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☠ The current maritime situation for private yachts sailing near Venezuela is extremely perilous. The region has become a hotbed for criminal activities, piracy, largely fueled by the country’s ongoing political and economic crisis. The Gulf of Paria, which separates Venezuela from Trinidad and Tobago, is particularly dangerous, with frequent incidents of piracy, smuggling, and kidnapping.
Pirates in this area engage in various illegal activities, including the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and contraband such as gasoline, food, and diapers, often exploiting the severe shortages and hyperinflation in Venezuela. These criminal operations are sophisticated and sometimes involve collusion with corrupt elements of the Venezuelan military, making the waters exceptionally hazardous for private vessels.
Kidnappings are also a significant threat, with pirates targeting local fishermen and demanding ransoms that can reach tens of thousands of dollars. This lawlessness extends beyond piracy to rampant violent crime onshore, where homicides and other violent crimes are rampant due to the collapse of law enforcement and governance.
Given these conditions, it is strongly advised that private boats avoid the waters near Venezuela. The combination of piracy, smuggling, and political instability creates an environment that is exceedingly unsafe for maritime travel
AGENT FOR LOS ROQUES
MARINAS
☠ Navigating the waters around Venezuela requires caution, as the region is known for significant maritime risks, including piracy and smuggling. However, several marinas provide essential services for sailors in the area. Some notable marinas include:
- Hilton Margarita Marina Costa Azul – Located on Isla Margarita, this marina is part of the Hilton resort, offering various amenities including boat docks, slips, and moorings. It’s a popular destination for leisure boating and provides a relatively safe harbor for visitors.
- Marina Juan Porlamar – Also situated on Isla Margarita, Marina Juan offers a range of services for yachts and smaller boats. This marina is known for its friendly staff and well-maintained facilities, making it a favored spot among local and international sailors.
- Techmarine de Oriente Puerto La Cruz – Located in Puerto La Cruz, this marina is well-equipped to handle various boating needs, providing repair services, docking facilities, and other essential amenities. Puerto La Cruz is one of the more established yachting hubs in Venezuela.
- Bahia Redonda Marina – Another prominent marina in Puerto La Cruz, Bahia Redonda is favored by many international sailors, particularly from the U.S. It offers extensive services, including secure docks, good showers, a pool, and a restaurant.
These marinas are key points for sailors needing safe mooring and services in Venezuela. Despite the challenges posed by the region’s instability, these facilities strive to maintain a level of security and comfort for their patrons.
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, Venezuela 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
Key Ports of Entry in Venezuela
Here are the coordinates, detailed descriptions, and stern warnings for the most significant ports of entry in Venezuela:
- Puerto Cabello
- Latitude: 10°28’N
- Longitude: 68°01’W
- Description: Puerto Cabello is the busiest port in Venezuela, handling a large portion of the country’s imports and exports.
- Warning: The area has high crime rates, including theft and violent crime. Corruption can lead to delays and additional costs. Pirates are active in nearby waters, posing significant risks to vessels.
- La Guaira
- Latitude: 10°36’N
- Longitude: 66°55’W
- Description: This port serves the capital, Caracas, and is vital for both cargo and passenger transport.
- Warning: High levels of crime and violence make this port dangerous. Political instability and corruption exacerbate these issues, and there have been reports of pirate activities in the surrounding waters.
- Puerto La Cruz
- Latitude: 10°12’N
- Longitude: 64°38’W
- Description: A major yachting hub with extensive marina facilities, Puerto La Cruz attracts international sailors.
- Warning: The region has seen a rise in piracy and armed robbery. Security measures at marinas may not be sufficient to protect against well-armed criminal gangs. The area also suffers from widespread crime onshore.
- Porlamar (Isla Margarita)
- Latitude: 10°57’N
- Longitude: 63°51’W
- Description: A popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and marine facilities.
- Warning: The economic crisis has led to a significant increase in crime, including robberies and assaults on sailors. Piracy is a growing threat in the waters around Isla Margarita.
- Guanta
- Latitude: 10°14’N
- Longitude: 64°35’W
- Description: Close to Puerto La Cruz, this port handles a variety of cargoes and provides facilities for yachts.
- Warning: Security is a major concern, with frequent reports of theft and violent crime. The proximity to Puerto La Cruz means similar risks of piracy and armed attacks at sea.
General Warnings:
- Piracy: The waters around Venezuela are notorious for piracy. Criminal gangs are well-armed and often operate with impunity, targeting both commercial and private vessels. Sailors should avoid traveling alone and consider hiring armed security.
- Corruption: Port officials may demand bribes, and bureaucratic delays are common. Always verify the legitimacy of any officials and document all transactions.
- Crime: High crime rates onshore make it unsafe to travel alone, especially at night. Secure all valuables and remain vigilant.
For more detailed and updated information on piracy, sailors can refer to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre.
