DELTA MIKE MARINE SUPPLY 🇵🇦 PANAMA SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
DELTA MIKE MARINE SUPPLY 🇵🇦 PANAMA SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
We are please to announce our special discount for the Panama Posse with a 15 / 20 and 25 % discount for active Panama Posse participants
-
Yanmar
-
Yamaha
-
Tohatsu
-
Suzuki
-
Quicksilver
-
Evenrude
-
Johnson
-
Mercury
-
Brp
Authorized Dealer, we offer engines, support and original products with factory warranty.
Delta Mike Marine Supply is a company founded in Jan 2020 with a management that have over 15 years experience in maritime business.
As Yanmar Authorized Dealer, we offer engines, engine services, spare parts, lub oils and all types of Marine products for you all necesities.
Our work site is in Colón, in the Atlantic side close to The Panama Canal but covering all the Country.
SERVICES
Spare & Parts
You Can request your quote and order your spare parts when you need, if we don’t have in our stock in Panamá, you can have them in your hands in 2 or 3 days.
*May apply extra charges
Engine & Transmissions
If you need a re power, we can help you, contact us to coordinate an inspection to offer what really you need
Low Cost
You can buy with us with same price and quality that in US but here in Panama, don’t forget, We are Authorized Dealer of the brands that we handle.
CONTACT :
info@dmmarinesupply.com
sales@dmmarinesupply.com
Website: dmmarinesupply.com/
Phone +507 444-6475
Whatsapp +507 6747-4918
Cell +507 6747-4918
Location :
La Cresta de Los 4 Altos 30BV
COLON, PANAMA
FLEET UPDATE 2023-02-01
|
|
|
FLEET UPDATE 2023-01-24
|
|
|
DIGITAL YACHT 🌎 SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
DIGITAL YACHT SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
We are proud to sponsor the Panama Posse !
Please shop our store and use this special discount code >> to save on your purchases
Nicholas Heyes
Digital Yacht Ltd
US OFFICE 978 277 1234
UK DIRECT DIAL + 44 207 100 9116
www.digitalyacht.co.uk
OFFICIAL WEBSITE >>
ALTUN-HA 🇧🇿 BELIZE
Altun Ha 🇧🇿 BELIZE
HISTORY
Altun Ha is a rich, major ceremonial center occupied during the Classic Mayan period. The true name of the city is unknown. The name "Altun Ha", literally means "rockstone water" is a rough translation of the name of a nearby village.
It was an mayor link in the coastal trade routes, and had contact with Teotihuacan at an early time in Maya history.
Mounds covered by trees and vines, the remains of what was once a great city, spread out over more than 25 square miles at Altun Ha. Excavations have been concentrated in the central part of the city, with 275 structures in an area about of about one thousand yards square.
EARLY ALTUN HA
Altun Ha was settled long before the Classic Mayan as many as 2,000 years ago. For a Mayan City, the site is unusual. The soil is thin which may indicate that it was a traiding center rather than anagricultural community
Thirteen structures surround two main plazas at the site. The two tallest temples, Temple of the Sun God (the structure depicted on Belikin beer bottles) and Temple of the Masonry ALtars, rise 60 feet above the grassy plaza floor. Altun Ha covers an area of about 5 square miles and includes an extensive swamp north of the plazas. It's believed that up to 10,000 people lived here during the Classic period of Maya civilizatin, as late as A.D. 1000.
Perhpas Altun Ha's most famous Pendergast's discovery of a huge jade headed replica of Kinich Ahau, the Sun God, in 600 and was owned by an elderly priest. At the time of its discovery, this priceless relic was the largest of its type ever recorded in the Maya world - almost 6 inches tall and weighing nearly 10 pounds. On rare occasions this Kinich Ahau repllica is taken on exhibition tours.
LOCATION
LAMANAI 🇧🇿 BELIZE
Lamanai "submerged crocodile" in Yucatec May is a Mesoamerican archaeological site
It 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 Preclassic 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 centre in the Pre-Classic Period, from the 4th century BC through the 1st century CE. In 625 CE.
