SAILORS AND CRUISERS NETWORKING PARTY ° CARTAGENA ° COLOMBIA ° SATURDAY January 18TH, 2025
For a full gallery of images follow this collage above - 23 Panama Posse vessels registered for the event
The event started out with a briefing of the Panama Posse to the CLUB DE PESCA CARTAGENA Patrons - the Yacht club members invited all foreign flagged skippers to participate in the Caribbean Regatta
Meet the Leader of Club de Pesca - Ileana a
good friend to sailors who many moons ago said YES to the Panama Posse
and this new event turned out a cooperative celebration between local
and international sailors
How
important is the event ? The high ranking Harbor master came to the
event to support and improve relations with visiting yachts. Yachting
tourism is an important factor to Colombia's yachting industry and for
local business'.
After the regatta winners where announced it was time to get down to party business
Discerning Panama Posse sailor Erwin SY 10IN2 🇦🇹 Jeanneau 44.9' on hand to taste test Flor De Caña rum in the PP Carinthia mixed drink
The mingling of local sailors and Panama Posse vessels at the historic site of Fuerte de San Sebastián del Pastelillo
The Panama Posse potluck protocol - best dishes on display for taste testing by restaurant chefs
Augmented by a massive local classic rice dish ( 2.5 meter paella )
Chef PETRA from SY SUTJE wins the GALLEY GODDESS AWARD - hands down Flor de Caña 12 year old Rum
With a big thank you to the incredible staff of Club de Pesca Cartagena ! Hasta el próximo año !
Flor de Caña is a brand of premium rum manufactured and distributed by
Compañía Licorera de Nicaragua which is headquartered in Managua,
Nicaragua and dates back as far as 1890
(3) OCEAN POSSE PARTY PANAMA + SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
FLEET MEET UP
SAT. FEB 3 '24 SHELTER BAY MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
IMPORTANT:
This event is in the middle of high season. The Shelter Bay
Marina will be near capacity so make reservations early.
Additionally, we are also going to organize a shuttle bus to get
folks to this event from alternate locations.
(4) PANAMA POSSE AWARDSFUN ACTIVITIES, GOLF, POOL, DJ LOUNGE, + MARINE EXPO
SAT. MAY 11 '24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
This is a very exclusive signature event in the Hamptons of Panama.
The upscale resort Buenaventura is just 80 minutes west of Panama City
and is one of the most charming and reserved places on the Pacific coast
of Panama. Only 60 nm from the Las Perlas.
Beat, Caroline, dogs & Heyson Garcia - YES PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB IS UBER DOG FRIENDLY
>
We,
Caroline Imfeld and Beat Rettich are running this place since January
2021. We moved from Switzerland to Belize in 2019 and found this
treasure while looking for a dock for our yacht.
Simplicity on a high level is our aim and to make our guests happy.
FOR RESERVATIONS AND MOORINGS @ PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB
Meet mingle and share your sailing stories in Belize !
6) UNFORGETTABLE VISIT TO ISLA ISABEL 🇲🇽 MEXICO
Eastern anchorage off Isla Isabel with Las Monas on the left
TRIP REPORT:
We sailed in (to Isla Isabel)from Mazatlan overnight, arriving after daybreak the next morning. Based on great advice from C-YA
Glenn, we went right for the eastern anchorage. There were
already 4 boats in the anchorage, but we still found room to drop our
anchor in 40’ of water. Conditions were calm during our stay, with
light winds from the NW, dying completely at times. Even so,
there was some swell in the anchorage, but very tolerable on our
catamaran.
PERCEPTION in front of Las Monas on the east side of Isla Isabel
We
dinghied to the southern anchorage to go ashore. The anchorage
itself looked a bit scary with large swell wrapping around the southern
end of the island and crashing into the rocks on the east side of the
anchorage. There was a large motor yacht anchored here (I believe
it was another Posse boat, Sakumo Lagoon, but didn’t have a chance to
talk with them) that seemed to be doing OK. Conversely, the dinghy
landing in the southern anchorage was very protected with no breaking
waves, much better than that on the eastern side which had low breaking
waves that scared us off from attempting to land there. In the
southern anchorage watch out for the panga anchor lines running out to
floats in the water in front of the fishing village, they are just under
the surface in some cases.
The
trails can be a bit hard to find from the southern anchorage. To
go on the hike to the crater and the east side of the island, you must
go through the row of fisherman houses and go right/east once behind
them. There is a rough poured concrete staircase leading up the
hillside through several outhouses on the east side of the La Charca
pond behind the houses that gets you on the trail. To go up to the
southern summit or the western beach you must go to the west end of the
beach, past the Isla Isabel national park signs, and through the
abandoned research center.
Blue Footed Boobies nest on the earth along the walking trails
Nesting frigate birds with white chick also seen from the walking trails.
Lago Crater, the caldera of the extinct volcano that formed the island can be reached on foot.
Meanwhile, back onboard Humpbacks breach near the anchorage.
SY PERCEPTION 🇺🇸 Jim & Melinda & Grace - Lagoon 42'
Thank you SY PERCEPTION for Sharing your Adventures on the water !
"Anteaters
are my second favorite animal. I love their long bushy tails and
their really long tongues. I just learned that they live in Panama
so I am thrilled. My very first favorite stuffed animal is an
anteater, named E. It would be amazing to see one living in the
wild."
SOME ANIMAL FACTS INCLUDE:
Also known as the Ant Bear, the Giant Anteater is a large mammal that can weigh up to 90 pounds.
They’ve got a long, narrow tongue and long snout to match, with a sense of smell 40 times more powerful than that of humans.
These
animals can be found throughout much of Central and South America, but
in Panama they’re most often spotted in Darien National Park (a
protected UNESCO World Heritage Site) near the Colombian border.
8) SHARING YOUR FAVORITE ADVENTURES is the heart and soul of the Panama Posse
Please
share pictures of your adventures, your award entries/nominations, your
breathtaking sunsets, and picturesque anchorages on our group
communications platform for others to enjoy in real time and/or email
Maurisa at editor@panamaposse.com
to share in the upcoming newsletter. Maurisa is a sailor among
us. She is part of the Ocean Posse crew and enjoys writing fun and
helpful updates to the Panama Posse.
Dorado....meals for days.
9) POSSE PERK: INTEL
BEACHES IN COSTA RICA 🇨🇷
Enjoying the Beaches in Puerto Jiminez, Costa Rica 🇨🇷
BEACH REPORT:
Just
like Mexico, all beaches in Costa Rica are designated as public (150
feet from the shoreline is public) so if you are anchored outside an
All-inclusive resort or 5 star hotel they can’t tell you to go away and
by law they have to allow public access through their property to get to
the beach. I discovered this when we were outside an “adults only”
resort but saw tons of kids on its beach and inquired. Only some
National Park beaches will require a park pass you get online and have
pet restrictions. I was pleasantly surprised how dog friendly most
places were.
SY MAISON DE SANTÉ 🇺🇸 Nicole & Keenan - Cal 46'
10) SHELTER BAY MARINA 🇵🇦
SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
09°22.085′ N 079°57.0013′ W
“As always Panama Posse participants will be welcomed at Shelter Bay Marina.
From January 10 till May 31st.
15% discount form the transient rates which are, 1-7 nights, 7 to 14 nights, 15 to 30 nights and 31 to 90 nights,
The
quick Haul out rate of $12.00 per feet and $16.00 per feet for Monos
and Multis will be given for vessels doing work in the yard!!”
Juanjo Boschetti
General Manager
email juanjo@shelterbaymarina.com
www.panamaposse.com/sponsors
11) SY TIAMAT GOES OVERLAND FROM
CHIAPAS, MEXICO 🇲🇽 TO GUATEMALA 🇬🇹
Ruins of TIKAL
Tikal was a city and ceremonial center of the ancient Maya civilization.
TRIP REPORT:
We
did a whirlwind tour through Guatemala, visiting Lake Atitlan, Antigua,
and capping it off with a visit to Tikal. It was fascinating to see the
living continuation of Mayan culture in Guatemala, framed against the
backdrop of the breathtaking ruins of Tikal. Honestly, I didn’t have a
lot of expectations going into Guatemala, but now I’m glad we went and I
would definitely advise everyone passing this way not to miss it!
The history of Tikal goes as far back as 900–300 BCE.
Tikal was an important post in the great trading network in Mesoamerica
SY TIAMAT 🇺🇸 Stephanie & Owen – Fountaine Pajot 44’
12) PAPAGAYO WINDS 🇨🇷 🇳🇮 🇸🇻
The weather behind the Papagayo wind is explained by NASA
“The
meteorological mechanism that causes Papagayo winds is relatively
simple. In winter, cold high-pressure weather systems move southward
from North America over the Gulf of Mexico. These high-pressure systems
create strong pressure gradients between the atmosphere over the Gulf of
Mexico and the warmer, moister atmosphere over the Pacific Ocean. Just
as a river flows from high elevations to lower elevations, the air in
the high-pressure system will “flow” downhill toward lower pressure, but
the Cordillera mountains block the flow of air, channeling it through
Chivela Pass in Mexico, the lake district of Nicaragua, and also
Gaillard Cut in Panama (which also holds the Panama Canal).”‘
Last
year’s fleet has plenty of experience with these "flows" that created
sustained gusts of wind up to 55 knots! The most successful strategy was
day sailing – near shore – in 20 – 30 nm hops with one foot on the
beach (less than 1/2 nm off shore). These Papagayo winds may test you,
your vessel, and your crew. And once you make it to Costa Rica
your wind blasted faces will have some good stories to tell.
PRO TIP: When you look at the forecast models look at the wind gusts and use those as your guide as these gusts occur 50% of the time.
there
are many anchorages to take the load of and truly gunk hole along the
Papagayo area of influence - anchorages are outlined in Good
Nautical - use scope to withstand up to 50 knot gusts
NOTE: If you are a vessel in transit along the Nicaraguan coast AND
you are not checking in to the country, it is a well received courtesy
to fly their courtesy flag when a vessel is within 15nm of the
Nicaraguan coast. Vessels in transit that do not check in are
allowed to anchor in Nicaraguan waters. However, no one aboard may
leave the vessel and a yellow Q flag is flown below the Nicaraguan
courtesy flag. 🟨
When
anchoring for safe harbor in a country you are not formally entering
know that naval representatives may come and check on you. When
and if they do be gracious, respectful, and courteous.
San Juan del Sur 🇳🇮 Nicargaua - the epicenter of the Papagayo Winds
13) GOOD NAUTICAL POE ( Port of Entry ) PUERTO OBALDIA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
Puerto
Obaldia is located on the Eastern coast of Northern Panama.
Vessels sailing east from the Canal or west from Columbia may
enjoy Puerto Obaldia Panama
Different Posse members have enjoyed Puerto Obaldia:
SY RUM TRUFFLE SAYS: We
really enjoyed the more unspoiled part of Panama from Puerto Obaldia up
to the more popular areas. Advantages of checking in there is that you
get all your docs on the spot (need lots of USD cash as everything is
cash only all the way through the area until Linton Bay and NO ATMs or
any way to get cash. Highlights for us were Isla Pinos, Mamitupu, Mono
Island, Playon Chico/ Snug Harbour, and then of course Green Island and
all the other more popular places. Use Eric Bauhaus’ guide for waypoints
and info.
It’s
more correct to say carry lots of small bills to pay for fruit, fish,
fees etc I went top to bottom and $200 in small bills served me
well. No ATMs and grocery stores are very small. Most of your early
trade will be from dugouts!
SY BISOU SAYS regarding cash: You
may wish to buy molas (we bought alot!) and lobsters, fish, fruit and
veggies, etc. We went through USD $1000 in the 10 weeks we were
there! By the time you spend about $250 on checking in and cruising
permit, then local anchoring fees (usually $10 a time) plus buy a few
molas ($25-$50 each) and then stock up on fruit and veggies from the
boat that comes around, have an excursion to the waterfalls and maybe a
meal on Iban’s island by the Swimming Pool (Hollandes Quays) you’ll find
that cash disappears quickly!
Boruca,
Costa Rica is located in the mountains north of Corcovado National
Park. The Boracun village and their sense of identity has survived
centuries of struggles dating back to the 1500’s between the native
tribes and the Spanish Conquistadors. While many indigenous tribes
consider themselves to have been defeated by the Spanish, the Borucans
demonstrate that a tribe cannot be defeated if it’s culture is still
alive today. “Boruca is very much alive and fighting to preserve
their identity.”
A group of Barucan men dressed as spirits to ward off the Spanish Conquistadors
A
celebration in Baruca which honors their history, their struggles, and
their triumph is known as ‘The Dance of the Little Devils’ or’ Danza de
Los Diablitos’. This is a four day ceremonial re-enactment
traditionally takes place from December 30th to January 2nd.
During this four day celebration, local men dress in costumes to
re-enact the invasion of the Spanish, an invocation to the spirits for
help defending their territory, the fight, and their victory. Most
notable and interesting are the costumes for this 4 day event.
