VAVA'U GROUP 🇹🇴 TONGA

2025-03-09
CRUISING FLEET UPDATE

“I have found out there ain't no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.”

— "Tom Sawyer Abroad," 1894

Zoey watching the sunrise arrival of Paw Paw in St Martin. Now I can finally drink some of that rum a friend gave me to celebrate... Cheers :)

SY PAW PAW 🇺🇸 John & Rose - Leopard 46.3

LATEST NEWS

• Cruising Vava'u 🇹🇴
• Safe Gpx Track In And Out Of 🇸🇻
• Special Event Meet the Fleet 🎉 Nawi Island 🇫🇯
• South Pacific Weather Routing જ
• Updates From 🇵🇫
• South Pacific Destination Seminar Series
• Green Cay Marina 🇻🇮
• Sian Kaʼan Biosphere 🇲🇽
• Pathfinder's Adventures Las Perlas 🇵🇦
• The Tribunals ⚖️ Of Neptune ♆
• Good Nautical Bahia Santa Elena
• Abernathy Panama 🔱
• Yachts For Sale In Panama 🇵🇦
• Noaa 🌧️ Vs Ecmwf
• Featured Haul Out Facilities
• The Birds Of Chiapas 🐦
• Marina El Cid - Cancún 🇲🇽
• Crossing The Pacific ⦻ ⨀ ⨁
• Boat Medical Kits 🏥
• Guna Yala ⚠️ Are Not Immigration
• Ocean Posse Fleet Is 🛰️ Tracking
• Meet The Locals 👣
• Critters You'll Hear 🐉

1) PICTURES OF THE WEEK

SY BEAGLE SPIRIT 🇺🇸 Brett - Hallberg Rassy 46'

SY PERCEPTION 🇺🇸 Jim & Melinda

Red Frog Beach
SY KNOT RIGHT 🇺🇸 Walt & Jearine

SY KALIYAH 🇺🇸 Greg

MV PAUSE 🇺🇸 Larry and Beth
image by SY FICKLE

MV KOSMOS 🇺🇸 Eric Christi & Keith - Nordhavn 43'

SY RAMBLE ON ROSE 🇺🇸 Don & Roz - Caliber 40'

MV DELTA SWIZZLER 🇺🇸 Mark & Cindy Vantare 58' - taking on fuel in San Blas MX

298 YACHTS ARE NOW PART OF THE OCEAN POSSE
UNLIMITED ADVENTURE

2) OCEAN POSSE PICTURE OF THE YEAR
AWARD ENTRIES

MV KOSMOS 🇺🇸 Eric Christi & Keith - Nordhavn 43'

OCEAN POSSE
AWARD CATEGORIES

• BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT*
• PICTURE OF THE YEAR
• YODA OF THE YEAR
• SPEEDY AWARD
• THE CAPTAIN RON AWARD
  sponsored by NOVAMAR
• COURAGE AWARD
• CLEAN OCEAN AWARD

• MOST UNWELCOME VISITOR
• HIGHEST WIND RECORDED
• SPIRIT OF EXPLORATION AWARD
  sponsored by PREDICT WIND
• GALLEY GOD(ESS)
• GOOD SAMARITAN
• BOAT YOGA POSE
• SANDCASTLE OF THE YEAR

FLOR DE CAÑA SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

+MUSIC FOR A GOOD PASSAGE

Enjoy another Song Around The World from our PFC 3 album, "Guantanamera". Featuring 75+ Cuban musicians from all around the world:
Havana and Santiago to Miami, Barcelona and Tokyo.
Sail on Sailor !

3) CRUISING 🇹🇴 TONGA'S VAVA'U GROUP
WHAT CAPTAIN COOK NEVER GOT SEE

Captain Cook and the Great Vavaʻu Deception

Captain James Cook, one of history’s most renowned explorers, never set foot on Vavaʻu, Tonga. This was not due to lack of curiosity but because of a deliberate deception by the local chief, Finau, who misled Cook about the existence of a harbor. This act of misinformation altered the course of European exploration in the Pacific.

In 1777, during his third and final voyage, Cook spent time in the Haʻapai islands of Tonga, part of what he called the "Friendly Islands" due to the hospitable nature of the people. While there, he became friends with Finau, the Chief of Vavaʻu, and expressed a desire to visit his lands. Finau, however, discouraged Cook from making the journey. He told the famous explorer that Vavaʻu had no safe harbors or anchorages, which was a blatant li

Anchorage #6 Mala - Vava'u 🇹🇴 Tonga

In reality, Vavaʻu’s Port of Refuge (now Neiafu Harbor) is one of the most protected and navigable harbors in the entire South Pacific. Had Cook visited, he would have undoubtedly documented it as an ideal anchorage. But why did Finau lie?

