Port open
Blue — good conditions
Calm seas, favorable weather. Open to all navigation: fishing boats, charter yachts, large vessels. Best time for snorkeling, paddleboarding or island trips.
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Safe navigation · La Paz
One flag on the marina mast tells you if the Sea of Cortez is open, cautious or closed. Learn to read it before you cast off.
The system
The Regional Port Authority of La Paz raises a flag to communicate current sea and weather conditions. This is what each one means.
Port open
Calm seas, favorable weather. Open to all navigation: fishing boats, charter yachts, large vessels. Best time for snorkeling, paddleboarding or island trips.
Open · caution
Forecasts show possible instability. The port stays open, but winds or currents can shift fast. Keep your itinerary flexible and stay alert.
Closed to small craft
Atmospheric instability present. Closed to small boats and recreational craft; larger vessels may still be permitted. Expect gusts, chop and reduced visibility.
Port closed
Severe weather underway. The port is closed to all navigation. No vessel, regardless of size, should leave until conditions improve.
Sea of Cortez
Strong winds building waves and whitecaps in open water.
Currents and swells that challenge smaller vessels.
Sudden storms with rain and reduced visibility.
Shifting winds that expose anchorages in open bays.
Captains and crews must stay vigilant and ready to adjust plans if conditions deteriorate.
Key areas
Spectacular for marine life, beaches and overnight stays — but exposed when the weather turns.
Winds funnel through the channels, creating chop that makes anchoring tricky.
View on map →Same channel effect as Espíritu Santo — conditions change coves away.
View on map →Farther out, it isolates quickly — fewer sheltered bays if the wind picks up.
View on map →Heading out? Keep reliable communication with the marina or port authority. The sea changes faster than you think.
Before you cast off
One of the most trusted resources for real-time marine data is Windy. Combine it with the port flag for the safest call.
Open Windy →Quick answers
Good conditions. The port is open to all navigation — fishing boats, charter yachts and large vessels.
Yes, the port stays open, but navigate with extra care: winds and currents can change quickly.
Unstable conditions. The port closes to small and recreational boats; larger vessels may still be permitted.
The port is closed to all navigation. No vessel of any size should leave until conditions improve.
Check Windy for wind, waves and forecasts, then confirm the flag at the marina or with the port authority.
Sail with us
That simple color is the difference between a smooth adventure and a risky day at sea. Our crews read it for you on every charter.