During the Spanish conquest of Yucatán Spanish friars established two Roman Catholic churches here, but a Maya revolt drove the Spanish out. 
Lamanai: The Ancient Mayan City of Submerged Crocodile
Introduction to Lamanai
Lamanai, one of the most significant and well-preserved Mayan archaeological sites in Belize, is a testament to the grandeur of ancient Maya civilization. The name "Lamanai" translates to "Submerged Crocodile," reflecting the site's deep connection with both the surrounding natural environment and the symbolism revered by the Maya. Located in the Orange Walk District, Lamanai is nestled on the banks of the New River Lagoon, providing a unique combination of archaeological wonders and lush tropical landscapes.
The History and Significance of Lamanai
Lamanai is one of the longest continuously occupied Mayan cities, with evidence of habitation dating back over 3,000 years, from around 1500 BCE to the 17th century CE. The site's extended occupation, which spans the Preclassic, Classic, and Postclassic periods, makes it an invaluable resource for understanding the development and evolution of Mayan society over time.
Unlike many other Mayan cities that were abandoned or diminished in significance after the collapse of the Classic Maya civilization around 900 CE, Lamanai continued to thrive. The city's strategic location along the New River facilitated trade and communication with other Mayan cities and cultures in the region, contributing to its resilience and longevity.
Lamanai's name, "Submerged Crocodile," is thought to be connected to the abundant crocodile population in the nearby waters and the site's ceremonial significance. The crocodile was a potent symbol in Mayan culture, representing the earth, fertility, and a connection to the underworld. This connection is reflected in the numerous crocodile motifs found in the site's architecture and artifacts.
The Layout and Architecture of Lamanai
Lamanai is spread over a vast area, with its core structures concentrated around a series of plazas connected by causeways. The city is notable for its monumental architecture, including temples, palaces, residential complexes, and ceremonial platforms. The site's architecture demonstrates the advanced engineering and construction techniques of the Maya, as well as their ability to integrate structures into the natural landscape.
- The Jaguar Temple (Structure N10-9)
- One of the most iconic structures at Lamanai is the Jaguar Temple, named for the jaguar masks that adorn its façade. This temple is believed to have been constructed during the Late Classic period (600-900 CE) and served as a ceremonial center. The temple's design features a stepped pyramid with a series of terraces leading to the summit, where rituals and offerings would have been conducted. The jaguar motifs, representing power and authority, highlight the temple's importance in the political and religious life of Lamanai.
- The High Temple (Structure N10-43)
- The High Temple, one of the tallest structures at Lamanai, stands at approximately 33 meters (108 feet) and offers a commanding view of the surrounding jungle and New River Lagoon. This temple, constructed during the Late Preclassic period (300 BCE - 250 CE), is a testament to the architectural prowess of the early Maya. The steep ascent to the temple's summit suggests that it was used for important religious ceremonies, possibly involving astronomical observations or offerings to the gods. Climbing to the top of the High Temple is a popular activity for visitors, providing a sense of the grandeur and scale of the ancient city.
- The Mask Temple (Structure N9-56)
- The Mask Temple, another prominent structure at Lamanai, is named for the large stucco masks that flank its central stairway. These masks, which depict the face of a Mayan ruler or deity, are among the most iconic and well-preserved examples of Mayan art at the site. The temple dates to the Early Classic period (250-600 CE) and reflects the Maya's sophisticated understanding of art, symbolism, and cosmology. The masks' intricate design and detailed craftsmanship provide insight into the religious and political significance of the temple within the Lamanai community.
- Residential and Ceremonial Complexes
- In addition to the monumental temples, Lamanai features several residential and ceremonial complexes that offer a glimpse into the daily life of the ancient Maya. These structures, which include plazas, ball courts, and residential platforms, were used for a variety of purposes, from religious ceremonies to communal gatherings. The ball courts, in particular, highlight the importance of the Mesoamerican ball game in Mayan culture, serving both as a sport and a ritualized form of conflict resolution.