Historians suggest that the chief feared Cook’s presence would disrupt the delicate balance of power in the region. Finau may have worried that European influence could weaken his control, or perhaps he simply wanted to keep Vavaʻu isolated from the outside world for a little longer. Given Cook’s reputation for making alliances and bringing European goods and ideas, Finau likely saw his visit as a threat.

Moorings and Anchorage field #3 Neifau - Vava'u 🇹🇴 Tonga

Because of this deception, Cook never set foot in Vavaʻu. It wasn’t until 1781, four years later, that the Spanish explorer Francisco Maurelle became the first European to officially discover and document the Vavaʻu archipelago.

Cook’s journals record his disappointment at not visiting Vavaʻu, believing Finau’s claims about its lack of a harbor. This missed opportunity remains one of the most intriguing twists in Pacific exploration history. Had Cook seen Vavaʻu’s natural beauty and strategic anchorage, it might have become a more significant European outpost much earlier.

The Vavaʻu Group in Tonga is known for having some of the exceptional anchorages in the South Pacific. The snaking archipelago with protected waters, countless islands, and excellent holding. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

50+ Vavaʻu Anchorages

✅ Excellent Protection – Many anchorages are within a sheltered maze of islands, providing great protection from ocean swells and strong winds - they are organized by #'s

✅ Good Holding – Most anchorages have a sand bottom, offering solid holding for anchors.

✅ Easy Mooring Options – Many spots, especially around Neiafu, have moorings available (some privately maintained, so worth checking their condition).

✅ Beautiful & Remote – A mix of easy-access spots near town and more isolated, pristine anchorages.

✅ Great for Cruising – Short distances between anchorages make it easy to hop around based on wind conditions.

Download The Vava'u Resource Guide(s) From The Ocean Posse Tonga Page ▶

1 Neiafu

2 The Courseway

3 Pangaimotu

4 Vaipuua

5 Lotuma

6 Mala

7 Port Maurelle

8 Nuku

9 Luamoko

10 Aisea’s or Lisa Beach

11 Tapana

12 Tapana South

13 Hunga

14 Foeata Island

15 Matamaka Anchorage

16 Langitau

17 Lape

18 Fonua Lai

19 Sisia

20 Katafanga

21 Taunga

22 Taunga Village

23 Ngau and Pau

24 Beach Anchorage

25 Makave

26 Olo’ua

27 Mafana

28 Ofu

29 Eueiki

30 Kenutu

31 Maninita

32 Euakafa

33 Fua’amotu

34 Lua Ui

35 Lua Ui Vaha

36 Lua Hiapu

37 Lua Fuleheu

38 Ovaka

39 Ovalau

40 Unnamed Coral Patch

41 Mounu

42 Fonua One’one

Anchorage #13 Hunga - Vava'u 🇹🇴 Tonga

4) SAFE GPX TRACK
IN AND OUT OF 🇸🇻 EL SALVADOR

Hey everyone, just wanted to update anyone wanting to come visit Bahia del Sol in El Salvador. As of the first of this year, they no longer offer the discount for the required pilot boat. They didn't bother to notify Bill & Jean, so we just figured it out today when checking out of the country.

The bar is no big deal anymore, their new policies and procedures make it very safe (no more surfing into the bay allowed) and it should be a no-skip destination for anyone on the west coast. Our time here has been grand. Now onwards to Costa Rica!

They revamped the process to crossing the bar, only allowing it in ideal conditions with little swell. No more surfing across the bar like they did in years past.

It really was almost a non event. They ask you to keep your speed up for a couple of minutes and they take boats across one by one, just follow the pilot boat. In years past, the pilot boat didn't have a depth finder but does now. They check the bar regularly and though it moves frequently, they know how to get you through.

I will say that the rendezvous lat/long they give you (also marked on Navionics) is a suggestion. I would stay well outside of that spot. The pilot boat said I was too close to the bar when I was hiding position there, probably because the bar had moved since they chose that spot.

But yeah, it's super easy and nothing to be worried about anymore. They fixed the issues that contributed to last year's unfortunate events.

Follow this link to download the latest track from SY CAVU ▶

SY PYTHIA 🇺🇸 Caleb - Beneteau 50'

5) PECIAL EVENT

MEET THE SOUTH PACIFIC CRUISING FLEET

NAWI ISLAND – SAVUSAVU 🇫🇯 FIJI

SAT AUG 30 ’25

https://oceanposse.com/nimrsvp/ ▶

Nawi Island Marina - Savusavu 🇫🇯 Fiji

6) OCEAN TACTICS WEATHER ROUTING

John Martin, an experienced sailor with over 150,000 ocean miles, discusses weather and ocean routing tactics for South Pacific sailing. He emphasizes the importance of understanding weather systems, planning departure windows, and tailoring routes based on each boat's characteristics and crew preferences. His OverWatch service provides real-time weather updates, routing advice, and cyclone watch for boats in the region.