DOCUMENTS
As of August 2024, the situation in Venezuela remains highly volatile and concerning. Following the presidential elections on July 28, 2024, which were widely criticized for lacking transparency and democratic standards, the country has experienced significant unrest and repression. The international community, including organizations such as Amnesty International and the Carter Center, has condemned the Venezuelan government’s actions during and after the elections, highlighting the disproportionate use of force by security forces against protestors and the continued crackdown on civil liberties
The unrest has resulted in numerous deaths and arbitrary detentions. Reports indicate that at least 11 individuals have been killed, and many others have been detained under accusations of instigating violence, obstructing public roads, and terrorism The government has also been accused of employing armed civilian groups to suppress opposition, further escalating the violence
Additionally, there are widespread reports of internet shutdowns aimed at disrupting communication and hindering the organization of protests, which severely impacts freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly
The international community continues to call for the Venezuelan authorities to respect human rights and allow for peaceful protests. The ongoing repression and the deteriorating humanitarian situation, marked by severe shortages of food and medicine, remain critical issues
For those considering travel to Venezuela, the U.S. Department of State advises against it due to high levels of crime, civil unrest, and the risk of arbitrary detention
For more detailed and up-to-date information, you can refer to sources such as Amnesty International, the Council on Foreign Relations, and Homeland Security Newswire.
MUST SEE
☠ WARNING – Visiting any of these 12 most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Venezuela poses significant risks !
- Coro and its Port
- Description: Founded in 1527, Coro is one of the oldest colonial towns in Latin America. Its architecture is a blend of Spanish, Dutch, and indigenous influences.
- Significance: The city and its port are a unique representation of the exchange between Spanish settlers and the local cultures.
- Warning: The site is listed as endangered due to damage from heavy rains and inadequate restoration efforts.
- Canaima National Park
- Description: Covering 30,000 square kilometers, Canaima National Park is known for its dramatic landscapes, including tepuis (tabletop mountains) and Angel Falls, the world’s highest waterfall.
- Significance: The park is home to unique flora and fauna and is an area of great geological interest.
- Warning: The park faces threats from illegal mining and deforestation.
- Ciudad Universitaria de Caracas
- Description: Designed by the renowned architect Carlos Raúl Villanueva, this university campus is a masterpiece of modern architecture and urban planning.
- Significance: It integrates modern architecture with art, creating a harmonious space that includes murals, sculptures, and open areas.
- Warning: The site requires continuous maintenance to preserve its artistic and architectural integrity.
- La Gran Sabana
- Description: Part of the Canaima National Park, La Gran Sabana features vast plateaus, deep valleys, and numerous waterfalls.
- Significance: It is a significant cultural landscape for the indigenous Pemon people and a critical area for biodiversity.
- Warning: The region faces environmental pressures from tourism and mining.
- Parque Nacional El Ávila (Waraira Repano)
- Description: This national park stretches along the coastal mountain range, providing a green backdrop to the capital, Caracas.
- Significance: It is a vital natural reserve, offering recreational opportunities and preserving a variety of ecosystems.
- Warning: Urban expansion and pollution threaten the park’s ecosystems.
- Delta del Orinoco
- Description: This vast river delta is characterized by its complex network of waterways, wetlands, and mangroves.
- Significance: It is crucial for biodiversity, supporting numerous species of wildlife and the traditional lifestyles of the Warao people.
- Warning: Environmental degradation from oil exploration and climate change poses risks to the delta.
- Los Roques Archipelago
- Description: This national park consists of over 300 islands and cays, known for their stunning beaches and clear waters.
- Significance: It is a major marine reserve, protecting coral reefs, seagrass beds, and a variety of marine life.
- Warning: The archipelago is vulnerable to the impacts of tourism and illegal fishing.
- Cueva del Guácharo National Park
- Description: Named after the oilbird (guácharo), this park features the impressive Guácharo Cave, which extends for over 10 kilometers.
- Significance: The cave is an important natural and cultural site, with rich biodiversity and significant geological formations.
- Warning: Conservation efforts are needed to protect the cave’s delicate ecosystem.
- Médanos de Coro National Park
- Description: This park is known for its striking sand dunes, some of which reach heights of up to 40 meters.
- Significance: The dunes are a unique natural landscape, providing important habitats for desert flora and fauna.
- Warning: The park faces challenges from human activities such as off-road vehicle use.
- Táchira State Andean Village
- Description: This area includes several traditional Andean villages with colonial architecture and scenic landscapes.
- Significance: The villages reflect the cultural heritage of the Andean region and maintain traditional agricultural practices.
- Warning: Economic pressures and modernization threaten the preservation of traditional lifestyles and buildings.
- Amazonas Region
- Description: This region is part of the vast Amazon rainforest, known for its biodiversity and indigenous cultures.
- Significance: It is one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet and home to numerous indigenous communities.
