ADEN TO PORT SUDAN

It is 100 miles from Aden to Bab El Mandeb (the Gates of Sorrow) and then on to Port Sudan is another 550 miles.  Many yachties leave Aden in the afternoon so that they can traverse the narrow strait of Bab El Mandeb during daylight the following day. This is not really necessary as the lighthouses are very reliable and the ships are well lit and professional.

Leave Aden on 14th March. This is the best time of the year to enter the Red Sea. The Red Sea is tricky and difficult but if you are following this schedule then your timing is the best possible.

The passage from Aden to Bab El Mandeb (the southern narrow entry to the Red Sea) is good.  You should experience either no wind or a good following wind. However it can also often be fast and furious as the wind channels thru the narrow strait.  Be prepared to drop your mainsail and go through under a strong headsail only. You may get your first gale here and if you do it will be a good ride forward.  Make sure that you do not carry any mainsail; a small jib will give good speed and complete and easy control.

THE CORAL IS BEAUTIFUL AND DANGEROUS.

THIS IS A MILITARY OUTPOST AT PORT BERENICE.

WALLABY CREEK IN A TYPICAL RED SEA ANCHORAGE. FASCINATING ISN’T IT?

Within a few days you may enter a cloudy region. This is the convergence zone and is the end of the southerly winds.  There are not strong winds in this zone but it is cloudy with rain.  It lasts about 100miles. When you are thru, the cloud disperses and you are in the light northerly winds.

By the time you get halfway to Port Sudan the wind will probably have turned to the north.

The fishing here is the best in the world so get your lures out and enjoy fresh fish every day. Trevally, mackerel, tuna and barracuda.  Also on the reefs with your spear gun you will catch parrot fish, cod, trout and sweet lips.