Vitoria - Docking

Approaches

Good charts are essential to be able to safely negotiate the Baia Espirito Santo (which has a bar running through it) and the shallow approach up to the moorings. A night approach is also possible with close attention to the lights and marks as the entrance is well marked. Call the marina on VHF ch 69 for assistance.

Anchoring

The most suitable anchorage is just off the yacht club but beware of both the current and the depth on the SW side of the breakwater. An alternative anchorage is in Vitoria harbor itself, but this is not much used by yachts.

Approximately half a mile to the south near the Praia de Curva de Jurema is the Centro Nautico de Capaxiba. In front of the Centro Nautico, there is a free anchorage with good holding in 8-10 m sand and mud. Staff is friendly and use of showers and filling of water (jerry cans) free. Avoid anchoring on the eastern side of the bay as there is a wreck somewhere there.

Marinas

There is a fairly new and well-maintained marina here, run by the yacht club. Yachts with up to 2m draught should be able to enter the yacht basin where you will be directed to a berth. Yachts with deeper draught may have to anchor off and come in by tender.

In the marina, boats pick up a stern mooring line and tie the bow to the dock. It is very often full and a berth may not be available. Visitors are often given berth on the western arm of the yacht basin where they moor stern-to. Sufficient cable should be let out to counteract the strong onshore breeze which is typical of afternoon conditions. The visitor's pontoon has no water or power and is prone to swell.

Last updated:  September 2018