- Warning: Deforestation, illegal mining, and climate change are major threats to the region.
- Río Caura Basin
- Description: This river basin is a pristine area of the Venezuelan Amazon, featuring extensive rainforests and rich biodiversity.
- Significance: It is a critical area for conservation, supporting many species of plants and animals.
- Warning: The basin is under threat from logging, mining, and other human activities.
These sites represent Venezuela’s diverse natural and cultural heritage, each with its own unique significance and challenges
EMERGENCIES AND SAR INFO
Several aid organizations are actively involved in providing assistance to Venezuela due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis. These organizations focus on addressing the severe shortages of food, medicine, and basic services, as well as supporting displaced populations. Here are some key organizations:
- United Nations Agencies:
- UNICEF: Provides nutritional support, education, and protection services for children.
- UNHCR: Supports Venezuelan refugees and migrants in neighboring countries, offering shelter, legal assistance, and integration programs.
- World Food Programme (WFP): Delivers emergency food assistance to vulnerable populations in Venezuela.
- International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC): Focuses on health care, including emergency medical care, and works to improve access to water and sanitation.
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF): Offers medical care, mental health support, and addresses malnutrition.
- Catholic Relief Services (CRS): Provides food, health care, and support for education and livelihoods.
- Caritas Internationalis: Delivers food, medicine, and other essential supplies through its network of local partners.
- International Rescue Committee (IRC): Supports Venezuelan refugees and migrants in Latin American countries, providing health care, protection services, and economic recovery programs.
- Save the Children: Focuses on child protection, education, and nutrition.
- Oxfam: Works on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives and supports income-generating activities.
These organizations collaborate with local partners to ensure aid reaches the most affected communities and address the multifaceted challenges arising from the crisis. For more detailed information and updates, you can visit their official websites and follow their latest reports and press releases.
VENEZUELA BACKGROUND INFORMATION
COUNTRY INFORMATION
Nicolas Maduro claimed the presidency in Venezuela for his second
term in 2018 in an election boycotted by most opposition parties
and widely viewed as fraudulent. The Maduro regime places strong
restrictions on freedoms of expression and the press. In 2019, the U.S.
Department of State announced the withdrawal of diplomatic personnel
from U.S. Embassy Caracas.
• The U.S. Department of State currently recommends U.S. citizens
DO NOT TRAVEL to Venezuela (Advisory Level 4) due to crime, civil
unrest, kidnapping, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
Reconsider travel due to wrongful detention, terrorism, and poor
health infrastructure. The U.S. government has limited ability to
provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela.
CONTACT INFORMATION
The U.S. Embassy in Caracas suspended operations
in 2019 and cannot provide protection or consular
services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela.
U.S. citizens in Venezuela in need of assistance,
or those concerned about a U.S. citizen in
Venezuela, should email ACSBogata@state.gov or
VenezuelaEmergencyUSC@state.gov.
To contact the State Department if you or a family
member is endangered, please call:
1-888-407-4747 if you are located in the U.S. and
+1 202-501-4444 if you are located overseas.
KEY PLAYERS
BOLIVARIAN NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE SERVICE (SEBIN):
SEBIN plans, formulates, directs, controls, and executes civilian
intelligence and counter-intelligence policies and actions. SEBIN
investigates crimes against the government and provides protective
details for government officials.
GENERAL DIRECTORATE OF MILITARY COUNTER INTELLIGENCE (DGCIM):
DGCIM is an organ of the Bolivarian National Armed Force (FANB),
and has broad powers to execute counter-intelligence activities and to
prevent subversive activities.
BOLIVARIAN NATIONAL GUARD (GNB):
GNB is part of the Venezuelan armed forces and reports to the
Defense Ministry and the Ministry of Interior, Justice, and Peace. The
GNB is responsible for maintaining public order, monitoring borders,
and providing law enforcement in remote areas
DETENTION TACTICS
Regime-aligned security forces have detained U.S. citizens for long
periods. The Maduro regime does not notify the U.S. government of
the detention of U.S. citizens, and the U.S. government is not always
granted access to those U.S. citizens. The regime plants or manipulates
evidence to falsely frame targets, including planting weapons or
political propaganda, or using torture to pressure detainees to make
false confessions.
• Typically, immediately after arrest, there is a period of
incommunicado detention that often includes solitary confinement,
followed by efforts to obtain false confessions. There are often
significant delays before detainees are informed of the charges
against them.
• U.S. citizens have been incarcerated under allegations that follow
the anti-U.S. narrative of the time, such as terrorism and spying,
and are later used for leverage in political negotiations.
Frequently Targeted Individuals for
Enhanced Scrutiny
Most Common Accusations for Detention
Travelers crossing the Colombia-Venezuela border
Current or former U.S. military members government personnel
Journalists and Documentarians
Most Common Accusations for Detention
Conspiracy and Espionage
CHARTS
