Morro do Sao Paolo - Docking

The approach is straight forward, but going up to Gamboa is best done in daylight. Where the channel narrows, it deepens. The sandbanks on the eastern side are steep-to, those to the west shelve more gradually and need watching.

Charts here are not reported to be very accurate.

There are three good anchorages.

1) Morro do Sao Paolo

In a suitable depth just after passing the large ferry terminal of Morro do Sao Paolo, about 1/2 mile into the estuary. This can be subject to some swell in NE winds and there is a fair amount of passing boat traffic.

The yacht club previously operating in Morro has been closed for many years due to a large number of thefts. There is a rickety wooden jetty and bar on the site of the yacht club.

It is advisable to use a bright anchor light as the crowded school boats start before first light.

Last updated:  February 2019

2) Gamboa

Yachts can anchor off the village or beach at Gamboa, about 3 miles into the estuary.

There is still passing traffic (frequent ferries) so if you want to anchor where there is less wash choose a spot after the jetty. Anchor in 7 meters in good holding of sand and mud. Beware of the very rapid shoaling towards the shore and the charter boat moorings.

Alternatively, a nicer spot for swimming is just off the beach and you can easily land the dinghy on the beach for going ashore.

The town is very pleasant with a variety of shops, a bakery, and restaurants. It's possible to walk along the coast to Morro at low tide, take an inland path or take the ferry.

Last updated:  September 2019

3) Curral

A particularly calm anchorage is to be found another 1/2 mile beyond Gamboa, at Curral.

The approach is straight forward, but going up to Gamboa is best done in daylight. Where the channel narrows, it deepens. The sandbanks on the eastern side are steep-to, those to the west shelve more gradually and need watching.

Last updated:  January 2011