The Barucan Warriors (right) taunt and fight the Spanish represented by the bull (left)
The
Spaniards are represented by a Bull which is made from a large
cardboard box covered in a burlap and a mask in the form of a bull’s
head. The warriors of the village are dressed in body paint and
burlap smocks wearing various types of masks representing different
spirits. For the first two days the “little Devils’ taunt the Bull
but the bull seems to be gaining on the Diablitos. By the third
day the elders walk through the village making a bigger ceremony of
calling the warriors to action. On the fourth day, the Diablitos are
stronger and more determined. Their costumes are bigger and their
masks are different. This is the day they defeat (kill) the Bull.
The costumes for the day of defeat are much bigger.
Native Moyaguas and Xicaguas (present day Costa Rica territory) tribes attack Spanish soldiers led by conquistador Diego de Sojo, 1639.
We
met skydiving 36 years ago and after a few years in the air, switched
to motor biking before we were introduced to sailing. Having lived
and worked on three continents and having visited more than 40
countries on our adventurous journey together we are now aiming to reach
“50 before 60”.
Fortitude
X, a 2008 Beneteau 423 has been our home for almost three years. After
circumnavigating Vancouver Island in 2021, we left Canada in August of
last year sailing down the US coast for Mexico.
Every
day is a school day, and when you are open to learning through travel,
you are often humbled. Talking about learning: next thing on the list is
improving our Spanish, but for the time being we count on a smile as a
universal communicator. Like many of the PP Fleet members have mentioned
before, we are grateful for the life we are living, (especially in
these times of political turmoil), the friends we made, the camaraderie
we experienced and the new adventures that lie ahead on our way to the
Caribbean and beyond. Dietmar, Nicole, and the entire Panama Posse team
are trusted and reliable partners, enabling access to resources and
fellow cruisers. Thank you, now it’s up to us to explore, dream, and
discover. Life is a journey, travel it well.
SY FORTITUDE X 🇨🇦 Stefanie & Torsten - Beneteau 43′
Watch this video ! conversation between Talos & Panama Posse Mariners.
Talos
lightning detectors are available to add to your safety devises
onboard. They are small, mountable devices that give an audible
and visual alert to the proximity of lightning. There are
different models and applications. For example:
FEATURES:
Alerts up to 25 mile range
The BRIGHTEST visual alerts: 3 colors to indicate distance of approaching or departing storms
Green: 25 miles
Blue: 16 miles
Red: 6 miles
The LOUDEST audible alerts
1 beep for Green: 25 miles
2 beeps for Blue: 16 miles
3 beeps for Red: 6 miles
Compact design
Auto sleep functionality**
1 year battery life (*based on average usage)
Antenna auto tuning – increases efficiency
Same technology as used in expensive weather stations
Battery powered: requires 4 AA batteries (lithium recommended)
**When
the unit is first turned on, the unit is in “Normal Mode” and will
actively listen for lightning/storm activity. Pressing the ON button a
second time puts the unit into the auto-sleep mode. In this mode, the
detector will sleep until motion is detected, then it will turn on. If
no motion is detected for 30 minutes, the unit goes back to sleep.
Benefits
Early warning alerts
Provides distance estimation of storm
Antenna audio tuning – increases efficiency
Easy to mount
Easy to detach
What’s Included in the Box:
TALOS Lightning Detection Device
Mounting Base
User Guide
How it Works
When
lightning is first detected (up to 25 miles), the detector will flash
all 8 LEDs for 5 minutes. To save battery life, after 5 minutes of
lightning detection, the detector switches to blinking every other LED
for the remaining time that lightning is detected (red, blue, or green
depending on distance of lightning).
Where to Mount Lightning Detector
The
lightning detector detects low-level signals from lightning and must be
mounted a minimum of 3 feet away from cell phones, wearables, or any
other devices emitting electrical noise. If the detector goes through a
sequence of all colors, this indicates that it is detecting electrical
noise.
Battery Instructions & Installation
It
is necessary to replace batteries as soon as the lightning detector
indicates the batteries are almost dead. The detector will beep and
flash the LED twice indicating that batteries need to be replaced. This
alert is given every 10 seconds. If you are not using the lightning
detector, make sure you remove the batteries prior to storing the
detector.
Panama Posse get a generous discount from Talos to order Lightning detectors directly
19) MUST SEE:
TEQUILA 🇲🇽
The
official town of Tequila – a 3 hour drive from the Coast – offers a
Museum with how Tequila is produced, and Tequila Tastings.
Tequila, Mexico
The
34,658 ha site, between the foothills of the Tequila Volcano and the
deep valley of the Rio Grande River, is part of an expansive landscape
of blue agave. The landscape has been shaped by the culture of the
plant and used since the for at least 2,000 years to make fermented
drinks and cloth. More recently, the production of the Tequila
spirit has been a specialty of the region since the 16th century.
fields of agave.
Within
the landscape are working distilleries reflecting the growth in the
international consumption of tequila in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Today, the agave culture is seen as part of national identity. The area
encloses a living, working landscape of blue agave fields and the urban
settlements of Tequila, Arenal, and Amatitan with large distilleries
where the agave ‘pineapple’ is fermented and distilled.
Church in Tequila, Mexico
Tequila
is produced by removing the heart of the plant in its seventh to
fourteenth year. Harvested piñas normally weigh 80–200 pounds
This heart is stripped of its leaves and heated to convert the
inulin to sugars.
Harvested piñas
True tequila is made from blue agave (right).
The
production of tequila is divided into seven steps: harvesting, cooking,
fermentation, distillation, aging and bottling. Then comes
consumption.
22) PANAMA CANAL AGENT CENTENARIO CONSULTING ERICK GALVEZ
To
arrange for transit with the Panama Canal Authority please contact Eric
Galvez our dedicated Panama Canal agent and sponsor of the Panama Posse
and the Pacific Posse
Erick Gálvez
info@centenarioconsulting.com
www.centenarioconsulting.com
Cellphone +507 6676-1376
WhatsApp +507 6676-1376
23) WAYPOINT YACHT SERVICES
“Our
vision is to provide a top tier service to our customers while covering
every potential need they may have when approaching shore.
Small
yachts (up to 38.1 meters LOA) are expected to experience substantial
delays, and in the meantime, we will be able and willing to help you
mitigate this impact and serve you.
(3) OCEAN POSSE PARTY PANAMA + SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
FLEET MEET UP
SAT. FEB 3 '24 SHELTER BAY MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
IMPORTANT:
This event is in the middle of high season. The Shelter Bay
Marina will be near capacity so make reservations early.
Additionally, we are also going to organize a shuttle bus to get
folks to this event from alternate locations.
(4) PANAMA POSSE AWARDSFUN ACTIVITIES, GOLF, POOL, DJ LOUNGE, + MARINE EXPO
SAT. MAY 11 '24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
This is a very exclusive signature event in the Hamptons of Panama.
The upscale resort Buenaventura is just 80 minutes west of Panama City
and is one of the most charming and reserved places on the Pacific coast
of Panama. Only 60 nm from the Las Perlas.
Beat, Caroline, dogs & Heyson Garcia - YES PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB IS UBER DOG FRIENDLY
>
We,
Caroline Imfeld and Beat Rettich are running this place since January
2021. We moved from Switzerland to Belize in 2019 and found this
treasure while looking for a dock for our yacht.
Simplicity on a high level is our aim and to make our guests happy.
FOR RESERVATIONS AND MOORINGS @ PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB
Lexi on MV NEXT CHAPTER catches a monster Mahi-Mahi in Mexico, 🇲🇽.
Russell on SY WHIRLWIND fishing from the dinghy
Success! Dinner for four: Pacific Cubera Snapper
Emma from SY BASIK , when she was 6 with her first fish: a small mouth bass.
Emma now with her latest catch: a mahi mahi or dorado.
Emma
loves to fish and has an ongoing competition with Teal on who can reel
in more fish. She's been fishing since she was 6. First fish she
caught was a small mouth bass on Lake Union. She wanted to eat it, but
we made her throw it back. Lol Now she is looking to land a wahoo.
She is not afraid to get in there and get dirty. I'm teaching her clean
and fillet a fish. 😊
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
How many Panama Posse KID boats have kids fishing? Want to share your catch?
Please send your photos to editor@panamaposse.com
Thank you kids for Sharing your Adventures on the water !
7) SHARING YOUR ADVENTURES is the heart and soul of the Panama Posse
Please
share pictures of your adventures, your award entries/nominations, your
breathtaking sunsets, and picturesque anchorages on our group
communications platform for others to enjoy in real time on the LineApp
and/or email Maurisa at editor@panamaposse.com
to share in the upcoming newsletter. Maurisa is a sailor among
us. She is part of the Ocean Posse crew and enjoys writing fun and
helpful updates to the Panama Posse.
Nicole, below, manages the Ocean Posse Instagram page.
SY MAISON DE SANTÉ successfullywent through the Panama Canal last week 🇵🇦. Let the next Chapter BEGIN.
8) POSSE PERK:
INTEL: WIDE BEAM HAUL OUTS
SY KAHSI is a multi-hull with a wide beam now en route to the South Pacific
The Panama Posse is partnered with many marinas and haul-out service providers along the route.
9) MARINA FLAMINGO 🇨🇷 COSTA RICA
SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
10° 26.3833′ N 085°47.3166′ W
We
are happy to confirm that for your event: Panama Posse to offer a 20%
discount on all the Transient Dockage Rates and to offer a special
tender tender service fee at $50+IVA.
CONTACT
Email:
Morgan Osborne
morgan@visitmarinaflamingo.com
marina@visitmarinaflamingo.com.
Address
Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica
Phone
+506-8977-9360 | (833 MF-YACHT)
Whatsapp
+506-8765-6006
AMENITIES
Fuel Station
In Slip Pump Out
Dock Boxes
Heli Port
Concierge
Electricity
24-7 Security
Restrooms & Showers
Parking
Fiber Optic Internet
Trash and Recycling
Emergency Services
Coast Guard Station
Fuel Station
In Slip Pump Out
Dock Boxes
Heli Port
Concierge
Electricity
24-7 Security
Restrooms & Showers
Parking
Fiber Optic Internet
Trash and Recycling
Emergency Services
Coast Guard Station
Flying the Costa Rica and Panama Posse flag, SUNDOWNER enters Marina Flamingo, Costa Rica 🇨🇷
MY SUNDOWNER 🇺🇸 Jeffrey & Lynn - Californian 50'
10) SEEKING SHELTER FROM THE SOUTH SWELL:
LITTLE KNOWN COVES IN THE PERLAS 🇵🇦 PANAMA
ARE REVEALED
Trip Report:
We
have been making a great loop of the Perlas Archipelago in Panama, 🇵🇦
with four other vessels. Anchoring in the Southwesternmost bay of
our loop we found ourselves exposed to a south swell that was less than
ideal. Boats were pitching fore and aft, swinging, and rocking
beam to beam. One by one, the fleet began to part ways. By
the second morning on the south side of Isla San Jose we were down to
two boats: SY PATHFINDER & SY WHIRLWIND. We
tried sticking it out, hoping the northwind would pick up and lay the
south swell down but by mid afternoon we decided to weigh anchor and
check out a little pocket anchorage around the bend. With any luck
we could weigh anchor and drop our hooks around the corner sheltered
from the swell.
Little known pocket sized anchorage on the SE side of Isla San Jose
Luck was on our side and we managed to anchor two boats just around the bend. SY PATHFINDER managed to squeeze into a very special spot with a personal pocket beach and walking access to cascades.
The beach at low tide
The blues of paradise.
The Cascades had little pools to dip in.
SY PATHFINDER 🇺🇸 Jean-Philippe & Nicole - Lagoon 39'
12) GOOD NAUTICAL: IPALA 🇲🇽 MEXICO
Ipala is just on the South side of Cabo Corrientes, Mexico.
Anchorage:
Quiet. Little bit of a swell but we are a little further out from
shore. If we were staying I'd go closer to shore but we are leaving in
the am. Anchor grabbed first try. Have out 4:1.
We are excited to welcome the Panama Posse to The Great Harbour Cay Marina!
We
will celebrate your stay with an extra 10% over our low rates and look
forward to tucking you into one of our 65 slips which are nestled inside
a serene harbor. We have accommodated yachts up to 150 feet. Our
“Hurricane Hole” is one of the most protected marinas in The Bahamas.
Our service oriented, well-trained staff, is on hand 7 days a week to
accommodate all your yachting and personal needs.
Steven Johnson
GM
CONTACT:
Reservation: +1 242-367-8005
Tel:+1 242-367-8005
Cell: +1 242-457-4216
Email: king@greatharbourcay.com
General Inquiries: steven@greatharbourcay.com
VHF 16 and 14
Great Harbour Management Limited, Berry Islands, The Bahamas|
RATES
The Marina and Dock Office are fully staffed 7 days
a week from 7am-7pm.