Key points:

• Weather Differences: Unlike the stationary systems in the North Pacific and Atlantic, South Pacific weather systems move west to east, affecting wind patterns.
• Departure Planning: Timing and flexibility are crucial to taking advantage of favorable weather windows.
• Routing Advice: Boats receive daily updates, including aim points rather than strict waypoints, to optimize routes for upcoming weather conditions.
• Passage from Panama: Route selection (north or south of the Galapagos) depends on wind conditions at departure. Boats often use fuel early in the passage before picking up trade winds.
• El Niño/La Niña Conditions: Forecasts predict light trade winds across the Pacific for early 2025, with increased convection and squalls near Panama.
• Support Services: Martin offers season passes for weather routing and monitoring, including special discounts for participants.

https://oceanposse.com/ocean-tactics/

John Martin principal of Ocean Tactics has been assisting skippers with weather and passage planning in the Pacific for many years is now an official sponsor of the Ocean Posse.

CONTACT

https://coastalandoffshorecruising.com/ocean-tactics-2/

Email: admin@coastalandoffshorecruising.com

Contact WhatsApp / Tel +64 27 242 1088

7) UPDATES FROM 🇵🇫 FRENCH POLYNESIA

We left Moorea on Feb 20, headed at last to the Tuamotus archipelago. Our destination was Fakarava atoll and we were planning to enter through the north pass. The passage took 40 hours of mildly annoying head seas as we were “easting” into the wind. We kept the 4 hour day, 3 hour night shift schedule but definitely more difficult with only two, a lot shorter sleep times. We timed our arrival for early morning on Feb 22 using the Guestimator I had used successfully at Rangiroa. All went well, this pass is HUGE and we had minimal current. Anchor down at 0710 after an hour run east to the town of Rotoava. After a nap, we checked the anchor snorkeling and found it to be hung up on a bommie and the chain wrapped around another😩. Bill dove the mess with my hookah and 100’ hose and was able to free it up so we could reanchor. Yay!

We explored the town with the dogs, there are a lot of loose dogs here but they are submissive and back off when shooed away. A cruise ship (small) was in town with a bunch of passengers with nothing to do, everything is closed being Sunday, we found out later that everything but the grocery stores stay closed til Wednesday! The dinghy dock is very nice, with garbage receptacles for the cruisers.

We went scuba diving on Feb 23, very good dive master, a Canadian couple and a French guy. We dove the reef outside the pass and it was gorgeous. Great visibility and beautiful coral and fish. We saw some sharks in the distance.

We stayed a couple of more days, swam near a little beach, walked the dogs on the ocean side and let them run free for the first time since Ensenada. We had a nice lunch at a resort and found the Yacht Services folks where we rented ebikes. This was fun but hot, we went past the airport all the way to the North Pass.

We made plans to go to the South End of the atoll and meet up with my friends Chris and Laura.

We pulled the anchor on Feb 26th and were not stuck on a bommie, thanks to Bill for all the work we did on arrival. It was a very nice cruise south inside this atoll, the colors are amazing. It is a little nerve wracking looking for bommies that are also in the channel sometimes. We made it safely to Hirafa anchorage where Chris and Laura were anchored. I met them in the Caribbean in 2022 and we have stayed in touch ever since. We anchored safely, no bommies, you can actually see here. We had a dive scheduled in the South Pass the next day, excited and nervous.

This was another great dive master/Captain team. Divemaster was a young, very knowledgeable French lady (Clémence) Captain (Mathias) was also French. We did two dives with a stop in a beautiful little resort area for hot tea and biscuits in between. What an amazing two dives. We drifted the pass on each side, the first one we saw HUNDREDS of sharks including grey, black tip and lemon sharks. These things were 16’ long or longer! They are very uninterested in us and we watch them like a movie. We stopped in a cave to see them drifting by. The current was mild, not scary. The second dive we still saw sharks but more fish including these huge prehistoric looking wrasses. Both dives the coral was amazing and colorful even though the sun was not bright that day.

We had happy hour on Zephyr (Chris and Laura’s 45’ Lagoon cat. Prior to HH we had a very stressful dog walk on the beach where we were mobbed by 6 or 7 loose dogs. They were aggressive and wouldn’t back off like our previous experience. Bill had to throw sand at them so we could get back to the dinghy, fortunate no dogs or people were bit. HH was very fun, nice to socialize. We made plans to move the boats to the South Pass anchorage and snorkel the pass the next day.

Wow! Snorkeling the pass was so fun! Chris drags his dinghy behind us and we ride the current like a water flume ride that you are inside of, like flying. We saw sharks(close) but smaller🫣, and more huge wrasses in crazy shallow water. We did it twice. We also were able to both snag mooring balls and take away the bommie worries. Dog walk on the beach was also very nice, no stray dogs.

