A yacht charter guide that has everything you need to know about your next sailing holidays in Mexico. On your Mexico yacht charter, you can enjoy swimming in the brilliant blue waters, snorkeling amongst the fishies, and basking in the glorious sunshine.
Want to know more? Keep reading…
Mexico’s prime sailing season generally spans from November to May, offering dry conditions, moderate temperatures, and reduced hurricane risk. The Sea of Cortez (in Baja California) boasts calm seas and pleasant days throughout winter and spring, making it ideal for wildlife sightings such as whales and dolphins. On the Caribbean side, late fall to early spring yields clearer skies and comfortable 15–20 knot breezes along the Riviera Maya and beyond. Hurricane season in the Pacific and Atlantic basins typically peaks from June to November, which can bring frequent rainfall and occasional tropical storms. Planning your charter in the cooler months enhances both safety and sightseeing.
What are the sailing qualification and license requirements to charter a yacht or catamaran in Mexico? Mexico does not universally demand an official sailing license for bareboat charters, but charter companies often expect proof of competence through a recognized certification (ICC, ASA, RYA) or a thorough resume outlining your boating experience. The Mexican maritime authorities require adherence to safety equipment standards, and familiarity with local port regulations is advised. While in destinations like Baja California Sur or the Yucatán Peninsula, be mindful of protected marine parks and local fishing zones. If you are not fully confident in navigating these waters or managing official paperwork, hiring a skipper can streamline the experience and grant valuable local insights.
Mexico’s coastal hubs—like Baja California Sur and the Riviera Maya—showcase ancient Mayan and Aztec influences alongside Spanish colonial heritage. Expect zesty street fare, from fish tacos and ceviche to elote (grilled corn on the cob) sprinkled with chili powder and cheese. Inland towns celebrate vibrant Día de los Muertos festivities, while seaside regions often feature mariachis and folkloric dancing for holidays. Pair local dishes with refreshing margaritas, mezcal, or craft cervezas. This fiesta of tastes and traditions ensures your Mexico yacht charter sails into a world of cultural richness.
All foreign vessels cruising Mexican waters must check in at a Port Captain’s office in their first port of call, often obtaining a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) valid for a defined period. Fishing permits are also required for onboard recreational fishing. Certain ecological reserves—such as Isla Espíritu Santo—regulate anchoring, sometimes charging entry fees to fund conservation. Keep registration documentation and crew details on board for any routine inspections, ensuring a laid-back, trouble-free journey along Mexico’s beautiful coasts.
Set sail from La Paz, a quiet and small city in Mexico. Sailing La Paz is the perfect destination to get away from it all. Literally translating to “peace,” La Paz lives up to its name. The city is tranquil and charming, but filled with plenty to see, with the beachfront malecón and abundance of restaurants and bars. But the real attractions are the 900 islands on the Gulf of California, that are filled with fantastic flora and fauna.
The Sea of Cortez is home to parrot fish, mahi-mahi, trigger, sea turtles, large manta rays, dolphins, and many types of whales. Needless to say, there’s plenty of exploring to be done from La Paz.
The best time for sailing Mexico is between November and April. This is the high season, which tends to be drier. However, you will still have temperatures of around 26ºC / 79ºF. If you’d prefer to go in the summer, you can expect average temperatures of 32ºC / 90ºF and sea temperatures at almost the same level! Winds are lighter and blow from the southeast.
Have no fear, the rainy season brings cooling rain between July and October. In the winter, prevailing winds are northwesterly blowing 10-15 knots. Most tropical storms during hurricane season will miss La Paz and the rest of the southern Baja Peninsula.
You can start your yacht charter holidays in Mexico from La Paz. The best way to go there is to fly into La Paz International airport. Alternatively, you could fly into San José del Cabo and drive 2 hours north, or you could also get a connecting flight from Mexico City.
For US travelers, there are daily flights to La Paz from many major US cities, such as LAX. For travelers coming from the UK and EU, it is advisable to fly into a larger hub, such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, Tijuana, or Los Angeles.
Transfer time from La Paz International Airport to base: 14 minutes
Navigation while sailing Mexico is relatively easy with calm waters and sandy-bottom anchorages. Please note that before you take off and leave Mexico, it is required to visit the harbormaster with a detailed itinerary and any crew or passenger details.
Recommended anchorages for your yacht charter Mexico are:
For provisioning, Yacht4Less recommends the nearby Walmart, which will have everything you need. It is about a 30 minute ride from the base, but you can also shop at Soriana Híper, a local grocer.
Ready to rent a boat in Mexico? Request a Tailor-made Quote
Day 1: La Paz – Ensenada Grande, Isla Partida
Depart from La Paz and sail north to Ensenada Grande, one of the most picturesque anchorages in the Sea of Cortez. Surrounded by ochre cliffs and turquoise waters, this bay offers stunning snorkelling and peaceful stargazing.
Day 2: Ensenada Grande – Los Islotes (Day Stop) – San Evaristo
Begin the day with a visit to Los Islotes, a rocky outcrop home to a playful sea lion colony — ideal for snorkelling or kayaking. Continue sailing to the peaceful fishing village of San Evaristo and anchor in its calm, protected bay.
Day 3: San Evaristo – Isla San Francisco
Sail south to Isla San Francisco, known for its iconic half-moon bay with white sand beaches and emerald water. Enjoy a day of paddleboarding, ridge hiking, or relaxing on the beach in utter tranquillity.
Day 4: Isla San Francisco – Amortajada, Isla San Jose
Head farther south to Amortajada, a secluded mangrove estuary on Isla San Jose. Drop anchor near the sandbar and explore the mangroves by dinghy or kayak, keeping an eye out for exotic birds and marine life.
Day 5: Amortajada – Bahia Gabriel, Isla Espiritu Santo
Sail to Bahia Gabriel on Isla Espiritu Santo, a breathtaking bay fringed with white beaches and dramatic volcanic rock formations. Snorkel among colourful fish or relax in one of Baja's most iconic marine settings.
Day 6: Isla Espiritu Santo – Puerto Balandra
Cruise into Puerto Balandra, a shallow turquoise bay famed for the mushroom-shaped rock El Hongo and its pristine beaches. Wade through the clear waters or take a short walk for panoramic views of the Gulf.
Day 7: Puerto Balandra – La Paz
Return to La Paz for disembarkation, completing your unforgettable voyage through the Sea of Cortez. End the journey with lasting memories of untouched anchorages, rich marine biodiversity, and Baja’s raw natural beauty.
It depends. For example, the most important ones are the type of boat you will choose and whether you require a professional crew on board (e.g. skipper, hostess or cook). So, as you can see, there are many factors that can shape a price for a boat rental.
Check our full guide about yacht charter cost and how you can save much money in your next sailing holidays.
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