Santa Marta Colombia

Where the Caribbean Sea Meets the Mountains
By Daniel Spath | Boatshed Colombia.

A Rising Star in the Caribbean Yachting Scene Tucked between turquoise Caribbean waters and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada peaks, Santa Marta is one of the most breath taking coastal cities in South America — and a hidden gem for the global cruising community.
Founded in 1525, it’s Colombia’s oldest surviving city and a vital stopover for yachts crossing the Caribbean. At its heart lies the IGY Marina Santa Marta, a state-of-the-art facility offering 256 slips, 24/7 security, fuel dock, high-speed Wi-Fi, and full customs assistance — all set within a hurricane-free zone.

Each year, the marina hosts the World ARC rally, welcoming sailors from the World Cruising Club fleet as they make landfall from St. Lucia. Crews are greeted with Colombian hospitality — cultural tours, beach BBQs, and excursions into the nearby mountains and rainforest.

Pro tip: The marina fills quickly during ARC season (January–February). Book well in advance if you’re planning to join the rally or stop en route to Panama.

From Marina to Mountains: The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta The highest coastal mountain range in the world, visible from the marina docks

Just a few miles inland, the landscape transforms into the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the highest coastal mountain range in the world — rising nearly 5,800 meters above sea level.

This region holds deep cultural and ecological importance. The Kogui, Arhuaco, Wiwa, and Kankuamo peoples call it the Heart of the World, preserving millennia-old traditions of balance between humans and nature. Visitors can join guided tours that respectfully engage with indigenous communities and explore cascading waterfalls, coffee farms, and sacred valleys.

Hidden among the jungle foothills is Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City) — an ancient Tayrona archaeological site predating Machu Picchu. The trek there, spanning 4–5 days through lush rainforest, is one of the most unforgettable adventures in Colombia.

Tayrona National Natural Park: Colombia’s Coastal Paradise The iconic twin-bay beach of Cabo San Juan — a symbol of Tayrona’s wild beauty

East of Santa Marta lies Tayrona National Natural Park, a 150-square-kilometre sanctuary where mountains meet the sea. Golden beaches like Bahía Concha, Playa Cristal, and Cabo San Juan are framed by tropical forest and crystal-clear water teeming with marine life.

Hiking trails wind through ancient Tayrona paths and palm-lined coves, while snorkelling and eco-lodging options make it ideal for sustainable travel. The park is also co-managed with indigenous communities to ensure cultural and environmental protection.

Travel Tip: Tayrona closes for short periods each year (usually in February, June, and October) for spiritual and environmental renewal — always check park schedules before visiting.

Where Sea, Spirit, and Culture ConvergeFor sailors, Santa Marta is more than a safe port — it’s a crossroads of nature, culture, and community. Between the marina’s modern comfort, the mystique of the Sierra Nevada, and the wild beauty of Tayrona, it’s easy to see why this coastal haven has become a favorite stop for world cruisers.

After long days at sea, there’s nothing quite like watching the sunset over the mountains, drink in hand, knowing you’re anchored at the edge of one of the planet’s most diverse ecosystems.

For Further information about Yachting in Santa Marta, Cartagena and Panama contact our team.

Maurice Lemaitre
mauricelemaitre@boatshedcolombia.com
Whatsapp +57 313 5378723

Daniel Spath
danielspath@boatshedcolombia.com
Whatsapp +57 320 5438700

https://colombia.boatshed.com/

https://panama.boatshed.com/