We snorkeled the pass again the next day, with another couple (Chris and Debbie) and Chris and Laura, still crazy fun. We had pizza on Zephyr with everyone that night and the company and pizza was SO good, pizza was cooked on the grill!

Next day, 3/4, we headed back to Rotoava as the first part of our trip to a new atoll, Toau. After cleaning the waterline, dropping garbage off, grocery shopping AND walking dogs, we were exhausted. But, we still had to load the dinghy. We celebrated with Tahiti drinks for all and Bill fixed linguini with clams for dinner, it was perfect.

MY DOWNSHIFTING 🇺🇸 Carine - Nordhavn' 47'

8) SOUTH PACIFIC DESTINATION SEMINAR SERIES
WATCH THEM ON DEMAND

🐢Galapagos

🗿Easter Island

🇵🇳 Pitcairn

🇰🇮 Kiribati

🇵🇫 French Polynesia

🇨🇰 Cook Islands

🇦🇸 American Samoa

🇼🇸 Samoa

🇳🇺 Niue

🇼🇫 Wallis & Futuna

🇹🇴 Tonga

🇫🇯 Fiji

🇻🇺 Vanuatu

🇳🇨 New Caledonia

🇳🇿 New Zealand

9) GREEN CAY MARINA 🇻🇮 USVI
SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

17° 45.5983′ N 064°40.1116′ W

We are proud to Sponsor the Ocean Posse.

We are offering a 10% discount off our Daily Rate.

10% off of our Monthly Rate for 1 month.

.05 cents a gallon discount on Diesel and Gasoline.

You must make a Reservation in advance. We don’t always have slips available.

You must state you are with the Ocean Posse and give your Vessel Number.

CONTACT

MARINA Manager Tel# +1-340-718-1453

Email dar@tamarindreefresort.com

Website / URL https://greencaymarina.com

Address 5000 Southgate Christiansted, VI 00820

• Pump out.
• Excellent US Mail Service for shipping
• Fuel: Diesel and 91 Octane Gasoline
• 30/50 amp electrical service. (No European service)
• Protected safe harbor with 154 slips (max L, D, W = 100ft, 8ft, 30ft)
• fresh water
• ice
• showers
• laundry facilities
• Pool
• On-site restaurant: The Deep End
• Gym

• Beach
• Free Wi-Fi
• Fitness center with cardio, circuit training & free weights.
• Tennis privileges on 4 tennis courts.
• Use of Tamarind Reef Resort’s pool, kayaks, and snorkels
• 20% discount on rooms at Tamarind Reef Resort
• Premier North Shore location (close to Buck Island for easy recreation)
• 24-hour security, parking & storage units

10) MUST- SEE ALONG THE ROUTE

11) PATHFINDER'S ADVENTURES
LAS PERLAS 🇵🇦 PANAMA

San Jose Island - Las Perlas - Panama

San Jose Island - Las Perlas - Panama

San Jose Island - Las Perlas - Panama

San Jose Island - Las Perlas - Panama

San Jose Island - Las Perlas - Panama

08°13.435' N 79°06.4716' W Last anchorage before crossing the Pacifc - WOHOO !!!

SY PATHFINDER 🇺🇸 JP & Nicole & crew - Lagoon 39'

12) THE TRIBUNALS ⚖️ OF NEPTUNE ♆

The "Tribunals of Neptune" in the Line-Crossing Ceremony are a long-standing maritime tradition marking a sailor's first crossing of the Equator. From a sailor’s perspective, it’s a mix of initiation ritual, hazing, and maritime camaraderie—a rite of passage that transforms a "Pollywog" (newbie) into a "Shellback" (seasoned sailor).

All dogs who cross the equator on a private yacht go to heaven !

The Ceremony

The Summoning of King Neptune – The ceremony begins with senior crew members dressing up as King Neptune (the god of the sea), his court, and his Royal Tribunal (judges, doctors, barbers, executioners)

The Accusation & Trial – Pollywogs are "charged" with various "crimes" ( good-natured jabs about their inexperience, lack of musical appreciation of the captain - taste in food).

They must plead their case before Neptune’s tribunal

The Ordeals – Trials can include:

• Dousing in seawater (sometimes being tossed into the ocean)
• Eating unpleasant concoctions (like galley leftovers).
• Jumping overboard and swimming around the vessel on the equator with a yellow floating line indicating the equator
• Head-shaving or face-painting with grease or food.
• Crawling through obstacles like garbage, rotting food, or flour-and-water mush.
• The Baptism & Pardon – After enduring the trials, Pollywogs kneel before King Neptune, receive their official blessing, and are declared Shellbacks. They often get a certificate or a line-crossing card.

