SmoCo Sailingvideo
[Ep 19] Tacos, Wine, & Checking Into Mexico By Boat | Ensenada, Mexico
July 29, 2025 · 25 min · 599 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
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