Anchorage
MAZATLAN
ANCHORAGE
Pilotage is not required but is recommended for anchoring. The preferred anchorage for small ships is within a triangular area between Isla Chivos, Isla Creston and Piedra Negra. The depth ranges from 42.7 to 88.6 ft (13-27 m). Port authorities indicate that ships anchoring in this area should remain clear of the approach to the entrance channel that is on a bearing of 023° with the lighted range. Larger ships, including aircraft carriers, normally use an anchorage located about 4 nmi south southwest of Isla Cardones (23°10.1'N 106°24.5'W). The depth ranges from 55.8 to 62.3 ft (17-19m). Both anchorages provide poor to moderate holding ground with mud bottoms. Port pilots stated during a site visit in February 2000 that ships could drag anchor with winds over 25 kt.
The Fleet Landing for small boats is located at the Tourist Wharf (Figure I-3). Catamarans with 40 passenger capacities may be used for larger ships with compliments of 800 or more personnel. Catamarans tie up at the Passenger Dock. Additionally, water taxis owned by Star Fleet, Yate Fiesta and Flota de Oro Marina may be used in conjunction with their associated piers in the Sport Fishing Fleet area on Isla Creston. It is a normal procedure for Navy and Coast Guard ships to use a breasting barge for water taxis and the catamarans.
There are no mooring buoys in the harbor.
Source: http://www.nrlmry.navy.mil/port_studies/thh-nc/mexico/mazatlan/text/sect4.htm
