San Fernando, La Union - Docking
There is a choice of 2 anchorages here and a useful stop if cruising further north.
Anchoring:
Port Poro, in the North Bay, is a quiet commercial port with an anchorage off the town. The channel into the bay is well lit. Anchor in 4m over mud. This spot is exposed in the NE season. There is a supermarket and market within walking distance of the anchorage.
South of Poro Point is better protection for anchoring in the NE monsoon, with clearer waters. Anchor to the south of the peninsula in 10m over sand. Be careful of wrecks here and watch out for the shallow shoal on the approach. While this is a much prettier anchorage than the northern one, access to shore is complicated and getting to the shops requires navigating through a maze of local houses.
The local people are very helpful, however, and will assist in getting water and fuel.
Some repairs might be possible from various businesses in the town.
Last updated: June 2019
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Related to following destinations: Luzon (Northern Region), Philippines, San Fernando - La Union
Port Navigation
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A few days ago we stopped at San Fernando La Union and would like to share with you our impressions. Navigation into the bay is straightforward, just watch for some black buoys and marker indicating fishing kits. The locals stated there is a wreck between the black buoys and the marker, in 20 feet of water.
We drove our dinghy to the beach and asked the local people for help with diesel and water. They delivered everything to our boat by bangka. People are very respectful and friendly, they are very poor but act with such dignity that it is a humbling experience.
Clearance procedures are laid back and without the corruption issues found in Subic Bay. There are no facilities but repairs can be organized through various businesses in town. There are some nice resorts in San Juan and Poro Point that can be accessed by tricycle.
Overall a very pleasant experience and we highly recommend this convenient stop on the way to Taiwan or Palawan. Do not be afraid of the locals, they are great people and willing to help for a little money.