Puerto Villamil - Docking
Yachtgala is a local agent based in the Galapagos Islands for cruisers, we assist cruisers in all the services they required during their stay in Galapagos Islands with the most competitive prices.
We provide services such as obtaining entry permit to Galapagos waters, technical services, tours etc.
Contact Yachtgala on Ph: +593 98 157 0856 or cruisers@yachtgala.com.ec.
WhatsApp us on https://wa.me/593981570856
Visit us at https://www.yachtgala.com.ec
CloseEntry
The harbor is protected by a southern string of low islands and reefs. While there is a small boat entry through these islands, sailboats will need to round to the south and west of the group and enter through a buoyed channel. Entry is not easy as it is encumbered with reefs, so make sure you arrive with good light and keep a good lookout for reefs in the approaches to the anchorage.
Anchorage
The anchorage area is bounded by low volcanic islets, is generally quite calm but it is best to anchor in as far as possible to avoid any swell. The available area is a lot smaller than it looks as you enter because it is mostly filled with submerged reefs and shoals. Reefs are above water at low tide.
The water in this protected area is quite shallow – 3 to 4 meters. There are large coral slabs on the bottom so it is easy to foul the anchor, but the anchorage is well protected from the swell.
Swimming and kayaking around the anchorage are not permitted.
Dinghy Docks
There are two dinghy dock areas.
There is a very convenient, big concrete pier in the town, however, the approach through the surf can be difficult and there is a lot of swells. Useful for a quick drop off, or visit.
The main dinghy dock is to the very east of the town, it is however used by a lot of local boats so space is premium. You will need to use your dinghy anchor here.
At high to mid tide, it is possible to carefully pick your way directly from the anchorage to this dock. At lower tides, you have to go out around the long way. Land at the small yellow pontoon east of the quay, or on the beach west of the same quay – go the western end of this small beach where there is less breaking swell. A local fisherman, Henry Segovia, runs a small bar and restaurant on this beach – The Little Yacht Club.
To reach the town from this dock, follow the road, which bears to the left and stay left when the road branches. The town is about a 15-20 minute walk away.
Services for yachts are very limited.
The Capitania is in the settlement, about one km to the west. All boats must report here.
There are some fees to be paid: anchorage, exit permit (zarpe) as well as overtime at weekends. The port captain will allow up to 20 days.
Rubbish Disposal
It seems that in 2019 there is no longer any recycling here. Rubbish can be disposed of by the dinghy dock. There is a fee of US$10 per person to use the toilets here and dispose of rubbish.
James, at the Booby Trap Bar, is a mine of information.
Last updated: May 2019
If you have information for this section, or feedback on businesses used, please let us know at editor@noonsite.com. We also welcome new information about businesses you have used (see Related Businesses).
Next Section: Profile: Yacht Clubs
Related to following destinations: Galapagos, Isabela, Puerto Villamil
Port Navigation
Courtesy Flag Discounts
YachtFlags.com provides high quality courtesy flags that are manufactured in durable Knitted Polyester fabric. Knitted so that the fabric itself does not deteriorate in the constant movement that marine flags are usually exposed to, and polyester so that the flag does not weaken in the strong UV-light usually found in the main sailing areas of the world.
YachtFlags.com offers a discount to Noonsite members.
Use the coupon code NOONSITE_5A2B when checking out to get 10% off today.
Buy Now On YachtFlags.comMain Ports - Galapagos
Courtesy Flag Discounts
YachtFlags.com provides high quality courtesy flags that are manufactured in durable Knitted Polyester fabric. Knitted so that the fabric itself does not deteriorate in the constant movement that marine flags are usually exposed to, and polyester so that the flag does not weaken in the strong UV-light usually found in the main sailing areas of the world.
YachtFlags.com offers a discount to Noonsite members.
Use the coupon code NOONSITE_5A2B when checking out to get 10% off today.
Buy Now On YachtFlags.com
Hi
Good experiences on this island, friendly people v helpful. Visit ‘booby trap’ great atmosphere, brilliant food cold beer and the best wifi we found on the island. Run by Jim and marline from the U.S. nothing is too much trouble
Andy
Sent from my iPhone
Reported by Karsten Staffeldt:
A Danish yacht just arrived Villamil without a prior Autographo and requested a transit call. Had a clearance from Panama with next port Marquesas. Appointed
de Soto as an agent, granted a 20 days stay no problems but a very extensive inspection of the yacht, all equipment and stores/provisions on board. Also reported quite expensive – the total cost close to US$ 1000.
A new Port Captain was appointed in Puerto Villamil mid-March 2014, and to begin with, was interpreting the rules differently and not permitting boats without an Autographo to clear-in there. However, this has now been resolved and boats without an Autographo can once more clear-in at Isabela and be granted a one-island 20-day stay. See the main Galapagos formalities page for further information.