Atlantic and the seas starting pounding. By daylight we were feeling drained from a lack of sleep and our buddy boats had begun drifting away. We were still fine, all communicating on VHF radio, and eagerly waiting to just get through it for another 40-50 miles so that we could wake up to sunny Aruba and eat an anticipated Dutch breakfast. (You should’ve seen how excited Rolf grew a few nights ago when it dawned on him that we were going to sail to a country where people spoke his language and he could eat Dutch food again.) But then suddenly a new tie down strap for our dinghy snapped and blew away. Shit! Because we were bashing there was a lot of force and our dinghy davits were compromised, now damaged and weakened. We had another new strap and were able to secure the dinghy. Good. But, our solar arch is also partially sitting on top of the davits and now the dinghy and solar panels are at risk of just breaking off and going kerplunck into the angry ocean. If that weren’t enough, we had a 2 knot current that we were fighting against while feeling like we were riding a bucking bull. This slowed us down to a whopping 1 knot of “speed”. We were crawling and waves were crashing over our bows every now and then. Making life go from worse to miserable, our autopilot shutoff because it couldn’t keep up with the bashing. Conditions matter. And yesterday morning was a perfect example where with rough seas, strong current, and high wind (all on the nose) was a trifecta for poor motor performance and loss of the autopilot. So we had to make one of the toughest decisions ever – either steer by hand for 2 days and crawl to Aruba or turn back to Colombia. The main considerations were the stability of our dinghy davit system, our own safety & fatigue, and the comfort of our 14 year old dog, who was clearly suffering too. We bashed for an hour debating back & forth whether we could make it safely to Aruba or turn back. The problem was that the weather forecast now indicated the wind and sea state could persist for another couple of days. So with immense sadness we turned around. 😭😭😭 Now we’re alone, sailing back down the Colombian coast to Santa Marta, maybe even back to Cartagena. Next up, we have to still work our day jobs, which can be stressful and demanding at times while we figure out how to reinforce our dinghy davits and consider replacing our props. Really, I wish we could buy a bigger and more powerful boat with tons of horsepower for the 5-10% of the time we really need to motor hard from one amazing destination to another. But for now, I’m back to the night watch cruising solo. At least we’re comfortable with the wind and swells behind us and our sails are up.

FIESTA NAUTICA CLUB DE PESCA CARTAGENA 🇨🇴
CLUB DE PESCA 🇨🇴 CARTAGENA + oceAn POSSE
SAILORS AND CRUISERS NETWORKING PARTY ° CARTAGENA ° COLOMBIA °
Dear Ocean Posse Community,
We’re writing to let you know that the Fiesta Náutica at Club de Pesca in Cartagena, originally planned for an 25 2025, will be postponed.
The spirit of this gathering is about connection and camaraderie, and we want to ensure that when we come together, it’s at full strength.
A new date will be announced soon, and we’ll keep you updated as details come together. We know that you are cruising and having fun so please plan accordingly.
Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to making this event even better when the time is right.
Fair winds,
OCEAN POSSE

GRAN COLOMBIA
pointed out that I was using the wrong flag for Colombia - so I asked here to give us a little background - and here is a fascinating story of Colombian History - here is the story
"Thank you for your interest in this flag history of Colombia .
SV PILIALOHA "




MARINA PUERTO VELERO 🇨🇴 COLOMBIA SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
MARINA PUERTO VELERO 🇨🇴 COLOMBIA SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
Hello Ocean Posse, thanks for the interest with our marina.
The rates are on our website and we can offer your affiliates a 10% discount on these rates.
For reservations the phones are: +57 312 3181 1212
Email: info@mpv.com.co
I remain pending that other things need, cordially,
Gilberto Martinez


SERVICE PROVIDERS
CHAIN RE GALVANIZATION
Had our chain regalvanised in Baranquilla. All in cost (including car hire and fuel to deliver it split with 2 others from SM) 800,000cop – $165.
Galvaniser charges 3300/kg. 10mm chain is about 2.5kg/m, but they said their prices were going up in the new year.
It took about 4 days.
Very generous coating of galvanising. Time will tell how good the prep work was. They don’t sand blast, just acid soak it til it shines. They must move the chain while it’s galvanising cos links didn’t stick together and it gets coated inside the links. Really nice people.
POLYUPROTEC SA
53767935
https://maps.app.goo.gl/92czaUS9LYMeH7Qa6
http://polyuprotec.com/
+57 5376 7935
MARINA IGY MARINA SANTA MARTA 🇨🇴 SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
MARINA IGY MARINA SANTA MARTA 🇨🇴 SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
11° 14.5783' N 074°13.085' W
Hello OCEAN POSSE;
According to what was discussed today, Marina Santa Marta we are excited to be a OCEAN Posse Sponsors
and being included as a destination within the Rally
We will offer participants a 35% discount on the rate that we normally handle.
Let us know if you would need additional information from us.
Cordially
Juan Ernesto Gomez
comercial@marinasantamarta.com.co
msm@igymarinas.com
- Tel: +57 5-436-3601
VHF: VHF Channel 16 & 72
- Carrera 1 Calle 23 Esquina Santa Marta Magdalena
- Santa Marta Colombia
Mon. - Fri. 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Sat. & Sun. 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
AMENITIES
- 256 Total Slips
- 30 amp, 50 amp
- 100 amp SP, 100 amp 3P
- 24 hr Gated Security with Guard
- Vessel Concierge
- Private Showers
- Guest Laundry
- Crew Lounge
- Swimming Pool Access
- Sundries Shop
- Wi-Fi Connectivity
Website
NEARBY
- Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona
- Playa El Rodadero
- Cascadas de Marinka
- Pozo Azul
- Gran Malecón
- Playa Grande
- Museo del Cacao de Minca
- El Dorado Bird Reserve
- Ciudad Perdida