Sailors’ Perspectives

Old-School Navy/Commercial Crews – Some love the tradition, seeing it as a test of toughness and a bonding experience.

Yachties & Cruisers – It’s often a fun, lighthearted version with silly costumes, seawater splashes, and a toast to Neptune.

13) GOOD NAUTICAL

BAHIA SANTA ELENA
GUANACASTE 🇨🇷 COSTA RICA

Bahia Santa Elena is an almost landlocked bay on the south side of Golfo de Papaygayo and provides protection from almost all directions and is a good spot to shelter from Papagayos. Flocks of parrots live in the trees and dolphins are commonly seen in the bay which lies inside the Parque Nacional Santa Rosa. Our only encounter with wildlife was a swarm of flying ants which invaded the boat at sunset.

A park fee should be paid but park officials rarely visit Bahia Santa Elena.

Bahia Santa Elena Approach

⚓ 10° 55.5560' N 85° 47.8994' W

Approaches

Rocks and islands extending north of Punta Isla are clearly visible. Staying in the centre of the channel provides a clear route into the bay. The bay shoals rapidly in the east.

14) ABERNATHY PANAMA 🔱
SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

15) YACHTS FOR SALE IN PANAMA

16) NOAA 🌧️ VS ECMWF

Recent layoffs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), affecting approximately 880 employees, are anticipated to have significant repercussions on weather forecasting services vital to sailors. NOAA's responsibilities encompass the National Weather Service and the production of nautical charts, both essential for maritime navigation and safety.

The reduction in NOAA's workforce is expected to lead to less accurate weather forecasts and potential delays in updating maritime maps, which are critical for safe passage in U.S. waters. Such disruptions could compromise the ability of sailors to receive timely and precise weather information, increasing the risks associated with maritime operations.

Layoffs have raised concerns about NOAA's capacity to effectively monitor and predict hurricane activities. The agency's specialized Hurricane Hunter flights, which gather data to enhance forecast accuracy during hurricane season, may be curtailed due to reduced staffing. This limitation could adversely affect the agency's ability to provide accurate and timely warnings to maritime communities during critical periods.

Increased Demand for European Forecasts:

If NOAA's forecasting capabilities weaken, European agencies like the UK Met Office and ECMWF (European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts) might see increased reliance on their models and data, especially from international maritime and aviation sectors.

Stronger Role in Global Weather Prediction:

NOAA plays a major role in global forecasting. A weakened NOAA could lead to greater reliance on ECMWF’s models (which are already highly regarded), possibly increasing funding and collaboration opportunities for European agencies.

More Influence in Weather Research & Policy:

European institutions may gain a leadership role in climate and weather-related policymaking, as NOAA’s influence declines. This could open doors for European forecasters to shape international weather initiatives.

https://www.ecmwf.int/en/forecasts/charts

17) OCEAN POSSE
FEATURED HAUL OUT FACILITIES

Cabrales Boat Yard Sponsors the Posse Cabrales Boatyard is very excited to support the voyages of all the participants of the Posse with a 15 % discount of all services

18) THE BIRDS OF CHIAPAS🐦

SY ROCINANTE 🇺🇸 Lisanne & Bill – Pearson 44′

19) MARINA EL CID - CANCÚN - RIVIERA MAYA 🇲🇽 SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

20° 49.78' N 086° 53.395' W

As the only Riviera Maya resort with its own professional boating services, Marina El Cid Cancún features a wide and deep channel –– providing safe harbor to yachts and other large boats. Experience Cancún / Riviera Maya from a truly breathtaking point of view, then drop anchor and enjoy the luxurious accommodations and world-class services of our oceanfront resort hotel and spa. Considered one of Mexico’s finest boatyards by experienced Puerto Morelos boaters and fishermen, our marina accommodates vessels ranging from 25 to 120 feet in length.

Harbor Master

Hotel Marina El Cid Spa & Beach Resort.

Mazatlan – Riviera Maya – Cozumel

• Floating concrete docks, built to rise with the tide
• Marina Slip Fees
• Dock carts, locker boxes, drinking water, 30, 50 & 100 amp power, TV cable, fire stations, and 24-hour security
• Diesel and gasoline fuel dock and pump out station
• Transient Port Captain check-in facilities are onsite; marina monitors VHF channel 16
• Inlet and marina depth is 9 to 12 feet (3 to 4.5 meters)
• Breakwater protects the moorage from north, east, and southeast winds, providing comfort and safety for the yachts
• Moderate rates for car, motorcycle, and bicycle rentals
• 24-hour taxi service
• Ice machines and bait & tackle shop
• Launching ramps
• Long-term parking facilities
• Snack bar
• Weather services
• E-mail service
• Laundromat
• Restrooms & showers
• Sportfishing
• Dive shop
• Snorkeling, sailing, day cruises, and ecological tours departing daily
• Marina updates on VHF Channel 16

20) CROSSING THE PACIFIC ⦻ ⨀ ⨁

DOWNLOAD THIS CHART - PRINT IT OUT AT A LOCAL PRINT SHOP
AND TRACK YOUR PROGRESS ACROSS THE PACIFIC

This gnomonic chart is not for use as a general sailing chart, but as a simple means of finding the course and distance at any time in great circle sailing.

