Manzanillo Bay was discovered by the Spanish in 1527 and became an important port for ship building and provisioning for expeditions to China, Asia and particularly the Philippines. It remains a large cargo port and is a port of entry to Mexico. Known as the sailfish capital of the world it also boasts miles of pristine beaches and swathes of unspoiled wilderness.
The port of Manzanillo lies on the south side of the bay. Many local boats moor in a small anchorage area behind the harbour wall close to the entrance to the port. The area is well protected from wind and swell although the noise and dust from the docks can be a bothersome.
Approaches
The approach is straight forward. Call the Manzanillo Port Captain on VHF16 to arrange anchorage in the bay.
Anchorage
Find a spot behind the cruise ship dock amongst the pangas and tour boats and anchor in 13m on a sandy bottom with good holding. Tie the dinghy up the fishermens dock or at the Chinese Restaurant on the west side of the anchorage area. Walk through the restaurant to town but make sure you stop for a drink or a meal to thank them. Landing the dinghy on Playa San Pedrito is convenient for the Immigration and Port Authority offices but watch out for the swell.
Facilities
Just a short walk away lies El Centro, the historical heart of Manzanillo. Banks, supermarkets and plenty of restaurants abound and away and the Mercado Municipal 5 de Mayo is great for fresh produce. Walk up Cerro de la Cruz to the viewing point for a fantastic view of Manzanillo Bay and the mountains in the hinterland.
Yacht transportation can be arranged to a number of ports worldwide from the Port at Manzanillo.