General Manager, Steven Johnson, is available 24/7 at 1(242)457-4216.
This
page is designed to give interesting parties an overview. For
specific vessel details including their floatplan, latest updates,
changes, positions and specific location related questions please
contact each vessel directly. The Panama Posse is not responsible for
the accuracy, frequency or validity of any individual vessel’s report.
This report is not accurate. Due to privacy we do not provide vessel
contact information. You may track vessels via it’s own tracker or
request AIS tracking from https://www.marinetraffic.com/ please note
that this is also not accurate. There are many reasons why a vessel’s
position is not updated and please do not conclude that a vessel has an
emergency or is in need of assistance because it has not reported in
lately. Sometimes they may just want to get away from it all and not
tell you where they are. It is the responsibility of each vessel to file
a float and check in plan and escalation procedures.
15) MEET THE FLEET
SY PATHFINDER
Nicole and Jean-Phillippe
Downwind sailing SY PATHFINDER is a dream
Travelling inland is a shared passion for Nicole and Jean-Phillipe
Nicole and Jean-Philippe have been cruising together on SV Pathfinder,
a Lagoon 39, for 5 years. Mexico was their home base for several
seasons. After joining the Panama Posse they expanded their horizons,
literally, and cruised all down the Pacific coast of Central America to
South America. They made Ecuador their home base for 7 months and
enjoyed the full year sailing season because of the Southern Hemisphere.
Nicole and JP share a passion for traveling and both speak Spanish
which is a special bond in their relationship. They met because of an
airplane flight so they believe in magic and continue to believe in it
while living on the water. Pathfinder is their full time home. But also
they absolutely love land travel and meeting people in new countries.
The Panama Posse is their source for current, invaluable information and
discounts that enhance and extend their boat lifestyle. This enables
them to continue sailing and making the world their home. Taking the
time to discover each location, this is Pathfinder!
Nicole loving life afloat
SY PATHFINDER 🇺🇸 Jean-Philippe & Nicole - Lagoon 39'
16) LATITUDES AND ATTITUDES
The
#1 Cruising Lifestyle publication on the planet just keeps getting
bigger and better! Incredible destination articles and features by the
cruisers themselves, including how-to’s, DIY and exciting new products!
You could say it’s like a gorgeous buffet just waiting for you to dive
in! Access and download each digital issue now for only $14.99/year.
All subscribers receive:
10% off at the Lats & Atts Store
Download the digital magazine for easy offline access!
FIRST: RAISE YOUR DINGHY EVERY NIGHT WITHOUT EXCEPTION
Motors that are raised are much less likely to be lost to theft
SECOND: KEEP YOUR MOTOR LOCKED AND CONSIDER A SHOP BIKE LOCK TO LOCK YOUR DINGHY UP WHEN LEAVING HER ASHORE
THIRD: DRESS YOUR MOTOR UP OR DOWN
Motors
are a prime target for theft on the water. Motors can be
deliberately scratched or painted to look ugly or stand out.
THIRD: DRESS YOUR OUTBOARD MOTOR UP OR DOWN
Motors
are a prime target for theft on the water. Motors can be
deliberately scratched or painted to look ugly or stand out. You
can even spraypaintit neon pink or green - unforgettable ...
19) MUST SEE:
🇲🇽 COPPER CANYON – BARRANCA DEL COBRE – EL CHEPE
The
train journey through the Copper Canyon, called the Barranca del Cobre
by Mexicans, is one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The
train, El Chepe, chugs along its 653 km (405 mi) of track. The
journey takes anywhere from 9 to 16 hours, crosses over 37 bridges, and
goes through 86 tunnels.
The Copper Canyon is one of Mexico’s lesser-known gems.
Copper
Canyon is a group of six distinct canyons in the Sierra Madre
Occidental in the southwestern part of the state of Chihuahua. It
is 65,000 sqk / 25,000 sqm in size.
The
canyons were formed by six rivers that drain the western side of the
Sierra Tarahumara (a part of the Sierra Madre Occidental).
All
six rivers merge into the Rio Fuerte and empty into the Gulf of
California. The walls of the canyon are a copper/green color, which is
the origin of the name.
The
Spanish arrived in the Copper Canyon area in the 17th century and
encountered the indigenous locals throughout Chihuahua. For these
Spanish explorers, America was a new land to explore for gold and silver
and also to spread Christianity. The New Spanish named the people
“Tarahumara”, they encountered derived from the word Rarámuri, which is
what the indigenous people call their men.
During
the 17th century, silver was discovered by the Hispanics in the land of
the Tarahumara tribe. Some were enslaved for mining efforts. There were
small uprisings by the Tarahumara, but to little avail. They eventually
were forced off the more desirable lands and up into the canyon cliffs.
THE FULL JOURNEY TAKES BETWEEN NINE & SIXTEEN HOURS
If
you travel on the Chepe Express (Los Mochis to Creel and vice versa),
your journey time will be nine hours, with the train leaving from Los
Mochis at either 6am or 3.50pm. On the Chepe Regional (Los Mochis to
Chihuahua and vice versa), the journey is around 16 hours from start to
finish and the train leaves either Los Mochis or Chihuahua at 6am.
CLIMATE
The
alpine climate of the mountainous regions of Copper Canyon has moderate
temperatures from October to November and March to April. The bottom of
the canyons are humid and warm and remain that way throughout the year.
During the warmest months, April through June, drought is a chronic
problem with little rainfall until July when the rainy season begins.
We use the Gestalt theory for communicating with each other IN THE FLEET
[
GESTALT in modern German to mean the way a thing has been “placed,” or
“put together.” There is no exact equivalent in English. … “Form” and
“shape” are the usual translations; in psychology the word is often
interpreted as “pattern” or “configuration.” ]
Hold on it’s not a cult thing it’s a communication protocol.
Here is how this protocol works:
Speak from your own experiences rather than giving advice or opinions
Use “I” statements instead of “You” statements –
IE: We sailed from A to B and … this is what happened to us
DON’T: “you should sail from A to B and you could do this … ”
Don’t speak in generalities be specific share a relevant past experience – both good and bad.
PLEASE SHARE EXPERIENCES and FACTS NOT OPINIONS
Why do we use GESTALT ?
Everyone
who is a skipper, captain, admiral, crew or master of his or her ship
has a high level of authority, independence and leadership.
When
opinions come to the surface there is a natural instinct to doubt, feel
threatened, judge and to question “advice / opinions”.
As an example and to make this point look at how many FB postings, or comment sections on websites or even news sites
become a runaway freight train leading to huff and puff, figthclub, bruised egos and unanswered questions and arguments.
So
since we are not a social media company and our KPI is not looking for
screen time spent, we try to avoid getting sucked you into “discussions”
Panama Posse is about facts and experiences
Your experiences are important for the fleet and vessels will make decisions on your factual reports.
Advice
given ( solicited or not ) by it’s very nature is tainted, not
validated, skweed and may even have an unforseen angle that has little
actual informational value.
Even if you have made a mistake and are sharing that experience – that is valuable.
WE DO NOT … LIKE / DISLIKE / OMG HOW COULD YOU / WHY DID YOU NOT … comment.
Yes it’s hard – after all FB has trained you to have opinions – but this protocol is how you can help another vessel.
This way no one is judged and everone’s ego stays intact.
The Gestalt Language Protocol is core to the Panama Posse everyday communication strategy.
23) PANAMA CANAL AGENT CENTENARIO CONSULTING ERICK GALVEZ
To
arrange for transit with the Panama Canal Authority please contact Eric
Galvez our dedicated Panama Canal agent and sponsor of the Panama Posse
and the Pacific Posse
Erick Gálvez
info@centenarioconsulting.com
www.centenarioconsulting.com
Cellphone +507 6676-1376
WhatsApp +507 6676-1376
24) WAYPOINT YACHT SERVICES
“Our
vision is to provide a top tier service to our customers while covering
every potential need they may have when approaching shore.
Small
yachts (up to 38.1 meters LOA) are expected to experience substantial
delays, and in the meantime, we will be able and willing to help you
mitigate this impact and serve you.
"A finer body of men has never been gathered by any nation than the men who have done the work of building the Panama Canal; the conditions under which they have lived and have done their work have been better than in any similar work ever undertaken in the tropics; they have all felt an eager pride in their work; and they have made not only America but the whole world their debtors by what they have accomplished."
- Theodore Roosevelt
TOP NEWS
Season 7 Posse Seminars and Events Past and Future
Epic Sunrises and Sunsets over Zihuatenejo 🇲🇽
Season 7 Award Entries: Biggest Fish Caught, Most Unwanted Guest, & Captain Ron (self) Nomination
Sailors will gather for a sure to be memorable event in Cartegena, 🇨🇴
3) EPIC SUNRISES AND SUNSETS
OVER ZIHUATENEJO, MEXICO 🇲🇽 THE WEEK
Sunrise from SY BISOU from Bahia Papanoa to Zihuatanejo Northbound
SY BISOU 🇦🇺 Robin and Tad - Fountaine Pajot 44′
Sunrise over Zihua
SY C-YA 🇺🇸 Glenn & Ashleigh – Island Packet 38.8’
LOST PEARL capturing the magic in the morning
SY LOST PEARL 🇨🇦 Onno - Hardin 45′
4) SEASON 7 AWARD NOMINATIONS:
TWO NEW BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT ENTRIES
Monster Mahi-mahi Teal brought aboard SY BASIK in northern Costa Rica 🇨🇷
SY BASIK 🇺🇸 Teal, Linh & Emma & Compass - 435 Catamaran’
Anna
caught this Sailfish on SY SYLVIA AF WASA today during our leg from
Panama 🇵🇦 to El Salvador 🇸🇻. Unfortunately, the hook was set so
badly that we couldn't release the fish. I guess we'll be eating
Sailfish for the rest of the month now! 😂
Note * Billfish is excluded from Biggest Fish Award
SY SYLVIA AF WASA 🇫🇮 Joakim & Ann-Charlotte - Najad 39′
ONE NEW MOST UNWELCOME VISITOR ONBOARD ENTRY
Black Capped Night Heron in Zihuatenejo Bay
It’s not so bad having them visit, it’s what they leave behind (splatters or poop) that is most unwanted!
After
the first set's of locks our port engine died - since Carinthia needs 3
knots of speed we had to perform 5 to 6 loops inside the locks to get
enough speed for steerage - being by yourself in this condition ( vs
tied up ) was not optimal but the line handlers plus Nicole from Maison
de Sante and Emilio from Ocean Posse SA Panama and advisors helped
out and even upon exiting the canal the advisor was picked up off
Carinthia under speed so as to allow us to proceed to Shelter bay - we
have minors gel coat scratches one engine down and a very bruised
captains ego.
Captain Ron Award for most amount of doughnuts done in the Panama Canal... 5 DONUTS through the Gatun locks
SY CARINTHIA 🇺🇸 Dietmar & Susan - Lagoon 44′
5) PANAMA POSSE EVENTS
Swim up meet up, Perlas, Panama 🇵🇦
(2) CLUB DE PESCA YACHT FEST SAT, JAN 20 '24 CARTAGENA 🇨🇴 CO
Ileana Stevenson Covo - GM For
those coming from the lesser Antilles this will be the first event in
full on Latin style in Colombia - come celebrate the great food and
culture that is Colombia in it's premier yacht club.
(3) OCEAN POSSE PARTY PANAMA + SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
FLEET MEET UP
SAT. FEB 3 '24 SHELTER BAY MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
IMPORTANT:
This event is in the middle of high season. The Shelter Bay
Marina will be near capacity so make reservations early.
Additionally, we are also going to organize a shuttle bus to get
folks to this event from alternate locations.
(4) PANAMA POSSE AWARDSFUN ACTIVITIES, GOLF, POOL, DJ LOUNGE, + MARINE EXPO
SAT. MAY 11 '24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
This is a very exclusive signature event in the Hamptons of Panama.
The upscale resort Buenaventura is just 80 minutes west of Panama City
and is one of the most charming and reserved places on the Pacific coast
of Panama. Only 60 nm from the Las Perlas.
Beat, Caroline, dogs & Heyson Garcia - YES PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB IS UBER DOG FRIENDLY
>
We,
Caroline Imfeld and Beat Rettich are running this place since January
2021. We moved from Switzerland to Belize in 2019 and found this
treasure while looking for a dock for our yacht.
Simplicity on a high level is our aim and to make our guests happy.
FOR RESERVATIONS AND MOORINGS @ PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB
Yellow is sail track so far, green is the plan written in the sand at low tide
The
Archipelago del las Perlas is infamously beautiful. Its
reputation among cruisers was tainted last year when two separate
violent incidents happened on the east side of Isla del Rel. Every
cruiser makes their own call on how to respond to such incidents and
decides whether it is worth it to them to go near or into areas with
known dangers. Some cruisers have chosen to totally avoid
the entire archipelago, others have chosen to visit only the northern
islands far from the incidents, while others, still, have chosen to
explore the Archipelago albeit mindfully and with safety in numbers.
