Namibia : Profile

Facts

• The latest country in Africa to gain independence, Namibia lies on the south-west coast of the continent and as a German colony used to be known as South West Africa. The easternmost area is part of the Kalahari desert, while the Namib desert stretches along the west coast. Most of the coast is inhospitable desert, but inland are many national parks and unusual dramatic scenery.

• Yachts sailing this part of the Atlantic usually stop at Luderitz, an old German colonial town surrounded by the encroaching Namib desert. It is a convenient stop on the way north from Cape Town. The winds are usually favourable and so is the Benguela current, which sweeps up the western coast. The detour shortens the distance to St Helena and, if time permits, also gives a chance to visit some of the interior of this fascinating country, which was for so long in the grip of a guerilla war.

• There are some repair facilities at Luderitz (the port is used by fishing boats working this area of the South Atlantic) and at Walvis Bay.

Weather

The weather is usually hot, although it is milder on the coast. Rainfall is unreliable. Winds are mostly from the south. The cold Benguela current produces misty conditions close to the coast and up to about 5 to 10 miles offshore.

Main Ports

Luderitz * , Walvis Bay *

*Indicates a port of entry.

Related Reports

Ortie and Crispin Clay Found (23 Jun 2008)

Sailing Updates For South And West Africa (31 May 2008)

Advice On West African Route (14 Feb 2006)

South Atlantic Circuit (10 Feb 2006)