One of the most popular pastimes for visitors to Colombia is sailing. Colombia offers a variety of sailing sites for both expert and inexperienced sailors, with its magnificent coastline, calm waters, and picturesque islands. There is something for everyone, whether you want to spend a leisurely day on the water or go on an exciting multi-day sailing adventure. We’ll look at ten of the sailing locations in Colombia in this article. We will provide comprehensive information about each location, including its distinctive features, activities, and liveaboard possibilities, from the well-known Cartagena to the undiscovered Baru Island and Nuqui.
This guide will assist you in creating the ideal sailing experience in Colombia, whether you want to charter a catamaran or take part in a guided sailing excursion. Pack your bags, gather your sailing supplies, and get ready to explore Colombia’s breathtaking waterways.
Here are some of the top sailing locations in Colombia along with their top attractions.
Cartagena
On Colombia’s Caribbean coast, in the historic city of Cartagena, visitors may enjoy a bustling mix of nightlife, cultural history, and beautiful beaches. It draws a lot of vacationers each year and is one of the most well-liked sailing locations in Colombia.
In the waters near Cartagena, catamarans are frequently seen, and you can easily rent one to tour the stunning coastline. The Rosario Islands, the walled city, and the San Felipe de Barajas Castle are a few of Cartagena’s prominent tourist destinations. For those who want to live aboard their boat while taking in the breathtaking landscape, live-aboard options are also available.
San Andres Island
San Andres Island is a tiny Caribbean island off the coast of Colombia that is home to some of the world’s most exquisite beaches and crystal-clear waters. With calm waters and ideal breezes for cruising, it is a great place for sailing aficionados to visit. To tour the stunning coastline and adjacent islands like Providencia and Santa Catalina, you can charter a catamaran. On San Andres Island, there are also liveaboard options that let you take advantage of the breathtaking sunsets and the tranquil island lifestyle.
Santa Marta
Santa Marta is a charming coastal town with lovely beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery that is situated on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. With great wind conditions for sailing and a selection of catamaran rental alternatives, it is the perfect vacation spot for sailing aficionados. Sail to the nearby islands of Gaira and Taganga, take in the stunning beaches nearby, or explore the Tayrona National Park.
In Santa Marta, there are also liveaboard options that let you remain on your boat and take in the breathtaking scenery.
La Guajira
La Guajira is a stunning, inaccessible area on Colombia’s northern coast that offers unique sailing opportunities to intrepid tourists. For those who want to discover the untamed and spectacular coastline with its gorgeous beaches, clean waters, and distinctive sceneries, it is the perfect place to go. You can hire a catamaran to tour the adjacent islands and take in the distinctive cultural legacy of the local Wayuu population. La Guajira offers liveaboard possibilities as well, so you may enjoy the beautiful sunsets and tranquil island life.
Baru Island
Off the coast of Cartagena sits the lovely and uninhabited island of Baru, which has some of most gorgeous beaches and clearest waters for sailing locations in Colombia. It is the perfect location for people who want to get away from the city and enjoy the tranquil island lifestyle. You can take a boat rental to explore the adjacent islands, take advantage of the stunning beaches, or go to Playa Blanca’s natural pool. On Baru Island, liveaboard possibilities are also available, letting you to take in the breathtaking sunsets and the serene island ambiance.
Bocas del Toro
Situated in Panama, close to the Colombian border, Bocas del Toro is a well-known sailing location. For those who want to discover the magnificent archipelago with its beautiful waters, coral reefs, and picturesque beaches, it is the perfect place to go. You can take a catamaran tour to discover the adjacent islands, take in the breathtaking scenery, or go to Red Frog Beach. In Bocas del Toro, there are also liveaboard options that let you take in the breathtaking sunsets and the tranquil island lifestyle.
Islas del Rosario
The Islas del Rosario are a collection of tiny islands off the coast of Cartagena that are home to some of Colombia’s most exquisite coral reefs and marine life. With its clean seas and vibrant coral reefs, it is the perfect location for scuba divers and snorkelers. You can hire a catamaran to travel to the renowned San Bernardo Islands, take in the breathtaking scenery, or explore the adjacent islands. On Islas del Rosario, there are also liveaboard options that let you take in the breathtaking sunsets and the serene island ambiance.
Nuqui
On Colombia’s Pacific coast, in a small hamlet called Nuqui, visitors can enjoy distinctive sailing locations in Colombia adventure. For those who want to discover the untamed and breathtaking coastline with its gorgeous beaches, clean waters, and distinctive species, it is the perfect place to go. You may explore the local beaches, take in the breathtaking scenery, or go to the nearby hot springs by renting a catamaran.
In Nuqui, there are also liveaboard options that let you take in the breathtaking sunsets and the tranquil coastal lifestyle.
To discover more about various sailboats, yachts, and catamaran types you can check out this Sailboat Data page. You may discover comprehensive details on different sailboat models and their performance here, making it easy for you to pick the best boat for your requirements.
Caño Cristales
The majestic Caño Cristales river, which flows through the middle of Colombia, is home to some of the most breathtaking and extraordinary natural scenery on earth. For those who want to explore the magnificent waterfalls, vibrant rocks, and pristine river waters, it is the perfect place to go. Although you can’t sail on the river itself, you can rent a catamaran to explore the nearby lakes and lagoons or just take in the breathtaking scenery on land. Near Caño Cristales, there are also liveaboard options that let you take in the breathtaking sunsets and the serene river environment.
San Andres Island
In the Caribbean Sea, San Andres Island is a magnificent and distinctive island that has some of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches and clearest waters. It is the perfect location for individuals who want to relax on the beach, explore the magnificent coral reefs, or engage in water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving. You can hire a catamaran to travel to the well-known Johnny Cay Island or to explore the adjacent islands and stunning scenery. On San Andres Island, there are also liveaboard options that let you take in the breathtaking sunsets and the serene island ambiance.
Tips for a liveaboard in Colombia
Here are some pointers for a liveaboard in Colombia:
- Prior to living aboard in Colombia, it is advisable to examine the many marinas and harbours that are available. Before setting sail, make cautious to verify the weather, local laws, and safety precautions.
- Pick the right boat: A successful liveaboard experience depends on your choice of boat. Take into account elements including the boat’s size, facilities, and appropriateness for long-term habitation.
- Space is at a premium when living onboard in Colombia, so it’s crucial to pack efficiently. Bring any necessary gear for water activities or fishing, as well as clothing appropriate for the warm, muggy weather.
- store up on supplies: Having restricted access to supplies when living aboard in Colombia makes it crucial to store up food, water, and other necessities before setting sail. Think about taking a solar-powered generator or battery bank, as well as a water filter or purifier.
- Learn the language: Being able to communicate in basic Spanish will be useful when living abroad in Colombia, particularly when conducting administrative responsibilities.
- Always put your safety first when living onboard in Colombia. When sailing, be sure to wear a life jacket, adhere to local regulations, and secure the boat when leaving it unattended.
- Discover the local culture: In Colombia, living on a boat offers a rare chance to get to know the people and learn about their way of life. Spend some time getting to know the adjacent towns and villages, sampling the cuisine, and becoming familiar with the way of life there.
Visit our sailing locations page for some incredible ideas and places to explore if you’re feeling motivated to organize your sailing holiday. Start preparing for your upcoming sailing excursion right away with Ocean Wave Sail!
To sum up, sailing locations in Colombia have a variety, each with its own distinct charm and attractions. There is something for everyone in this lovely country, whether you want a vibrant and cultural experience or a remote and daring excursion. You may explore these locations at your own leisure and take in the breathtaking landscape by renting a catamaran and living aboard.
