Foto: Matias Capizzano

This site offers free valuable information and practical advise to help J/70 associations and teams prepare for success at the 2025 World Championship in Buenos Aires, Argentina. 

THE BASICS

Official info: https://j70ica.org/event/2025-j-70-world-championship/

Country: Argentina

City: Buenos Aires

Dates: 24/Oct to 01/Nov 2025

Organizing Authority: Yacht Club Argentino (YCA)

Argentinean J/70 Class Association: Web, Facebook, Instagram, Info@j70argentina.com.ar

SAILING LOCATION

The J/70 2025 World Championship will be raced in front of the city of Buenos Aires on the Rio de la Plata, a river 35 Nm miles wide. On one riverbank you find Argentina, on the other Uruguay. The geography around the place is flat and open. The world cup will take place in front of the commercial port of Buenos Aires.

Source: H116 (Río de la Plata Medio y Superior).JPG (8000×5815) 

Source: H156 (Puerto de Buenos Aires).JPG (4600×2897) 

Source: Yacht Club Argentino

BASIC SAILING CONDITIONS

Tip 1: allow for ca. one week to make yourself familiar with the boat and conditions

Tip 2: it may be worth hiring a local trainer to help master local waves and conditions

Geography

The Río de la Plata is the world’s widest river.  The area is characterized by flat and open terrain. This creates minimal geographical obstructions, allowing wind and weather patterns to be relatively predictable over the water.  This openness ensures consistent wind behavior but can also amplify the challenges posed by waves and currents. 

Water

The Río de la Plata is a freshwater system with a chocolate-brown color caused by sediment from upstream tributaries. Visibility is extremely limited, typically around 5 cm.

• Debris: Floating debris is common and includes branches, logs, trash and floating plants called "camalotes" 

• Camalotes (water hyacinths): while these plants are not hazardous to vessels, they can significantly reduce speed and require clearing of rudders and keels. These plants often harbor insects or small snakes. While not dangerous, they should be handled with caution. Crews are advised to use boat hooks or gloves to remove them when necessary.

Depth & Ground

In the racing area the river’s depth ranges from 2,50 to 3 ,00 mt. There are no underwater obstacles, sunken ships or islands. The bottom is of a very soft mud, minimizing the risk of damage in case of groundings. Pay close attention to course markings and avoid known shallow areas, especially during low tide periods.

Weather

The spring months of October and November in the Río de la Plata bring transitional weather conditions that can be both exciting and challenging. During this time, the region experiences increasing temperatures, variable winds, and frequent atmospheric instability as the transition from winter to summer progresses. 

Temperature

• Daytime highs typically range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), with occasional warmer days nearing 30°C (86°F).

• Nights are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F).

Wind (see wind chapter for more detail)

During October and November the average wind speeds of 10 knots. The prevailing wind direction tends to shift between southeast and northeast, influenced by frontal systems moving through the region.  During storms, expect sustained winds of 30-35 knots. 

Atmospheric Pressure

Average pressure for  October-November ranges 1010-1013 hpa. I have seldom seen pressure going above 1012 hpa. If pressure drops to 1000 hpa, it´s going to get ugly soon. If pressure drops to 990 hpa (as low as I have seen it), it´s going to get very ugly very soon. 

Rainfall and Storms

• Spring is a wet season, with 30% of days with showers due to convectional activity and passing weather fronts.

• Thunderstorms often develop in the afternoon or evening, bringing sudden gusty winds and heavy rainfall.

• Keep an eye on squalls, especially in the late afternoon, as they can arrive rapidly and affect racing conditions.

Visibility: Morning fog or mist is not uncommon, particularly on calm days. Visibility improves as the sun rises and temperatures increase.

Humidity levels are high all year round: 70% - 80% 

UV Exposure: spring marks the start of higher UV index levels. Use sunscreen and polarized eyewear.