Last
week a group of Panama Posse boats met up off Isla Contadora, one of
the more northerly ‘safe’ islands. We shared an interest in going
around the southern islands of the archipelago and all felt it most
prudent to do this with buddy boats.
An
adventurous route was planned, a north wind gently blew, anchors
weighed, and spinnakers flew. It was a casual and delightful sail
to the east side of Isla Del Rey. We explored the island by dingy,
kayak, and foot.
SY WHIRLWIND raises their kite to start off the voyage.
After
two nights on the east side of Isla del Rey we planned to weigh anchor
at noon for an anchorage 4nm south. Just before noon we were each
approached by a panga one by one and asked different questions.
The panga had 5 men in it ranging, I would guess, from the late
teens to mid thirties. They were cleanly dressed and had no
fishing gear aboard. One did all the talking while the rest but
the driver stood up looking up-current away from us, on our topsides,
and through the portlights into our boats. Something definitely
did not feel right as we watched them at the first boat in our fleet.
We
were the next boat; the boat in the middle. They told us they were
looking for a stolen panga. We spoke about the boat they were
looking for but it was odd that:
they didn’t speak as though alarmed or desperately searching
they did not give us a way to contact them if we did see the vessel
they did want to know where we came from, where we were going and how long we would be there.
When
they left our boat I instantly went to our radio and asked the first
boat if they were told about a stolen panga. They said, “No, they
asked us for crackers.” The third boat was listening to the radio
while watching the panga approaching. We asked them to take photos
which they did. The panga crew asked for crackers while looking
all about again.
After
the panga left we realized that we each boat felt cased. The
feeling was just that a feeling that we shared in varying degrees.
Nothing happened that was wrong….but what did happen did not feel
quite right. Speaking aboard our vessel, SY WHIRLWIND,, and looking into the eyes of my husband and each of our children (10yo and 13yo) I knew we each felt it
in our gut. There was discomfort, vulnerability, and our safety
in the wind. Having our kids onboard is amazing and their safety
and security is a HUGE responsibility. We will err of the side of
caution when the safety and security of our crew is on the line.
This is not holding us back from being out here obviously but it
does keep us very keenly aware of our surroundings, our choices, and in
tune with our inner mama and papa bear.
Further,
I remembered one of the comments that struck me from the report off the
first boat that was attacked last year off Isla del Rey was that in
hindsight she said she didn't listen to her gut feeling. She said
how important that is to do and to remember this. The comment
struck me then and came back to me now as we discussed what we wanted to
do. I knew our crew would not be at ease a mere 4nm away which
had been the plan for the day.
We
decide our best move was going to be sailing further south in order to
put more distance between us and San Miguel. San Miguel is a
rather populated town on the north side of the island where they told us
they are from.
While
discussing this new plan another cruising boat was moving in to the
anchorage. We hailed them, told them what had just happened, and
invited them to join us. Yet another boat that had been more north
in the Perlas was on their way south to meet us. We communicated
with them as well and they were on board to go an additional 17nm to a
different anchorage. We attempted to contact Aeronaval (the
Panamanian version of the American Coast Guard), weighed anchor, and set
sail.
Perfect Spinnaker conditions: SY WHIRLWIND & SY GALATEA
SY PATHFINDER set a great pace.
The
sail was absolutely excellent. Spinnakers were flying and the
wind was just aft of the beam. We sailed 17nm to the southern end
of Isla del Rey and anchored at the mouth of Rio Cacique. With
our anchors down, our number increased to five, and a visual on an
aeronaval station, we felt great relief. My relief was fueled by
the massive amounts of tropical black-blue-green butterflies that were
flying through the anchorage. This spot felt whimsical and wild.
Beyond the butterflies the mouth of Rio Cacique is incredibly
picturesque: a long beach with big lizard tracks on end and the entrance
to a great winding river to explore by dinghy on the other. For
three days we have continued to keep an eye out for one another and
explored by dinghy, kayak, and on foot. We have seen many locals
in pangas some selling fruit, others fishing or just moving about.
All seemingly friendly.
Our five boats anchored off Playa Cacique. Crocs enter stage right.
Big Lizard prints going overland between the ocean and the estuary.
Definitely changes my swim plan.
Reflections in Rio Cacique at low tide.
As seen from above, the River Rio Cacique, has some big bends in it.
Exploring the river at high tide
Just don't let it be a Three Hour Tour.
The trees grow so tall to get to the sun & you can see the branching of their root systems high out of the water.
Around the bend is Morro Cacique, another great place to anchor. Very protected
Plenty of room for our five boat flotilla
Interestingly,
I will share that I have had the opportunity to look much more closely
into Panamanian Emergency Response Systems. Here in Panama it is
written to hail channel 16 if in distress on the water, to call 108 if
in distress anywhere, or 911 in case of a medical emergency. In
real life this week our experience has been as follows:
While we have continued to try to reach aeronaval on Channel 16 on the radio no one has responded.
There is no cell service out here with which to call 108 or 911 if there is an emergency.
Over
our Starlink we have been successful through Whatsapp texting aeronaval
on Contadora. They know we were approached off Isla Espiritu
Santo and that we moved to Ria Cacique. They do not ask for or
require check in’s or outs so when we move on that is what we will do.
I do not plan to text them about our whereabouts unless we have an
issue in which case we will be lucky if our Starlink is on as we only
use it during the day when we are working.
Ultimately,
we, as mariners, are responsible for our safety on the water.
Having an organize, trustworthy, available backup of any sort is a
luxury. The great lesson for me so far has been that while the
choices we make about where we go, when we go, and how we go will are
all very practical and important, it is equally as important to listen
to our inner voice, to trust our gut, and change plans accordingly.
The
plan from here is to make our way over to Isla San Jose, the
southwesternmost island in the Perlas, and work our way north back to
where we started. This is definitely a special set of islands; I
am so grateful we are here, we are safe, and we are among friends.
SY GALATEA 🇺🇸 Sarah & Mark - Morgan 46'
SY PATHFINDER 🇺🇸 Jean-Philippe & Nicole - Lagoon 39'
SY WHIRLWIND 🇺🇸 Maurisa, Mike, Russell & Josea – Alajuela 48’
Thank you for Sharing your Adventures on the water !
7) SHARING YOUR ADVENTURES is the heart and soul of the Panama Posse
Please
share pictures of your adventures, your award entries/nominations, your
breathtaking sunsets, and picturesque anchorages on our group
communications platform for others to enjoy in real time and/or email
Maurisa at editor@panamaposse.com
to share in the upcoming newsletter. Maurisa is a sailor among
us. She is part of the Ocean Posse crew and enjoys writing fun and
helpful updates to the Panama Posse.
Mike bringing home the Corvina for some fresh ceviche.
8) POSSE PERK: MARINERS HELPING EACH OTHER THROUGH THE PANAMA CANAL
With the help of friends & hired line handlers SY CARINTHIA goes through the Canal
Making it look easy
Nicole from SY MAISON DE SANTÉ helps Carinthia through
We are pleased to sponsor the Panama Posse and offer
10 % discount off our docking rate
5 cent x gallon discount on fuel
Please
let the Posse know that dockage reservations may be made directly
through our website, or by giving us a call at (904) 310-3300 and
choosing the reservation line.
In
addition if you join Marina Life Cruising Club there are hundreds of
participating marinas all over the country where boater’s can receive
additional discounts
Taylor Fitzsimmons | General Manager
Phone: (904)310-3300
Email: fernandinaharbor@oasismarinas.com
Hail on VHF 16
Fernandina Harbor Marina | 3 S. Front Street | Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Oasis Marinas at Fernandina Harbor is your gateway to Amelia Island’s rich history and attractions.
Amelia
Island is part of the Sea Islands chain of barrier islands, on
Florida’s Atlantic coast. It has a history of Spanish, French, British
and American rule. Today it’s a popular destination known for its luxury
resorts, golf courses an sandy beaches.
Conveniently
located on the Intracoastal Waterway Fernandina Harbor Marina has the
services and amenities you need when traveling the ICW.
Unpleasant
first day, calm second day. Adverse current of more than a knot almost
the entire way. Finally got some favorable current … for the final
two hours 🤦♂️
Sunrise from the Tehuantepec over Chiapas, Mexico
All vessels are inspected upon entering and exiting the Port of Chiapas.
Everyone’s
very tired but happy to be here! And we got to meet the cute
inspection dog. He really is as clumsy as described. Did not like our
steps 😝 They brought the dog up to our boat. It walked up the stairs,
into the back and immediately turned around and walked back down the
stairs
SY TIAMAT 🇺🇸 Stephanie & Owen – Fountaine Pajot 44’
1) THE CELT CREW GOES INLAND
TO BOQUETE 🇵🇦 PANAMA
TRIP REPORT:
We
drove five hours to almost 4000 ft above sea level to a beautiful town
called Boquete. We enjoyed the peace, beauty, animals, plants and cooler
climate there. The place where we stayed was the Inn at Palo Alto and
it was quite the idyllic setting and just a short walk from a brick oven
pizza restaurant adjacent to a waterfall.
We
visited an animal rescue for abused animals run by a young man, his
mom, wife and little boy (Jungla de Panama Wildlife Refuge). He had two
spider monkeys, a blind horse (not the horse in the photos above),
parrots (one whose tail had been ripped off), goats, ducks, chickens,
cats and dogs. We also did a short hike at El Explorador Gardens, a
beautiful scenic piece of land where the family have laid out some fun
attractions in the form of recycled materials to peruse as you go. We
had dinner at The Rock and were very impressed that while it looked so
elegant, it also accommodated children and pets really well (outdoor
fire pit, games, etc). They even gave you a marshmallow on a stick to
toast after dinner 😊
Sculpted hedges in a beautiful garden
The Inn at Palo Alto sits right over the river
The pool looks over the river to the mountains.
The blue butterflies in panama are so striking.
A perfect table for two in walking distance from the Inn.
MV CELT 🇺🇸 Gerry & Angela - Nordhavn 43′
12) GOOD NAUTICAL: PAPANOA 🇲🇽 MEXICO
Papanoa
is north of Acapulco, Mexico. Dropped it in 30’ over sand bottom
at 17’ 16.070 N 101’ 3.356 W. Fairly rollie but totally
tolerable.
All prices are effective from Dec 1st 2020 to April 30th 2021
All prices are subject to change without notice at sole discretion of MPS.
Prices are in American dollars and do not include tax (I.V.A @ 15%)
RATES < 30 days 30 – 90 days 90 days+
First two days 1.25 1.25 1.25
3-30 Days
< 36′ 0.75 0.60 0.45
< 60 ‘ 0.80 0.65 0.50
60 ‘ + 1.00 0.80 0.60
MARINA SERVICES
POWER ( not full time ) 0.45 per KWh
TRANSPORT 12.00 pp 5 p min
WIFI 2.0 x day x device
WATER .04 x liter
BOTTOM CLEANING 1.00 x foot
Jeff's view from his slip
MY SUNDOWNER 🇺🇸 Jeffrey & Lynn - Californian 50'
14) POSSE SPONSOR:
SHARK SHAFT DOES ITS JOB
Cruising vessels travelling north or south along the Panama Posse route will be hard pressed not to come in contact with a long line. SY TIAMAT installed a Shark Shaft befor heading south and recently reported:
We
cut a line somewhere between Barra and Papanoa, probably at night.
Shaft shark did its job, I removed the remnants (A few meters of wrapped
up line) from the shaft by hand
Ahoy Panama Posse
As the show days went by we met a number of your posse (Posse Shirts & stickers!!)
For an order thru your Panama Posse group we can offer your group a special discount of below trade –
We
both grew up with boats then shortly after meeting in 1999 we
discovered our common love for them. Living in San Diego we did
typical land lubber things - worked, exercised, spent time with friends
and family.
What's on your bucket list for this Season ?
Transit the Panama Canal
After
transiting the Canal we plan to cruise the entire Caribbean up to the
east coast of the United States then cruise north and then head to
Europe either on our own bottom or by shipping the boat.
2016-present:
Own, operate and live aboard a 52’ Defever trawler.
2016-17
My life partner (Joy Dornick) and I took our Defever on the Great Loop,
a circumnavigation around the eastern 1/3 of the United States. With
side trips to the Bahamas and in the Long Island Sound to Nantucket this
14 month trip was over 8000 miles. We cruised lakes, rivers, canals,
three of the Great Lakes, 100’s of locks, the Gulf Coast and Atlantic
coast ICW, twice crossed the Gulf Stream and many open ocean passages.
Since
shipping the DeFever from Florida to Ensenada in late 2017 we have
cruised all around Southern California including circumnavigating
Catalina Island on a trip which lasted a month and included 20 nights at
anchor and a 550 mile trip last summer from San Diego to Santa Barbara
with stays in the Channel Islands, Catalina and several other ports as
well.
