Ready, Aye, Ready!

“Ready Aye Ready” is the motto of the Canadian Navy. It implies that the Canadian Navy is always “ready”.

By Rob Murray on SV AVANT

A rolled bill stashed well inside a toilet paper roll holder.

We have been sailing Avant in Mexico and Central America for 11 years now, and one of the most common questions we get is “Do you feel safe?”

Yes, we do. We have not suffered a loss, seen a crime committed, or otherwise been bothered by crime. Ever. We do know of other cruisers that have suffered losses, though:

Dinghy theft. (Really, it’s outboard motor theft. By far the most common loss suffered by cruisers.)
Casual theft (thieves sneak aboard, usually when no one is aboard, and grab any valuables they can and dash off. Most common at a dock).
Pick pockets (in Guaymas, a cruiser had her wallet stolen from her purse in the grocery store – but that could have happened anywhere in the world).

Not to say it doesn’t happen, it does. But the violent crimes that make the news in Canada and the USA do not seem to happen on the coast or where the cruising community congregates. Most if not all of the murders are gang related, and mostly gang on gang events. We take normal 21st Century precautions; we don’t walk in strange neighborhoods at night, we don’t flash wads of cash, we don’t wear expensive jewelry or watches, etc. and we have not had a problem.

There are, however, security concerns and we have taken some simple steps to protect ourselves.

You don’t need to make it impossible to be a victim, you don’t need to make it impossible for someone to steal from you. You just need to make it harder. You just need to make your boat a less inviting target than the one next door. If you have locked your boat and hoisted your dinghy and outboard out of the water, cleared valuables from the cockpit, and a neighboring boat has all their hatches open and their dinghy floating beside their boat tied on with a rope painter, guess who is more likely to be a victim? It’s like the old joke about bears, you don’t need to be able to outrun a bear, you just need to outrun the person you’re with.

The strategy we have employed for our personal security is pretty simple and pretty unobtrusive. It doesn’t impact our day to day lives by much, and we aren’t working hard to stay safe.

1. Lock the boat, and tidy up. Simple. Free. Easy. When we’re away from the boat for a while, whether at the dock or at anchor, we lock the boat. Close and latch the hatches. Even if we haven’t seen another human being for days. We also have the means to lock ourselves in the boat, in the event we feel threatened and think that’s the safest option (boats with the hatches locked by padlocks may not have the means to do this, but it’s pretty easy to add an internal barrel bolt or similar lock). We changed out our lovely louvered wooden companionway boards for a simple sheet of plexiglass, far more resistant to being kicked in or carved open with a knife or chisel. We don’t stow anything within reach of the portlights we usually leave open. We stow winch handles and other deck gear below as appropriate when anchored or at the dock, and don’t leave things sitting around on deck or in the cockpit. We also lock the computer at the navigation station to the boat with a computer cable lock.
2. Hide stuff. In the event someone does get aboard, we have some of our valuables and some spare cash hidden. We use a variety of means, including ‘diversion safes’ (food cans, boxes or jars, varnish or paint cans or bottles, hollowed out books, etc., that disguise a secret compartment to stash valuables in). These can be purchased or home made (paint the inside of an old mayonnaise jar white, and there you go!). More than one is a good idea, in various places around the boat. The downside is they can be taken as they are portable. Don’t use a WD-40 can as a diversion safe in your tool bag, as they may take the whole bag!

Secret compartments/ hidey-holes. False drawer or locker bottoms, behind velcroed-on cabinet fronts or vinyl trim, envelopes taped behind or under drawers, the inside of the paper towel roller, shower curtain rod or toilet paper roller, false electric sockets, the inside of hollow closet rods, and other strategies can be employed.

Use decoys. We have a ‘muggers wallet’ prepared and left in plain sight on the navigation station, next to the companionway. A muggers wallet is a decoy wallet, an old, used one filled with expired credit cards and identification, receipts and small denomination bills of assorted currencies. The hope is a sneak thief will come aboard, see and seize the wallet and dash off, satisfied they have ‘scored’, while truly valuable goods remain unmolested.

Have backups. We have backup credit and ATM cards, connected to a separate bank account at a different bank from our primaries, safely stashed aboard. If our primary cards are lost, compromised or stolen, or if our primary bank has a bad hair day in the computer department, we can dig out the backups and be good to go until replacements can be sourced or the accounts reactivated.
Know what’s there. We take pictures of our passports and the contents of our wallets and the interior of the boat and email them to ourselves so we have a record that we can access from any computer on the internet if they are lost.
Be ready with active deterrents. In the extremely unlikely event we meet serious thieves intent on a face to face encounter and committing a violent crime against us, we are ready to meet the threat (at least with bravado). We have:

- Heavy flashlights (3 cell D battery Maglites) mounted in clips next to the companionway and our berth. As well as being handy, blinding flashlights, these make great clubs.

A Maglite flashlight. Simply a heavy metal bodied flashlight, also useful as a club.

Fire extinguishers will discharge a large cloud of fine white dust that can disorient and confuse bad guys.
Machetes. We have a couple of machetes aboard, stored in a locker where they can be reached quickly and waved around to make a show of resistance. Easily seen from a distance, waving machetes is a distinctly unwelcoming gesture in every culture. Machetes are inexpensive and readily available in hardware stores. They can also be used to open coconuts.

A machete. When brandished or waved wildly, a cross cultural signal to ‘go away’.

- Baseball bat. We also have a t-ball bat (mini baseball bat), which doubles as a fish bonker.
- Flares. We have a white handheld flare mounted in clips in the companionway. In the event we are intercepted at sea or boarded at anchor, we can light it and toss it in an attacker’s boat. We don’t have a flare gun aboard, but one might be useful. Be aware that the flare shot from a flare gun will not light until the flare has burned for a while (they are designed to light in the air, not as they are discharged). They are not particularly powerful, and the flares with their propellant tend to bounce off what they hit. The muzzle energy of a 12g flare gun is less than that of a 22 caliber rifle and it is unlikely to penetrate just about anything due to its wide nosed projectile. Any damage it may cause will be due to the flare itself burning. Flare guns may also be illegal in certain jurisdictions (and if used in an offensive or defensive manner as a weapon, are considered weapons or firearms under the laws of many countries).
- We have Bear Spray aboard, too (while wasp spray is often suggested as a deterrent, apparently it is largely ineffective).

- (Note: In most countries south of the USA, Mace, Dog and Bear Sprays are illegal, but we’re living on the edge).
- We keep our VHF on 24/7, and keep a handheld next to our berth, so we can raise an alarm with other cruisers (or heed their call) if we feel unsafe.

All of these strategies are designed around the idea that you don’t have to make it impossible to be attacked, you just have to make it unpleasant for would-be attackers, encouraging them to look elsewhere or take the rest of the day or night off.

Dinghy Outboard Theft

This is, by far, the most common loss suffered by cruisers. An outboard is a very valuable item in a fishing community, and all coastal villages are fishing communities. A simple 8-10 hp outboard can increase a fisherman’s ability to feed his family tenfold by allowing him to get further offshore when fishing. We always hip-hoist our dinghy at night, and do so with a wire cable harness with legs long enough to be far above reach, where they are attached to the halyard snap shackle, even when standing on deck (so a would-be thief can’t simply release the shackle and drop the dinghy). We lock the outboard to the dinghy’s transom with a heavy stainless lock, and use the same lock to lock the motor to the rail mount when it is stored aboard. We employ locals (usually children or the proprietors of beachfront restaurants) as watch keepers whenever possible when leaving the dinghy ashore, and use a long stainless cable to secure the dinghy ashore when it’s in an isolated or unsupervised location.

We don’t really notice that we’re doing these things on a day to day basis, they are just ‘habits or ‘housekeeping’. But we feel that these measures collectively decrease our chance of being victims (and losses if we are), as well as increase our ability to bounce back should we be targeted.

EDITORS NOTE:

Additionally, there is a huge resource in the Caribbean Safety and Security Net available for private cruising vessels. Their website is extensive and their incident reports are kept up to date. Their guidelines for precautions are applicable across all oceans.

https://safetyandsecuritynet.org/regional-piracy-infographics/

https://safetyandsecuritynet.org/piracy-passage-precautions-central-america/

STAY SAFE - STAY ALERT - HAVE FUN

by EDITOR

BELIZE DIGITAL CHARTS

BELIZE DIGITAL CHARTS IN MBTILES FORMAT

THE ABOVE FILES ARE FOR LOGGED IN USERS ONLY

by admin

BELIZE 🇧🇿 WESTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISING AND SAILING WITH THE OCEAN POSSE

Cruising Belize

from a yacht owner’s perspective is an adventure that combines pristine natural beauty, rich marine biodiversity, and unique cultural experiences. Nestled on the eastern coast of Central America, Belize offers a myriad of cruising opportunities, from its turquoise waters and coral reefs to its lush landscapes and charming coastal communities. This guide provides an in-depth look into the preparations, destinations, and experiences awaiting yacht owners in Belize.

1. Navigational Planning

Navigational planning is crucial for a safe and enjoyable cruise. Belize’s waters are dotted with numerous cays, reefs, and atolls. Key tools for planning include:

Charts and Guides: Utilize updated nautical charts and cruising guides specific to Belize. Use Good Nautucals safe tracks for vessels with a draft of less than 6 feet
A “Cruising Guide to Belize and Mexico’s Caribbean Coast” by Captain Freya Rauscher is avail.
Electronic Navigation: Equip your yacht with reliable electronic navigation systems. Chartplotters and GPS devices are essential, and consider using apps like Navionics for detailed maps.

2. Weather and Climate

Understanding Belize’s climate is essential for a smooth voyage. Belize has a tropical climate with a wet season (June to November) and a dry season (December to May).

Hurricane Season: The wet season coincides with the hurricane season. Monitor weather forecasts and have a hurricane plan in place.
Ideal Cruising Time: The dry season offers more predictable weather, making it the ideal time for cruising.

3. Legal Requirements

Before setting sail, ensure compliance with Belize’s maritime regulations.

Customs and Immigration: Clear customs and immigration at designated ports of entry. Required documents include passports, yacht registration, and a cruising permit.
Fishing and Marine Park Permits: Obtain necessary permits for fishing and visiting marine parks. These are available at the Belize Fisheries Department and marine park offices.

4. Provisioning

Proper provisioning is essential for a comfortable journey.

Local Markets: Stock up on fresh produce and local delicacies at markets in larger towns like Belize City and Placencia.
Supplies and Spares: Ensure your yacht is equipped with necessary supplies and spare parts. Belize has limited access to marine stores, so bring essential items with you.

Destinations and Itineraries

1. Belize Barrier Reef

The Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest coral reef system in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include:

Hol Chan Marine Reserve: Known for its vibrant marine life, snorkeling, and diving opportunities.
Lighthouse Reef Atoll: Home to the famous Blue Hole, a must-visit for divers seeking an unforgettable underwater experience.

2. Northern Cays

The northern cays offer a blend of natural beauty and vibrant communities.

Ambergris Caye: The largest and most developed cay, featuring San Pedro town, renowned for its lively atmosphere and excellent dining options.
Caye Caulker: A laid-back island with a charming, relaxed vibe. Perfect for snorkeling and exploring the Split.

3. Central Coast

The central coast provides a mix of cultural experiences and stunning landscapes.

Belize City: The largest city and a gateway to inland adventures. Visit the Museum of Belize and explore the city’s colonial architecture.
Turneffe Atoll: A prime destination for fishing, diving, and snorkeling. The atoll’s mangroves and lagoons are teeming with marine life.

4. Southern Coast

The southern coast is characterized by its lush rainforests and traditional Garifuna culture.

Placencia: A charming village with beautiful beaches and a vibrant arts scene. A great base for exploring nearby cays.
South Water Caye Marine Reserve: A protected area offering pristine snorkeling and diving sites.

Marine Life and Ecosystem

1. Coral Reefs

Belize’s coral reefs are a treasure trove of marine biodiversity.

Coral Species: Encounter various coral species, including brain coral, elkhorn coral, and staghorn coral.
Marine Life: Swim alongside colorful fish, sea turtles, rays, and nurse sharks.

2. Mangroves and Seagrass Beds

Mangroves and seagrass beds play a vital role in the coastal ecosystem.