Waves - Swell

The estuarial waters create a short, steep wave pattern that is particularly challenging for non-local crews. Waves in the Río de la Plata:

• have  2-3 seconds frequency

• are typically 0,5 mt to 1,5 mt but can increase rapidly when southeast winds exceed 12 knots. During Sudestadas, waves can grow to +2 mt

• sharp, choppy conditions make maintaining boat speed and control a challenge. 

There is no significant swell due to the enclosed nature of the river. However, prolonged southeast winds can cause localized wave amplification, mimicking small swell behavior near the open estuary.

Currents

The Río de la Plata’s currents are intermittent. Expect currents of up to 1 knot, flowing either upriver or downriver depending on prevailing conditions. Wind direction significantly affects the current. Strong southeast winds can create an artificial "incoming tide" effect by pushing water upriver, while north winds expedite outflow.

Tides

The tidal range in the Río de la Plata is modest, with a typical difference of about 0.6 meters between high and low tide. Wind-Driven Effects:

• North winds (≥12 knots): Reduce river depth and enhance outgoing tides

• Southeast winds (≥12 knots): Increase water levels and create incoming tides, often causing chop near shallow areas.

The combined effects of tide, wind, and current can lead to unexpected variations in water height. 

Sport Boat Traffic

The area where the World Championship will be raced has very limited recreational boat traffic, with most vessels being sailboats over 28 feet.

Commercial Boat Traffic

Due to the river’s shallow depth, all commercial vessels are restricted to artificial channels with approximately 8 meters of depth. Straying from the channel immediately results in grounding. Except for the ferries, the rest of the commercial traffic will move in and out of the port a very low speeds, generating almost no waves. 

Wild Life

Wildlife encounters during racing are rare. The estuary lacks large mammals, reptiles or dangerous marine species. Birdlife is abundant.

WIND

With a flat and open terrain, the Rio de la Plata has minimal geographical obstructions, allowing wind and weather patterns to be relatively predictable over the water.  This openness ensures consistent wind behavior but can also amplify the challenges posed by waves and currents. 

During October and November the average wind speeds is 10 kts. The prevailing wind direction tends to shift between southeast and northeast, influenced by frontal systems moving through the region.  During storms, expect sustained winds of 30-35 knots. These conditions are less frequent in spring but not uncommon, particularly with a strong southeast system.

When racing in IOR, IMS, PHRF we almost never used genoa 1 light. We would stick to G1 heavy as much as possible and then switch to G3. 

Northeast (NE)

• Brings warm, moist air from Brazil and the northern Atlantic.

• Speeds range from 10-15 kts, with gusts up to 20 kts on stronger days.

• Typically steady but can weaken in the late afternoon.

Southeast (SE) up to 15kts

• Moderate to fresh breezes coming from the open south Atlantic

• Creates a slight "plug" effect by pushing ocean water inland while simultaneously preventing the river from discharging its flow.

• waves build up quickly

Southeast (SE) +15kts

A key factor in spring weather, though less frequent. When sustained SE winds intensify, they can develop into a Sudestada, a powerful storm system, exponentially amplifying the effects:

• the "plug" effect causes water to raise 1-2 mts above normal, and in severe cases, up to 3 mts.

• Builds up gradually and lasts 1 to 3 days, bringing 100% cloud cover, heavy rain, and a sharp temperature drop.

• Winds remain consistently strong at 20+ knots, with gusts reaching 35+ knots

• Waves grow exponentially in height, but frequency is still short, creating rough and unpredictable conditions ("Hexenkessel", washing machine)

• As the wind begins to weaken, and the high water begin to drain, expect significant floating debris. This includes trees, logs, trash, large camalotes (water plants), and occasionally large dead animals such as cows and pigs.

Southwest (SW) or "Pampero":

• On a pre-Pampero day the sky will be clear, and the air is hot and very humid. You can almost feel in the air that something is wrong. 