June
2020-November 2020 Joy Dornick and I cruised up the west coast from San
Diego to the Puget Sound with no additional crew. Upon arriving we
cruised the San Juan Island and the Upper, Central and Lower Puget Sound
extensively. We continued to live aboard in Seattle for the Winter.
April
2021-November 2021 Joy Dornick and I cruised, with no additional crew,
from Seattle to Alaska where we cruised extensively in Southeast Alaska
for 4 months. We returned to the Puget Sound September 2021. This trip
was well over 2000 miles. We continued to cruise the north, south and
central Puget Sound until November 1 when we docked at our winter slip
at Elliott Bay Marina in Seattle for the winter.
April
2022-September 2022 Joy Dornick and I cruised, with no additional crew,
from Seattle to The Broughtons, British Columbia. After cruising all
around southern British Columbia until July we cruised down the west
coast to San Diego, CA.
November
2022-June 2023 Joy Dornick and I cruised, with no additional crew, from
San Diego, down the coast of Baja California to Cabo San Lucas, then up
into the north end of the Sea of Cortez. From there we cruised down the
mainland side of the Sea to Puerto Vallarta where we will be until
November 2023. To date Joy and I have cruised the Tidings of Joy over
23,000 nautical miles.
This is a non-compliant regulator on sale in a marine chandlers
BEWARE: Ordinary cheap outdoor regulators are made of steel which goes rusty.
There
is no such thing as a standard LPG regulator that fits all.
Therefore mariners are wise to be well aware of the safety
requirements for their propane or gas regulators. Onboard gas
regulators need to comply with ISO 10239 Annex M and be marked with the
word ‘marine’. ISO 10239 Annex M works with propane or butane gas
and stipulates that a marine regulator must have an over-pressure relief
valve outlet that excludes the possibility of high pressure gas getting
to the cooker at the end of the low pressure line. The over-pressure
valve allows escaped gas to drain safely away from inside the gas
locker.
Do
not assume that since a regulator is sold at a chanlery it is the best
regulator for your boat. Check for compliance before purchasing or
installing regulators.
1. KNOW THE SAFETY CONTEXT OF PLACES YOU PLAN TO CRUISE
Familiarize yourself with the Caribbean Safety Network.
Talk with fellow posse members that have gone places you plan to go.
Be open minded, courteous and respectful of locals.
Follow your gut. Go where and when you feel safe.
2. KNOW REPATRIATION LAWS IN THE COUNTRIES YOU PLAN TO CRUISE TO WHEN TAKING CREW ACROSS INTERNATIONAL BORDERS
different countries have different rules.
know the rules where you are going
long
passages can strengthen crew relations...they can also ruin crew
relations. Be very considerate when bringing on crew and crossing
international borders.
19) MUST SEE:
REVILLAGIGEDO ISLANDS | SOCORRO ISLAND 🇲🇽
MEXICO PACIFIC
REVILLAGIGEDO
ISLANDS are an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 235 nm
SSW of the tip of the Baja California peninsula and 300 nm WSW of
Cape Corrientes off Mexico’s Pacific Coast. The islands are
administered by Colima state, Mexico. Covering an area of 320 square
miles. The archipelago consists of numerous volcanic islands.
Soccoro Island
The
largest, Socorro, which rises to an elevation of 3,707 feet (1,130 m).
Soccoro Island is 24 miles (39 km) long and 9 miles (14 km) wide.
San Benedicto, 40 miles (64 km) north of Socorro, and Clarión, 250 miles
(400 km) west of Socorro, are the two other large islands; small
islands include Roca Partida, 60 miles (100 km) west of Socorro, and
Roca Oneal, just off the northwestern coast of Socorro.
Volcanic Islands
In
1957 an outpost was established on long-uninhabited Socorro, and trees
were planted for timber and fruit. The expedition found about 8,000
sheep on the island, the residue of a temporary Australian settlement of
the mid-1800s. The Revillagigedo Islands are rich in sulfur, fish, and
guano.
In
July 2016, the Revillagigedo Archipelago was inscribed as a UNESCO
World Heritage Site, and in November 2017 they were declared to be a
marine reserve and a national park of Mexico. Some of the volcanoes are
active, with the last eruption of Volcán Bárcena in 1953, and Socorro in
1993. A small military airstrip exists on Socorro.
No
evidence of human habitation on any of the islands exists before their
discovery by Spanish explorers. Hernando de Grijalva and his crew
discovered an uninhabited island on 19 December 1533, and named it Santo
Tomás (Socorro Island) and on 28 December they discovered Isla de los
Inocentes (San Benedicto) which owed its name to having been found on
the day of the Holy Innocents.
These
islands offer divers reliable encounters with giant manta rays, whale
sharks, dolphins, humpback whales, tuna, pelagic fish and many other
shark species.
Swimming with sharks.
A divers paradise: swimming with hammerhead sharks.
Giant manta Ray
Humpback Whales
The
Revillagigedo Islands are home to many endemic plant and animal
species, and are sometimes called Mexico’s “little Hawaii”. They are
recognized as a distinct terrestrial ecoregion, part of the Neotropical
realm.
Socorro
is the most diverse in flora, fauna, and topography. The Mexican
Government established the islands as a Biosphere Reserve on June 4,
1994. Oceanographic Magazine stated in 2020 that, “Its remoteness,
protection and peculiar oceanography makes it one of the most biodiverse
and exciting marine destinations on earth.”
https://panamaposse.com/revillagigedo-islands
To visit these islands you must apply for a permit for details on how to visit them follow this link
22) PANAMA CANAL AGENT CENTENARIO CONSULTING ERICK GALVEZ
To
arrange for transit with the Panama Canal Authority please contact Eric
Galvez our dedicated Panama Canal agent and sponsor of the Panama Posse
and the Pacific Posse
Erick Gálvez
info@centenarioconsulting.com
www.centenarioconsulting.com
Cellphone +507 6676-1376
WhatsApp +507 6676-1376
23) WAYPOINT YACHT SERVICES
“Our
vision is to provide a top tier service to our customers while covering
every potential need they may have when approaching shore.
Small
yachts (up to 38.1 meters LOA) are expected to experience substantial
delays, and in the meantime, we will be able and willing to help you
mitigate this impact and serve you.
Ileana Stevenson Covo - GM For
those coming from the lesser Antilles this will be the first event in
full on Latin style in Colombia - come celebrate the great food and
culture that is Colombia in it's premier yacht club.
(3) OCEAN POSSE PARTY PANAMA + SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
FLEET MEET UP
SAT. FEB 3 '24 SHELTER BAY MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
IMPORTANT:
This event is in the middle of high season. The Shelter Bay
Marina will be near capacity so make reservations early.
Additionally, we are also going to organize a shuttle bus to get
folks to this event from alternate locations.
(4) PANAMA POSSE AWARDSFUN ACTIVITIES, GOLF, POOL, DJ LOUNGE, + MARINE EXPO
SAT. MAY 11 '24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
This is a very exclusive signature event in the Hamptons of Panama.
The upscale resort Buenaventura is just 80 minutes west of Panama City
and is one of the most charming and reserved places on the Pacific coast
of Panama. Only 60 nm from the Las Perlas.
Beat, Caroline, dogs & Heyson Garcia - YES PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB IS UBER DOG FRIENDLY
We,
Caroline Imfeld and Beat Rettich are running this place since January
2021. We moved from Switzerland to Belize in 2019 and found this
treasure while looking for a dock for our yacht.
Simplicity on a high level is our aim and to make our guests happy.
FOR RESERVATIONS AND MOORINGS @ PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB
Coming
down to the Acapulco area today the water was as smooth as a swimming
pool. The whole way. Light winds 5 to 7 knots. It was perfect for a
motoryacht. (We) anchored at La Roqueta (and were the) only yacht here.
(We saw) plenty of tourists on the beach and snorkeling. Looking across
the channel, lots of tourists at the hotels. Music is jamming.
Anchorage @ 16° 49 N 99° 543 W 23.00 ft 7.30 m
Two reports on anchoring at La Roqueta this week:
1. From MV SUMMERBREEZE heading south:
We
got there and were the only ones anchored there. Wonderful spot.
Excellent snorkeling. Felt safe. But would not recommend going into town
still. We did go over to get a bite to eat. Have pesos when you go if
you go. Very crowded. Very little supplies. But all the lights are on at
night.
2. From SY BISOU heading north:
Went
ashore at Isla La Roqueta (Acapulco) this afternoon. Busy with lots of
local visitors. There are vendors walking the beach selling quesadillas
and ice cream or you can get a menu and order drinks and food from the
waiters. Lots of tables and chairs with umbrellas available. It’s a very
worthwhile stop and we were happy to help out these hard working people
who have lost so much!
Thank you for Sharing your Adventures on the water
MV SUMMERBREEZE & SY BISOU!
MV SUMMERBREEZE 🇺🇸 - Kurtis - Bestway 46'
SY BISOU 🇦🇺 Robin and Tad - Fountaine Pajot 44′
SHARING YOUR STORIES is the heart and soul of the Panama Posse
Please
share pictures of your adventures, your award entries/nominations, your
breathtaking sunsets, and picturesque anchorages on our group
communications platform for others to enjoy in real time and/or email
Maurisa at editor@panamaposse.com
to share in the upcoming newsletter. Maurisa is a sailor among
us. She is part of the Ocean Posse crew and enjoys writing fun and
helpful updates to the Panama Posse.
Gwen’s first sunset at sea, and my last sunset of 2023
7) POSSE PERK: INTEL
GETTING FUEL IN HUATULCO 🇲🇽 MEXICO
No Fuel Docks here
Report from SY BISOU:
There
is no longer a fuel dock at the marina in Huatulco, Mexico. It was
removed many years back. There is a fuel dock in Santa Cruz, but it is a
little sketchy and is best at high tide. Previously we have anchored in
Bahia Organo and taken the diesel cans in the dinghy to Santa Cruz and
filled them at the fuel dock. We timed it with a snorkel trip to Entrega
🤿.
Alternatively,
there’s a dirt track that leads to the main road that heaps of taxis go
by on. It’s about 7km into town. My friend that regularly anchors here
said it’s the way to go.
SY BISOU 🇦🇺 Robin and Tad - Fountaine Pajot 44′
8) 🇲🇽 MARINA PALMIRA TOPOLOBAMPO ·
SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
25° 36.0166′ N 109° 03.5333′ W
It
is our pleasure to welcome you to Marina Palmira in Topolobampo,
Sinaloa, México. We are please to announce our sponsorship of the Panama
Posse and offer a 10% discount of our slip rates
Nelson Quintero
Manager Marina
Palmira Topolobampo
In
addition to the natural beauty of the Sea of Cortez, Marina Palmira
offers our guests a convenient berth in our wet marina, safe storage and
excellent customer service.
With 40 berths we are pleased to host ships ranging from 25 ‘to 145’ yachts.
Marina Palmira is pleased to announce the participation of the new management of Hotel Marina.
Whether
you choose to relax on your boat, in the pool, or on a trip to one of
the beautiful beaches that the port of Topolobampo offers, Marina
Palmira is the most convenient shipping point for the cruise community
in northern Mexico
A very nice bay on the mainland side of the Sea of Cortez, Mexico.
9) BUDDY BOATING IN THE PERLAS ISLANDS 🇵🇦
View from Isla Contadora
Presently,
there are a fair number of cruising vessels in the Perlas Islands.
For safety and comradery most vessels are buddy boating and/or
anchoring near other vessels. Most are staying in the more
northern islands for proximity to provisions, and/or resorts with
amenities and guards. Contadora is one of the northenmost islands
known as an island for the wealthy and the elite. While many
people come on private boats, Contadora has daily ferry service and air
service to and from Panama City. The island is absolutely
stunning: white sand beaches, turquoise water, coral reefs, and old
growth tropical trees that lean out to sea.
SY PATHFINDER, SY GALATEA, & SY WHIRLWIND onanchor off Isla Contadora
Sometimes the BEST place for the Pathfinder crew to be is the water hammock.
Walking onshore among the deer and manicured streetsides on Isla Contadora
Sundowners taste great in the Perlas
Hanging out after sundowners also works
SY PATHFINDER 🇺🇸 Jean-Philippe & Nicole - Lagoon 39'
SY GALATEA 🇺🇸 Sarah & Mark - Morgan 46'
10) CULTURE:
An Enchanting Journey Through Time and Space
🇧🇿 BELIZE
Prepare
to embark on an enchanting journey through time and space, to a world
unlike any other - the mystical and ancient civilization of the Mayans.
With their deep-seated beliefs in a pantheon of gods, sacred rites,
spiritual gateways, and fascinating traditions, the Mayans offer a
captivating and unique experience. Nestled in the heart of Belize, this
melting pot of cultures boasts a rich and colorful heritage that is sure
to leave you spellbound.