Mangrove Forests: These provide nurseries for many marine species and help protect the coastline from erosion.
Seagrass Beds: Important feeding grounds for manatees and sea turtles.

3. Marine Reserves and Conservation

Belize is committed to marine conservation, with several protected areas.

Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve: Known for its diverse marine life and excellent diving spots.
Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a unique blend of reef and mangrove habitats.

Local Culture and Communities

1. Garifuna Culture

The Garifuna people have a rich cultural heritage.

Music and Dance: Experience traditional Garifuna drumming and dancing in coastal villages like Hopkins and Dangriga.
Cuisine: Savor Garifuna dishes such as hudut (fish stew with plantains) and cassava bread.

2. Maya Heritage

Belize is home to numerous Maya archaeological sites.

Lamanai: Accessible via river, this site features impressive temples and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Xunantunich: Located near the Guatemalan border, offering stunning views from the top of El Castillo pyramid.

3. Modern Belizean Life

Engage with the diverse communities along the coast.

Festivals: Participate in local festivals like the Lobster Fest in San Pedro and Placencia.
Markets: Explore local markets to experience Belizean hospitality and cuisine.

Practical Tips for Cruising Belize

1. Anchoring and Mooring

Understanding anchoring and mooring options is essential for a safe stay.

Anchorage Points: Use designated anchorages and avoid sensitive coral areas.
Mooring Buoys: Utilize mooring buoys in marine parks to protect the reef and ensure a secure hold.

2. Communication and Connectivity

Stay connected and informed during your cruise.

VHF Radio: Monitor VHF channels for weather updates and emergency information.
Internet Access: Most larger cays and towns offer internet access. Consider a local SIM card for mobile data.

3. Safety and Security

Prioritize safety and security for a worry-free voyage.

Safety Equipment: Ensure your yacht is equipped with life jackets, flares, first aid kits, and fire extinguishers.
Security Measures: Lock your yacht when anchored and be cautious when venturing ashore, especially in remote areas.

4. Environmental Responsibility

Practice sustainable cruising to preserve Belize’s natural beauty.

Waste Management: Dispose of waste responsibly and use designated facilities.
Eco-Friendly Products: Use biodegradable and reef-safe products to minimize environmental impact.

MARINAS IN BELIZE SPONSORING THE OCEAN POSSE

The Moorings >>	Placencia
The Placencia >>	Placencia
Thunder Birds Marina >>	Placencia
Roberts Grove >>	Placencia
Kukumba Beach >>	Belize City
The Placencia Yacht Club >>	Placencia
Radisson Fort George Marina >>	Belize City
Sitee River Marina >>	Hopkins

WEATHER

BELIZE HISTORIC HURRICANE TRACKS

PILOT CHARTS

These Pilot Charts provide historic points and aggregated information of wind flows, air and ocean temperatures, wave heights, rain, barometric weight, and climate conditions at various seasons. This data was acquired from oceanographic and meteorologic perceptions over hundreds of years starting in the late eighteenth century. These diagrams are planned to help mariners choose routes with respect to the normal climate and sea conditions using prevailing seasonal wind information. For an explanation of how to read Wind-roses and interpret historic Climatology follow this link.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

PORTS OF ENTRY

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye: A popular entry point located near the Mexican border, known for its vibrant tourist atmosphere and proximity to major attractions. San Pedro is ideal for yachts arriving from or departing to Mexico (Noonsite) (Noonsite).
Belize City: The largest city and a major hub for maritime activities, Belize City offers multiple marinas such as Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina and Cucumber Beach Marina. It is well-equipped with facilities for visiting yachts (Noonsite) (Noonsite).
Big Creek / Placencia: Situated in southern Belize, this port is favored for its accessibility and comprehensive services. It serves as an excellent gateway to exploring the southern parts of the country (Noonsite) (Noonsite).
Punta Gorda: Known for its friendly authorities and ease of access, Punta Gorda is a smaller yet significant port of entry, particularly convenient for yachts cruising to and from southern Belize (Noonsite) (Noonsite).
Caye Caulker and Sapodilla Lagoon: These locations offer additional options for yachts looking to explore Belize’s beautiful islands and coastal area

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye: A popular entry point located near the Mexican border, known for its vibrant tourist atmosphere and proximity to major attractions. San Pedro is ideal for yachts arriving from or departing to Mexico (Noonsite) (Noonsite).
Belize City: The largest city and a major hub for maritime activities, Belize City offers multiple marinas such as Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina and Cucumber Beach Marina. It is well-equipped with facilities for visiting yachts (Noonsite) (Noonsite).
Big Creek / Placencia: Situated in southern Belize, this port is favored for its accessibility and comprehensive services. It serves as an excellent gateway to exploring the southern parts of the country (Noonsite) (Noonsite).
Punta Gorda: Known for its friendly authorities and ease of access, Punta Gorda is a smaller yet significant port of entry, particularly convenient for yachts cruising to and from southern Belize (Noonsite) (Noonsite).
Caye Caulker and Sapodilla Lagoon: These locations offer additional options for yachts looking to explore Belize’s beautiful islands and coastal area

DOCUMENTS

SAIL CLEAR

What is SailClear?

Sailclear is an online pre-arrival notification system which is available for use by yachts and other pleasure craft operators. The system allows Captains to submit their Customs declarations in the form of electronic notifications prior to arrival in certain participating countries in the Caribbean. Registered users can access the system to enter and update notifications about their yachts, crew and passengers while transiting the Caribbean region.

“It is an innovative but simple facility which is intended to simplify the clearance process, reduce the time spent with the Customs officials and generally improve the experience of the visiting yacht crew and passengers.”

DOCUMENTATION

BELIZE

Passport

Valid for at least 6 months; requires one blank page

Boat Documentation

Coast Guard Doc (Original)
Pre-arrival Notification Required – www.sailclear.com

Proof of Insurance

Liability

Crewlist

Required at checkin/out Pre-arrival Notification using- www.sailclear.com
Entered in SailClear –
Belize Port Authority Press release here

Zarpe

Required at checkin/out

OFFICIAL PROCEDURES

HAIL UPON ARRIVAL

Official Country Visa

The visitor’s permit extension allows you to remain on condition that the holder does not enter into employment paid or unpaid and does not engage in any business or profession without the consent of the Director of Immigration and does not remain in Belize further that the expiration of permit.

The Visitor’s Permit Extension allows you to stay in Belize for an additional 30 days.

Fees

Fees with effect from 1 May 2020.

All fees are in Belize dollars.

The Visitor’s Permit Extension fee is BZ$200.00

Who can Qualify

Persons who want to extend their holidays in Belize or persons investigating the possibilities of settlement.

Persons who require a visa (see Visa Section) after a predefined number of extended days in Belize, must acquire that visa before being issued a visitor’s permit extension.

Pilot waiver Fees & Tariff Regulations listed here

Holders of a Belize visa may qualify for visitor’s permit extension.
https://immigration.gov.bz/permits/visitors-permit/

Immigration Visa

Good for 180 days; must leave country to renew

Required Permits

TIP

Upon Arrival Visit:

Immigration; Customs; Port Authority

Upon Departure Visit:

Immigration; Customs; Port Captain

Entry & Exit Fees:

Notes:

Expect to be boarded by Navy upon entering and/or leaving the country

OTHER

Required Vaccinations

Pets

Vaccination Certificate

Currency: Belize Dollar

Crime Index

Safety Index

Corruption Index

Corruption Score

GDP x capita,

Pop (K)

Life Ex.

Cost of Living

Groc.

Rest. $

Loc.Purch.P.

53.62

46.38

29 %

$ 4,884

383

74.36

US EMBASSY

17°15’23.9″N 88°46’23.9″W

Belmopan‎, Belize

Phone +501 822-4011

https://bz.usembassy.gov/

Ships’ documents may be submitted at the Authority’s Headquarters during normal working hours from Monday – Friday for ships that are scheduled to enter on weekends and holidays at our Main Headquarters. Arrangements must be made by 4:00 pm of the preceding work days for services.

Effective 1 April, 2019:

A portal has been created shipdocumentation@gmail.com for electronic submission of shipping documents which shall include cruise and cargo ship information such as;

Notice of Arrival within 48 hours
Departure Notice
Certificate of Clearance
Pilotage and Boarding Report
Import and Export Cargo Manifests
Ship’s Registry
International Ship Security Certificate (on initial visit or annually)
Protection and Indemnity Certificate (on initial visit or annually)
Continuous Synopsis Record (on initial visit or annually)
Tender manifests

Numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 listed above are to be submitted in paper form in duplicates or triplicates as requires for proper authentication.

Upon boarding, only documents listed below are to be provided to Boarding Officers of the Belize Port Authority:

Arrival Declaration
Nil List
Clearance from Last Port of Call
Pilot card
Discrepancy Report (if any)

Application Waiver Fees

Tariffs to be charged for private pleasure yachts visiting the seaports in Belize are to include a fee for the waiver of pilotage the fees to be charged are stated below:

Pilot Waiver Fees	Standard Rate
Vessels less than 50 GT	Not Applicable
Vessels more than 50 GT But less than or equal to 100 GT	$ 150.00
Vessels more than 100 GT But less than or equal to 500 GT	$ 250.00
Vessels more than 500 GT But less than or equal to 2000 GT	$ 500.00
Vessels more than 2000 GT	$ 750.00

Charges	Particulars	Cost
Administrative Charges	For Boarding and clearance	100.00
Boarding for entry	For ships not more than 100 GT	30.00
	for ships more than 100 GT	75.00
Clearance	For ships more more than 100 GT	30.00
	For ships not more than 100 GT	50.00
Navigational Aids	Per call per vessel	$1.50 per GT (with a maximum of 875.00)

Port Dues:	First 48 hours	Each 24 hrs thereafter
On ships not more than 100 GT	$ 30.00	$ 10.00
On ships more than 100 GT but no more than 500 GT	$ 40.00	$ 15.00
On ships more than 500 GT but not more than 2,000 GT	$ 80.00	$ 20.00
On ships more than 2,000 GT But not more than 5,000 GT	$ 140.00	$ 45.00
On ships more than 5,000 GT but not more than 10,000 GT	$ 200.00	$ 50.00
On ships more than 10,000 GT but not more than 15,000 GT	$ 240.00	$ 60.00
On ships more than 15,000 GT but not more than 20,000 GT	$ 320.00	$ 100.00
On ships more than 20,000 GT	$ 400.00	$ 120.00

Port Security (ISPS) Fees:	Standard Rate
For cruise ships	0.60 per pax
For Cargo ships on ships between 0-500 GT	$ 300.00
On ships more than 501 GT but not more than 5,000 GT	$ 700.00
On ships more than 5,001 GT But not more than 15,000 GT	$ 1,400.00
on ships more than 15,001 GT	$ 2,000.00

Note: All prices are in Belize dollars (BZD)

https://www.belizetourismboard.org/tourism-resources/nautical-tourism/

Belize International Travel Information

Belize international travel information and Travel Advisory

Belize - Traveler view | Travelers’ Health | CDC

Official U.S. government health recommendations for traveling. Provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Zoom-Tap, Know & Go - Know Before You Go Interactive Infographic Risk Assessment Tool | Caribbean Safety and Security Net

Legend: = assault, piracy and robbery = burglary, theft, suspicious activity, vandalism and other 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 Follow Us Share

MUST SEE

Belize Barrier Reef System a UNESCO World heritage Site >>

7 marine preserves

Bacalar Chico Natural Monument 18.141° N 87.863° W
Half Moon Caye Natural Monument 17.2047° N 87.5364° W
Blue Hole Natural Monument 17.3160° N 87.5347° W
South Water Caye Marine Reserve 16°43′08″N 88°08′56″W
Laughing Bird Caye Natural Park 16°26’36” N 88°11’50″W
Sapodilla Caye Marine Reserve 16°08′46″N 88°16′52″W 16.146°N 88.281°W / 16.146; -88.281

Atolls

Turneffe Atoll 17.4382° N, 87.8304° W

Glovers Reef Atoll 16.71729,-87.84885.

Lighthouse Reef Atoll 17°18′N 87°33′W / 17.300°N 87.550°W / 17.300; -87.550.