A straight line between any two points on this chart represents a portion of a great circle and is therefore the shortest possible track line between them.

The dots in the lines representing the meridians and parallels are 15’ apart, and the latitude and longitude of any point must be read off directly from the dots surrounding it and not referred to the margin as is the practice with ordinary charts. By noting the latitudes and longitudes of a number of points of the track line it can be readily transferred to a Mercator’s chart.

OTHER FUN THINGS TO MARK ON THIS CHART
MARK YOUR DAILY NOON POSITIONS WITH DATE ⦻ ⨁
PLUS ALL THE OTHER FUN THINGS
LAND HO - STARS AT NIGHT - DOLPHINS - SUNSETS

21) BOAT MEDICAL KITS 🏥

First Aid Kit(s) for Cruising by Rob Murray

When we prepared Avant for offshore six years ago, we looked carefully at what we would pack for first aid preparedness. We could easily imagine a wide range of scenarios where one or the other of us, or another cruiser or local, was injured (grievously), and needed first aid in an inconvenient, remote location. You know, unconscious bleeding from a compound fracture surrounded by crocodiles while darkness falls in some mangrove swamp, or something like that. We determined that:

We needed to be able to react to a broad variety of potential medical emergencies quickly and comprehensively;

That we would likely be short handed in responding (so the response would have to be easily transported by one person);

That the emergency may happen aboard Avant, aboard another vessel, or ashore so we would need to be able to move the appropriate materials for response to the injured person, and then move the injured person from the site of the incident back to Avant or from the site of the incident to another place for treatment or evacuation;

That we would be at least hours, and might be days or even weeks from professional medical facilities and professional medical help (so we would need enough supplies to treat issues for a prolonged period with instructions on how to use them);

That there were ‘levels’ of response that would be appropriate, so segregating supplies into appropriate kits suited to different levels of response would make sense; and

We would need reference materials suited to the kind of ‘medicine’ we would be practicing.

Before you carry on reading, please note that we’re over prepared. Period!

First, we looked for organizations that had worked systematically to solve this set of problems so we could emulate their methods and techniques. The military immediately came to mind, as they have applied science and rigour to responding to emergency medical situations in rustic locations (although they admittedly seem to focus on gunshot wounds and extreme blunt force trauma as the primary sources of injury). We also read up on mountaineering and other wilderness response experiences, and found the ‘prepper’ community had many guidelines, tips and resources that seemed useful. The Ministry of Transport in the UK also had relevant resources. While many sources suggested that buying supplies separately would be cheaper than buying a kit, we found the reverse to be true, and that the kits we looked at offered value as well as convenience.

So after our obsessive research, we equipped ourselves with a simple ‘boo-boo kit’ for day to day stuff.

This is the type of kit you see in a larger drug store, Costco, Walmart, or some other big box store. You can buy them online at Canadian Safety Supplies. They are also available from the Red Cross, St Johns Ambulance or similar organizations online. It’s portable, so we don’t have to drip blood on the way to the bandaids; soft sided so it’s easy to store, and reasonably comprehensive for small injuries. It unzips and flops open to display the contents when in use. There is plenty of room in the carry bag to augment the contents.