• You will see it coming: look out for atmospheric pressure closing on the 1000hpa mark and a large dark cloud in the form of a cigar.

• When Pampero unleashes, it will bring a sharp drop in temperature, sharp wind shift and surge in wind speed to 25-35kts. Gusts can exceed 40 knots in extreme cases.

• High winds will last for up to 2 hours

Wind Shifts

Wind patterns in the Río de la Plata are relatively stable, with shifts typically averaging 10 degrees during race periods. Morning winds often start light, building steadily throughout the afternoon. A notable thermal component is present, especially on sunny days, as land and water temperatures diverge.

Frontal Systems: Post-frontal conditions often bring a steady south or southwest breeze, making it a favourable period for predictable tactical sailing.

Wind Gusts

Wind gusts in the Río de la Plata are a defining feature and should not be underestimated. Gusts often increase wind speed by 25%-40% above the average. These are especially common during unstable weather or when the wind shifts direction due to frontal activity. 

Videos and Photos

Weather Forecast

• Argentine meteo services for Rio de la Plata : | Servicio Meteorologico Nacional. (smn.gob.ar)

• Windguru: Windguru - Buenos Aires

• Windy www.windy.com/-34.577/-58.419/waves?waves,-35.259,-58.419,8 

Weather - Historical Data (source: Weatherspark)

!new! INSIGHTS FROM LOCAL PROS

Hear from argentinean professional local sailors with global experience what makes racing in Buenos Aires unique. Learn pitfalls to avoid, key things to consider and some tunning tips.

RELEVANT DATES

BOATS

Tip: secure your boat early

Rent / Charter

The J/70 fleet in and around the city of Buenos Aires has approx. 45 boats (as per July 2024). 

Uruguay (ca. 800km by land) has 17 boats of which 8 have already qualified for the World Championship.

The Argentine J/70 owners' association is committed to offer for rent all local boats that don’t participate in the WC. The association will facilitate initial contact between owners and crews wanting to rent. From there, negotiations will be held one to one. Please contact the J/70 Argentine Class Association to inquire for boats available for charter/rent (info@j70argentina.com).  

SAILS

Bring your own

Usually sails can be transported as oversized checked baggage. Check with the airline first. Usually there are no problems with Argentinean customs officials.

Local Sailmakers

Sailmakers used by the J70 Argentinean Association:

North Sails

Produces locally the same sails available here

Local contact for the J70 class: Guillermo Baquerizas (guillermo.baquerizas@northsails.com), +54-11-4725-0200

Quantum

Sails are produced outside Argentina and imported by Quantum.

Local contact for the J70 class: Alejandro Irigoyen (ale@quantumsails.com),  + 54 911 5421 9803

GEAR AND SERVICES

Gear Shops

Costanera Uno (website seems unresponsive) - 5 km from YCA -  See map

Baron   - 16 km from YCA -  See map

Nautica San Isidro  - 22 km from YCA - See map

Motorboats

The organizing authority does not provide motorboats for trainers. Boats can be rented from different sources:

• Riotecna: Juan Pablo Zizzi , info@riotecna.com, mobile: +54 9 11 6870 9091 

• Private owners: author can provide some contacts. Please request via email.

Local Trainers

• Alejandro Irigoyen (ale@quantumsails.com): 2nd and 3rd at J/70 Nationals and Southamericans, Coach to 470 bronze medallist, 17 times Arg champ in cadet, J/24, 470, Soto40 & ORC, 4 years experience helming in J/70.  Quantum sail designer. 

•  Sebastian Peri Brusa (contact@peribrusa.com): AC37 recon for Emirates Team New Zealand. Multiple-time champion as tactician in Palmavela and Conde de Godó, and runner-up in the Copa del Rey. J/24 Pan American Games medal. Youth sailor: 3rd in the Optimist World Championship, 1st in 420 World Championship, competed in 470 and 49er. Olympic Coach: Rio 2016 Swiss Men’s 470, Paris 2024 Uruguayan 49er

• more to come...

