Brazil, Santos: There are nicer cruising grounds in Brazil . . .
A brief stopover in Santos resulted in a nasty experience with armed robbers on the approach. This report by Thibault Dacruz of SY Moya.
Published 7 years ago, updated 6 years ago
The entrance is straightforward. The current from the river is a bit influenced by the tide but nothing really to be worried about.
The Gate Club offered up to 2 days ‘courtesia’ (free) then 300BRL for a 10 meters boat per day. It is the biggest club in the whole of South America. They seem to have a scale system for pricing. There is a swimming pool, warm and clean showers. They even provide towels. Water and electricity is included. You will find Wifi, Bar, Restaurant, Diesel. All the amenities of a big club. Friendly staff, I seem to always get along quite well with security guards and sailors. I could not find anybody who spoke English or French.
Outside, within walking distance (less than 500 meters), you can find supermarket, banks, ATM, various ship chandlers, garage, bicycle shop, and other hardware stores. The club is close to the ferry that will take you across the river and go to Santos proper. I paid 3BRL both ways. Close to the ferry terminal, you will find a big Shopping Centre.
The Capitania Do Portos lies between Armazen 37 and 39, inside the Marinha do Brazil building (the Navy). You cannot miss it. The Policia Federal lies between Armazen 27 and 29. The Armazen are big buildings on the docks, within 5Km walk. You should walk there with care and only during the day, or take a taxi. The Receite Federal is somewhere else in town. If clearing in/out of Brazil in Santos, it may take you the whole day. I have been asked to show Competency by the Navy (Habilitacion). That request fell through quickly when I reminded them I did not speak Portuguese, and did not understand their request. The city has plenty of good cycling lanes.
Weather-wise it seems the whole area has light winds and is subject to rain at the beginning of summer (as far as I noticed), associated with lightning, thunderstorms, moist and damp air. Santos is Sao Paolo’s port, it is a big city, I did not like it much. Brazil offers other nicer grounds to sail.
See this report on his armed robbery.
Thibault Dacruz
SV Moya
The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the view of noonsite.com or the World Cruising Club.
Related to following destinations: Brazil, Santos, Southern Coast (Brazil)
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