Actun Tunich Muk’nal Cave System >>

LABANAI MAYAN SITE “SUBMERGED CROCODILE”>>

Mayan ruins of ALTUN HA>>

for a complete list of tour oprators follow this link >>

REPAIRS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS

THUNDERBIRDS MARINE

THUNDERBIRDS MARINE 🇧🇿 SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE - OCEAN POSSE

THUNDERBIRDS MARINE 🇧🇿 SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE THUNDERBIRDS MARINE is pleased to be part of the OCEAN Posse and will […]

HAKIM

Hakim Marina & Boat Yard 🇧🇿 BELIZE SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE - OCEAN POSSE

Hakim Marina & Boat Yard 🇧🇿 BELIZE SPONSORS the OCEAN Posse with a 15 % discount 17° 32.8416′ N 088°15′.525′ […]

EMERGENCIES AND SAR INFO

Defence Force Air Wing

Type: ARCC, Country: Belize, SRR: SRR BELIZE

Latitude, Longitude:

(17.48332977,-88.18332672)

Telephone:

501 205 2172 not 24 hours/day please contact NSA

Email:

Fax:

501 205 2094 not 24 hours/day please contact NSA

Website:

INMARSAT:

Telex:

Notes:

Defence Force Maritime Wing

Type: MRCC, Country: Belize, SRR: SRR BELIZE

Latitude, Longitude:

(17.48332977,-88.18332672)

Telephone:

501 205 2171 not 24 hours/day refer to NSA

Email:

Fax:

501 205 3334 not 24 hours/day refer to NSA

Website:

INMARSAT:

Telex:

CHARTS

BZ_ambergris-cay-to-pelican-cays-nga-chart-28167-7540

BZ_MX_ambergris-cay-to-isla-cozumel-nga-chart-28190-7541

BZ-GT-HO-tela-to-pelican-cays-nga-chart-28162-7376

AIDS TO NAVIGATION

Please sign up with Good Nautical for Anchorages, Marinas, and Ports of Entry Information.

DOWNLOAD BELIZE DIGITAL CHARTS >>>

COMMUNICATIONS

TOUR OPERATORS

Belize City

ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES

Exotic Shore Excursions		exoticshoreexcursions@gmail.com	+ 501	610-4109
Tourism Auto Transport Ltd.	www.cave-trips.com	belizetrips@yahoo.com	+ 501	670-0764
Belize Caribbean Tours	www.belizecaribbeantour.net	belizecaribbeantours@yahoo.com	+ 501	600-5030
H2O Tierra	h20tierra.com	h2otierra@btl.net; savannah@btl.net	+ 501	610-3754
Chukka Belize Ltd.	www.chukka.com	belize@chukka.com; vwoods@chukka.com	+ 501	223-4438
Tropical Excursions & Tours	belizeadventures.bz	artonbowen@yahoo.com	+ 501	629-0015
Cave-Tubing Com	www.cave-tubing.com	info@Cave-tubing.com	+ 501	605-1575
Coral Breeze Adventure Tours	coralbreezetours.com	ivarmarchand@gmail.com	+ 501	615-5487
Belize Concierge Excellent	bzeconcierge.com	info@bzeconcierge.com	+ 501	223-3206
Belize Horse & Carriage Tours & Services		belizehorsecarriagetours@yahoo.com	+ 501	6100674
Caribbean Multicultural Tours		hellombt32@gmail.com	+ 501	610-6909
Jabiru Travel & Tours		jabirubelize@gmail.com	+ 501	6007971
Big Johns Tours & Taxi		BigJohnBZ@yahoo.com; john.pollard1968@yahoo.com	+ 501	671-4069
Irvin’s Belizean Adventures	irvinbelizeanadventuretours@gmail.com	irvinlongsworth@yahoo.com	+ 501	615-4069
Splash Wave Tours	www.splashwavetours.com	Splashwavetours@hotmail.com	+ 501	223-1145
S & L Travel & Tours Limited	www.sltravelbelize.com	sltravel@btl.net; info@sltravelbelize.com	+ 501	610-1384
Belize Jungle Limousine Tours		info@belizejunglelimo.com	+ 501	671-3003
5 Star Adventure & Excursions	www.cavetubingstar.com	cavetubing5star@gmail.com	+ 501	6043989
Way To Go Belize Tours	www.waytogotoursbelize@gmail.com	waytogotoursbelize@gmail.com	+ 501	601-4447
Touch Taste & C Belize		robateau_roy45@yahoo.com	+ 501	607-8925
Ecological Tours & Charters	www.ecotoursbelize.com	cavetubing@yahoo.com	+ 501	223-4874
Mayan Tours and Shuttle	www.belizemayantour.com	christobaltours@gmail.com	+ 501	6211778
Exotic Shore Excursions		exoticshoreexcursions@gmail.com	+ 501	610-4109

ATV	Cave-Tubing Com	www.cave-tubing.com	info@Cave-tubing.com	+ 501	605-1575
Bird Watching	Touch Taste & C Belize		robateau_roy45@yahoo.com	+ 501	607-8925
Cave Tubing	Ecological Tours & Charters	www.ecotoursbelize.com	cavetubing@yahoo.com	+ 501	223-4874
City Tour	The Calypso Train Tours Limited	www.calypsotraintours.com	deniseockey@shaw.ca	+ 501	223-5365
Cultural Immersion	Belize Jungle Limousine Tours		info@belizejunglelimo.com	+ 501	671-3003
Diving	Sea Sports Belize	www.seasportsbelize.com	info@seasportsbelize.com	+ 501	223-5505
Fishing	5 Star Adventure & Excursions	www.cavetubingstar.com	cavetubing5star@gmail.com	+ 501	6043989
Nature Trail	Belize Caribbean Tours	www.belizecaribbeantour.net	belizecaribbeantours@yahoo.com	+ 501	600-5030
Other	S & L Travel & Tours Limited	www.sltravelbelize.com	sltravel@btl.net; info@sltravelbelize.com	+ 501	610-1384
River Tour	Chukka Belize Ltd.	www.chukka.com	belize@chukka.com; vwoods@chukka.com	+ 501	223-4438
Ruins	S & L Travel & Tours Limited	www.sltravelbelize.com	sltravel@btl.net; info@sltravelbelize.com	+ 501	610-1384
Sailing	Glassbox Management Services	www.glassboxmanagement.com	bret@glassboxmanagement.com	+ 501	610-3566
Scuba Diving	3 Stars Tours Ltd.	Belize Express Tours.com	myron@belizewatertaxi.com	+ 501	610-3330
Snorkeling	Starfish Island	www.starfishislandbelize.com	anuar@belizerays.com; floresanuar52@gmail.com	+ 501	671-1184
Zip-Line	Coral Breeze Adventure Tours	coralbreezetours.com	ivarmarchand@gmail.com	+ 501	615-5487
Zoo	Caribbean Multicultural Tours		hellombt32@gmail.com	+ 501	610-6909
	Tourism Auto Transport Ltd.	www.cave-trips.com	belizetrips@yahoo.com	+ 501	670-0764
	Jose’s Tours	www.Josetoursbelize.com	josetoursbelize@gmail.com	+ 501	663-5000
	S & L Travel & Tours Limited	www.sltravelbelize.com	sltravel@btl.net; info@sltravelbelize.com	+ 501	610-1384

Belize Rural

Challenge Travel & Tours

www.mystiquebelize.com or explorebelizecaves.com

info@challenge.com.bz; explorebzcaves@aol.com

+ 501

671-8100

Caye Caulker

Star Tours

www.tropicalparadise.bz

startours@btl.net

+ 501

226-0374

Cayo District

ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES

Belize Caves & Limpkin Tours	www.belizelimpkin.com	info@belizelimpkin.com	+ 501	634-9748
Black Rock Expeditions Ltd.	www.blackrocklodge.com	cboyd@blackrocklodge.com;generalmanager@blackrockl	+ 501	834-4049
Private Belize Adventure	www. privatebelizeadventure.com	privatebelizeadventure@gmail.com	+ 501	615-3163
San Ignacio Resort Hotel (Cayo Gial Tours)	www.sanignaciobelize.com	accounting@sanignaciobelize.com	+ 501	824-2034
Jam Jam Tours	jamjamtours.bz	jamtour@hotmail.com	+ 501	6235094
Yaxche Adventure Tours	www.belizeadventuretour.com	info@belizeadventuretour.com	+ 501	666-7268
George Adventure Tours		georgeadventuretours@gmail.com	+ 501	665-5463
Kaatz Witz Maya Tours	www.kaatzwitztours.com	e_o_puc@yahoo.com	+ 501	636-3822
Martz Farm Treehouses & Cabanas Ltd.	www.martzfarm.com	martzfarmtreehouses@gmail.com	+ 501	832-7646
BelizeInlandTours.com	www.belizeinlandtours.com	bz.inlandtours@gmail.com	+ 501	615-5384
K’awiil Tour	www.kawiiltours.com	Kawiiltours.bz@gmail.com	+ 501	664-5446
Katun Ahaw Tour Operator	www.belizeculturetours.com	tikaldaytrip@yahoo.com	+ 501	824-2661
Upside Down Tours	www.upsidedowntours.com	info@upsidedowntours.com	+ 501	634-5385
Emerald Belize Tours		belize.luislobos@gmail.com	+ 501	667-8910
Edwin’s Belize Adventure Tours	www.youbelizetours.com	info@youbelizetours.com	+ 501	677-1284
Blancaneaux Lodge	www.blancaneaux.com	frontdesk@blancaneaux.com	+ 501	880-4009
Cahal Pech Village Resort	www.cahalpech.com	info@cahalpech.com	+ 501	824-3740
Marlin Espadas Ltd.		marlinespadasltdbelize@gmail.com	+ 501	627-9990
JC Inland Belize Tours	www.facebook.com/JC Inland Belize Tours	javiercoyoc32@gmail.com	+ 501	621-8943
Go Maya Belize Adventures	www.gomayabelize.com	info@gomayabelize.com	+ 501	824-2795
Pacz Tours	www.pacztours.net	pacztours@btl.net; info@pacztours.net	+ 501	6232385
St. Leonard’s Ltd.	www.stleonardstours.com	stleonardsbze@gmail.com	+ 501	673-4801
Belize Magnificent Mayan Tours	www.bzmtours.com	info@bzmtours.com	+ 501	621-0312
Belize Adventure Trails	belizeadventuretrails.com	infobelizeadventuretrails@gmail.com	+ 501	624-9089
Cayo Adventure Tours	www.cayoadventure.com	info@cayoadventure.com	+ 501	824-3246
Darknight and Hell Gate Tours Ltd	www.darknightcavetubing.com	darknightcavetubing@gmail.com	+ 501	668-5589
Paradise Rainforest Cabins	go.cavetubing_bz	cabinsbelize@gmail.com	+ 501	623-1426
Mariposa Tours LTD.	www.mariposajunglelodge.com	glad@mariposajunglelodge.com	+ 501	670-2113
Classic Maya Adventure Tours	www.classicmayaadventuretours.bz	cmatours.bz@gmail.com	+ 501	669-2392
Come Explore Belize		comeexplorebelize@gmail.com	+ 501	6294598
Kungo Belize	www.kungobelize.com	andy_bahadur@yahoo.com	+ 501	601-6561
Gaia Riverlodge	gaiariverlodge.com	info@fivesisterslodge.com	+ 501	226-5013
Viaventure	www.viaventure.com	lucy@viaventure.com ivy.flores@viaventure.com	+ 501	+502-3100-7968
Belize Nature Travel	www.experiencebelize.com	belizenaturetravel@gmail.com	+ 501	824-3314
Unbelizeable Tubing	www.Cave-tubing.net	info@cave-tubing.net	+ 501	667-0400
Belize Grand Jaguar Tour	www.belizegrandjaguartours.com	Belizegrandjaguartours@gmail.com	+ 501	621-5918
Belize Caving Expeditions	www.belizecaving.com	tours@belizecaving.com	+ 501	662-0506
Darah Transfers & Tours Ltd.	www.Belize-Transfers.com	travel@belizetravelservices.com	+ 501	610-0799
Belize Paradise Tours	cavetubingparadise.com	portillostours@gmail.com	+ 501	665-0060
Banana Bank Lodge	www.bananabank.com	bbl@bananabank.com	+ 501	832-2020
Chac Mo’ol Adventure Tours		jeronimotzib@gmail.com	+ 501	663-8497
Vital Nature & Mayan Tours	www.cavetubing.bz	info@cavetubing.bz;vitalinoreyes@gmail.com	+ 501	602-8975
Belize Family Adventure	www.belizefamilyadventure.com	info@belizefamilyadventure.com	+ 501	600-9192
Yute Expeditions Limited	www.inlandbelize.com	yuteexp@btl.net	+ 501	824-2076
Nine Belize Ecocultural Tours Ltd.	www.ninebelize.com	tourswithnine@gmail.com	+ 501	610-2110
Jungle Walk Expedition Tours	www.belizeguidedtours.bz	vcano22@yahoo.com	+ 501	666-6610
Mayawalk Tours	www.mayawalk.com	info@mayawalk.com	+ 501	824-3070
Authentic Travel Ltd.	www.authentictravelbelize.com	travel@authentictravelbelize.com	+ 501	615-8996
Caves Branch	www.cavesbranch.com	info@cavesbranch.com	+ 501	610-3451
M & S Adventure & Archeology Tours of Belize	www.msadventures.bz	mario@msadventures.bz	+ 501	620-2291
Pook’s Tours	www.pookshilllodge.com	info@pookshilllodge.com	+ 501	6732017
Hidden Valley Inn	www.hiddenvalleyinn.com	sales@hiddenvalleyinn.com	+ 501	822-3320
Darah Travel Ltd.	www.belizetravelservices.com	travel@belizetravelservices.com	+ 501	6136973
Cayo Inland Expeditions	www.belizeinlandexpeditions.com	info@belizeinlandexpeditions.com	+ 501	662-6619
EK’ Balam Adventures and Shuttles		Cassasolaselvin@gmail.com	+ 501	665-4636
Belize Zoological Edventures Limited	www.bzetours.com	info@bzetours.com	+ 501	610-2483
MexBelGua Tours & Transfers	www.mexbelgua.com	mundomexbelgua@gmail.com	+ 501	628-8294
Ancient Cultural Tours	ancientculturaltours.bz	freymundo@yahoo.com	+ 501	6088369
Tukan Shuttles & Adventures	www.tukantravelbelize.com	info@tukantravelbelize.com	+ 501	614-6200
Belize Wings		wingsofnature13@gmail.com	+ 501	614-1217
Darryl Unbelizable Tours & Transfer		darryladventuresbz@gmail.com	+ 501	634-0624
Marcos Private Mayan Tours	marcosprivatemayantours.com	markmayatours@gmail.com	+ 501	675-4663
Belize N Me Jungle and Sea	www.belizenme.com	belizenme.tours@gmail.com	+ 501	621-6039
Belize Caves & Limpkin Tours	www.belizelimpkin.com	info@belizelimpkin.com	+ 501	634-9748