LOCAL TEAMS TO WATCH

Best Performing Argentine Teams on J70 Worlds 

(source:  https://j70argentina.com.ar/)

ACCOMODATIONS

Tip 1: Find accommodation in walking distance.

Tip 2: Book a refundable rate. 

Tip 3: Regularly check prices since -due to exchange rate variations- prices in USD / € could go significantly down.

• Accommodations inside YCA are NOT available. Crews will need to find a nearby hotel or apartment. 

• The YCA is located in Argentina´s most expensive (and most secure) neighbourhood. 

• I recommend to find something in walking distance.

• Try to rent a place with “parrilla” (grill) to enjoy Argentinean meat at home

• Car rental is possible. I personally don’t recommend it due to high costs, parking difficulties and challenging traffic conditions.

• Message from the Argentinean J/70 Association: "Official J/70 Accommodation: We are pleased to announce that Almarena Madero Urbano  Affiliated by Melia and Almarena Puerto Retiro Affiliated by Melia will be the J/70 Official Accommodation. Book your stay using the promotional code. We are currently working with the hotels so that the promotional code can be applied directly on their website. However, for those who prefer not to wait, you can already secure your booking by emailing the hotels directly with the subject “Reserva Mundial J70”. Reservations: Almarena Madero Urbano Affiliated by Melia: maderourbano@almarena.com.ar , Almarena Puerto Retiro Affiliated by Melia: reservaspuertoretiro@almarena.com.ar"

GETTING TO BUENOS AIRES

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Exchange Rate to US-Dollars

Argentina has multiple exchange rates with potentially a huge gap among them (in December 2023 the difference was ca. 150%). This will impact every payment you make. The most relevant exchange rates are:

Prices and Payments

• Bring US dollar bills, preferably of one hundred.

• € bills tend to be harder to exchange and you won't get a competitive rate. As per 12/Nov 2024, if you bring € bills, you will lose 10%-12% purchasing power.

• If you want to use a card, use a credit card. EC cards / Girocards rarely get accepted by the POS (you can leave them in Germany).

• Prices in shops and restaurants targeting tourist will be high

• Prices are non-negotiable

• However, based on the payment method (cash in AR$, cash in USD, credit card, etc.) and if you actually need a receipt, you could get significant discounts (10% - 20%). Ask which discounts they offer.

• If you are going to pay with USD bills, ask FIRST which exchange rate they will apply and check if it represents the current market value in https://www.lanacion.com.ar/dolar-hoy/

• In supermarkets expect offers and promotions with very high discount rates (30% to 50%) 

Moving around

Buenos Aires City plus its surroundings have a population of approx. 12 million people. Expect significant traffic jams and long travel times, even for short distances.

Recommendation: use Uber or Cabify to move around. They are widely available, and the rates are very convenient.

Car rental is possible. I personally don’t recommend it due to high costs, parking difficulties and challenging transit (rigth of way and even traffic lights are not always taken into consideration by other drivers)

Public transportation:

• the city has a dense network of buses and some urban trains and underground.

• Weekdays 7:30 to 10:00 and 17:00 to 19:00 will be very crowded

• You will need to get a card called “SUBE” to use public transport. The card can be bought at most kiosks but may require an online registration including an ID number.

• You will need to top-up the card with money at kiosks or train / underground stations

• Each trip will be billed separately

• There are no day o tourist tickets.

Avoid taxis picked up on the street.

Hygiene and Health

Medical emergency number: 107

Hygiene: Tap water is safe to drink. Hygiene standards are acceptable compared to Europeans ones.

Public Hospitals: If you have a live-threatening situation, this is the place you want to be. Public hospitals have very good professionals, so/so infrastructure and limited confort.