Although
the Mayan civilization is shrouded in mystery, its architectural legacy
- intricate temples, awe-inspiring artifacts, and fascinating
traditions - has withstood the test of time. At its zenith, the Mayan
Empire spanned from Mexico to El Salvador, with Belize serving as its
epicenter. The Yucatec, Kekchi, and Mopan Maya groups shared similar
customs and dialects, contributing to the country's cultural diversity
through their dance, traditions, and ancient temples.
Mayan
architecture is renowned for its complexity and sophistication,
surpassing even that of the ancient Egyptians. The temples and palaces
were built with precision and mathematical accuracy, allowing the Mayans
to observe and study the stars with great fascination. Today, many of
these revered temples remain well-preserved and open for exploration,
including Xunantunich, Caracol, and Lamanai.
Exploring Our Temples
Follow
the winding path westward, where the land of Belize reveals its ancient
secrets. Amongst the verdant forests and sacred hills of this land lies
Xunantunich, a sacred site of the Classic Period. Its name, "maiden of
the rock" or "stone woman" in the language of the Maya, echoes through
the ages, beckoning the curious and the mystically inclined. Though
occupying only a modest 300 square meters, its vast periphery spans
several kilometers. Behold the grandeur of its main palace, where an
astronomical frieze adorns the walls, soaring up to 133 feet, the second
tallest temple in all of Belize. Gaze upon the visage of the sun god,
etched in intricate detail upon the grand structure. Xunantunich boasts
six majestic plazas, 25 temples and palaces, and a museum, drawing
travelers from far and wide to bask in its ancient magic.
Venturing
deeper into the Chiquibul Forest Reserve of Western Belize, one
discovers the enigmatic Caracol, shrouded in mystery and myth. The
Spanish word "Caracol," meaning "shell," gives this site its name. It is
the largest known Maya site within the country, and its crown jewel is
the awe-inspiring "Canaa," or "Sky Place," standing tall at 140 feet.
Though accessing the site may prove challenging, the journey is worth
it, as the route reveals breathtaking vistas that leave a lasting
impression upon the soul.
Further
north, amidst the rustling leaves and gentle murmur of the river, lies
Lamanai, the "submerged crocodile" of the Maya language. It is one of
the largest ceremonial centers of the Maya people, its original name
retained across the ages. Explore the remnants of a bygone era, where
the echoes of ancient rituals still reverberate through the land. Take a
leisurely river cruise, where exotic birds and plants abound, or wind
your way through the villages to discover this ancient site. Behold the
Christian churches of the 16th century, and the 19th-century sugar mill,
remnants of colonial times. Lamanai's vast history spans many
centuries, from the Classic Period to the Post Classic, allowing one to
witness the evolution of Maya construction techniques over time. Let
Lamanai's magic wash over you and transport you to a time of wonder and
myth.
Keeping our traditions Alive
The
Mayan traditions have been kept alive through the ages, offering a
glimpse into their rich cultural heritage. The ancient sport of Pok ta
Pok, for instance, was a ceremonial ball game played in the courts of
temples, and today it is kept alive through reenactments and world cup
tournaments.
Pok ta Pok team
Tournament champion
The
Deer Dance, another unique Mayan tradition in Belize, features dancers
adorned in intricate costumes and carved wooden masks, performing to the
music of a marimba. The dance represents the Mayans' respect for nature
and animals and depicts their resistance to Spanish invasion.
Deer Dancer in ceremony
Exploring
Toledo, the cultural heartland of Belize, offers a tantalizing glimpse
into the Mayan's gastronomic heritage. The Mayans revered chocolate as a
gift from the gods, imbued with extraordinary power. Embark on a food
tour that takes you on a journey to listen to traditional Mayan
instruments, grind corn, bake tortillas, or prepare chocolate.
For
a more authentic experience, try "Caldo," a traditional soup made from
locally raised chicken, indigenous spices, and vegetables, served hot
with corn tortillas or "poch" (masa steamed in leaf).
Whether
you choose to visit ancient temples, swim beneath majestic waterfalls,
or hike through stunning caves, the Mayan world offers a unique and
unforgettable experience. Horseback riding through the lush jungles in
the Mayan Mountains is another option for a more adventurous experience.
The Mayan civilization may have been lost to history, but its people
have persevered, preserving their customs, traditions, and religion.
Come and immerse yourself in the rich and colorful culture of the Mayans
in Belize, and discover a world that is truly enchanting - if you're
brave enough!
11) GOOD NAUTICAL ⚓ YELAPA 🇲🇽 MEXICO
#1 tip from SY MAISON DE SANTÉ :
The
most comfortable way to enjoy Yelapa is to insist on a stern ball to
keep you pointed into the swell. At night the wind usually switches and
puts the swell on the beam and it can be miserable but with it, you can
be comfortable in some swell. They’ll want to charge more to use two
balls but it’s worth it.
There’s
about a 4 mile hike to smaller waterfalls most people don’t visit… just
follow the river, you will pass homes and donkies and might have
doggies visit you too
Walking the beach and meeting the local dogs
Sweet water: can't beat it!
Donkeys in Yelapa can also be rented to ride and explore on Donkeyback
Ocean
World is located on Cofresi beach, near town of Puerto Plata. With an
abundance of hotel rooms and recreation opportunities that include,
golf, fishing, scuba diving, horseback riding, and even white water
rafting, Puerto Plata is already celebrated as an affordable Caribbean
vacation playground. Puerto Plata’s airport (POP) is a 30 minute drive,
and has daily flights from Miami, NYC and cities in Europe. Ocean World
Marina, now the only full-service marina located between the heavily
traveled Florida/Bahamas area and the Puerto Rico/Eastern Caribbean
region.
13) HO'OKIPA REPORT
ON CLEARNING INTO SAN ANDRES 🇨🇴 AND ROATAN 🇭🇳
As
a motor yacht we needed to take on fuel to make the passage to Roatán,
Honduras from Bocas Del Toro, Panama. That meant a stop in Isla de
San Andrés, Columbia. (The other Columbian island relatively nearby,
Isla de Providencia, has no fuel dock and fuel is only available with
jerry cans being brought ashore.)
On
Isla de San Andrés, fuel, the Nenes Marina, and the anchorage are found
up a well-marked and well-lit channel on the north east end of the
island, the windward side. Our approach near the mid-channel buoy was 12
32’.16N 081 41’.28W (A word on the anchorage. We
did not have first-hand experience, but we heard from other cruisers it
gets rolly, and when the channel is dredged the sand is disposed of into
the anchorage and thus does not pack down and holding is poor.
Boats were dragging when the winds picked up.)
Nenes Marina -- 12 34’.714N 081 41.849W
Nenes
Marina is connected to the Texaco gas station. Texaco has a long
hose to reach boats at the marina. I contacted Capt. Nenes ahead
of time via WhatsApp (+57 315 303 7643) and email
(nenesmarina@hotmail.com) to ask for availability. He confirmed.
When we arrived, the marina was even smaller than imagined.
The depth at the dock is 11 feet. Being windy, the dock
hands wanted us to drop our anchor while we backed to the dock and use
it to keep us from blowing into the wooden dock. We used our
thrusters instead. Much easier. The dock hands used a
separate line attached to small buoys off the dock (steer clear of them
when docking) which then ran to our bow and stern to keep us off the
dock. We would be there 36 hours. The rate was $60/day.
Total $90. We took on 296 gallons of diesel at $3.50/gallon.
The Agent and immigration team delivered passports and paperwork stamping us into and out of Columbia for our refueling mission.
In
Columbia, the law requires an agent be used to clear into the country.
The agent arranges all with Immigration and the Port Captain.
Prior to leaving Bocas Del Toro, Panama we contacted Rene Cardona
who came highly recommended by participants on Noonsite, Active Captain
and No Foreign Land. We reached Cardona via WhatsApp +57 315
680 7980 and email: Serrana_agencia@hotmail.com . His fee
is $70 which included clearing us in and out in one go due to our short
stay. As he had all our documents via email in advance it was a
very easy process. He was punctual and efficient. He
arranged for Immigration to come to our boat at Nenes Marina where the
Immigration Officer had us sign paperwork, collected copies of our boat
documents, and took our passports back to her office to get them
stamped. We always have multiple copies of all documents in
advance to give to everyone, which speeds the process. Agent Rene
stayed throughout. (Very disconcerting having our passports out
of our possession, but that’s how they roll.) Another local
authority person came by our boat to meet our agent to collect the $35
p.p Tourist Tax. That money was given to Agent Rene who paid the man
directly. The next day Rene returned with our Zarpe and La Señora
de Immigration returned with our Passports stamped in and out of
Columbia. She also asked if her team, who were in tow, could come
aboard Ho’okipa so they could take a video to be used internally at
their office in celebration of their 90th anniversary. We said,
"Absolutely."
Ho’okipa Report on Clearing into Roatán, Honduras
Forty-eight
hours before our arrival, as required by Honduran law, we notified
Honduras Authorities our ETA through the HonduranZarpes on-line website.
Super easy to do. Info is on Panama Posse website but here
is the link DGMM-HN (jotform.com)In addition, however, you must go to
Immigration and the Port Captain in person to check in and get passports
stamped and Zarpe issued once in country.
We
arrived on a Saturday morningbut a few days prior to arrival we were
told by folks at Barefoot Cay Resort and Marina where we had a
reservation, that Immigration and the Port Captain offices were closed
on the weekends. We thought about anchoring in the bay at Coxen
Hole but decided against it. Too busy with cargo ships, shrimpers,
and cruise ships, tricky to navigate, and our dinghy was not healthy.
Easier to go directly to the marina for a softer landing.
On
arrival at the marina, we were informed that in fact Immigration is
open until 12:00pm. Our crew wanted to fly the next day back to
Panama, so we headed to Immigration. He would not be needed at the
Port Captain’s Office on Monday when we would get our cruising
permit/Zarpe. Barefoot Cay Resort and Marina (A Panama Posse
sponsorthat offers a 20% discount on slip fees.) arranged a car to take
us to Immigration and bring us back. $32 r/t for the 3 of us.
The Immigration office is in Plaza Mar, upstairs, in a small
office on the 2nd floor, in Coxen Hole, about a 15-minute drive from
Barefoot Cay Resort and Marina. Immigration is Saturdays and
Sundays but it was indeed open Saturday until 12pm. Probably to
accommodate the tourists we found there coming in on a cruise ship,
which happens regularly.
We
were asked by Immigration for a plane ticket showing travel exiting
Honduras. Explaining we arrived on our own boat and would be
cruising on to Belize and showing our boat documents, resolved that
issue. We received the maximum 90-day visa stamp in our passports.
We were also informed that Honduras is part of the CA-4 Group
which consists of Central American countries Honduras, Guatemala,
Nicaragua, and El Salvador. The CA-4 Group shares a 90-day visa
limit. You cannot stay more than 90 days in the CA-4 group region.
You must leave the region for 72 hours and then re-enter for only
1 extension of an additional 90-day visa.
Immigration
DID ask to see our Yellow Fever vaccination cards which we had.
Our crew did not have one even though as Immigration noted we
arrived from San Andres, Columbia. Immigration informed us
Columbia also requires it, but no one asked for it there, much to the
Roatán Immigration Officer’s surprise. (consternation.?) When
asked, our crew and I stated he did not get off the boat in San Andres
(or barely which we conveniently omitted). That and the fact that
our crew was leaving in the morning helped smooth the way for
Immigration to make an exception for our crew member’s oversight.
Glad it worked out.
(FYI,
we told our crew to get a vaccination in Bocas Del Toro, which he could
do, and was going to, but then at the last minute he decided not to get
one. Even though, as we told him, in our experience from our
conversations with the vaccination agents we have used in Los Angeles
before all trips to off-the-beaten-path places, getting a yellow fever
vaccination is not a big deal, no more than any other vaccination shot,
especially if you have no underlying conditions, and it’s a one-time
lifetime shot.By now days before departing Bocas Del Toro, we were in a
jam, so we decided to let the chips fall where they may, hoping no
authority asked for his yellow fever vaccination card which seemed
possible from what we’d heard from other cruisers, but claim ignorance
if they did. Absolutely NOT my favorite way to handle border
crossings. I am thankful it was resolved successfully, but it
could have been a major problem and I’m not sure what might have
happened to him and to us and our boat had Immigration pressed the
issue. Just glad in Roatán they like and need tourists.
Roatán is reputed to be the easiest entrance to Honduras for
exactly that reason. Crew was able to fly out Sunday morning and
back to Bocas Del Toro with no issues.)
Monday,
we had a difficult time finding the Port Captain’s Office on our own.
We asked around and no one knew where it was even though we had a
general idea. According to one online source, “Next to a park that
is across from a bank”. Finally, a nice man escorted us there.
We had driven past it about ten times! We had asked the
guards outside the bank it was near, and even they had no idea where it
was when in fact it was across the street!!! So, to be clear, the
Port Captain’s office is in centro Coxen Hole and is next door to the
Eldon’s Supermarket on Main Street. It’s on the water in the very
back of a little tiny square that has a couple of statues and a little
clock tower that’s on Main Street. It is NOT a park. You
cannot see the office from the street. It’s too well-hidden way in
the back where it sits next to a dock.