FULL LIST >>

• 12 plastic bandages, 1.9 cm x 7.6 cm (0.75 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 10 junior plastic bandages, 1 cm x 3.8 cm (0.4 in. x 1.5 in.)
• 6 fabric bandages, 2.2 cm x 7.6 cm (0.9 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 2 large fabric bandages, 5.1 cm x 7.6 cm (2.0 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 3 knuckle fabric bandages, 3.8 cm x 7.6 cm (1.5 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 3 fingertip fabric bandages, 4.4 cm x 7.6 cm (1.7 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 5 butterfly skin closures, 1 cm x 4.4 cm (0.4 in. x 1.7 in.)
• 4 sterile gauze pads, 7.6 cm x 7.6 cm (3.0 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 2 sterile non-woven sponges, 7.6 cm x 7.6 cm (3.0 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 1 sterile abdominal pad 12.7 cm x 22.9 cm (5.0 in. x 9.0 in.)
• 2 sterile Telfa, non-adherent pads, 5.1 cm x 7.6 cm (2.0 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 1 roll conforming stretch bandage, 5.1 cm x 180 cm (2.0 in. x 70.8 in.)
• 1 roll conforming stretch bandage, 7.6 cm x 180 cm (3.0 in. x 70.8 in.)
• 1 compress bandage, 10.2 cm x 10.2 cm (4 in. x 4 in.)
• 1 Woundseal topical powder
• 1 non-compressed, triangular bandage, 101.6 cm x 101.6 cm x 142.2 cm (40 in. x 40 in. x 56 in.)
• 1 package of assorted safety pins
• 4 sterile cotton-tipped applicators, 7.6 cm (3.0 in.)
• 2 individually wrapped tongue depressors, 1.9 cm x 15.2 cm (0.7 in. x 6.0 in.)
• 1 roll clear plastic tape, 2.5 cm x 140 cm (1 in. x 55.1 in.)
• 1 roll elastic compression bandage, 7.6 cm x 170 cm (3.0 in. x 66.9 in.)
• 16 antiseptic towelettes
• 12 alcohol antiseptic swabs
• 3 Bacitracin antibiotic ointment, 1 g (0.04 oz.) each
• 2 Water-Jel, 3.5 g (0.12 oz.) each
• 1 eye dressing pad
• 1 large instant cold pack
• 3 After Bite treatment swabs
• 1 St. John’s Ambulance pocket guide, bilingual
• 1 paramedic scissors
• 1 pair of nickel-plated, blunt end splinter forceps
• 1 package of splinter out
• 2 Nitrile, medical examination gloves
• 1 CPR face shield with filtered valve
• 2 antimicrobial hand towelettes
• 6 hand cleansing moist towelettes
• Hand sanitizer
• 1 infectious waste bag
• 2 thermometers
• 1 foil/Mylar emergency blanket, 142.2 cm x 203.2 cm (56 in. x 80 in.)
• 2 candles
• Waterproof tipped matches
• Purified drinking water, 125 ml (4.3 oz.)
• 2 plastic bandages, 1.9 cm x 7.6 cm (0.75 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 5 junior plastic bandages, 1 cm x 3.8 cm (0.4 in. x 1.5 in.)
• 2 fabric bandages, 2.2 cm x 7.6 cm (0.9 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 1 knuckle fabric bandage, 3.8 cm x 7.6 cm (1.5 in. x 3.0 in.)
• 1 fingertip fabric bandage, 4.4 cm x 5.1 cm (1.7 in. x 2.0 in.)
• 2 sterile gauze pads, 5.1 cm x 5.1 cm (2.0 in. x 2.0 in.)
• 2 antiseptic towelettes
• 2 alcohol antiseptic swabs
• 1 Bacitracin antibiotic ointment, 1 g (0.04 oz.)
• 2 After Bite treatment swabs
• 1 fist aid response card, bilingual
• 2 hand cleansing moist towelettes
• We added to the kit with:
• Some tincture of Benzoin for pre swabbing where you want Bandaids to stick (that stuff is magic),
• A big box of assorted Bandaids,
• Extra medical tape, various widths,
• Quality tweezers for dealing with slivers,
• Extra antiseptic wipes,
• Extra gloves,
• Extra antibiotic ointment,
• Saline and syringes for wound washing,
• Eyedroppers.

https://oceanposse.com/offshore-medical-kit ▶

SY AVANT 🇨🇦 Rob & Debra - Beneteau 43'

22) GUNA YALA ARE NOT MMIGRATION
⚠️
Sailors to ensure they visit both office the Congreso Guna for their local fees and next to the airport is the immigration office to get official stamp, don't let congreso stamp your passport !

Nedelcka Gaona Arrocha - Pacific Sector Immigration

Jonathan Guerrini - Panama Maritime Authority

Legal Department - Juana Cedeno - Immigration Headquarters

Good afternoon Dear Sirs,

We would like to inform you of the poor procedure that the Guna General Congress has been handling regarding the arrival of pleasure yachts in the region.

The following event is not the first that we have encountered throughout our maritime service to the pleasure yacht community with tourists who visit us every year.

Attached is a stamp from the congress placed on the passports of the couple on the XYZXYZ yacht upon their arrival in San Blas.

An incorrect procedure of placing a stamp as if it were an entry into the country and not warning them that the real stamp is the one given on Porvenir Island.

Although it is a migration issue, I am copying the AMP so that they are aware that Congress takes actions without the consent of the central government, since on other occasions they tell the client that the navigation permit and entry into the country are included in their collection fee.

These tourists went to check out today at Vista Mar - Immigration and the inspector on duty noticed the mistake that was made with these tourists by putting a stamp on them as if they were the immigration officer.

An illegal and corrupt act on the part of this union.

We do not agree that the TOURIST should have a bad impression of our country due to the illegality of procedures that do not comply with what is established by law and now they have the painful fine of evading a checkpoint of $1000.00 each.

