Cartagena harbor is located on the northern coast of Colombia in the Caribbean coast region.
The port city is the fifth largest city in Colombia.
The
Port of Cartagena is one of the most modern in South
America and one of the busiest in Colombia.
Phone: (57) (5) 6608071
Fax: (57) (5) 6502239
Bahia de Cartagena is a well-protected anchorage. Entrances to the
bay are through the large ship channel - the Boca Chica strait, or the
northwest entrance - Boca Grande (Escollera).
The Boca Chica entrance is the easier and is the one used by most recreational sailors.
The Boca Grande entrance tends to be used by yachts coming from the
north and east but should be approached with caution. The Colombian Navy
has re-installed the red & green lighted posts to mark the small
vessel channel at the Boca Grande entrance. Guaranteed "official" depth
is about 8 feet, greater depth might be possible if there is limited
swell and conditions are not otherwise unfavorable. Cruisers report the
echo sounder never going below 3.2 metres. Advice is to follow the
marked channel and don't cut corners.
All vessels approaching Cartagena (5 miles from entrance at a minimum)
should call CARTAGENA PORT CONTROL on VHF CH16 or 14. They have good
English speakers on hand (who can also assist with emergency calls).
Anchor in the inner bay. This is the area inside the Peninsula of
Bocagrande adjoining the Island of Manga (where Club Nautico is loacted)
and the Historic Centre. It is not advisable to anchor near the
entrance at Bocagrande.
Remember, an agent is required to clear into and out of Colombia, so no
attempt at contacting the Port Captain should be made, except through
your nominated clearing agent (Agencia Maritima) on arrival.
Port Captain
Centro, Edificio Vimbrco, Floor 6
JEFCTMCP05@dimar.mil.co