- The Spanish Church and Colonial Influence
- One of the unique aspects of Lamanai is the presence of a 16th-century Spanish church, built during the early colonial period. The church, constructed by Spanish missionaries in an attempt to convert the local Maya population to Christianity, stands in stark contrast to the surrounding Mayan structures. The presence of the church and other colonial-era artifacts at Lamanai provides evidence of the interactions between the indigenous Maya and European colonizers. However, the resistance of the Maya to conversion and the eventual abandonment of the church by the Spanish highlight the resilience and cultural continuity of the Lamanai community.
Excavations and Discoveries
Archaeological work at Lamanai began in the early 20th century, but extensive excavations were carried out primarily in the latter half of the century. These excavations have revealed a wealth of information about the site's history, architecture, and the daily life of its inhabitants.
One of the most significant discoveries at Lamanai is the collection of crocodile effigies and other artifacts that reflect the site's symbolic connection to the reptile. These artifacts, which include pottery, jade, and stone carvings, provide insight into the religious beliefs and practices of the ancient Maya.
In addition to the crocodile motifs, archaeologists have uncovered a variety of artifacts that shed light on the trade networks, economy, and social structure of Lamanai. The discovery of ceramics, obsidian, and other trade goods suggests that Lamanai was a major hub in regional and long-distance trade routes, linking the city to other Mayan centers and Mesoamerican cultures.
Another notable discovery is the extensive burial sites found at Lamanai, which have provided valuable information about the mortuary practices, health, and social stratification of the ancient Maya. The burials, often accompanied by offerings of pottery, jewelry, and other goods, indicate the high status of certain individuals within the community and their connection to the religious and political elite.
The Natural Environment and Biodiversity
Lamanai's location along the New River Lagoon and within the lush rainforests of northern Belize provides a unique ecological setting that has remained largely undisturbed for centuries. The area's rich biodiversity, including its abundant birdlife, reptiles, and mammals, adds to the site's appeal for both archaeologists and nature enthusiasts.
The New River Lagoon, Belize's largest freshwater body, is home to a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, turtles, and numerous fish species. The surrounding forests are inhabited by howler monkeys, jaguars, ocelots, and a diverse array of bird species, making Lamanai a popular destination for wildlife watching and eco-tourism.
The integration of Lamanai's architecture with its natural surroundings reflects the Maya's deep connection to the environment. The city's layout and construction demonstrate an understanding of the local topography, hydrology, and climate, allowing the Maya to build a sustainable and thriving community over millennia.
Visiting Lamanai
Lamanai is accessible primarily by boat, with the journey up the New River being an adventure in itself. The boat ride from Orange Walk Town to Lamanai offers visitors a chance to see the diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes of northern Belize. The approach to the site by river also provides a sense of the ancient Maya's reliance on waterways for transportation, trade, and communication.
Once at Lamanai, visitors can explore the site through a network of well-maintained trails that lead to the major structures and plazas. Guided tours are available, offering insight into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the site. The site also features a visitor center with exhibits on the archaeology and history of Lamanai, as well as a small museum displaying artifacts uncovered during excavations.
Climbing the temples, particularly the High Temple and Jaguar Temple, is a popular activity for visitors, offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and lagoon. The experience of standing atop these ancient structures, surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest, provides a powerful connection to the history and spirituality of the Maya.
For those interested in birdwatching and wildlife, Lamanai offers a unique opportunity to see a variety of species in their natural habitat. The early morning and late afternoon are particularly good times for observing birds, including toucans, parrots, and herons, as well as other wildlife such as howler monkeys and iguanas.
Preservation and Conservation Efforts
Lamanai, like many other archaeological sites, faces challenges related to preservation and conservation. The tropical climate, with its high humidity and rainfall, can accelerate the deterioration of ancient structures and artifacts. In addition, the encroachment of modern development and agriculture poses a threat to the surrounding environment and the integrity of the site.