Port
Captain’s assistant said they were open on Saturday so not sure why we
were informed otherwise. Our Zarpe is for 90-days and includes the
crew list with our crew member’s name on it. We told the Officer
that our crew is not with us and had flown back to Panama, but he said
it made no difference and not to worry. When we get our exit
Zarpe, it will be changed to reflect just the two of us. FYI, it
is possible to check in and out of the nearby island Guanaja as well.
MY 🇺🇸 HO'OKIPA Lucky Chucky and Lisa - Selene 43'
14) MEET THE FLEET ⛵
SY ISIDORE
Photo taken in Zihuatanejo, Mexico in December 2023.
We
are S/v Isidore. We are en route to Baja from Montreal. 2 crew,
myself and my husband, George, who took the photo. Our vessel is a 36
Tashing Tashiba. A Robert Perry design.
2023-12-22 – Colombia – Santa Marta – Taganga Bay – Assault
Caribbean Safety and Security Net : Know Before You Go
The
Caribbean Safety and Security net is a site that aims to keep people on
the water aware of any incidents on the water and where they are
happening. We advise vessels to familiarize yourself with the site
and check into any incident reports in the areas plan to cruise.
Know before you Go.
There
is a report recent of an incident on the north coast of Columbia off
Santa Marta in Taganga Bay. The vessel was anchored alone,
boarded by masked armed men that abused and stole electronics. It
is advisable that, in light of this incident, captains may want to seek
alternative anchorages and or anchor with other boats that they remain
in radio contact with.
The details of the incident can be found at the link below:
Ketches like SY WHIRLWIND can sit on anchor with their mizzen mast as a steadying sail
Safe
anchoring practices are exceptionally important for cruising vessels.
Anchoring a vessel is not rocket science however, one is wise to
pay attention to some key aspects in order to anchor safely every time
you drop the hook
1. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
The
location an anchor is dropped is very important. We want wants
large open, muddy or sandy spot that can accommodate 360 degree
swing. When looking for a safe spot to set the hook, we consider
all wind shift and current changes as possibilities and imagine how they
could effect the boats location. We allow for space between all
other vessels in the anchorage. Beware of mixed rocky bottoms and
coral structures. We try to not anchor anywhere your anchor or
chain will wrap around rocks or touch any coral . Coral is fragile
and easily destroyed.The ocean floor where we plan to anchor does often
provide chart notes from multiples sources. So we sometimes take
a motor through the area looking for any structures underwater,
and avoiding them.
Anchoring with others: allow space for everyone to swing & listen to their own music.
2. DEPTH AND SCOPE
When
our anchor is fully set and stretched you ideally want anywhere from a
5:1 to 7:1 ration between the amount of rode and/or chain and the depth
of water the vessel is in so we get good holding power from your anchor
burying into the seafloor.
Our
scope used is often related to the amount of wind and current affecting
our vessel on anchor. The holding power in different conditions
varies. According to Fotress Anchor, "A good rule of thumb to
remember – as the wind speed doubles, the holding requirement
quadruples!"
2. SETTING THE ANCHOR
In
general, we come into your spot head to wind and proceed one to two
boat lengths ahead of where we want your vessel to sit. Boat speed
near zero as the hook lowers into the water. Some people
use the anchor as a reference. As soon as it looks like we are
drifting backwards we drop the anchor to the bottom and stop the chain
from falling when the anchor lands. As our vessel slowly backs
down on the seafloor we lay the chain down and letting out more
and more scope Depending on the wind and conditions, we
either motor slowly in reverse or just let the wind do the work of
setting the hook into the seafloor..
3. VISUALLY CHECK THAT THE ANCHOR IS SET WHEN BACKING DOWN HARD
After
anchoring, take visual sightings of onshore objects or buoys in the
water to help you know where your boat is positioned. While at anchor,
recheck these sightings frequently to make sure the anchor is not
dragging. you can also use your dodger as a visual reference between the
shore and if there is a visual difference or change in angle - you are
dragging
3. ANCHOR ALARMS
There
are different anchor alarms available. Some are integrated into a
vessels electronics, many are available as apps. Set an anchor
alarm 4 to 1 range (so in 20 feet we do 80 foot radius) so that if the
boat moves outside this field you are alerted to hop up top and assess
the situation. Another setting is related to know obstacles in the
circle - run a radar sweep to the shoreline - measure and set your safe
zone based on this
A handheld anchor alarm next to you even if you are sleeping soundly will alert you to dragging or major changes in your relative position to shore
The Castillo de San Felipe is a Spanish colonial fort at the entrance to Lake Izabal in eastern Guatemala.
Lake
Izabal is connected with the Caribbean Sea via the Dulce River and El
Golfete lake. The fort was strategically situated at the narrowest
point on the river. The Castillo de San Felipe was used by the Spanish
for several centuries, during which time it was destroyed and looted
several times by pirates
The fort is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List and is a popular regional tourist destination.
The
Castillo de San Felipe was built to protect the port of San Antonio de
las Bodegas on the south shore of Lake Izabal from frequent pirate
attacks, mostly by English pirates.
After
nightfall, passage along the river into the lake was blocked by a large
chain that crossed from the fort to the far bank. San Antonio was
the main port for receiving Spanish shipping carrying goods for the
Captaincy General of Guatemala and was responsible for supplying and
garrisoning the fort. Guatemalan records contain details of
captains being appointed to the fort well into the 18th century.
The
position was a joint post, also including the position of mayor of San
Pedro de Amatique and San Antonio de las Bodegas. The latter post was in
name only, since the towns were soon abandoned due to constant slave
raids by the Mosquito Zambo that left the Motagua delta and shores of
Lake Izabal largely deserted, with those inhabitants that did not flee
being sold into slavery in the British colony of Jamaica.
A
tower already existed on the site by 1604, when it is recorded as
having been destroyed. The fort was built in 1644 under the orders
of Diego de Avendaño, then governor of the Kingdom of Guatemala. At the
time it was known as Fuerte Bustamente (“Bustamente Fort”) and the
Torreón de Defensa (“Defence Tower”).
The
fort was redesigned in 1687 by Diego Gómez de Ocampo in the style of
the French military architect Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban. The
modified design was implemented in 1689. Three bastions were functioning
by 1697.
https://panamaposse.com/castillo-de-san-felipe
19) 75+ PANAMA POSSE MARINA SPONSORS
🇺🇸 Safe Harbor South Bay – Chula Vista, USA
🇺🇸 Safe Harbor Ventura Isle - Ventura, USA
🇲🇽 Cruise Port Village - Mexico
🇲🇽 IGY Marina Cabo San Lucas – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina Puerto Escondido – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina Palmira Topolobampo – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina y Club de Yates Isla Cortes – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina el Cid – Mazatlan – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta – Mexico
🇲🇽 PANAMA POSSE HQ – Marina Puerto de La Navidad – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina Ixtapa, Ixtapa – Mexico
🇲🇽 La Marina Acapulco, Acapulco – Mexico
🇲🇽 Vicente’s Moorings, Acapulco – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina Chiapas – Mexico
🇬🇹 Marina Pez Vela – Guatemala
🇸🇻 Marina Bahia del Sol – El Salvador
🇸🇻 La Palma Moorings – Bahia del Sol - El Salvador
🇳🇮 Marina Puesta del Sol – Nicaragua
🇨🇷 Marina Papagayo – Costa Rica
🇨🇷 Banana Bay Marina – Costa Rica
🇪🇨 Marina Puerto Amistad – Ecuador
🇵🇦 Buenaventura Marina – Panama
🇵🇦 PANAMA POSSE PACIFIC HQ Vista Mar Marina – Panama
21) PANAMA CANAL AGENT CENTENARIO CONSULTING ERICK GALVEZ
To
arrange for transit with the Panama Canal Authority please contact Eric
Galvez our dedicated Panama Canal agent and sponsor of the Panama Posse
and the Pacific Posse
Erick Gálvez
info@centenarioconsulting.com
www.centenarioconsulting.com
Cellphone +507 6676-1376
WhatsApp +507 6676-1376
22) WAYPOINT YACHT SERVICES
“Our
vision is to provide a top tier service to our customers while covering
every potential need they may have when approaching shore.
Small
yachts (up to 38.1 meters LOA) are expected to experience substantial
delays, and in the meantime, we will be able and willing to help you
mitigate this impact and serve you.
May 2024 take you, your crew and your ship to places you’ve never been before. Cheers to great friendships, unforgettable voyages with Neptune's blessings.
TOP NEWS
Season 7: Registration Is Open 248 Yachts from 23 Ensigns Signed Up !
Season 7 Posse Seminars and Events Past and Future
Award Nominations: Pictures and Biggest Fish Caught 🇵🇦
SY ZEPHYR crosses the Panama Canal 🇵🇦
Humpback Whale Season in Banderas Bay 🇲🇽
Smithsonian Tropical Research Station in Panama 🇵🇦
Fort George Cay Turks and Caicos
Good Nautical: Coco Bandera San Blas, Panama 🇵🇦
Bahia Tenacatita, So much to do 🇲🇽
Meet the Fleet: SY TIAMAT
Safety Seminar: Fire Safety and Storage of Lithium Battery Powered Craft and Items
one
of the many perks of the Panama Posse is free tracking with
predict wind - please be sure to add your vessel to the free fleet
tracker >>https://panamaposse.com/add-to-tracking
5) SEASON 7 PANAMA POSSE EVENTS
(1) CLUB DE PESCA YACHT FEST SAT, JAN 20 '24 CARTAGENA 🇨🇴 CO
Ileana Stevenson Covo - GM For
those coming from the lesser Antilles this will be the first event in
full on Latin style in Colombia - come celebrate the great food and
culture that is Colombia in it's premier yacht club.
(2) OCEAN POSSE PARTY PANAMA + SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
FLEET MEET UP
SAT. FEB 3 '24 SHELTER BAY MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
IMPORTANT:
This event is in the middle of high season. The Shelter Bay
Marina will be near capacity so make reservations early.
Additionally, we are also going to organize a shuttle bus to get
folks to this event from alternate locations.
(3) PANAMA POSSE AWARDSFUN ACTIVITIES, GOLF, POOL, DJ LOUNGE, + MARINE EXPO
SAT. MAY 11 '24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
This is a very exclusive signature event in the Hamptons of Panama.
The upscale resort Buenaventura is just 80 minutes west of Panama City
and is one of the most charming and reserved places on the Pacific coast
of Panama. Only 60 nm from the Las Perlas.
Beat, Caroline, dogs & Heyson Garcia - YES PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB IS UBER DOG FRIENDLY
>
We,
Caroline Imfeld and Beat Rettich are running this place since January
2021. We moved from Switzerland to Belize in 2019 and found this
treasure while looking for a dock for our yacht.
Simplicity on a high level is our aim and to make our guests happy.
FOR RESERVATIONS AND MOORINGS @ PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB
SY ZEPHYR and friends from SY EYRA crossed the Panama Canal in December
Hired Line Handlers for the 12 hour day...they were amazing!
Sharing the locks with the BIG boats!
All in time for Christmas on the Pacific Side of Panama.
SV ZEPHYR 🇺🇸 Laura & Chris - Lagoon 45′
Thank you for Sharing your Adventures on the water SY ZEPHYR!
SHARING YOUR ADVENTURES is the heart and soul of the Panama Posse
Please
share pictures of your adventures, your award entries/nominations, your
breathtaking sunsets, and picturesque anchorages on our group
communications platform for others to enjoy in real time and/or email
Maurisa at editor@panamaposse.com
to share in the upcoming newsletter. Maurisa is a sailor among
us. She is part of the Ocean Posse crew and enjoys writing fun and
helpful updates to the Panama Posse.
Humpback
whales migrate to Banderas bay and Mexican mainland coastal bays to the
north and south during the northern hemisphere's winter months.
They come from the cold waters off Alaska and Canada to the warmer waters
off Mexico to breed and give birth.
During
this time whales can be seen giving breaching, tail slapping, and fin
waving lessons to their newborns or putting on BIG splashy shows for
their friends or foes. Humpback whales are singers and their song
can be heard up to 7 nm away. Listen closely and you may even hear
their song through the hull of your boat.
Thank you for sharing their grace with us SY QUICK!
BOAT KIDS ON BOARD ?
🦸 👨👩👦👦👦🏾 👦🏻 👧🏾 🧝 👧🏻 🧒👧🏽 👧 👦🏼🙎
Speaking of kids:QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
How many Panama Posse boats are KID BOATS this season?
9) Smithsonian Tropical Research Institution 🇵🇦 PANAMA CITY
Located
alongside La Playita Marina and the Causeway in Panama City visitors
will find the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institution. There are
Sloths on the loose there...none moving too quickly of course.
