Pilotage Plan: Alicante, Alicante, Spain to Cartagena, Murcia, Spain
Embarking on an adventure from Alicante to Cartagena presents an exciting opportunity for all boating enthusiasts. This route covers approximately 65 nautical miles along Spain's captivating Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida. Ideal for seasoned sailors and those looking to sharpen their seamanship under great weather conditions, the journey offers both picturesque landscapes and several safe anchorage spots should the weather take an unexpected turn.
Starting Point: Alicante
Departure Considerations:
Alicante is a bustling port city with great marinas, making it an excellent starting point. Before setting off, make sure your vessel is in top condition, and check the local weather forecasts (WindFinder and METAR would be beneficial). The harbor is well-marked, but caution is always necessary.
Leg 1: Alicante to Santa Pola Bay
Distance:~12 nautical miles
Navigational Hazards:The coast features shallow areas and a few rocky outcrops, especially near the entrance to Santa Pola. Keep an eye out for local fishing boats, as they are common in this active fishing area.
Points of Interest:
Santa Pola: A charming coastal town, Santa Pola boasts incredible beaches and a lively harbor. The town’s castle provides historical value, as it dates back to the 16th century.
Shelter Options:
Santa Pola Bay provides good shelter in most conditions. Its east and north sides offer calm waters, making it perfect for an overnight stop if needed.
Leg 2: Santa Pola to Tabarca Island
Distance:~5 nautical miles
Navigational Considerations:Watch for the Tabarca underwater reserve, where anchoring restrictions apply to protect local marine life. Navigational buoys mark this area well.
Points of Interest:
Tabarca Island: This small island is a treasure trove of history with its quaint streets and clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The island is a designated maritime reserve, known for rich marine biodiversity.
Shelter Options:
While there are designated areas for anchoring, make sure to follow the local regulations to preserve the area. It provides good shelter from easterly winds.
Leg 3: Tabarca Island to San Pedro del Pinatar
Distance:~20 nautical miles
Navigational Hazards:Pay attention to the numerous fish farms and buoys in this section. The coastline can become busy with traffic, particularly ferry services to Tabarca, so stay vigilant.
Points of Interest:
Mar Menor: A fabulous semi-enclosed lagoon, perfect for water sports, offering calm conditions and beautiful beaches. You can also find remarkable salt flats and the unique wildlife that inhabits them.
Shelter Options:
San Pedro del Pinatar is a fantastic spot to seek refuge, especially if the wind kicks up. Several marinas and sheltered bays make it a boater’s haven.
Leg 4: San Pedro del Pinatar to Cartagena
Distance:~29 nautical miles
Navigational Considerations:Watch for the navigation lights near Cabo de Palos, especially when transitioning into the open waters of the Mediterranean. The nighttime return to Cartagena can be particularly beautiful but ensure you have updated charts.
Points of Interest:
Cabo de Palos: Here, the iconic lighthouse stands tall, and just offshore is the well-known diving site, El Hormiga.
Cartagena: At your journey's end, immerse yourself in the rich naval history and picturesque architecture. The Roman amphitheater and the naval museum are must-sees.
Shelter Options:
Cartagena's marina facilities are excellent, providing ample amenities for overnight stays.
Final Remarks:
When navigating this route, several key navigational aids will ensure safety and provide guidance. Familiarize yourself with local nautical charts and always monitor your VHF radio channels, especially the emergency channel (Channel 16).
For those inclined to modern conveniences, using comprehensive apps like Savvy Navvycan enhance your experience, offering real-time navigation, weather updates, and routing. Consider pairing it with other applications such as Navionics and MarineTraffic for enhanced situational awareness.
This itinerary is perfect for cruising gunkholers looking for a mixture of calm waters, locations rich in history, and recreational opportunities. While focusing on safety, the scenic views along the coastline, coupled with opportunities for exploration and shelter, make this trip one to remember. Happy sailing!