Efforts to preserve Lamanai are ongoing, with collaboration between the Belizean government, international organizations, and local communities. These efforts include the stabilization and restoration of structures, the protection of the surrounding rainforest, and the promotion of sustainable tourism practices. Education and community involvement are also key components of conservation efforts, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from and enjoy this remarkable site
FLEET UPDATE 2023-01-14
|
|
|
FLEET UPDATE 2023-01-04
|
|
|
PANAMA AND PACIFIC POSSE PARTY AT SHELTER BAY
SAT Feb 3 2024, SheLTER BAY PANAMA
ITINERARY
- 09:00 – 12:00 Swap Meet $ 1 pp – @ GAZEBO
- 12:00 – 13:00 Liferaft inflation Demo – @ GAZEBO
- 14:00 – 21:00 Marine Trade show displays @ GAZEBO
- 14:30 Panama Canal best practices seminar @ SEMINAR CRUISERS LOUNGE
- 15:00 Panama Posse Route – going back to Cali or sea of Cortez @ SEMINAR CRUISERS LOUNGE
- 15:30 OpenCPN Sat Charts and how to get them and use them @ SEMINAR CRUISERS LOUNGE
- 16:00 South Pacific Posse route presentation – beyond Bora Bora @ SEMINAR CRUISERS LOUNGE
- 17:00 Destination Belize Tourism Board Seminar & the second largest barrier reef @ SEMINAR CRUISERS LOUNGE
- 17:30 Predict Wind @ SEMINAR CRUISERS LOUNGE @ GAZEBO
- 17:45 OPEN BAR BY FLOR DE CAÑA @ GAZEBO
- 18:00 Folkloric Dance and Event Inauguration @ GAZEBO
- 18:26 SUNSET & INVOCATION @ GAZEBO
- 18:27 PIG ROAST POT LUCK AND THE BEGINNING OF THE POSSE FEAST @ GAZEBO
- 19:00 DANCE MONKEY DANCE DANCE @ GAZEBO
- LATE TEXAS HOLD’EM TOURNAMENT AND MEXICAN TRAIN TOURNAMENT @ SEMINAR CRUISERS LOUNGE
ACCOMMODATIONS
WELCOME
Marina Hotel at Shelter Bay is located at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. A spectacular waterfront setting surrounded by the lush and pristine rainforest of the San Lorenzo National Park.
Marina Hotel at Shelter Bay puts you in an ideal location for enjoying the many charms of Colon’s historical sites and natural beauty.
We offer our guests a unique and comfortable retreat, complemented with the warmth of our service and the always-colorful Caribbean touch.
Pamper yourself after your travels; enjoy the quiet and relaxing atmosphere at Shelter Bay
BERTHING
MAYAN RUINS OF LUBAANTUN 🇧🇿 BELIZE - MUST SEE ON THE PANAMA POSSE CENTRAL AMERICAN ROUTE
MAYAN RUINS OF LUBAANTUN 🇧🇿 BELIZE - MUST SEE ON THE PANAMA POSSE CENTRAL AMERICAN ROUTE
Lubaantun means “Place of Fallen Stones” is a pre-Columbian Mayan city in Belize encompassed by 14 structures, including several ball courts.
The city dates from the Maya Classic era, flourishing from the AD 730s to the 890s, and seems to have been completely abandoned soon after. The architecture is somewhat unusual from typical Classical central lowlands Maya sites.
The Lubaantun Mayan Ruins is a place of archeological mystery. 80% of the entire area still needs uncovered.
Lubaantun, one of the largest Mayan site in southern Belize, is known for its unique style of construction. Structures where built utilizing massive black slate stone blocks rather than the limestone. Laid so precisely, no mortar was necessary for the construction which is still in place over 2000 years later .
One of the most distinguishing features of Lubaantun is the large collection of miniature ceramic objects found on site; these detailed constructs are thought to have been charmstones or ritual-accompanying accoutrements.
The Masonry
Instead of using doors, the inside-out building of the pyramids allows easy access. Maintaining perfectly-shaped corner tiers for steps to the top of the structure. Lubaantun was built on top of a raised plateau between two rivers. These Mayans essentially removed the top of a mountain to build their city. With in-depth masonry, strenuous manual ( forced) labor was required to build this site. This suggests that Lubaantun was of very high importance and power.