Bird Watching	Black Rock Expeditions Ltd.	www.blackrocklodge.com	cboyd@blackrocklodge.com;generalmanager@blackrockl	+ 501	834-4049
Canopy Tours	Belize Paradise Tours	cavetubingparadise.com	portillostours@gmail.com	+ 501	665-0060
Cave Tubing	Chaa Creek Ltd.	www.chaacreek.com	accrec@chaacreek.com	+ 501	880-2237
City Tour	Marlin Espadas Ltd.		marlinespadasltdbelize@gmail.com	+ 501	627-9990
Cultural Immersion	Black Rock Expeditions Ltd.	www.blackrocklodge.com	cboyd@blackrocklodge.com;generalmanager@blackrockl	+ 501	834-4049
Diving	Ayala’s Natural Pool & Adventures		ayala_nancy20@hotmail.com	+ 501	663-9494
Hiking	Indulge In Amazing Nature Tours	ianbelizetours.com	adventure@ianbelizetours.com	+ 501	501-668-9085
Horseback Riding	Yaxche Adventure Tours	www.belizeadventuretour.com	info@belizeadventuretour.com	+ 501	666-7268
Nature Trail	Mountain Equestrian Trails Ltd.	www.metbelize.com	metbelize@pobox.com	+ 501	669-1124
Other	Belize Magnificent Mayan Tours	www.bzmtours.com	info@bzmtours.com	+ 501	621-0312
Rappelling	Yaxche Adventure Tours	www.belizeadventuretour.com	info@belizeadventuretour.com	+ 501	666-7268
River Tour	Windy Hill Resort & Tours Limited	www.windyhillresort.com	reservations@windyhillresort.com	+ 501	824-2598
Rock Climbing	Cayo Adventure Tours	www.cayoadventure.com	info@cayoadventure.com	+ 501	824-3246
Ruins	San Ignacio Resort Hotel (Cayo Gial Tours)	www.sanignaciobelize.com	accounting@sanignaciobelize.com	+ 501	824-2034
Scuba Diving	Viaventure	www.viaventure.com	lucy@viaventure.com ivy.flores@viaventure.com	+ 502	3100-7968
Snorkeling	Belize Grand Jaguar Tour	www.belizegrandjaguartours.com	Belizegrandjaguartours@gmail.com	+ 501	621-5918
Zip-Line	Yute Expeditions Limited	www.inlandbelize.com	yuteexp@btl.net	+ 501	824-2076
Zoo	Belize Zoological Edventures Limited	www.bzetours.com	info@bzetours.com	+ 501	610-2483
	Cahal Pech Village Resort	www.cahalpech.com	info@cahalpech.com	+ 501	824-3740
	San Ignacio Resort Hotel (Cayo Gial Tours)	www.sanignaciobelize.com	accounting@sanignaciobelize.com	+ 501	824-2034

Corozal District

Rumpunch Belize Limited

www.rumpunchbelize.com

adelarumpunchco@gmail.com

+ 501

639-6697

Offshore Islands North

Snorkeling	Blackbird Caye Resort Limited	www.blackbirdresort.com	info@blackbirdresort.com			+ 501	223-2767
	Turneffe Enterprises Ltd	www.tflats.com	craig@tflats.com			+ 501	671-9022 / 280-9022

Offshore Islands South

Zip-Line	Belize Nature Excursions Ltd.		m_shagoury@me.com			+ 501	227-0500
	Slick Rock Adventures	www.slickrock.com	slickrock@slickrock.com			+ 501	223-4129

Orange Walk District

Zoo	AlTourNative Belize Services	www.altournativebelizeservices.com	localguideinbelize@gmail.com			+ 501	667-2741
	Lamanai Eco Tours	www.Lamanaiecotours.com	Lamanaiecotoursltd@gmail.com			+ 501	610-1753

Placencia

Turtle Inn Resort

www.turtleinn.com

martin@turtleinn.com

+ 501

523-3244

San Pedro

Scuba Daze Belize

www.scubadazebelize.com

scubadazebelize@gmail.com

+ 501

615-5843

Stann Creek District

Zoo	D’ Golden Tour		dgoldentours@gmail.com			+ 501	650-1702
	Hamanasi	www.hamanasi.com	kirsty@hamanasi.com			+ 501	533-7073

Toledo District

Zip-Line	PG Tours	www.pgtoursbelize.com	pgtoursbelize@gmail.com			+ 501	636-6162
	Monkey River Eco Tours	www.monkeyriverbelize.net	monkeyriverecotours@gmail.com			+ 501	5327873

TIDES

The largest known tidal range near Belize City is: 1.38ft. (0.42m).
It’s a mixed semi-diurnal tidal type.

bananabanklodge-horsebackriding28_9316284786_o

Horse & Carriage

SanAntonio_MayanShamanSlateCarving_0103-2

SanAntonio_MayanShamanTortillaMaking_0019-2

Sere/Hudut

Placencia beach

created by dji camera

DCIM105GOPROG2611510.JPG

created by dji camera

Visitors-at-the-entrance-of-the-ATM-Cave

BELIZE 🇧🇿 WESTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISING AND SAILING WITH THE OCEAN POSSE

DOWNLOAD BELIZE DIGITAL CHARTS >>>

by admin

FLEET UPDATE 2023-12-31

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An extremely attractive 1745 map of the Mexican harbor of Zihuatanejo Bay by George Anson.

PANAMA POSSE

FLEET UPDATE

DECEMBER 31, 2023

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
Lamanai, Belize 🇧🇿

248 Yachts are signed up from 23 ensigns

JOIN THE POSSE

1) PICTURES OF THE WEEK

Dock party moved on to SY Carinthia w/ Celt, Maison de Sante, Second Wind & Galatea

SY CARINTHIA 🇺🇸
Maxi, Suzanne, Friends of Laurin, Sarah, Gerry, Laurin, Dietmar Dirends
of Laurin, Nicole, Keenan, Angela, Elsie, Juno & Mark onboard - Lagoon 44′

Sunset over Tenacatita, 🇲🇽

SY LOST PEARL 🇨🇦 Onno - Hardin 45′

Great hammock spot off Isla Contadora in las Perlas, Panama 🇵🇦

SY MAISON DE SANTÉ 🇺🇸 Nicole & Keenan - Cal 46'

2) ALL CAPTAINS AND CREW ARE INVITED

FREE RUM + FOOD + FUN

FIESTA NAUTICA CLUB DE PESCA 🇨🇴 CARTAGENA

PANAMA POSSE JANUARY 20th 2024

SAILORS AND CRUISERS NETWORKING PARTY

SCHEDULE

14:00 – SEMINARS PANAMA POSSE & SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE

17:58 – INVOCATION OF THE FLEET

18:00 – FOOD TASTING AND RUM BAR

18:45 – GALLEY GOD AWARD

20:00 – CUMBIA SALSA LATIN DANCE & THE PP PLAYLIST

LOCATION

CLUB DE PESCA @ the historic Fuerte de San Sebastián del Pastelillo >>

WHAT TO MAKE & BRING:

HERE IS THE LIST OF CULINARY DELIGHTS

BRING ONE OF THESE ITEMS ON THE LIST 6-10 SERVINGS with Serving Spoons

YOU SHOULD MAKE ONE OF THESE DISHES & BRING WITH >>

NO CANNED FOOD – NO POPCORN – NO CHIPS !

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

FREE RUM TO SHARE UNTIL WE RUN OUT

GRAN ARROZ WITH PORK, SAUSAGE OR CHICKEN GREAT TIMES FOR EVERYONE COURTESY OF CLUB DE PESCA

MUSIC – THE PANAMA POSSE LATIN PLAYLIST !

PLEASE RSVP AND FILL OUT THIS FORM BELOW FOR YOUR ALL ACCESS WRISTBAND

RSVP NOW FOR THE CARTAGENA EVENT

Sailors will gather for a sure to be memorable event in Cartegena 🇨🇴

3) 'TIS THE SEASON TO CELEBRATE

🎆 MORE IN PICTURES

A Sailing Family's Christmas tree in Mexico, 🇲🇽

SY DO THE THING 🇨🇦 Marjolaine & Francois - Dufour 43'

Buenadventura Marina lit up for the holidays in Panama, 🇵🇦

SY SECOND WIND 🇺🇸 Laurin - Tayana 37′

A Sandman sending cheer to all the snowmen up north!

SY JUBEL 🇨🇦 Leah & Kyle - Gulfstar 44'

4) SEASON 7 AWARDS:

FIRST: PICTURE OF THE YEAR NOMINATIONS

Full moon rise over Tangolunda Bay, Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico 🇲🇽

SY BISOU 🇦🇺 Robin and Tad - Fountaine Pajot 44′

Sunrise after crossing the Panama Canal...a new chapter begins

SY CHALLENGE 🇺🇸 Olivia & Jake - Sparksman & Stephens 64′

( please email your missing head shots to registration@panamaposse.com )

SECOND : BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT NOMINATION

Leah's first fish....not bad, eh?

We're gonna need a bigger table.

SY JUBEL 🇨🇦 Leah & Kyle - Gulfstar 44'

ANNUAL AWARDS CATEGORIES :

BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT*
PICTURE OF THE YEAR
YODA OF THE YEAR
SPEEDY AWARD – SEVENSTAR AWARD
THE CAPTAIN RON AWARD
MOST UNWELCOME VISITOR ONBOARD
HIGHEST WIND RECORDED
SPIRIT OF EXPLORATION
GALLEY GOD(ESS) (on winner has been announced already )
GOOD SAMARITAN OF THE YEAR
BOAT YOGA POSE OF THE YEAR
COURAGE AWARD

Nominate yourself, a crew member, or another boat

SUBMIT ENTRIES ON THE LINE AP OR EMAIL TO EDITOR@PANAMAPOSSE.COM

Share the adventure

ARE YOU TRACKING ?

