Bordered by the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and the Caribbean Sea with an area of 6,890,000 square miles, the South American coastline seems almost limitless. As the continent is composed of over a dozen unique countries all offering exotic climate, terrain, and cultures, South America is an attractive cruising destination. With varied terrain and geography ranging from tropical rain forests to dry deserts and to even chilly mountainous air, climate differs drastically from one country to another. Cruising along the Pacific coastline introduces a sailor to attractive port cities in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile.

After leaving behind the adventures of the Caribbean and carefully navigating your boat compass southwards, the first popular sailing destination is Colombia. Considered to be one of the most attractive cities in South America, the coastal city of Cartagena de Indias welcomes many vacationing sailors each year. This colonial city is rich with history, architecture, and shopping opportunities. Its climate is constant with warm and humid temperatures. For those sailors who enjoy the outdoors, the city also offers different activities including water sports, parks, and ecological trips. With plenty of museums, walking tours, and other attractions available, sailors and their families will always find entertainment in Cartagena de Indias.

Sailing just southwest of Colombia brings one to the Ecuadorian coast which reaches from the Andes to the Pacific. Although smaller in size, Ecuador possesses diversity in climate and in its current renewal process. This diversity is illustrated in the city of Guayaquil which lies on the western bank of the Guayas River. Guayaquil is home to almost 3 million people and is also home to the largest shipping port on the Pacific Coast of the continent. Similar to Cartagena, Guayaquil also offers hot and humid temperatures throughout the year. Though the city as been plagued by fires in the past, Guayaquil is going through gradual renovation that aims to supply various opportunities for tourists to enjoy themselves. However, history is still preserved in the colonial district of “Las Peñas”, in its various museums, and in the botanical gardens. While it continues it rejuvenation, Guayaquil will be a fascinating new destination to dock at in the coming years.

Paracas, also known as “The Galapagos of Peru", lies about 150 miles from Peru's capital of Lima. This sailing destination is made up of 700,000 acres of rugged shoreline, desert, and mountains. Paracas is the epitome of an eclectic vacation spot as it offers all different attractions including wildlife, spas, and museums documenting Pre-Incan history. For sailors vacationing with their children, the National Reserve may be the way to go as it houses several various types of wildlife such as sea lions, birds, and much more. For those sailors who seeking relaxation, the Spa of Paracas is just a few miles from the main city providing pleasant beaches alongside sunny weather. Whether a sailor is looking to spend family time exploring wildlife or looking to be at ease on the sandy beaches, Paracas is one sailing destination no sailor should miss out on.

Closing in on the Pacific Coast of South America is Chile with almost 2,700 miles of coastline. Since Chile spans across 2,700 miles, the country’s climate and temperatures differ drastically depending on the location. With this said, the country’s climate is diverse with desert, subtropical, and tundra conditions so it is best to dress appropriately with Harken apparel. Cruising sailors also choose to dock at Puerto Montt on their way Patagonia or Cape Horn. The city also acts as a transport center to Lake District and the island of Chiloé. Offering a large assortment of attractions such as national parks, museums, and day trips to islands, Puerto Montt is similar to the aforementioned cities. Sailors choose this city to dock at because of it entertainment and its proximity to other islands such as Cape Horn.

The Pacific Coast of South America offers the best sailing vacation destinations in Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Chile. Sailors and their families can enjoy their vacation to the fullest with these South American cities all infused with exotic history, architecture, recreational activities, shopping, and food.