Marina Shortages Reshape Boating in Baja California Sur.
Docking Dilemma: Marina Shortages Reshape Boating in Baja California Sur
By Arturo, Cabo Sportfishing Magazine
For the past three years, marinas in Baja California Sur—particularly in Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, and La Ribera—have been operating at or near full capacity, creating significant challenges for boaters seeking dock space.
This saturation has led to a notable shift in the regional boating industry, with a growing emphasis on trailerable boats as a practical alternative.
Cabo San Lucas: Navigating Turbulent Waters
In April 2024, the Cabo Marina faced a major upheaval when the Mexican Navy seized its assets amid a concession dispute with IGY Marinas.
The sudden action left many boat owners and crews stranded, as access gates were chained without prior notice, and essential services like water, electricity, and fuel were suspended. Although the marina reopened shortly after under the administration of ASIPONA, the incident underscored the vulnerabilities within marina operations and the pressing need for reliable docking solutions .
La Paz: Growth Outpacing Infrastructure
La Paz has experienced a tourism boom, with hotel room capacity increasing by 20% and occupancy rates soaring, especially during peak seasons . While marinas like Marina de La Paz continue to offer full services, the surge in visitors has intensified competition for limited slip space, making it increasingly difficult for boaters to secure docking during high-demand periods.
La Ribera: Development and Displacement
The Costa Palmas development in La Ribera has transformed the local coastline, introducing new marinas and luxury amenities. However, this expansion has come at a cost to the local fishing community, with approximately 80 fishermen facing restricted access to traditional fishing areas due to the project’s construction and environmental changes.
The situation highlights the complex balance between development and the preservation of local livelihoods.
Embracing Trailerable Boats: A Practical Solution
In response to the marina shortages, there has been a marked increase in the popularity of trailerable boats. These vessels offer flexibility and independence, allowing owners to bypass congested marinas and explore diverse locations with ease.
Dealerships in Cabo and La Paz report a surge in demand for trailerable models, such as center consoles and pocket cruisers, catering to both sportfishing enthusiasts and leisure boaters.
As Baja California Sur continues to attract tourists and boating aficionados, the region faces the challenge of expanding its marina infrastructure to meet growing demand.
In the meantime, trailerable boats present a viable and increasingly popular alternative for those seeking to navigate the rich waters of the Baja peninsula without the constraints of traditional docking facilities.
For more insights and updates on Baja’s boating scene, stay tuned to Cabo Sportfishing Magazine.