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

SAT Jan 13, 2024 CLUB DE PESCA CARATGENA 🇨🇴 COLOMBIA

YACHT FEST RSVP

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.

FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT:

gerencia@clubdepescadecartagena.com

TEL +57 (5) 660 6615

(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.

FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT:

Juanjo Boschetti - GM juanjo@shelterbaymarina.com
Tel (+507) 433-3581

RSVP FOR CARI

(3) PANAMA POSSE AWARDSFUN ACTIVITIES, GOLF, POOL, DJ LOUNGE, + MARINE EXPO

SAT. MAY 11 '24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA

SAT May 10-12, 2024 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA YACHT FEST

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.

FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT:

Cesar - Marina Manager
cesar@bv-marina.com
Tel: +507-6616-7531

RSVP FOR YACHT FEST

SAVE THE DATE
PANAMA POSSE BELIZE YACHT FEST
APRIL 6 2024

https://oceanposse.com/events/belize-placencia-yacht-fest/

PANAMA POSSE 🇧🇿 BELIZE YACHT FEST
@ PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB

BELIZE PLACENCIA YACHT FEST 🇧🇿 Placencia Yacht Club

Saturday April 6, 2024

16:00 – 21:30

Placencia Yacht Club

16° 30.471’N 088° 21.7216′ W

>> RSVP HERE <<

CONTACT

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

info@clearwaterexploring.com

www.placencia-yacht-club.com

T: +501 639 8555

Whatsapp +41 78 605 5181

VHF 68

📍 SAFE APPROACH

SAVE APPROACH @ 16° 29.9333′ N 088° 20.9266' W

The dock, dock bar and bay are waiting for you !

6) PANAMA POSSE VESSEL SY ZEPHYR

CROSSES JOYOUSLY THROUGH THE 🌉 PANAMA CANAL

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.

SY FIN 🇺🇸 Michael & Susan- Lagoon 450F 45′

7) HUMPBACK SEASON IN BANDERAS BAY 🇲🇽 MEXICO

Plenty of humpback whales in the Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta

SY QUICK 🇨🇴 Mark & Dawn - Jeanneau 54′

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?

send your reply to editor@panamaposse.com

8) FLAMENCO MARINA PANAMA 🇵🇦

SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE

08° 54.8466′ N 079°31.2383′ W

Captains and Skippers of the Panama and South Pacific Posse

We
are going to offer you a discount on our rate for temporary stays. Each
participant must identify themselves in our office as part of their
team.

Stays must be reserved and are subject to dock availability.

CONTACT

Caridad Icaza / Gerente de Servicio al Cliente

Tel. 314-1980 / Cel. 6379-2780 / Isla Flamenco, Calzada de Amador

cicaza@fuerteamador.com

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.

for more information follow these links:

https://www.visittci.com/other-islands/fort-george-cay

https://www.timespub.tc/2012/03/the-rest-of-the-story/

11) GOOD NAUTICAL:

COCO BANDERA, SAN BLAS, PANAMA 🇵🇦

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.

https://goodnautical.com/panama/anchorage/coco-bandero-bay

Coco Bandera from above

Closing in on the Christmas fleet

Not much of a commute for a cold one.

Does it get any better than this?!

SY JUBEL 🇨🇦 Leah & Kyle - Gulfstar 44'

SY SALACIA 🇺🇸 Peter and Donna – Santa Cruz 50’

SY X FACTOR 🇺🇸 Mike & Leah - Xquisite

SY WANDERER 🇺🇸 Andrew & Ingrid - Beneteau 41.1′

SIGN UP FOR THE 23-24 PANAMA POSSE

12) BAHIA TENACATITA, MEXICO 🇲🇽:

SOOO MUCH TO DO...

1) ANCHOR:

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

https://www.panamayachtbroker.com/yacht_listing-image/51ft-2007-bavaria-50-vision-2/

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’

16) POSSE SWAG

GET A PANAMA POSSE HAT !
ORDER ONE NOW

17) SAFETY ALERT: FIRE SAFETY AND STORAGE OF

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.”

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mgn-681-m-fire-safety-and-storage-of-small-electric-powered-craft-on-yachts/mgn-681-m-fire-safety-and-storage-of-small-electric-powered-craft-on-yachts

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.

https://www.the-triton.com/2023/08/licell-aims-to-lower-risk-from-lithium-ion-battery-fires/

18) MUST SEE:

LAMANAI 🇧🇿 BELIZE

LAMANAI “SUBMERGED CROCODILE” IN YUCATEC MAY IS A

MESOAMERICAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE

Museo Nacional de Antropología Mexico City

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.

https://panamaposse.com/museo-nacional-de-antropologia-mexico-city

During
the Spanish conquest of Yucatán Spanish friars established two Roman
Catholic churches here, but a Maya revolt drove the Spanish out.

follow this link :https://panamaposse.com/lamanai

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

🇵🇦 Shelter Bay Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Bocas Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Linton Bay Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 La Playita Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Flamenco Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Solarte Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Turtle Cay Marina – Panama

🇨🇴 ClubNautico Cartagena – Colombia

🇨🇴 Club de Pesca Marina Cartagena – Colombia

🇨🇴 Manzanillo Marina Club – Colombia

🇨🇴 Marina Puerto Velero – Colombia

🇨🇴 IGY Marina Santa Marta – Colombia

🇯🇲 Royal Jamaica Yacht Club – Jamaica

🇯🇲 Errol Flynn Marina – Jamaica

🇯🇲 Montego Bay Yacht Club –Jamaica

🇰🇾 The Barcadere Marina –Cayman Islands

🇭🇳 Barefoot Cay Marina – Roatan – Honduras

🇭🇳 Fantasy Island Marina – Roatan – Honduras

🇭🇳 Jonesville Point Marina -Roatan – Honduras

🇬🇹 Marina Nana Juana Resort & Boatyard – Guatemala

🇧🇿 Thunderbirds Marine – Placencia – Belize

🇧🇿 Placencia Yacht Club – Belize

🇲🇽 Marina Makax – Isla Mujeres – Mexico

🇲🇽 Marina V&V – Quintana Roo – Mexico

🇲🇽 Marina El Cid – Cancún – Riviera Maya – Mexico

🇨🇺 Marina Marlin Nautica Cayo Largo – Cuba

🇹🇨 South Bank Marina & Boatyard – Turks and Caicos

🇧🇸 Romora Bay Resort and Marina – Bahamas

🇧🇸 Elizabeth on the Bay Marina – Bahamas

🇧🇸 Great Harbour Cay Marina – Bahamas

🇧🇸 Blue Marlin Cove Resort & Marina – Bahamas

🇩🇴 Ocean World Marina – Dominican Republic

🇩🇴 Marina Puerto Bahia – Dominican Republic

🇺🇸 Marathon Marina – Marathon Keys

🇺🇸 Pier 66 Hotel & Marina – Ft. Lauderdale, USA

🇺🇸 IGY Marina at Ortega Landing – Jacksonville, FL , USA

🇺🇸 Oasis Marinas at Fernandina Harbor Marina – FL , USA

🇺🇸 Morningstar Marinas Golden Isles St. Simons Isl. – Georgia, USA

🇺🇸 Windmill Harbour Marina – Hilton Head South Carolina , USA

🇺🇸 Coffee Bluff Marina – Savannah Georgia , USA

🇺🇸 Hazzard Marine – Gerogetown, North Carolina , USA

🇺🇸 Holden Beach – Town Dock, North Carolina , USA

🇺🇸 Portside Marina – Morehead City, North Carolina USA

🇺🇸 Tideawater Yacht Marina – Portsmouth, USA

🇺🇸 Ocean Yacht Marina, Portsmouth, USA

🇺🇸 Yorktown Riverwalk Landing – Virginia USA

🇺🇸 Regatta Point Marina – Deltaville, Virginia USA

🇺🇸 Regent Point Marina – Topping, Virginia USA

https://panamaposse.com/coffee-bluff-marina

Coffee Bluff Marina, Savannah GA 🇺🇸 Sponsors the Panama Posse

20) PANAMA POSSE SPONSORS

BELIZE TOURISM
CHRIS PARKER - MARINE WEATHER CENTER
DELTA MIKE MARINE SUPPLY PANAMA
DOWNWIND MARINE
FLOR DE CAÑA
HERTZ RENTAL CARS MEXICO
HOME DEPOT PRO MEXICO
LATITUDES AND ATTITUDES
PANAMA YACHT BROKER
PREDICT WIND
SAFE HARBOR SOUTH BAY MARINA EVENT CENTER
SAN DIEGO MARINE EXCHANGE
SEVENSTAR YACHT TRANSPORT
WAYPOINT YACHT SERVICES
WESTMARINE PRO
YACHT AGENTS GALAPAGOS

https://panamaposse.com/yacht-agents-galapagos

YACHT AGENTS GALAPAGOS 🇪🇨 SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE

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.

Thanks and best regards,

Marcus Santana
General Manager
Marcus.Santana@waypointyacht.com

International Business Park Building 3855, office 201 Panama Pacifico / Panama

Phone: +507-310 9891 ext.206
AOH: +507-310 9892 (24/7)
Mob: +507 6427-8099

23) STRATEGIC PARTNERS

SSCA

Park Avenue Villas – San Juan del Sur – Nicaragua

Coconutz – Playa Cocos – Costa Rica

Abernathy – Chandlery – Panama

Pacific Posse

Atlantic Posse

Advertising Partners – Las Vegas

Safe-Esteem.com – Delaware

SIGN UP FOR THE 23-24 PANAMA POSSE

24) MORE POSSE NEWS FROM
AROUND THE OCEANS

ATLANTIC POSSE
SIGN UP NOW

Garajonay National Park La Gomera 🇮🇨 Cannery Islands

🇲🇦 Medina of Tétouan (formerly known as Titawin), Morocco

SIGN UP WITH THE
ATLANTIC POSSE >>

https://www.svpolaris.com/post/preparing-to-cross-the-atlantic-ocean

Atlantic Posse '24

Atlantic Posse Routes
voyage between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean

25) SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE SEASON 4
http://xk5ki.mjt.lu/img2/xk5ki/9e6870ed-6b35-413d-89e5-05ea53144c4a/content

EARLY REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

37 YACHTS ARE SIGNED UP ALREADY !

SIGN UP FOR SEASON 4
🗿
SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE

South Pacific Posse burgees available after January 15

Port Vila Vanuatu

WE OPERATE UNDER INTERNATIONAL MARITIME LAW

YOUR VESSEL YOUR CREW YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

An extremely attractive 2023 AI generated image of Zihuatanejo Bay .

HAPPY 2024 !!!

This e-mail has been sent to @, click here to unsubscribe.

9811 w Charleston Blvd 2262 Summerlin LV NV 89117 USA

by OCEANPOSSE

FLEET UPDATE 2023-09-03

FIND OUT MORE

PANAMA POSSE

FLEET UPDATE

September 3, 2023

"It
is better to meet danger than to wait for it. He that is on a lee
shore, and foresees a hurricane, stands out to sea and encounters a
storm to avoid a shipwreck."

- Charles Caleb Colton

TOP NEWS

Season 7: Registration Is Open And 148 Yachts Have Already Signed Up !
Pictures of the Week
Sunday, September 24, 2023: New Vessels On-boarding Zoom
3 West Coast Mexican 🇲🇽 destinations south from the west coast of the USA
Tablet And Pad Navigation Zoom Seminar Monday, September 4th
Meet The Fleet: MV KOSMOS
6 Panama Posse Events For Season 7
Season 7 Perks
Boat Preparations for leaving home waters and entering new countries
What and Where is the Barrel of Hope?
Ensenada Cruiseport Village Marina 🇲🇽 Sponsors the Panama Posse
Land Trip to El Valle de Anton, 🇵🇦 Panama
Culture: FOCUS ON BELIZE 🇧🇿
Must See: Isla Isabel National Park, 🇲🇽 Mexico
Boat for Sale
The gunkholes from San Diego to Barra de Navidad
Ocean Posse News

148 Yachts have already signed up !

REGISTER NOW

OR RENEW NOW

1) PICTURES OF THE WEEK

Isla Pargo in the Secas Islands of Pacific 🇵🇦 Panama is a dream

SY JUBEL 🇨🇦 Leah & Kyle - Gulfstar 44'

Happy
hour at Vista Mar, 🇵🇦 Panama which lasted 5 hours 🍺🍷🥃 😎 14
people, 6 boat of which 3 are Panama Posse; Queso Grande II, Oz &
Mindelo.

