Tucked into a nook in Ensenada Grande
The east sides of Islas Espiritu Santo and Partida are serrated with a series of bays perfect for anchoring when there’s no west wind in the forecast. We took advantage in a break in the Coromuel winds and headed for Ensenada Grande.
Exploring the rugged desert shoreline
A three-lobed bay nearly at the top of Isla Partida, Ensenada Grande is a typical Sea of Cortez anchorage. Dry and red, the cactus-studded hills drop precipitously to the bright blue water, interrupted only by stretches of brilliant white sand beach.
Paddle boarding was the perfect way to check out the bay
Madrone tucked into a small nook on the south side of the southernmost lobe of the bay. Anchored in the shadow of the cliffs for two days, the crew took advantage of the flat calm conditions to break out the hookah for some long overdue bottom cleaning – it’s amazing how quickly barnacles and algae grow on the bottom of the hull and on the running gear under the boat.
But all work is no fun, so the work was interrupted for exploration of the bay by paddleboards, for exploration of the cliffs on foot, and for admiration of the sunset with cold cervezas.
