SmoCo Sailingvideo

[Ep 19] Tacos, Wine, & Checking Into Mexico By Boat | Ensenada, Mexico

29 July 2025 · 25 min · 658 views · Ensenada

What this video covers

The crew of the 40-ft sailboat *Cosmo* completes the official maritime check-in process in Ensenada, Mexico, the first port of entry for vessels arriving from the north.2:51 The process requires marina staff to facilitate paperwork with immigration and the port captain, as anchoring is prohibited in the harbor.3:06 The owners secure Mexican liability insurance through Novomar, noting annual premiums between $198 and $316, and obtain their Temporary Import Permit (TIP) through the marina office.1:43 While in Ensenada, the crew attempts to source diesel for their 60-gallon tank and 20 gallons of reserve jerry cans, though they encounter supply shortages at local fuel stations.12:06 They provision for a planned two-day passage to Baja Tortugas, stocking groceries and local wine from the Santo Tomas winery.6:41 The crew emphasizes the necessity of staying within marina grounds until the check-in is finalized and recommends using local marina staff to navigate the bureaucratic requirements.1:07

Watch on YouTube

More from SmoCo Sailing

Real Time Update from SmoCo Sailing - Location, Hurricane Prep, and Another Piece of Bad NewsSept 2026Surviving Project Burnout Living on a Sailboat & Our Mini Getaway to Caleta Lobos | Ep 79Sept 2026We Fixed One Major Problem On Our Sailboat... And Immediately Found Another | Ep 78Sept 2026The Discovery That Ruined Our Winter Cruising Plans & Marine Fridge Install | La Paz, Mexico | Ep 77Aug 2026

From SmoCo Sailing — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.

Report an issue