Great times with great people!

SY QUESO GRANDE II 🇺🇸 Lance & Sherri - Seawind 41'

SY OZ 🇺🇸 Sue & Steve - Catana 40′

SY MINDELO 🇵🇱 Niklaus & Bruna - Norman Cross 42'

Last night's show at Paradise Village Marina, Nuevo Vallarta 🇲🇽 Mexico

SY SERENITY 🇺🇸 Mark & Kathryn – Antares 44′

2) SAVE THE DATE

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2023

NEW VESSELS ON-BOARDING ZOOM

Nicole is your welcome ambassador to help you reach new heights and help you make the most of all the perks of the Panama Posse

YOU ARE CORDIALLY

INVITED TO MEET YOUR PEERS

NEW VESSELS
ON-BOARDING ZOOM WITH NICOLE

SUNDAY SEP 24 2023

14:00 EASTERN TIME
13:00 PANAMA TIME
12:00 MEXICO TIME
11:00 PACIFIC TIME ACCESS THE ZOOM: MEETING WITH NICOLE BY FOLLOWING THIS LINK >>
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85298241653?pwd=bzhqTDlja3dreHpndERzYjFoekcvdz09

3) THREE WEST COAST DESTINATIONS
JUST SOUTH FROM THE WEST COAST OF THE USA

EN ROUTE TO SEASON 7
KICK OFF PARTY IN BARRA

Clearing into Mexico in Ensenada MX, raising our courtesy flag, and sailing south

The
Panama Posse highly recommends checking into Mexico in Ensenada as
opposed to Isla Cedros. Mainly, if you are looking for a more
efficient check-in, Ensenada has localized, reliable office hours and
staffing in comparison to Isla Cedros. Either way, once your
vessel and crew are cleared in you are free to begin voyaging the
Mexican coast at your leisure. While making your way to the Season
7 Kick Off Party in Barra De Navidad, Mexico there are many incredible
destinations along the way. 3 destinations are highlighted below:
Islas San Benito del Oeste, Man of War Cove (or Puerto Magdalena in
Bahia Magdalena), and Isla Isabela.

Each incredible. Each unique. Each only accessible by boat.

DESTINATION 1: Islas San Benito del Oeste, 🇲🇽 Mexico

Latitude: 28°18.11N Longitude: 115° 34.66

View of Isla San Benito del Oeste, MX from the southern anchorage

The
Islas San Benito is a group of three small islets that lie in the
Pacific Ocean off the west coast of the Baja Peninsula, about 225nm SE
of Ensenada and 55nm NW of Bahia Turtugas. The islands are
surrounded by rocks and patches of algae so careful watch is required.
Many Birds and marine mammals are on, along, and surrounding these
shores. There is a small community on the island; the 2001 census
recorded a population of two people in Benito del Oeste The other
islands are not inhabited. There is a coopertive abalone aquafarm
there. If you are lucky enough to have the weather window to drop
your hook, do not miss the chance.

Neighboring Isla Cedros at Sunrise

DESTINATION 2: Man of War Cove (or Puerto Magdalena in Bahia Magdalena) 🇲🇽

Latitude: 24°38.918'N Longitude: 112°08.013W

Honestly, Man of War Cove (or Puerto Magdalena) is just the beginning of the wonder that is Bahia Magdalena.

Big boats safely anchored in the background as we dinghy tour up the estuary

Shaking off our sea legs on the sand dunes into the estuary in Magdalena Bay

Bahia
Magdalena is all but cut off from the ocean by a varied stretch of
long, narrow, tall barrier islands. Inside the 325 square mile bay
there are expansive estuaries, sand dunes, and mangroves that a wide
variety of wildlife call home. Grey Whales migrate here annually
from January to April to breed and have their calves. Bahia
Magdalena is their sanctuary and it is a truly special place to enter
into. In the small village of Puerto Magdalena one may find a
small tienda with light provisions.

DESTINATION 3: Isla Isabel 🇲🇽 Mexico

Latitude: 28° 18.11N Longitude: 115° 34.66

Blue footed boobies court, mate and nest on Isla Isabella.

Crossing
ESE from the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Isla Isabella is a
small island found 15nm off mainland Mexico south of Mazatlan.
This island is a bird sanctuary that some people refer to as the
Galapagos of Mexico. The island is teaming with blue footed
boobies, frigate birds, and iguanas. The near shore waters are
frequented by humpback whales and dolphins and home to a myriad of small
fish. The island can be explored on foot on multiple trails, in
the water with a snorkel mask, or along the tide line at low tide.
There are three main anchorages each providing protection from a
different wind and sea states and yet the island is a small isolated
offshore island so getting a weather window to stop and enjoy Isla
Isabella is an opportunity to be thankful for. It is definitely
unforgettable.

Frigate birds overlooking tide pools and the southern anchorage on Isla Isabella

Ilsa Isabella 🇲🇽 Mexico is in Good Nautical

4) MARINE

ZOOM SEMINAR MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 4th
12:00 PM PACIFIC TIME >>

PRESENTED BY DIGITAL YACHT

IGITAL YACHT SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE We are proud to sponsor the Panama Posse !

Based on Panbo's recent Mobile navigation app of 12+ navigational apps the Panama Posse has set up a seminar on how to best integrate digital yacht's devices with your
existing yacht systems - who better than Nick Heyes from Digital
Yacht Ltd to share best practices . Mark your calendar.

Our goal is to see what the options and solutions are to send data to pads from your onboard systems to create additional aids to navigation

SAVE THE DATE
MONDAY SEP 4th 2023
12:00 PM PACIFIC TIME

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81099680629?pwd=ZnpocFhLK0pQYjYvTERsbU84Vkkydz09

AIS display on mobile devices via WIFI & Digital yachts

5) MEET THE FLEET

MV KOSMOS

Family of 3 currently in San Diego preparing for southbound departure
Current Position San Diego, California
32°37'19.7"N 117°06'03.3"W

Aboard MV Kosmos are Eric, Christi, and their son Keith.

We
bought Kosmos (Nordhavn 43) new in 2006, circumnavigated from
2007-2009, did a few shorter trips around the West Coast, and have about
42,000nm under her keel as of 2023. Keith was born in 2012, and ever
since the vision was to take him cruising full-time. We are finally in a
position to make it happen, and our first step was doing the Sea of
Cortez for 8 months in 2022-2023. We had a wonderful time. We are
getting the boat ready to go cruising again for this next season. The
Panama Posse routes looks like exactly where we want to go! Cruising
with other kid boats is a priority for us. We are glad to be a part of
the Panama Posse.

MV Kosmos anchored in the Sea of Cortez

SY KOSMOS 🇺🇸 Eric, Christi, & Keith - Nordhavn 43'

6) ALL PANAMA POSSE EVENTS
now listed @
https://oceanposse.com/calendar

We look forward to meeting you at these events - we do not sail on a set schedule to
make your journey more relaxed and take into account ever changing
weather conditions. Move only when the conditions are right and
you feel good!

The events in Barra de Navidad / Shelter Bay / Club De Pesca and Buenaventura will have POT LUCK culinary competition so follow these rules to win the coveted

PANAMA POSSE
🏆
GALLEY GOD(ESS) AWARD

Lucky Chucky laying down the winning gauntlet and scooping up the coveted Galley Gods award in Barra

MY HO'OKIPA 🇺🇸 Lisa & Lucky Chucky - Selene 43′

PANAMA POSSE EVENTS

① ANNAPOLIS
US SAIL BOAT SHOW

OCTOBER 12 – 15, 2023
ANNAPOLIS, MD 🇺🇸 BOOTH VB 10

For discounted US SAILBOAT SHOW tickets follow this link >>
or if you have time to volunteer at the Panama Posse booth we 'll get you 2 free daily tickets - email registration@panamaposse.com

GET DISCOUNTS ON TIX

② SAFE HARBOR SOUTH BAY MARINA + EVENT CENTER
SATURDAY, OCT 29 2023
CHULA VISTA 🇺🇸
SAN DIEGO

SAT OCT 28, 2023 SAN DIEGO, CA 🇺🇸 SAFE HARBOR – SOUTH BAY

LEARN + HAVE FUN AND MEET THE FLEET
13:00 – SEMINARS

18:00 – INVOCATION OF THE FLEET

18:30 – PARTY & OPEN RUM BAR

SAN DIEGO RSVP

③ PANAMA POSSE
KICK OFF WEEKEND
DEC 7 – 10, '23
BARRA DE NAVIDAD 🇲🇽 MX

BARRA RSVP

Secundino Alvarez - Harbor Master
Vessels
Must be registered with the Panama Posse prior to Oct 31st
to receive Posse discounts at Marina Puerto de la Navidad.

SPONSORED BY BELIZE TOURSIM

FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT:

harbormaster@islaresort.com.mx

TEL +52 (314) 337 9014

④ CLUB DE PESCA
YACHT FEST
SAT, JAN 20 '24 CARTAGENA 🇨🇴 CO

YACHT FEST RSVP

FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT:

gerencia@clubdepescadecartagena.com

TEL +57 (5) 660 6615

⑤ OCEAN POSSE PARTY PANAMA + SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE

FLEET MEET UP

SAT. FEB 3 '24
SHELTER BAY MARINA
🇵🇦 PANAMA

RSVP CARIBBEAN PARTY

FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT:

Juanjo Boschetti - GM juanjo@shelterbaymarina.com
Tel (+507) 433-3581

RSVP FOR THIS EVENT

⑥ PANAMA POSSE AWARDSFUN ACTIVITIES, GOLF, POOL, DJ LOUNGE, + MARINE EXPO

SAT. MAY 11 '24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA

YACHT FEST RSVP

FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT:

Emilio Lau - Marina Manager
emilio@bv-marina.com
Tel: +507-6616-7531

RSVP FOR YACHT FEST

7) SEASON 7 PERKS

Here are a few reasons why yacht owners participate in the Panama Posse

Adventure and Exploration ⦾ The Panama
Posse offers a one-of-a-kind, epic adventure for yacht owners looking
to embark on a challenging and memorable journey. Traveling through the
Caribbean and the Panama Canal to the Pacific Ocean all the way to San
Diego or in reverse to Annapolis provides an exciting and diverse
experience.

Camaraderie and Community ⦾
Participants join a community of like-minded yacht owners who share a
passion for boating and exploration. The rally fosters a sense of
camaraderie, providing opportunities to make new friends and share
experiences.

Support and Resources ⦾ The
Panama Posse provides valuable logistical support, including
pre-departure seminars, route planning assistance, and information on
local customs and regulations. This support helps ease the planning
process and ensures a smoother journey.

Cultural Immersion⦾ Yacht
owners get the chance to immerse themselves in diverse cultures and
destinations along the route. Exploring local communities, historical
sites, and natural wonders adds a rich cultural experience to the
adventure.

Improved Safety and Security ⦾
Traveling as part of a group enhances safety and security during the
journey, especially for yacht owners who may be less experienced in
long-distance cruising or unfamiliar with the waters and regions they'll
traverse.

Opportunities for Exploration ⦾
The rally opens up opportunities for yacht owners to discover hidden
gems and less-traveled routes, adding a sense of exploration and
discovery to the experience. Western Caribbean and Pacific waters
including Belize, Bay of Islands, Jamaica, San Blas, Bocas del
Toro, Las Perlas, Costa Rica, Sea of Cortes a.m.o.

Remarkable Memories ⦾
Participating in the Panama Posse creates amazing and lasting memories
that yacht owners can cherish for a lifetime. The combination of
adventure, camaraderie, and cultural experiences, 40+ UNESCO World
heritage sites makes this journey a unique and unforgettable journey.

PANAMA POSSE Pre-Season get ready

SEPTEMBER ACTION ITEM ONE

ADD YOUR VESSEL TO FREE FLEET TRACKING >>

SEPTEMBER ACTION ITEM TWO

SAVE MONEY BY SIGNING UP FOR YOUR WEST MARINE PRO DISCOUNT >>

SEPTEMBER ACTION ITEM THREE

WATCH THE ROUTE AND OPEN CPN SEMINARS >>

8) PANAMA POSSE
SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES AND WIN AN AWARD

Sharing adventures is the heart and soul of the Panama Posse experience.