SITE MAP
LOCATION
The Crystal Skulls and the Mayan Ruins of Lubaantun, Belize
Introduction
The Mayan ruins of Lubaantun in Belize hold a mysterious allure, steeped in the ancient history of the Maya civilization. Among the numerous legends and myths surrounding this site, none has captured the imagination of scholars, adventurers, and mystics more than the enigmatic crystal skulls. The story of these skulls, particularly the infamous Mitchell-Hedges skull, has intertwined itself with the ruins of Lubaantun, creating a rich tapestry of intrigue that continues to captivate the world. This exploration delves into the relationship between the crystal skulls and Lubaantun, examining the historical, archaeological, and mystical connections that bind them.
The Ancient Mayan Ruins of Lubaantun
A Brief Overview of Lubaantun
Lubaantun, which translates to "place of fallen stones" in the Mayan language, is an archaeological site located in the Toledo District of southern Belize. The ruins date back to the Late Classic Period of the Maya civilization, approximately between 730 and 890 AD. Unlike many other Mayan cities, Lubaantun is distinctive for its construction techniques, which involved precisely cut stone blocks that were fitted together without the use of mortar. This unique architectural style contributes to the site's mysterious ambiance, as the dry-stone construction has led to the collapse of many structures over time, leaving behind a labyrinth of fallen stones.
Lubaantun is also known for its unusual rounded corners on structures, and the lack of stelae—stone monuments that are common in other Mayan cities. The city is believed to have been a ceremonial and administrative center, with its location on a hilltop providing a strategic vantage point over the surrounding region. The site includes pyramids, plazas, and ball courts, suggesting that it was an important center for both religious and social activities.
Historical Significance
The history of Lubaantun is closely tied to the broader history of the Maya civilization, which at its height spanned much of present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. The Maya were known for their advanced knowledge in fields such as astronomy, mathematics, and architecture, as well as their complex social and political systems.
Lubaantun's decline, like that of many other Mayan cities, is shrouded in mystery. Theories range from environmental factors, such as drought, to internal social and political upheaval. By the time of the Spanish arrival in the Americas, Lubaantun, like many other Maya sites, had long been abandoned, its once grand structures slowly succumbing to the encroaching jungle.
The Legend of the Crystal Skulls
Origins of the Crystal Skull Myth
The crystal skulls are a collection of human skull hardstone carvings made from clear or milky quartz, also known as rock crystal. These artifacts have become the focus of various myths and legends, often associated with ancient Mesoamerican cultures, particularly the Maya and the Aztecs. However, their true origins remain a subject of debate among archaeologists, historians, and mystics alike.
The most famous of these skulls is the Mitchell-Hedges crystal skull, which was allegedly discovered at the Lubaantun site in the 1920s by Anna Mitchell-Hedges, the adopted daughter of British explorer Frederick Albert Mitchell-Hedges. According to the story, Anna found the skull beneath a collapsed altar during an expedition led by her father. The skull is often described as an artifact of immense power, with claims ranging from its ability to heal, foretell the future, and even act as a repository of ancient wisdom.
The Crystal Skulls in Popular Culture
The allure of the crystal skulls has permeated popular culture, with the skulls featuring prominently in books, movies, and television shows. Perhaps most famously, the 2008 film Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull drew on the mythology surrounding these artifacts, blending elements of Mayan history with modern adventure fiction.
The mystique of the crystal skulls has also fueled numerous speculative theories, some of which suggest that they are relics from a lost civilization, such as Atlantis, or that they were created by extraterrestrial beings. These theories, while lacking empirical evidence, have nonetheless contributed to the enduring fascination with the crystal skulls and their purported connection to ancient Mesoamerican cultures.
The Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull
Discovery and Controversy
The Mitchell-Hedges crystal skull is arguably the most famous of all the crystal skulls, not only because of its purported discovery at Lubaantun but also because of the controversies that have surrounded it. The skull is made of clear quartz and is remarkable for its high level of craftsmanship, with a detachable jaw and a near-perfect anatomical accuracy.
