Cabo San Lucas port closed to small boats due to heavy swell
The Harbor Master ordered the closure starting at 7:45 a.m. Tuesday until further notice, with swell of 3 to 5 feet and wind gusts up to 20 knots.
The port of Cabo San Lucas is closed to small-boat navigation from 7:45 a.m. this Tuesday, August 18, 2026, until further notice, due to heavy swell in the area. The measure was ordered by the Cabo San Lucas Harbor Master and applies to vessels under 500 gross tonnage units (UAB).
According to the maritime authority, the closure is a response to east-northeast winds of 15 knots with gusts up to 20 knots and swell of 3 to 5 feet, with overcast skies and a blue-yellow weather signal. Cloud buildup with the possibility of a squall is also expected during the day.
The Harbor Master urged nautical service providers, fishermen and the general public to respect the maritime authority's provisions and to avoid activities at sea while the closure lasts. The port will reopen only when conditions improve and the agency itself gives notice.
Gross tonnage units measure a vessel's internal volume, not its weight: the 500-UAB limit covers pangas, sport-fishing boats, jet skis and most corridor tour boats, while larger ships may keep operating at the authority's discretion.
As practical guidance, anyone with a booked catamaran cruise, whale-shark or fishing outing should check directly with the operator whether the trip is postponed or rescheduled, and request a refund where applicable. Before setting out it is best to confirm the port's status with the Harbor Master, not head out on your own even if the sea looks calm from shore, and report any emergency at sea to 911.
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