Sailing the Strait of Gibraltar
The Straits of Gibraltar is a narrow waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It is a heavily traversed route for ships between Europe and Africa and can be treacherous due to strong currents, high winds, and heavy shipping traffic. It is essential to have a well-equipped boat and a knowledgeable crew and to follow all safety procedures and regulations when crossing the Straits.
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Despite the potential risks, many sailors relish the challenge and thrill of navigating the Straits of Gibraltar. With careful planning and preparation, a crossing can be a safe and rewarding experience. To help you plan a successful and secure passage, we have compiled information from various sources into this one-stop portal. Use this information to confidently plan your crossing and enjoy the sense of achievement that comes with sailing through the Straits of Gibraltar.
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The currents in the Straits of Gibraltar are influenced by several factors, including the tides, the wind, and the shape of the coastline. The tides in the Straits of Gibraltar are predominantly semi-diurnal, meaning that there are two high tides and two low tides each day. The tides are caused by the gravitational forces of the moon and the sun acting on the Earth's oceans.
The tides in the Straits of Gibraltar have a significant effect on the currents in the area. During high tide, water flows into the Mediterranean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean, and during low tide, water flows out of the Mediterranean Sea and into the Atlantic Ocean. This causes a current known as the Atlantic inflow, which is a major contributor to the overall circulation of the Mediterranean Sea.
The wind also plays a role in the currents in the Straits of Gibraltar. When the wind blows from the Atlantic Ocean towards the Mediterranean Sea, it can push the surface water in the straits towards the Mediterranean, causing a current known as the wind-driven current. On the other hand, when the wind blows from the Mediterranean towards the Atlantic, it can push the surface water in the opposite direction, causing a current known as the wind-driven outflow.
In summary, the currents in the Straits of Gibraltar are influenced by a combination of factors, including the tides, the wind, and the shape of the coastline. These currents play a significant role in the overall circulation of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean
Sailors crossing the straits should also be aware of the potential for strong winds and rough seas, as well as other hazards such as shipping traffic and rocky coastlines. It is important to carefully calculate a proper passage plan, monitor weather, and sea conditions before you start, and follow safety procedures to ensure a successful and safe voyage.
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Passage planning: Distance
About 36 NM long and, 8 NM in width.
The strait’s western side is about 20 NM wide.
The eastern side is about 14 miles wide.
Passage planning: Wind:
The Straits of Gibraltar's weather is influenced by the easterly "Levante" and westerly "Poniente" winds that blow through the Strait year-round. Due to the region's unique geography, with mountains to the north and south, these winds can create sudden and unpredictable stormy conditions. Many times, weather and wind applications can provide inaccurate forecasts, so it is important to be prepared for strong and unexpected winds when sailing in the Straits. We recommend reefing your sails in advance and constantly monitoring the conditions around you to ensure a safe and smooth passage through the Strait.
Before entering the Straits of Gibraltar from any direction you must check and understand the wind direction and gusting strength.
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Passage planning: Currents / Tidal Streams
Very Strong currents and tidal streams may be experienced in the Strait of Gibraltar. The maximum rates of surface flow in each direction (East to West or West to East) can range from about 3 to 4 knots, and in some locations across Strait it can reach up to 6 knots. Knowing the tidal direction will help you plan your route in order to take advantage of the currents and make your passage through the Strait faster and more efficient.
Passage planning: Internal Waves.
Very interesting video explaining the unique internal waves in the straits.
Passage planning: Traffic and AIS:
Approximately 300 ships cross the Strait every day, about one ship every 5 minutes!
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.
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We strongly recommend using radar (day or night) when crossing the Straits of Gibraltar to ensure safe and efficient navigation in these busy waterways, there are many small fishing boats in the area that do not use AIS to identify themselves.
Another "relaxing" sailing day in the Bay of Gibraltar.
