[Wellsy]

I am currently making plans to take a 100ft Bennetti from Grenada to the outerlying Venezuelan islands (La Blanquilla, La Orchilla, Los Roques) and then eventually further on to Bonaire. The guests do not wish to go anywhere near the mainland or Isla Margarita due to the high rate of piracy in this area recently. This presents a problem for me as the outer islands are apparently not an offical port of clearance in and out of the country. Has anyone been through this area recently that could contribute some extra information? Is there a way to clear into Los Roques with the local coast guard, clear out and then proceed straight to Bonaire from there? The cruising guides are saying that you cannot do this but i'd like to know for sure. Also does anyone have a contct for an agent in these parts?

Cheers,

Wellsy

[FISHTIGUA]

Hi,
Sorry but the easiest way is to clear-in is in Margarita, don't go to the main Marina but go half a mile further up the coast to the new marina where you can go stern-to. Its quite safe but you can get a little swell in there.

Blanquilla is mainly fishermen in huts, we used to pickup live bait there.

Orchilla is a military base and sailors not welcome (I think, we never went there in 6 years working fulltime in Ven).

Los Roc is utterly beautiful, fantastic diving and fishing (one guy caught 1000 white marlin in one month). Remember it is a National Park, so can be a bit strict in 'town' but all the outer areas are fine.

The easiest way to clear-out is in Carrabiedda (rubbish spelling), just south of La Guira. Three good marinas and used to yachts clearing (I know, mainland again but it really is the best way).

I've being cruising there on and off since '87 and only had one incident anchored out. A diveboat dragged onto the bow and failed to pay-up.

From there Sotovent and Bellovent are on the way to Bonaire. This is all from memory and I have'nt got the chart in front of me, but feel free to give me a PM for any more assistance.

Fish