Sailing in Peru
Including Paracas National Reserve Coast. On the map.
The vibe
Sailing along this vast coastline is an ocean-heavy voyage defined by brisk winds, rolling swells, and open horizons rather than sheltered island-hopping. The summer months offer the most pleasant weather windows for spending extended time on the deck. This remains a rare pursuit for casual travelers, undertaken almost exclusively through specialized offshore charters or private vessels.
Paracas National Reserve Coast
Ica
Petr Meissner / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
This stark desert-meets-ocean coastline offers challenging long-distance coastal sailing propelled by famously reliable thermal winds. Sailors navigate dramatic cliff-lined shores and rich marine ecosystems while contending with heavy Pacific swells. It is an adventurous off-the-beaten-path destination suited for experienced offshore and coastal skippers.
Access. Cruising vessels and charter setups typically depart from the nearby port town of Pisco or Marina Turistica in Paracas.
Notes. Strong winds (Paracas winds) can exceed 25-30 knots in the afternoons. Dense fog and Humboldt current effects require vigilant navigation. Best sailed from November to April.