 Porlamar, Margarita : Profile
Porlamar is now regarded by many as the only "safe" anchorage on Isla Margarita. However as with the rest of the Caribbean, robberies from yachts do occur, the last reports received by noonsite were September 2011.
Skippers should be careful not to flash money around and be sure to secure all items on deck and always lift and lock the dinghy and outboard at night.
During the hurricane season there can be as many as 100 boats here.
International Clear in and out:
Immigration have just (October 2010) raised prices significantly, making Porlamar probably the most expensive clear in and out in the Caribbean. See report here for details of costs.
Clearance formalities can be carried out through marina Juan who monitors Channel 72. Expect costs to be approximately double.
It is no longer necessary to use an "agent" to assist with entry and departure formalities and in fact to clear in and out yourself here is now much easier than in the past.
The customs and immigration offices are now in the same building on the beach making it easy and simple to clear in yourself, and the officials speak English. You do have to go to town and make a bank deposit.
National Clear in and out:
There is some discussion as to whether or not this is a legal requirement to have to clear in and out between the islands and the mainland. Several cruisers report that they never bother and never have a problem.
Last updated June 2011.
10deg 56.7'N, 63deg 50'W
There is a submerged wreck with about 3' of water covering it close to the El Morro headland, so be sure to not cut the corner when arriving.
The Porlamar anchorage is hard sand, CQR anchors tend not to set so well here and 100' of chain is recommended. Winds can be from any direction, but any swell is usually from the east and can cause an unpleasent roll. A bridle or stern anchor will make life more comfortable.
Several planned marina projects have not come to fruition and there is only one marina suitable for cruising boats here. A limited number of repair facilities are available.
There is a semi submerged wreck in about 6' of water at the front of the anchorage, take care not to hit it with your dinghy.
The hailing channel is VHF Ch:72. There is a daily net (not Sundays) at 8.00am.
Last updated December 2010.
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