Introduction

Due to their strategic location between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, Tarifa and the Strait of Gibraltar offer a unique and challenging sailing experience. This guide provides essential information for sailors navigating this region.

Wind Conditions

Two Primary Winds

• Levante: An easterly wind, often intense and gusty.
• Poniente: A westerly wind from the Atlantic, typically more humid and fresh.

Wind Strength

The area is known for its strong winds, with average speeds exceeding 22 km/h and gusts potentially reaching over 109 km/h.

Seasonal Variations

July and August statistically have fewer days of strong winds, potentially offering better sailing conditions.

Currents and Tides

• Strong currents: The Strait experiences powerful currents due to the meeting of the Mediterranean and Atlantic.
• Tidal influence: Plan your crossing around slack water for optimal conditions.

Navigation Challenges

• Heavy maritime traffic: The Strait is one of the busiest waterways globally, with over 300 container ships passing daily.
• Fog risk: Advection fog is common, especially in summer months near sunrise and sunset, potentially causing visibility issues.

Weather Considerations

• Water temperature: Ranges from 15°C in winter to 22-23°C in summer.
• Microclimate: The Tarifa area has a unique microclimate with sudden wind changes.

Marine Life

Cetacean hotspot: The area is home to various whale and dolphin species, including occasional orca sightings.

Sailing Strategies

• Eastbound passage: Aim to reach Tarifa at slack water (HW-GBR).
• Westbound passage: Plan to reach Tarifa 6 hours after HW-GBR for favourable currents.
• Route options: Sailors can choose between staying close to the European or African coasts, each with its considerations.

Safety Measures

• Maritime support: The area has Maritime Rescue Centers in Tarifa and Tangier for emergency assistance.
• Weather forecasts: Regularly check detailed weather forecasts, notably wind predictions.

Our Adventure

According to the forecast, we set out with a very light wind towards Gibraltar, but as we passed Faro de Trafalgar, the wind built in strength. Tarifa is one of the most recommended sites for windsurfing.

If you are coming in from the Atlantic, it is recommended that you wait for the westerly wind—the current runs from west to east from afternoon to evening.

The straits that connect the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea create a microclimate of currents, waves, and wind that sailors must study before passing through.

As we passed the lighthouse, the weather changed to light wind. Gibraltar rock rises to 406m. Beware of sudden gusts near the rock.

Gibraltar has two regions, one belonging to Spain and the other to the U.K. Yachts must always yield to naval and commercial vessels.

We anchored in Alcaidesa Marina, on the Spanish side, but you can choose from a respectable list of marinas.