Please share pictures of your adventures 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 provides fun and
helpful updates to the Panama Posse.

BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT*
PICTURE OF THE YEAR
YODA OF THE YEAR
SPEEDY AWARD – SEVENSTAR AWARD
THE CAPTAIN RON AWARD
MOST UNWELCOME VISITOR ONBOARD
HIGHEST WIND RECORDED
SPIRIT OF EXPLORATION
GALLEY GOD(ESS)
GOOD SAMARITAN OF THE YEAR
BOAT YOGA POSE OF THE YEAR
COURAGE AWARD

JUST ONE OF THE BEST REWARDS: Flor de Caña 12 Year old Rum

Thunderheads tell stories, so can you.

"I look forward to hearing from you and sharing your tales of adventure."

SY WHIRLWIND Maurisa, Mike, Russell, & Josea

9) BOAT PREPARATIONS FOR LEAVING HOME WATERS

AND ENTERING NEW COUNTRIES

Leaving Port is exciting especially under a rainbow

Leaving
ones home waters and entering a new country is certainly a big change
and there are many essential details not to forget. Checklists are
handy tools for preparing for big changes. Beyond the obvious
boat essentials like checking your systems, having safety equipment
onboard, topping your fluids, and changing your zincs, please see the
checklist below for details not to be forgotten when setting out on a
long distance voyage with the Panama Posse.

If
an EPIRB is onboard, register it with the NOAA. Before leaving
confirm that all information is current. This includes vessel
name, your primary phone number, emergency contact name/s and address/es
A Ship Stations License is required by the FCC for travelling in international territories
Make sure the MMSI number of your vessel is registered in your name.
Have your boat documentation or registration up to date and in order.
If
the boat is documented or registered in the name of someone not present
or the name of a business or organization a letter notarized by the
owner authorizing the captain and crew to be operating the vessel is
required to enter other countries.
Depending
on the country you enter you will buy a Temporary Import Permit.
This is an important document to keep with the vessel the entire
time in the country of entry.
Current passport for everyone onboard ideally good for the duration of your stay abroad
Many
countries require a Crew List upon entry which states everyone onboard,
their Date of Birth, their rank on the vessel and their passport
number.
If navigating into Mexico, Mexican Liability Insurance is required to Navigate in Mexican waters.
If
navigating into Mexico, upon exit the captain is required to show a
boaters education card, ASA certification, or a captains license.

Wherever you go along the route, be prepared for entry and exit requirements and seasonal changes.

10) ENSENADA CRUISEPORT VILLAGE MARINA 🇲🇽 MEXICO SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE

31° 51.2766′ N 116° 37.2433′ W

We are pleased to welcome the Participants of the Panama Posse to

Ensenada, BC 🇲🇽 Mexico

As a special welcome rate we offer 2 nights and one free !

In
the minimum stay of 2 nights, you get 1 extra night for free + special
DAILY rate for the participants with boats with a length up to 65 ft:
$2.00 USD per foot of the vessel + tax + free assistance to clear in and
out of Mexico, immigration and to get the Temporary Importation Permit
as long as they present all the documents as required by the port
authorities.

https://panamaposse.com/ensenada-cruiseport-village

SERVICES

189 slips from 36’ to 68’ and 6 end ties from 83’ to 135’
350’ mega yacht area
Dock box with water supply and electricity capacity (30, 50 and 100 amp end tie)
Double breakwater protection, insuring the calmest marina in Ensenada area
Concrete Bellingham Marine built docks
Launch ramp
Parking
Laundry room
Restrooms and showers
Port Clearance and Customs assistance

AMENITIES

Controlled access to facilities
24 hour security
Dock carts
Downtown within walking distance
Friendly environment
Pet friendly
BBQ area

https://panamaposse.com/ensenada-cruiseport-village

11) LAND TRIPS:

EL VALLE DE ANTON, 🇵🇦 PANAMA

A steep climb to the top of this knob yields views of the valley and town below.

El
Valle de Anton is a small town in Western Panama nestled in the crater
of an ancient and extinct volcano. This is the second largest
inhabited volcano crater in the world. The mountains encircling
the town are steep dense jungle. The microclimate here, next to
the cloud forest create amazing and abundant varieties of flora and
fauna.

View from the rim of an ancient volcano down into El Valle, 🇵🇦 Panama

View to the Ocean from The top.

We particularly enjoyed seeing many tropical birds and butterflies.

This Camouflage is so attractive!

El
Valle is a popular weekend getaway for city dwelling Panamanians and
adventure travelers. There are many natural wonders and
attractions including history museums, butterfly research station,
hiking, swimming, horseback riding, bird watching, zip lining, and more.
On the southern side of town there are thermal underwater rivers
that peek out and are plumbed into swimming pools.

This pool was a delightful place to rest and refresh morning, noon, and night!

Land
trips are a great way to see more than meets the eye from the coast.
El Valle de Anton is less than an hour drive from Vista Mar
Marina. Thank you SY Whirlwind for sharing your stories and your
photos.

SY WHIRLWIND 🇺🇸 Maurisa, Mike, Russell & Josea – Alajuela 48’

12) INTRODUCING
THE NEW COMMUNICATIONS PLATFORM

CHAT.PANAMAPOSSE.COM

Communicating with fellow boats along the route is a BIG BENEFIT of the Panama Posse. However, last seasons communications platform got overloaded with over 275,000 words from hundreds of yachts. With so many knowledgeable and fact finding participants communicating daily via our LINE chat,
the sheer amount and stream of questions, comments, insight, location
pins, BOLO notices, et cetera pushed the seasonal knowledge transfer to
the limit. Our quest is for a little bit more organized way to
discuss and share information so we can get the most out of our
communications. As a result, we are forging ahead with a new
communications platform .

It is called ZULIP. We are in control of the server and the open source platform. It runs on mac, pc, ios, android, etc. Zulip is a chatroom on steroids, topics are more organized, and we think (and hope) it will be a huge improvement to our communications among the fleet.

FINALLY A WELL ORGANIZED & THREADED CHAT !

To sign up in the initial phase please email registration@panamaposse.com to get your invitation - GESTALT PROTOCOL APPLIES

THIS COMM TOOL HAS
core concepts **STREAMS** and **TOPICS**

STREAMS are knowledge and information streams you are interested in

TOPICS are
just that within each STREAM ( think of a subject in an email ) you can
create a topic or use an existing topic when composing a message

Here is a quick tutorial

https://zulip.com/help/getting-started-with-zulip](https://zulip.com/help/getting-started-with-zulip

GESTALT PROTOCOL is not a cult thing it's a communication protocol.

SHARE EXPERIENCES and FACTS, NOT OPINIONS

ZULIP / CHAT.PANAMAPOSSE.COM AVAILABLE ON THESE PLATFORMS

Webbrowser
iOS
Android
PC APP
MAC APP
LINUX Desktop
and Terminal

FIND OUT MORE

13) CULTURE 🇧🇿 BELIZE

The
culture of Belize is a mix of influences and people from Kriol, Maya,
East Indian, Garinagu aka Garifuna , Mestizo and Mennonites
who are of German descent, with many other cultures from Chinese to
Lebanese. It is a unique blend that emerged through the country's long
and complex history.

🇧🇿 CULINARY STAPLES

Rice and beans: A staple, often served with stewed chicken, pork, or beef.

Coconut Milk: Used frequently in Belizean cuisine, particularly in dishes like "Seré," a Garifuna fish soup.

Corn: Used in a variety of forms, from tortillas to tamales.

Seafood:
Given Belize’s proximity to the Caribbean Sea, seafood is abundant and
features prominently, including conch, lobster, and various types of
fish.

SIGNATURE DISHES

Rice and Beans with Stew Chicken: Considered the national dish,
it is commonly served with coleslaw or a side salad.

Pupusas: Thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat.

Johnny Cakes: A type of biscuit often filled with ham, chicken, or cheese.

Tamales: Corn dough pockets filled with meat, beans, or vegetables, usually steamed in a banana leaf.

Fry Jacks: Deep-fried dough pieces, often served with breakfast.

BELIZE BEVERAGES

Belikin Beer: The national beer of Belize.

Seaweed Shakes: A traditional drink made with seaweed, condensed milk, nutmeg, and other spices.

Cashew and Sorrel Wine: Locally produced fruit wines.

SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Hudut: A Garifuna fish stew made with plantains and coconut milk, often served during cultural festivals.

Dukunu: A sweet corn dish that is wrapped and steamed in corn husks, traditionally made for holidays and special occasions.

FOLKLORE

In Belizean folklore, we find the legends of La Llorona, Cadejo, the Tata Duende,
and X'tabai. The idea of the mystical healing and Obeah is prominent in
Belizean legend, and there is still talk of evil shaman practices like
putting "Obeah" on certain houses. This is known to be done by burying a
bottle with the 'evil' under a tree close by the house.

MUSIC AND ART

Punta is
by the far most popular genre of Garifuna music and has become the most
popular genre in all of Belize. It is distinctly Afro-Caribbean, and is
sometimes said to be ready for international popularization like
similarly-descended styles (reggae, calypso, merengue, etc.).
Established stars include Andy Palacio, Herman "Chico" Ramos, "Mohobub"
Flores, Adrian "The Doc" Martinez, and Lindsford "Supa G" Martinez. A
slower, more melodic variant, known as Paranda, has been catching on
recently behind the talents of Honduras' Aurelio Martinez and Paul Nabor
of Punta Gorda; Nabor's signature track "Naguya Nei" is considered the
informal popular anthem of the Garifuna nation.

Brukdown is
a very popular modern style of Belizean music related to Calypso. It
evolved out of the music and dance of loggers, especially a form called
buru. Its greatest proponents include Wilfred Peters and Gerald "Lord"
Rhaburn of Belize City and Leela Vernon of Punta Gorda.

Reggae, Dancehall, and Soca
imported from Jamaica and the rest of the West Indies, and Rap,
Hip-Hop, heavy metal and rock music from the United States, are also
popular among the youth of Belize. Belize's recording industry turns out
a few CDs each year; the majority of musical exposure occurs at monthly
concerts featuring Belizean and international artists sharing the same
card, or else DJ's mixing music at local nightclubs.

14) PANAMA POSSE SWAG

ORDER NOW

PANAMA POSSE SWAG ON SALE NOW

15) MUST SEE:

ISLA ISABELLA 🇲🇽 NATIONAL PARK, MEXICO

The rock structures surrounding Isla Isabel National Park are jagged and dramatic

Isla
Isabel National Park is a national park and protected area located off
the coast of Nayarit. This isolated island was one Jacques Cousteau’s
favorite places and Cousteau himself made the recommendation to the
Mexican government to designate this island as a National Park. He spent
a great deal of time here and has aired many specials on this fabulous
gem. The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau aired in 1975.

The
island is uninhabited by humans, though there is a seabird reproductive
research program run by UNAM and tourists visit to camp, fish and bird
watch. After having depleted a huge colony of Sooty Terns, which in 1978
had over 150,000 pairs, cats were finally eradicated from the island in
1995 and the Terns are slowly recovering. The biodiversity and
migratory populations of animals that live and return here year after
year is a stunning MUST SEE.

The male frigate bird shows off his red pouch when looking to impress the ladies.

The male blue footed boobie dance for the female who lays her eggs directly on the sand.

Approaching Isla Isabel at sunrise can be quite serene.

https://panamaposse.com/isla-isabella

Along the Panama Posse CENTRAL AMERICAN route are 40+ UNESCO and OTHER SIGNIFICANT WORLD HERITAGE SITES

16) PANAMA POSSE BOAT FOR SALE

FULLY EQUIPPED & READY TO GO ANYWHERE

SY ARROW flying her spinnaker in the Sea of Cortez 🇲🇽 Mexico

*37' Performance Cruiser for sale by owner*

Arrow
is Fully Equipped and ready to go cruising self sufficiently: water
maker, solar and wind power, well insulated fridge, navigation system
with radar, GPS chartplotter, AIS, depth sounder and speedo, a quiver of
sails for a variety of wind conditions, 10' dinghy with 6hp motor,
safety gear including life raft, EPIRB, satellite system, ditchbag, lee
cloths for all main salon sea bunks, lots of custom shade and rain
awnings/enclosures, topside barbeque, equipped galley down below.
Fully equipped to sail, adventure, and cruise coastwise or
offshore.

