Which airport do I fly into for a Sea of Cortez sailing course?

Most Canadians fly into Los Cabos (SJD), which has direct winter flights from Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, then take a 2.5 to 3 hour shuttle north to La Paz. You can also fly into La Paz (LAP) directly by connecting through Mexico City or Guadalajara, which lands you about 20 minutes from the marina.

Where does the Sea of Cortez course start and end?

The course starts and ends at Marina La Paz in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Boarding is early afternoon on Day 1 and the boat is back alongside by 10:00 on the final day. Plan at least one hotel night in La Paz before boarding.

When is the Sea of Cortez sailing season?

The season runs December through April. Winter days average 25 to 27 degrees Celsius under clear skies, and desert nights drop to about 13 to 15 degrees Celsius, so bring a warm layer. The water stays comfortable enough to swim.

What are El Norte winds in the Sea of Cortez?

El Norte are strong winter northerlies that funnel down the Sea of Cortez, typically 20 to 30 knots for two to four days at a time. The islands act as a natural breakwater against ocean swell, so instructors build the itinerary around the forecast and use the conditions to teach reefing and anchoring.

What should I pack for a Sea of Cortez liveaboard course?

Pack in soft-sided, collapsible luggage only, as there is nowhere to store wheeled bags aboard. Bring warm-weather clothing plus a fleece and windbreaker for cool desert nights, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, water shoes, snorkel gear, a headlamp, your passport, and your Sail Canada logbook.

Do I need travel insurance for the Sea of Cortez course?

Yes. Winter courses are non-refundable, so travel insurance is strongly recommended to protect against medical emergencies, delayed flights, and unexpected trip interruptions. Ask Cathy Davis about coverage when booking.

Where should I stay in La Paz before the course?

Stay along the malecón waterfront or near Marina La Paz, both a short walk or taxi from the boat. Options run from boutique hotels to budget stays and Airbnbs, typically CAD $120 to $250 per night. Book early for the December to April season.

Sea of Cortez Base Guide | La Paz, Mexico

Welcome Aboard

Congratulations!

Welcome and congratulations on taking the next step in your sailing journey. We are excited to have you aboard for our Sea of Cortez adventure out of La Paz, Mexico.

This trip combines living aboard with hands-on Sail Canada instruction as we island-hop north of La Paz through the desert islands of the Sea of Cortez. You will gain confidence, build real cruising skills, and sail one of the quietest, most beautiful cruising grounds in the world.

Your Cruising Ground

The Route

Our route is weather dependent and set day by day around the wind and the El Norte forecast. Below is the cruising ground you will explore.

A typical week sails north from Marina La Paz to the sheltered anchorages of Isla Espíritu Santo and Isla Partida, roughly twenty miles up the coast. Days are spent sail training between the islands and at anchor practicing docking, anchoring, and passage planning. Nights are spent tucked into quiet desert coves, most of which you will have to yourselves.

Getting There

Flights & Transfers

There are two good ways in. Most Canadians fly into Los Cabos (SJD), which has direct winter flights from Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, then take a shuttle or transfer 2.5 to 3 hours north to La Paz. You can also fly into La Paz (LAP) directly by connecting through Mexico City or Guadalajara, which lands you about 20 minutes from the marina.

We will coordinate details through a WhatsApp group closer to departure so everyone has the latest information. Please plan a hotel night in La Paz before boarding, and allow flexibility on departure day in case of delays.

Marina La Paz

Our meeting point for check-in and boarding

Boarding: Early afternoon on Day 1
Return: Alongside by 10:00 on the final day
Location: La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico

Tip: If you transfer to SJD on the final day, book flights home after 2:00 pm, or stay a final night on the malecón and fly out the next morning.

Where to Stay

Hotels in La Paz

Plan at least one night in La Paz before boarding. The best area to stay is along the malecón (the waterfront promenade) or near Marina La Paz, both a short walk or taxi from the boat.

Options range from boutique waterfront hotels to budget stays and Airbnbs, typically CAD $120 to $250 per night, about half what you would pay in the Caribbean. Book early for the December to April season.

Tip: Staying on the malecón puts you steps from restaurants, taxis, and the marina, and gives you an easy first evening before the trip begins.

Health

Sea Sickness

If you are prone to sea sickness, it is best to plan ahead so you can fully enjoy your time on the water. A few simple steps make a big difference:

Stay well hydrated and get plenty of rest before sailing
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and greasy foods
Spend time above deck, keep your eyes on the horizon, and take the helm if you are comfortable, it often helps to steady you
Let your crew and instructor know if you are not feeling well so we can support you

Over-the-counter or prescription remedies can also be effective if you know you are prone to motion sickness. Sometimes it occurs on the first day and your body acclimates to the rhythm of being at sea.

Note for the Sea of Cortez: Much of the sailing is in protected water between the islands. When a winter El Norte blows through, the open stretches can feel rolly, so being prepared ahead of time means you will spend more time enjoying the adventure.

Important

Travel Insurance

We HIGHLY recommend you purchase travel insurance for this trip.

Winter courses are non-refundable. Travel insurance can protect you in the event of medical emergencies, delayed flights, or unexpected trip interruptions. Having coverage means peace of mind for you and your crew, and ensures your investment in this adventure is protected.

SO PLEASE BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE!

If you have questions about the best insurance for you, please inquire with Cathy Davis when booking.

Questions?

Get in Touch

Email us at hello@happysailing.ca for any concerns or suggestions.

Contact Us

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Welcome to Your Sea of Cortez Adventure

Congratulations!

The Route

Flights & Transfers

Marina La Paz

Hotels in La Paz

Sea Sickness

Travel Insurance

We HIGHLY recommend you purchase travel insurance for this trip.

Packing List

Clothing

Essentials

Gear

Course Materials

Highly Recommended Purchases

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