A short daysail from Panama City and SY PATHFINDER is back on the hook beneath rainbows and among friends in the Perlas Islands.
SY PATHFINDER 🇺🇸 Jean-Philippe & Nicole - Lagoon 39'
10) FORT GEORGE CAY 🇹🇨 TURKS AND CAICOS
21° 53.3083' N 072° 05.7233' W
Cannons 💣 in the water mark the site where Fort Saint George once stood.
Fort
George Cay (originally known as Fort St. George Cay) is a tiny scenic
island found between Parrot Cay and Dellis Cay. The island is
uninhabited and is popular with locals and visitors alike as a boat
cruise destination from Providenciales.
Fort
St. George Cay, located in the Turks and Caicos Islands, holds
significant appeal. This historical site served as a strategic outpost
during the 18th century, safeguarding maritime trade routes for the
British Empire. Today, it continues to attract sailors and adventure
seekers for several reasons:
The
well-preserved ruins of Fort St. George offer a glimpse into the
island's rich maritime history, making it a captivating destination for
history enthusiasts.
The
cay boasts stunning coastal views and pristine beaches, making it an
ideal stopover for sailors in a serene environment.
The former site of Fort Saint George.
Spectacular
beaches are found on both sides of the island. On the western coast
near Pine Cay, a sand spit and sandbars have accreted, creating an
incredibly beautiful setting. On the eastern side and adjacent to Dellis
Cay, a less extensive yet equally beautiful beach can be found,
complete with casuarina trees for shade.
Fort George Cay is a protected historical site and a national park and it is illegal to take or damage any artifacts.
In
1795, a gun battery was constructed on the north end of the island by
Loyalist planters to defend against pirates, privateers, the French, and
Haitian revolutionaries. After a few years, the British took over the
fort. Today canons from these defenses could be seen in the shallow
water right off the beach. Archeological digs and studies that have
taken place on Fort George Cay have revealed some fascinating facts
about the fort and the cay. It appears that the island has suffered from
serious erosion, losing an estimated 150 feet (46 m) over the last two
hundred years, and that fortifications actually used to stand where the
canons are found today in the ocean.
During
the American Revolutionary War, not all of the colonists fought against
Britain, and those who supported the King were called Loyalists, or
Tories. After the war and their expulsion from the United States, some
Loyalists were granted land in other British territories and colonies as
compensation for their losses in the Thirteen Colonies. Wade Stubbs, a
landowner in America, was one of them.
The Story of Wade Stubbs
Originally
from Cheshire County in England, Wade Stubbs emigrated to Florida, near
St. Augustine. After the conclusion of the war and after the 1783
Treaty of Versailles was ratified, he and about 70 other loyalists were
granted tracts of land in the Turks and Caicos Islands by the
then-reigning monarch of Britain, King George III. Nearly all of these
grants were on the two largest islands in the archipelago, the centrally
located North Caicos and Middle Caicos.
In
the early 1800s, the cotton industry in the Turks and Caicos, which
once held so much financial promise, saw a rapid decline. This was due
to an overwhelming combination of pests and diseases (including the boll
weevil), soil erosion, and hurricane damage. The great houses,
infrastructure, and extensive fields, once symbols of relative success,
fell into disrepair and abandonment.
During
the 1800s era, the Turks and Caicos remained a British territory, yet
the islands were administrated through the Bahamas from 1799. In 1874,
due to the failure of the local Presidency, the Turks and Caicos was
annexed to Jamaica. In 1962, Jamaica went independent, and the Turks and
Caicos became its own Crown Colony, and local elections were held.
The
history of the Turks and Caicos is closely tied to African slaves, and
the majority of the current population can trace ancestry to either
slaves brought to the islands for the salt and cotton industries, or
those freed by the British from slave ships.
In
the early 1800s, Britain began to put a stop to slavery. It was a long,
drawn-out process that started in the late 1700s, yet the first
official act was the abolition of slavery in Britain in 1807, which did
not unfortunately apply to the British territories overseas and in the
Caribbean. The 1833 Slavery Abolition Act emancipated slaves in most
territories other than regions controlled by the East India Company, and
Ceylon and Saint Helena.
A
very simplified view of the origins and movements of the African
peoples in the Turks and Caicos is that core groups of African slaves
initially moved to the islands as with the Bermudians to Salt Cay and
Grand Turk for the salt industry starting sometime in the mid to later
1600s, and with the Loyalist Americans to the Caicos Islands starting in
the later 1700s. Due to the collapse of the cotton plantations in the
early to mid-1800s, the majority of the slaves in the Caicos Islands
migrated to the salt-producing islands or abroad to the Bahamas. A heavy
influence on the African populations of the Caicos Islands was slaves
freed by the British from Spanish and Portuguese slave ships that were
either captured or wrecked in the islands. The best-known wrecks were
the Trouvadore, the Esperanza, and perhaps a vessel referenced as the
Gambia.
Panama
offers incredible cruising on both sides of the canal. North east
of the canal entrance are the San Blas Islands. There are over 350
islands and cays 49 of which are inhabited. Currently there is a
posse of Panama Posse boats relishing the beauty or so many blues found
out there.
This
is by far one of our favorite anchorages since we left San Francisco
four months ago! There is so much to love here: Paraiso just
north, and Barra de Navidad just south of here; this is an amazing area!
We have met three sailing couples that bought a home and never
left.
(SY COURAGE)
2) EAT WITH YOUR FEET IN THE SAND:
This is Onno from Lost Pearl, Eric and Anna from Dances With Winds (Barra residents enjoying Christmas at Tenacatita), and John & Kristine from Courage all
enjoying lunch at La Vena. Highly recommend shrimp empanadas and the
pescatarian version of a turducken: fish stuffed with shrimp and wrapped
in bacon covered with almond cream sauce. Yum!
3) TAKE A DINGHY TOUR UP THE ESTUARY
A tunnel through the mangroves
Following the birds
4) DAILY BOCCE BALL ON THE BEACH
Same time, same place.
5) AND MUCH MUCH MORE....
SURF
BOOGIE BOARD
SAND CASTLES
BEACH FIRES
DINGHY RAFT UPS
SNORKEL
HIKE
SAILING RACES.... and on and on...
SY LOST PEARL 🇨🇦 Onno - Hardin 45′
SY COURAGE 🇺🇸 John & Kristine – Tartan 4100
13) FANTASY ISLAND MARINA ROATAN 🇭🇳 HONDURAS WELCOMES THE PANAMA POSSE
16° 21.4383′ N 086°26.3066′ W
At FANTASY ISLAND MARINA, FRENCH HARBOR, ROATAN,
we are able to accommodate about 30/40 vessels and would usually have
unoccupied side tie or Med mooring slips on 5 different docks (dinghy
assisted docking for the Med mooring).
Boats docked at the marina have:
Full Access to the privately owned FANTASY ISLAND RESORT !
Beautiful beaches
Scuba dive facilities
Dive courses on site
Excellent reef snorkeling just off the beach,
Internet in the hotel,
Tiki palapa bar with
Gas and charcoal BBQ facilities in the marina
Weekly bus to ELDONS SUPERMARKET & ACE HARDWARE STORE
Laundry pick up service
Diesel delivered by truck to your boat,
Propane top up in the marina,
Daily cruisers net on Channel 71 (which is also the hailing channel for arriving boats)
many other services.
https://panamaposse.com/fantasy-island-marina
Boats
docked at the marina will be offered a 20% discount on meals at the
hotel and also on dive courses and/or dives or exciting night dives.
The
FANTASY ISLAND RESORT is a privately owned island resort and would be a
good place to get family & friends to meet up with the “Posse”
participants as the resort offers fully inclusive packages with all
that’s required for a wonderful holiday and the marina is part of the
hotel.
Vessels
using the French Harbor anchorage (but not our dock) are welcome to use
the marina facilities and Tiki bar but are not permitted onto the beach
or into the hotel.
Any
sailors needing to go to the Port Captain and Immigration Dept in Coxen
Hole would be able to use our friendly, English speaking taxi service,
who will take you to each office and stay with you for the whole
process. We have several contacts with air conditioned mini tour buses
who will tailor make your ideal tour.
Our docking fees are
Daily US$0-90c per foot per day Plus 15% tax
Weekly US$0-55c per foot per day Plus 15% tax
Monthly US$8-00 per foot per month Plus 15% tax (1st November to 31st May)
Low Season US$6-00 per foot per month Plus 15% tax (1st June to 31st October)
We would gladly welcome all the sailors and their families !
14) POSSE SPONSOR
PANAMA YACHT BROKER: CHARLES BADOIAN
Thrilled
to announce that Panama Yacht Broker has teamed up with the one and
only Panama Posse! As a leading cruising resource, Panama Posse brings a
world of sailing knowledge and resources to the table. From route
planning and local intel to connecting with other cruisers, Panama Posse
has it all. We are honored to join that list of resources thanks to our
partnership.
Our
clients have exclusive access to complementary yacht brokerage
expertise, and discounts on listing agreements. Whether you’re a
seasoned sailor or just setting sail for the first time, Panama Yacht
Broker has a boat for everyone and can also help you sell your boat when
the time is right.
CONTACT
Charles Badoian
Cell/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal:
PA +507 6378-8345
US +1 305-735-1661
Skype: badoian
E: charles@panamayachtbroker.com
15) MEET THE FLEET
SY TIAMAT
Owen, Archer, Olivia and Stephanie on SV Tiamat
We’re
the Anderson family sailing on Tiamat, a Fountaine Pajot Orana 44.
Almost ten years ago we decided we wanted our kids experience some kind
of grand adventure growing up, and somehow hit on the idea of sailing.
After taking some lessons and giving it a go, we found we liked it, and
soon enough were buying our very own Tiamat in San Diego in 2018. After
sailing her around San Francisco Bay for several years and refitting her
extensively, we sailed under the Golden Gate in August 2022, coming
down to Mexico with the 2022 Baja HaHa.
Since
that time we’ve done a pretty thorough circuit of Pacific Mexico, both
the Sea of Cortez and the mainland coast, and are now turning our sights
towards a Pacific crossing in Spring 2024. But since we were pretty
tired of hanging around Banderas Bay after passing hurricane season
there, we’ve made the uncommon decision to spend the intervening months
sailing down to Panama, and then making the crossing from there. We’ll
see what happens after that!"
Crew raising the burgees
SY TIAMAT 🇺🇸 Stephanie & Owen – Fountaine Pajot 44’
SMALL ELECTRIC POWERED CRAFT AND DEVICES ON YACHTS
The
Government of the UK earlier this year issued a guidance to all yachts
about the increased presence of Lithium battery powered watercraft and
tenders on yachts.
“There
has been an increase in the use of small electrically powered craft and
other vehicles such as electric tenders, electric jet skis, electric
foils (e-foils) and other personal watercraft powered by Li-ion
batteries. However, there has not been a thorough consideration of
whether the fire prevention, detection and suppression measures
previously in-place on large yachts for previous generation
petrol-fuelled craft, are appropriate for the newer-battery powered
craft.”
This
warning comes in response to a rise in Yacht fires. Not all fires
have been from lithium battery sources however they are on the rise and
becoming more and more commonplace on yachts without a ton of
preliminary research on their suitability in a marine environment.
For example, we have USB charging fans that we charge and move air
with constantly. We have different brands. Some brands we
have found that the battery pack can begin to work inconsistently and/or
bulge. The bulging was alarming and called for immediate exile off the boat.
Take
this guidance as an opportunity to inspect your lithium battery powered
items onboard to ascertain that they are or are not in good working
order.
Lamanai
was a major city of the Maya civilization. The site is
pre-Columbian, recorded by early Spanish missionaries, and documented
over a millennium earlier in Maya inscriptions as Lam’an’ain.
Lamanai
is renowned for its exceptionally long occupation spanning three
millennia, beginning in the Early Pre-classic Maya period and continuing
through the Spanish and British Colonial periods, into the 20th
century.
Unlike most Classic-period sites in the southern Maya lowlands, Lamanai was not abandoned at the end of the 10th century
Lamanai
was occupied as early as the 16th century BC. The site became a
prominent center in the Pre-Classic Period, from the 4th century BC
through the 1st century CE. In 625 CE.
21) PANAMA CANAL AGENT CENTENARIO CONSULTING ERICK GALVEZ
To
arrange for transit with the Panama Canal Authority please contact Eric
Galvez our dedicated Panama Canal agent and sponsor of the Panama Posse
and the Pacific Posse
Erick Gálvez
info@centenarioconsulting.com
www.centenarioconsulting.com
Cellphone +507 6676-1376
WhatsApp +507 6676-1376
22) WAYPOINT YACHT SERVICES
“Our
vision is to provide a top tier service to our customers while covering
every potential need they may have when approaching shore.
Small
yachts (up to 38.1 meters LOA) are expected to experience substantial
delays, and in the meantime, we will be able and willing to help you
mitigate this impact and serve you.
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