Leg 1: Port Ensenada → Guatemala
The journey begins in the lively Port Ensenada in northern Mexico - a classic starting point for major Pacific crossings.
After clearing customs and making the final preparations, it's time to cast off and head south!
We sail along the wild Pacific coast of Baja California, where cool mornings, long swells, and often moderate northwesterly winds dictate our rhythm. As we head south, it gets noticeably warmer, the nights milder, and the ocean calmer.
This first major leg demands true offshore sailing: long tacks, watch systems, and navigation along a largely unprotected coastline. Depending on the route, we will round Cabo San Lucas and then cross over for the longer passage towards the mainland.
Crewwork & Tactics:
Weather routing, currents, and wind patterns play a crucial role. Anticipatory sailing is essential between thermal winds and large-scale weather systems. The Lotte navigates the Pacific swell smoothly and offers safety and comfort, even on longer passages.
Our destination: the green, tropical coast of Guatemala.
Stage 2: Guatemala - Jungle meets Pacific
We arrive in Puerto Quetzal, the gateway to Guatemala. Even upon arrival, you can feel the contrast: dense jungle, warm air, and a fascinating blend of nature and culture.
Optional excursions into the interior are available – for example, to colonial cities, volcanic landscapes, or coffee plantations. At the same time, we enjoy the peace and quiet on board, prepare the ship for the next leg of the journey, and let the impressions sink in.
Leg 3: Guatemala → El Salvador → Honduras → Nicaragua
Now begins the most varied part of the trip: several shorter coastal stages through Central America.
El Salvador
A little-sailed cruising area with an unspoiled character. Small fishing villages, powerful Pacific surf and authentic insights into life off the beaten tourist track.
Honduras (Pacific coast)
A rare destination for sailors – quiet, unspoiled, and steeped in nature. Here we experience Central America in its purest form.
Nicaragua
Wide coastlines, little traffic, and spectacular sunsets. Depending on the schedule, we anchor off secluded beaches or use sheltered bays.
Particularly exciting from a sailing perspective:
These stages are characterized by changing conditions: light winds in the morning, thermal breezes in the afternoon, and occasional strong offshore winds (Papagayo effect). Flexibility, timing, and good planning are crucial.
Leg 4: Nicaragua → Costa Rica
As we approach Costa Rica, the area becomes greener, more vibrant, and more diverse. Dense rainforests stretch right to the sea, and exotic wildlife accompanies us even at anchor.
We will visit possible stops such as Papagayo Bay or sheltered anchorages along the coast. Here, relaxed sailing and experiencing nature combine in a special way.
Highlights:
Snorkeling, jungle scenery, wildlife viewing - and always perfect anchorages.
Leg 5: Costa Rica → Panama (Shelter Bay)
The final leg takes us along the coast of Panama towards Shelter Bay Marina - the gateway to the Panama Canal.
Conditions are generally moderate, with warm temperatures and an increasingly tropical climate. We enjoy the vastness of the Pacific Ocean one last time before entering the sheltered marina.
There we let the trip come to a relaxed end - surrounded by jungle, monkeys, parrots and international sailing flair.
A voyage for explorers
This route is more than just a passage - it is a journey along one of the most diverse coastlines in the world:
Demanding offshore sailing
Barely sailed waters
Authentic Central America
Tropical nature & wildlife
Long distances and intense sailing experiences
Our focus: genuine bluewater sailing combined with a spirit of discovery and enjoyment.
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