Private Hospitals: Argentina has a huge private medicine sector. Almost all persons with a formal employment will have private health coverage. Some of the biggest private hospitals and clinics are listed below. They tend to be in the city center at 4,2 km to 6,5 km from YCA. The biggest ones are:

• IADT

• Otamendi 

• Mater Dei

• Hospital Aleman

• Maternidad Suizo Argentina

• Hospital Italiano

Security

The area around YCA (Puerto Madero neighbourhood) is very safe. However, Buenos Aires is a big city with high crime rates. Some areas are more problematic than others. For an enjoyable experiencie in Buenos Aires, I recommend the following basic precautions:

• Leave rings and any jewellery in your home country, even if they don’t have significant value.

• Leave expensive watches in your home country

• If you use a smart watch for sailing, wear it only when sailing

• Don´t use your phone on the street. If you need to talk or message, find a place inside (shop, café, restaurant). If you need to check your phone for directions, do it quickly and put the phone away in your front pocket.

• When on the streets, just carry cash in Argentine Pesos. Leave credit cards, IDs, € / USD bills, etc at your stay

• If using a small backpack, put it always in front of you

• Always travel in groups

• Avoid empty streets

• Avoid going north of YCA (commercial port area)

• Avoid screaming or speaking very loud in a foreign language.

• Put your wallet always in a front pocket

• If you get robed DON´T RESIST. Burglars tend to be under the influence of drugs and can react very violently. 

Emergency

Police – 911

Medical Emergency - 107

German Embassy

Villanueva 1055, CABA

Hilfe für deutsche Staatsangehörige

Phone: +54 11 4778-2500

Emergency phone: + 54 911 4410 7268

Austrian Embassy

French 3671

Schutz und Hilfe im Ausland – BMEIA - Außenministerium Österreich

Phone: +54 11 4809 5800

Emergencies: +54 911 5750 1444

Swiss Embassy

Avenida Santa Fe 846 12° piso

Botschaft Buenos Aires

+54 11 4311 6491

EATING AND DRINKING

The following food is world-class in Argentina:

• Meat

• Pizza

• Pasta

• Sushi

• Ice cream (according to Süddeutsche Zeitung, the best Eisdiele in Bayern is from Argentina: Patagon Eisdiele)

• Wine (I´m not a wine drinker, but is what people say...)

You will get most of the usual international well-known brands from FMCG companies.

In Buenos Aires you can order food, groceries, pharmacy and drugstore items via the RAPPI app.

Pizza

At Home: I don’t recommend buying pizza from the supermarket. Good pizzerias are very local. Google “pizzeria” for nearby alternatives with delivery or take away options. You can order pizza via Rappi.

Restaurants (non-tourist alternatives): Las Cuartetas, Güerrin, Angelín, El Cuartito, Los Immortales (multiple locations), Kentucky (multiple locations). Google “pizzeria” for nearby alternatives

Sushi

Sushi is extremely good in Buenos Aires. Personally, I didn’t find a place in Munich that is as good (regardless of the price point).

At Home: Order sushi from SushiClub

Restaurants (non-tourist alternatives): SushiClub, Gran Bar Danzon, Nikkai Shokudo, Osaka

Empanadas

Empanadas are stuffed salted pastry. Usually they are filled with meet, cheese and jam. You eat them with your hands. It´s a great solution for eating onboard.

At Home: Google “empanadas” or "casa de empanadas" for close-by alternatives

Restaurants (non-tourist alternatives): El Sanjuanino – multiple locations, La Casita – multiple locations

Ice-cream

Ice-cream is very good in Buenos Aires. People eat ice-cream all year long. If you are at home, you can either pick it up or ask for delivery. Every neighbourhood has it´s own local ice cream shop. If you have lunch / dinner in restaurant, I recommend to have ice-cream afterwards in a shop.

At Home: Freddo, Rapanui, Daniel Helados, Google “heladeria”.

Ice shops: Freddo, Rapanui, Daniel Helados