Sailing & Cruises in Uruguay
Cruise tourism is one of the fastest growing tourism activities in the world. Uruguay is a clear example of this growth, boasting a number of cruise passengers disembarking that exceeds 400 thousand and averages 160 moorings.
There are several reasons why cruise passengers choose Uruguay as their destination. Security, the cordiality and friendliness of its citizens, the accessibility of currency exchange, multiple options when it comes to shopping and great gastronomy are just some of them.
Uruguay offers great opportunities for the development of water tourism activities. The country has 718 kilometers of coastline (240 km on the Atlantic Ocean) and a dense network of natural waterways, which provide an ideal setting for the enjoyment of water activities. This network is formed by four main basins: Río de la Plata, Río Uruguay, Río Negro and Laguna Merín.
The geographical characteristics of the country, which has 718 kilometers of coastline (240 km on the Atlantic Ocean) and a dense hydrographic network, provide an ideal setting for the enjoyment of nautical activities. This network is made up of four main basins: Río de la Plata, Río Uruguay, Río Negro and Laguna Merín, which are home to a significant set of navigable waterways.
Tourists can find a wide range of possibilities, whether it is sailing in privileged natural areas, taking boat trips, sport fishing or doing water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing, and boating.
Weather conditions in Uruguay are one of the main comparative advantages for sailors. The average annual temperature is around 17.5°C, while the average wind speed ranges between 14 and 15 km/h.
Navigating the islands of the Uruguay River
Nuevo Berlín is one of the best access points to the Uruguay River’s exuberant nature. Various islands can be seen from its shore and are an ideal spot for spotting indigenous fauna and flora. It is possible to navigate the open-river in small boats and reach narrow creeks where the sights and sounds of nature envelop visitors.
Those who do not own a boat can rent them from fishermen who offer tours for groups of 2-6 people. These boats are a great option for people who love fishing, and the locals are a great source of advice for finding the best catch in the area. The tours usually visit several areas like Polaco, Redonda, Filomena, Chileno, Roman, Burro, Naranjo, and Santa Marta Chica islands, among others.