Isla Espiritu Santo and Isla Partida are among the many treasures of the Sea of Cortez. Nearly connected by a sandspit, they are practically one landform. In the distant past, these two islands were joined, until forces deep in the Earth separated them from one another (Isla Partida means “the island that parted” in Spanish). Both islands have many snug coves on the west side ideal for anchoring and taking the dinghy ashore to explore. Pristine white-sand beaches fringe the shore. Inland on Isla Espiritu Santo the mountains are as high as 2,000 feet above sea level. Yachting in Isla Espiritu Santo waters is a highlight of a charter in the Sea of Cortez.
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No moorings are available. One of the most protected anchorages in the area is in Caleta Partida (Partida Cove). It’s located in the slot between Isla Espiritu Santo and Isla Partida. The bight in the north side of the cove is the preferred spot. Holding is good in a sandy bottom. There’s a little fish camp ashore to the north. Pelicans like it in the cove. Also at Isla Partida you’ll find ample room to anchor in scenic Ensenada Grande, a bay at the north end of the island. Snorkeling is excellent. Holding is good in sand. The main anchorages on the west side of Isla Espiritu Santo are Caleta Candlero, Puerto Ballena, and Bahia Santo Gabriel. Due to better protection afforded at Isla Partida, the anchorage there is well suited for overnight stays in unsettled weather.
Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.
According to The Nature Conservancy, Isla Espiritu Santo has the most intact ecosystem in the entire Sea of Cortez. On its more than 23,000 craggy acres live animals found nowhere else on Earth, including the blacktailed jackrabbit, the ground squirrel, and two species of snakes; 53 regional endemic species of plants grow there. Sea lions bask on the shores and more than 500 species of fish teem around the nearby coral reefs. This wonder of Nature is both beautiful and fascinating, well worth forays ashore, exploring by dinghy along the coast, and snorkeling to view the sea creatures on the reefs.
No facilities for yachts are available.
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