Local Water Sports – Sailing

"To really get the best out of the bay experience you can’t beat gliding along with the wind …"

--A.J.--

We all love the beach right! One of the best has to be La Ropa, with its fine sand and great views. There are many ways to spend a day here but to really get the whole experience, the bay and its beaches have to be seen from the water.

To really get the best out of the bay experience you can’t beat gliding along with the wind without the sound of an engine. So why not give it a try and take out one of the sailboats available on the beach.

The pick of the bunch would have to be the Hobie Cats, the twin hulled boats with the colorful sails (catamarans). You have a couple of options here, but I use Javier and his two brothers, Rene and Ramon. These guys have been running the business as a family for nine years, are there every day and have a lot of regular customers. They can be found towards the town end of the beach in front of the beach restaurant Patys Mar y Mar. There you will find three boats to choose from.

A 13’ Hobie Wave (El Pony) which is perfect for beginners and those who like to cruise along, as it only has the one sail and is designed to be a very forgiving boat.

The next step is the Hobie 16-Palomo (dove). With this boat you start to realize why these boats have been so popular for so long.

After an hour on the bay you will be planning another turn. Finally there is the Hobie 18-Camello (camel), this boat is best handled by two people and can really get going when the wind is good. Rates are from $200 pesos for an hour.

You may be thinking, "I don’t know how." This is not a problem. For no extra charge, (maybe a tip), Javier will go with you and show you the ropes. The guys also give sailing and wind surfing lessons and have sea kayaks and boogie boards for rent.

So why not give it a try and get out on the water. Sailing is a very relaxing sport and can be enjoyed by anyone. If you decide not to give it a go, I’m sure you will still enjoy the splash of color these boats bring to the bay.

Once you’ve had a taste of how great things look from the water, why not try sailing with one of the local charter operators. The Tristar, a well-known sight on the bay, is a huge trimaran (three hulls). They offer regularly scheduled, day and sunset trips. The day trip includes a stop for snorkeling and spinnaker flying (great fun), both trips have an open bar. Prices from $40US. Ring 5542694. Also, the Nirvana, a classic 65’ wooden Sailboat is available for private or small mixed group, day (with snorkeling) and sunset charters. They serve a great lunch and have an open bar. If there is wind, which there usually is, they sail, an experience not to be missed. Prices from $45US.

December 1999

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