The circumstances of the skull's discovery, however, have been the subject of much debate. Some skeptics argue that the skull was not actually found at Lubaantun but was instead acquired by Mitchell-Hedges at an auction in London in the 1940s. The lack of concrete evidence linking the skull to Lubaantun, combined with inconsistencies in the accounts of its discovery, has led many to question the veracity of the story.
Despite these controversies, the Mitchell-Hedges skull remains an iconic artifact, celebrated by those who believe in its mystical properties and criticized by those who view it as a modern fabrication.
The Skull's Mystical Properties
Proponents of the crystal skulls often attribute a range of mystical properties to these artifacts, particularly the Mitchell-Hedges skull. Some believe that the skull possesses healing powers, with the ability to cure physical ailments and restore balance to the body and mind. Others claim that the skull can enhance psychic abilities, enabling users to access hidden knowledge or communicate with otherworldly beings.
There are also those who see the crystal skulls as repositories of ancient wisdom, encoded with information from a lost civilization or even from extraterrestrial sources. According to this view, the skulls are part of a larger network of artifacts that, when brought together, will reveal profound truths about the origins of humanity and the nature of the universe.
The Connection Between Lubaantun and the Crystal Skulls
Archaeological Evidence and Skepticism
The purported connection between Lubaantun and the crystal skulls, particularly the Mitchell-Hedges skull, has long been a topic of interest and debate. While the story of the skull's discovery at Lubaantun is compelling, there is little archaeological evidence to support this claim. No other crystal skulls have been found at the site, and the lack of documentation from the original excavation raises questions about the authenticity of the Mitchell-Hedges skull's origin.
Archaeologists generally view the crystal skulls with skepticism, arguing that they are likely modern creations rather than ancient artifacts. Studies of the Mitchell-Hedges skull and other crystal skulls have revealed tool marks consistent with modern carving techniques, leading many experts to conclude that these artifacts were made in the 19th or 20th centuries, rather than in the time of the Maya.
Despite these findings, the association between Lubaantun and the crystal skulls persists, fueled by the enduring appeal of the skulls' legend and the mystique of the Lubaantun ruins.
The Role of Lubaantun in Crystal Skull Mythology
Lubaantun's connection to the crystal skulls has elevated the site to a place of significance within the broader mythology surrounding these artifacts. For many believers, Lubaantun is seen as a powerful spiritual center, a place where the ancient Maya may have conducted ceremonies or stored sacred objects, including the crystal skulls.
The site's remote location and enigmatic architecture add to its allure, making it an ideal setting for tales of hidden treasures and lost knowledge. Lubaantun's reputation as a mystical site has attracted visitors from around the world, including spiritual seekers and New Age enthusiasts who come in search of the skulls' legendary powers.
The Cultural and Spiritual Impact of the Crystal Skulls
The Crystal Skulls in Modern Spirituality
In recent decades, the crystal skulls have become a significant symbol within various spiritual and metaphysical communities. These groups often view the skulls as tools for meditation, healing, and spiritual awakening. The Mitchell-Hedges skull, in particular, is regarded by some as a powerful object, capable of enhancing psychic abilities and facilitating communication with higher realms.
The skulls are also associated with the concept of the "New Age," a movement that blends elements of Eastern and Western spiritual traditions with beliefs in ancient wisdom and extraterrestrial life. Within this context, the crystal skulls are seen as keys to unlocking hidden knowledge, offering insights into humanity's past and future.
The Influence on Indigenous Beliefs
The crystal skulls' association with the Maya and other indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica has also had an impact on contemporary indigenous beliefs. While many of these cultures have their own rich traditions and spiritual practices, the mythology surrounding the crystal skulls has sometimes been adopted or adapted by indigenous groups, particularly in the context of cultural revival and the search for identity in the modern world.
However, it is important to note that the crystal skulls are not universally recognized or revered by indigenous peoples. Some view them as inauthentic or as artifacts of a different cultural tradition. Nonetheless, the skulls have become part of the broader tapestry of indigenous spirituality, contributing to the ongoing dialogue between ancient wisdom and modern beliefs.