Huatulco: Marina Chahue

Created by sue. Last modified on 2010-01-30 22:31:50
Countries: Mexico

The popular cruising guides (Rains and Charlie's) mention Enrique at this marina as being very helpful and knowledgeable about Tehuantepec weather. Enrique no longer works here, and the new staff, while very pleasant, do not speak any English.

There are no weather printouts in the office. The showers are outdoors and cold-water only, more like beach rinse-offs.

The entrance is extremely narrow and has several jogs; stay in the exact center.

There is no longer any fuel available here, by pickup or by tanker truck (Enrique used to arrange that). For fuel one goes to the commercial dock in Santa Cruz (Huatulco) proper.

The marina also cannot assist with zarpes or clearance out of the country. After obtaining proof that your marina bill is paid, you must go to the Port Captain in Santa Cruz, then to the bank, then to Migracion, then to Customs (with perhaps another bank visit). Customs makes arrangements to inspect your boat. You will need to start all this several days in advance of your anticipated weather window for the Tehuantepec if you are going south.

There are no buses; you must take a taxi to the grocery store in Crucecita (about 1 mile). Taxi can only be obtained by calling on the phone.

The marina office is open 9-5 on weekdays and 9-2 on weekends. The Port Captain, Immigration, and Customs are only open 9-5 on weekdays. Fuel dock hours uncertain.

Most slips in Chahue Marina appear to have been built with boats under 35' in mind. Dockmaster attempted to have our 40' boat put in a 35' slip where we couldn't tie up the stern. Channel space between slipways is no more than 45'; there is current and surge (and often wind) as well, making safe manuevering very difficult for boats over 30' long.

Sue Cross
SV Fugue