This mistake is from Congress and not from the tourist who in good faith was confident that he was legally in the country with the false stamp from Congress.

We appreciate your good offices on this issue and many more that this guild that does not contribute to the central government maintains on the San Blas Islands.

We request for the good welfare of our tourism that the fine not be applied to the yacht XYZXYZ

Let's look at the stamps and fees that do not reach the government's coffers.

1- STAMP IN BOTH PASSPORTS AS IF THEY WERE MIGRATION

2- ENLARGED STAMP IN THE PASSPORT

3- FEE THAT READS ENTRANCE TO GUNA YALA (GUNA YALA IS PART OF PANAMA)

WHERE THE ENTRANCE IS REALLY BY THE AMP OR THE GENERAL DECLARATION OF THE VUMPA.

These charges from the Congress District have no basis since the Porvenir Islands and surrounding areas are contaminated by the excrement that is dumped directly into the water.

Sincerely

We thank the Pacific Immigration Head office Mr. Nedelka Gaona new immigration person in charge, who understood the

case presented and consider it was an incorrect procedure which confused our customer, been so she waive the $1000.00 fine

each one to the couple.

She gave authorization to stamp them out and they happily went to shop their last groceries prior to sailing out.

We here to attach the difference of stamps for your guidance.

Sailor must make sure the visit both office the Congreso Guna for their local fees and next to the airport is the immigration office to get official stamp, dont let congreso stamp your passport.

Also congreso may say fees are for cruising san blas but is not the same as the Marina mercante Autoridad Maritima Cruising permit which is

the official permit in the country.

Please be guided accordingly

OCEAN POSSE CANAL AGENTS

To arrange for transit with the Panama Canal Authority please contact our dedicated Panama Canal agents and sponsors of the Panama Posse and the Pacific Posse

CENTENARIO CONSULTING

Erick Gálvez

info@centenarioconsulting.com

www.centenarioconsulting.com

Cellphone +507 6676-1376

WhatsApp +507 6676-1376

23) OCEAN POSSE FLEET IS 🛰️ TRACKING

Tracking the Ocean Posse ... MORE ▶

Please be on the lookout for John Jones, single handing on Quiet, a Tayana 37, lost his mast about January 27 after departing El Salvador. He has fashioned a jury rig and is making for Nuku Hiva, FP. His AIS is non functional, but his tracking link works at: https://forecast.predictwind.com/tracking/display/Quiet/
To conserve power he does not run his tracker 24/7.

Underway making way for over 60 days now - His Last known position as of
Sun 9/Mar 2025, 13:06 GMT 04º 56.502 S 117º 52.533 W Course: 213° true, 2.6 kts

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Check this map for 100+ Ocean Posse friendly marinas near you

26) MEET THE LOCALS

Anyone heading to Bocas Del Toro and in particular Trouble Hole Anchorage please bring pens and notebooks for the children. They need them for school.

They will take any color or size of pen and any kind of paper. We gave notebooks and also a ream of printer paper. The kids are super cute and very appreciative of anything you can provide.

Anchored in Trouble Hole, Isla San Cristobal, Bocas and the pangeros had a bunch of races. Was fun to watch.

MY TIDINGS OF JOY 🇺🇸 Jeff & Joy - DeFever 52'

27) OCEAN POSSE SPONSORS

• ABERNATHY - PANAMA
• BELIZE TOURISM BOARD
• BOAT HOW TO
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• DELTA MIKE MARINE SUPPLY PANAMA
• DIGITAL YACHT
• DOWNWIND MARINE
• EL JOBO DIST. COSTA RICA
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28) STRATEGIC PARTNERS

• SSCA
• Coconutz – Playa Cocos – Costa Rica
• Advertising Partners – Summerlin, LV - USA
• Safe-Esteem.com – Delaware

@ Coconutz 🇨🇷 Costa Rica the Ocean Posse embassy in Playa Cocos

29) CRITTERS YOU'LL HEAR ALONG THE ROUTE

Howler monkeys the welcoming committee in 🇨🇷 COSTA RICA

MISSION

• Foster Maritime Camaraderie: Unite yacht owners and sailors in a global community driven by the love of exploration and the sea.
• Promote Safe Cruising: Share resources, local knowledge, and best practices to ensure safe and enjoyable maritime journeys.
• Encourage Adventure: Inspire participants to embrace the call of the sea, explore new horizons, and discover diverse cultures.
• Marina Partnerships: Strengthen collaborations with marinas to offer exclusive benefits, services, and discounts to members.
• Enhance Knowledge Sharing: Facilitate the exchange of tips, skills, and experiences within a supportive fleet of cruisers via facts.
• Celebrate the Journey: Create lasting memories through events, meetups, and a shared passion for life on the water.
• Support Sustainability: Advocate for eco-friendly cruising practices to preserve our oceans and coastal ecosystems.