Sail the Endless South American Pacific Coastline

Bordered by the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and the Caribbean Sea with an area of 6,890,000 square miles, the South American coastline seems almost limitless. South America is an attractive cruising destination as it is made up of over a dozen unique countries that all offer alluring climate, terrain and cultures. The climate varies from one country to another ranging from dry deserts to tropical rain forests and to even cold air conditions originating from the Andes Mountains. Sailing along the Pacific Coast introduces a sailor to popular port cities in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile.

After leaving behind the adventures of the Caribbean and carefully navigating your boat compass southwards, the first popular sailing destination is Colombia. Particularly, it is the coastal city of Cartagena de Indias that is considered to be one of the most attractive cities in South America. This colonial city is rich with history, architecture, and shopping opportunities. Its climate is constant with warm and humid temperatures. Water sports, parks, ecological trips are other exciting activities the city has to offer sailors. With plenty of museums, walking tours, and other attractions available, sailors and their families will always find entertainment in Cartagena de Indias.

Sailing just southwest of Colombia brings one to the Ecuadorian coast which reaches from the Andes to the Pacific. Although smaller in size, Ecuador possesses diversity in climate and in its current renewal process. This diversity is illustrated in the city of Guayaquil which lies on the western bank of the Guayas River. Almost 3 million people reside in Guayaquil where the it is also home to the largest shipping port on the Pacific Coast of the continent. Offering hot and humid temperatures throughout the year, Guayaquil is very much similar to Cartagena in its climate. Though the city as been plagued by fires in the past, Guayaquil is going through gradual renovation that aims to supply various opportunities for tourists to enjoy themselves. However, history is still preserved in the colonial district of “Las Peñas”, in its various museums, and in the botanical gardens. While it continues it rejuvenation, Guayaquil will be a fascinating new destination to dock at in the coming years.

Only about 150 miles from Lima, lies Paracas also known as “The Galapagos of Peru". This sailing destination is made up of 700,000 acres of rugged shoreline, desert, and mountains. Paracas is the epitome of an eclectic vacation spot as it offers all different attractions including wildlife, spas, and museums documenting Pre-Incan history. For those sailors with a soft spot for animals, National Reserve is a must-see as it houses several various types of wildlife such as sea lions, birds, and much more. For those sailors who seeking relaxation, the Spa of Paracas is just a few miles from the main city providing pleasant beaches alongside sunny weather. With numerous unique activities to engage in, Paracas is one sailing destination no sailor should miss out on.

Closing in on the Pacific Coast of South America is Chile with almost 2,700 miles of coastline. The country's climate and temperatures greatly varies depending on the particular location since Chile spans across 2,700 miles. With this said, the country’s climate is diverse with desert, subtropical, and tundra conditions so it is best to dress appropriately with Harken apparel. Before sailing to off to Patagonia or Cape Horn, sailors also dock at Puerto Montt, a port city in southern Chile. The city also acts as a transport center to Lake District and the island of Chiloé. Like the others, the city of Puerto Montt has a wide selection of attractions including national parks, museums, and day trips to islands. Sailors choose this city to dock at because of it entertainment and its proximity to other islands such as Cape Horn.

The Pacific Coast of South America offers the best sailing vacation destinations in Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Chile. Sailors and their families can enjoy their vacation to the fullest with these South American cities all infused with exotic history, architecture, recreational activities, shopping, and food.