Ready
for her next adventure; Arrow is a sweet sailing, seaworthy,
live-aboard, performance cruiser from a classic period in yachting
history. She is a Carter 37 and has been upgraded and maintained to be
an excellent, well prepared, self-sufficient yacht with lots of extras.
As her owners we are standing by ready to show Arrow and pass her
off to her next Owners/ Sailors/ Adventurers.

Arrow
was designed by Dick Carter and built in Greece. She is a masthead
sloop with removable inner forestay. Her large fin keel with lead
ballast and skeg hung rudder provide a safe platform for coastal and
offshore adventures alike. With a moderate ballast to displacement
ratio, Arrow is a great light air boat while at the same time maintains a
kind motion in a seaway.

For questions, specs and details contact rockcairn@gmail.com.

$36,000 US OBO

Located in Vista Mar, Panama

SY ARROW on anchor in paradise.

Asking 36k USD

17) 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

🇵🇦 Shelter Bay Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Bocas Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Linton Bay Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 La Playita Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Flamenco Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Solarte Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Turtle Cay Marina – Panama

🇨🇴 ClubNautico Cartagena – Colombia

🇨🇴 Club de Pesca Marina Cartagena – Colombia

🇨🇴 Manzanillo Marina Club – Colombia

🇨🇴 Marina Puerto Velero – Colombia

🇨🇴 IGY Marina Santa Marta – Colombia

🇯🇲 Royal Jamaica Yacht Club – Jamaica

🇯🇲 Errol Flynn Marina – Jamaica

🇯🇲 Montego Bay Yacht Club –Jamaica

🇰🇾 The Barcadere Marina –Cayman Islands

🇭🇳 Barefoot Cay Marina – Roatan – Honduras

🇭🇳 Fantasy Island Marina – Roatan – Honduras

🇭🇳 Jonesville Point Marina -Roatan – Honduras

🇬🇹 Marina Nana Juana Resort & Boatyard – Guatemala

🇧🇿 Thunderbirds Marine – Placencia – Belize

🇧🇿 Placencia Yacht Club – Belize

🇲🇽 Marina Makax – Isla Mujeres – Mexico

🇲🇽 Marina V&V – Quintana Roo – Mexico

🇲🇽 Marina El Cid – Cancún – Riviera Maya – Mexico

🇨🇺 Marina Marlin Nautica Cayo Largo – Cuba

🇹🇨 South Bank Marina & Boatyard – Turks and Caicos

🇧🇸 Romora Bay Resort and Marina – Bahamas

🇧🇸 Elizabeth on the Bay Marina – Bahamas

🇧🇸 Great Harbour Cay Marina – Bahamas

🇧🇸 Blue Marlin Cove Resort & Marina – Bahamas

🇩🇴 Ocean World Marina – Dominican Republic

🇩🇴 Marina Puerto Bahia – Dominican Republic

🇺🇸 Marathon Marina – Marathon Keys

🇺🇸 Pier 66 Hotel & Marina – Ft. Lauderdale, USA

🇺🇸 IGY Marina at Ortega Landing – Jacksonville, FL , USA

🇺🇸 Oasis Marinas at Fernandina Harbor Marina – FL , USA

🇺🇸 Morningstar Marinas Golden Isles St. Simons Isl. – Georgia, USA

🇺🇸 Windmill Harbour Marina – Hilton Head South Carolina , USA

🇺🇸 Coffee Bluff Marina – Savannah Georgia , USA

🇺🇸 Hazzard Marine – Gerogetown, North Carolina , USA

🇺🇸 Holden Beach – Town Dock, North Carolina , USA

🇺🇸 Portside Marina – Morehead City, North Carolina USA

🇺🇸 Tideawater Yacht Marina – Portsmouth, USA

🇺🇸 Ocean Yacht Marina, Portsmouth, USA

🇺🇸 Yorktown Riverwalk Landing – Virginia USA

🇺🇸 Regatta Point Marina – Deltaville, Virginia USA

🇺🇸 Regent Point Marina – Topping, Virginia USA

https://panamaposse.com/marina-puerto-bahia

Marina Puerto Bahia 🇩🇴 Sponsors the Panama Posse

19° 11.6383′ N 069° 21.3283′ W

18) PANAMA POSSE SPONSORS

PREDICT WIND
SEVENSTAR YACHT TRANSPORT
HOME DEPOT PRO MEXICO
HERTZ RENTAL CARS MEXICO
YACHT AGENTS GALAPAGOS
FLOR DE CAÑA
SAFE HARBOR SOUTH BAY MARINA EVENT CENTER
WESTMARINE PRO
SAILMAIL
CHRIS PARKER - MARINE WEATHER CENTER
SAN DIEGO MARINE EXCHANGE
DOWNWIND MARINE
BELIZE TOURISM
PANAMA YACHT BROKER
LATITUDES AND ATTITUDES
DELTA MIKE MARINE SUPPLY PANAMA
SHELTER ISLAND INFLATABLES

https://panamaposse.com/shelter-island-inflatables

We are happy to announce that also this year we will be partnering with

SHELTER ISLAND INFLATABLES SAN DIEGO

Premier Luxury Tender & Outboard Motor Dealership

Shelter
Island Inflatables is a full service dealership featuring authorized
parts, sales, and service for Mercury, Suzuki Marine, Novurania, Inmar
Inflatable Boats, Williams Jet Tenders, & Highfield.

Shelter Island Inflatables has moved its location to 2727 Shelter Island Dr. “Under the Brigantine restaurant”

Showroom: 619-222-1200 Service Yard: 619-269-5702

19) GUNKHOLE *
FROM SAN DIEGO TO
BARRA DE NAVIDAD 🇲🇽 MX

* to make a series of short pleasure trips by boat, as from bay to bay

Start at Cruiseport Village Marina Ensenada and do your Mexico check ins 31° 51.2766′ N 116° 37.2433′ W

⓪ San Diego Police Dock 32° 42.537' N 117° 14.10543' W - ⛽💧

① Ensenada Cruiseport Village Marina 31° 51.2766′ N 116° 37.2433′ W 60 nm ⛽💧

② Punta Santo Tomas 31° 33.1589 N 116° 40.6879 W 18 nm

③ Bahia Colonet Bight 30° 57.9028 N 116° 17.0747 W 40 nm

④ Isla San Martin North Bay 30° 29.178 N 116° 6.1356 W 30 nm

⑤ Bahia San Quintin 30° 22.5924' N 115° 59.0887' W 9 nm

⑥ Isla San Gernomio 29° 47.3276' N 115° 47.4296' W 37 nm

⑦ Fondadero San Carlos 29° 37.3596' N 115° 28.565' W 19 nm

⑧ Isla Cedros N 28° 20.212' N 115° 11.434' W 79 nm

⑨ Turtle Bay / Bahia Tortugas 27° 41.2544' N 114° 53.2545' W 42 nm⛽💧

⑩ Bahia Asuncion 27° 08.1355' N 114° 17.4206' W 46 nm⛽ 💧

⑪ Bahia San Hipolito 26° 59.3362' N 113° 57.6966' W 20 nm

⑫ Bahia Ballenas 26° 46.0426' N 113° 30.0266' W 28 nm

⑬ San Juanico / Scorpion Bay 26° 14.7986' N 112° 28.333' W 64 nm

⑭ Bahia Santa Maria 24° 46.133' N 112° 15.441' W 90 nm

⑮ Cabo San Lucas East 22° 53.304' N 109° 53.844' W *172 nm ⛽💧

⑯ Los Frailes 23° 22.836' N 109° 25.297' W 40 nm

⑰ Isla de Pajaros 23° 15.2645' N 106° 28.3305' W *163 nm ⛽💧

⑱ Isla Isabella Anchorage South 21° 50.5266' N 105° 52.907' W 91 nm

⑲ San Blas Outer Anchorage 21° 31.043' N 105° 14.566' W 41 nm ⛽💧

⑳ Punta de Mita 20° 45.764' N 105° 31.15' W 48 nm ⛽💧

㉑ Punta Ipala 20° 14.2306' N 105° 34.4255' W 32 nm

㉒ Chamela - N 19° 35.0404' N 105° 7.8663' W 47 nm

㉓ Isla Paraiso - E 19° 28.6194' N 105° 3.7637' W 8 nm

㉔ Tenacatita - Inner Bay 19° 17.9207' N 104° 50.1528' W 17 nm

㉕ Marina Puerto Navidad 19° 11.7294' N 104° 40.8748' W 11 nm ⛽💧

*overnight

20) 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

21) STRATEGIC PARTNERS

SEVEN SEAS CRUISING ASSOCIATION

Vicente’s Moorings – Acapulco – Mexico

Park Avenue Villas – San Juan del Sur – Nicaragua

Coconutz – Playa Cocos – Costa Rica

Abernathy – Chandlery – Panama

Pacific Posse

Atlantic Posse

Advertising Partners – Las Vegas

Safe-Esteem.com – Delaware

SIGN UP FOR THE 23-24 PANAMA POSSE

22) MORE POSSE NEWS FROM
AROUND THE OCEANS

CROSS TO OR FROM EUROPE WITH THE

ATLANTIC POSSE
FORMING NOW

Cannes Yachting Festival – meet with the Atlantic Posse steering commitee

Meet up with the Atlantic Posse Planning committee 🇫🇷 Cannes Yacht Festival Sep 14 '2023

SIGN UP FOR THE
23-24 ATLANTIC POSSE >>

Atlantic Posse Routes
voyage between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean

yeah we go there !

23) SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE SEASON 3
67 YACHTS UNDERWAY

SEASON 4 '24REGISTRATION STARTS DEC 1 2023

PICTURES FROM THE FIRST SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE NETWORKING PARTY IN SAVUSAVU

https://pacificposse.com/nawi-island#party

SUBSCRIBE TO SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE FLEET UPDATES >>

MALEKULA 🇻🇺 VANUATU

THE BACK BEAT🥁 IN FP

NIUATOPUTAPU 🇹🇴 TONGA

SOCIETY ISLANDS M’OOREA

KADAVU 🇫🇯 FIJI

VAVA’U BOATYARD 🇹🇴 TONGA

RAINBOW WARRIOR NZ | FRANCE

HISTORIC PORTS ⚓ OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC

⚓ Good Anchorages in the Tuamotus 🇵🇫 FP

The Samoan Fire Knife Dance is a breathtaking performance that visitors often look forward to when attending a luau. However, there is a lot more to this ritual than just a spectacular dance as it comes from centuries of tradition and is infused with lots of old-time lore and even personalization by performers.

The Samoan Fire Knife Dance
is a breathtaking performance. There is a lot more to this ritual than
just a spectacular dance as it comes from centuries of tradition and is
infused with lots of old-time lore and even personalization by
performers.

WE OPERATE UNDER INTERNATIONAL MARITIME LAW

YOUR VESSEL · YOUR CREW · YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

Aqua hammock is calling from paradise San Blas 🇵🇦 Panama

ocean posse llc
@ 9811 W Charleston blvd 2262 Summerlin LV NV 89117 USA
This e-mail has been sent to dietmar@dietmar.com, Click here to UNSUBSCRIBE

FIND OUT MORE

by OCEANPOSSE

FLEET UPDATE 2023-02-01

PANAMA POSSE

FLEET UPDATE

February 1, 2023

TOP NEWS

PANAMA / SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE PARTY
PICTURES OF THE WEEK
ENTRY INTO THE BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT
ENTRIES INTO HIGHEST WIND RECORDED
SEMI-UNINVITED VISITORS
BOAT YOGA POSES
THE BAYS OF HUATULCO NATIONAL PARK 🇲🇽 MEXICO
MANUEL ANTONIO 🇨🇷 COSTA RICA PARK UPDATE
⚠️WARNING FISHING CONTRAPTION OUTSIDE PLAYA VENAO 🇵🇦 PANAMA
LATITUDES AND ATTITUDES IS A MEDIA SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
MUST SEE FROM YOUR YACHT 🇧🇿 BELIZE
DRAKE BAY 🇨🇷 COSTA RICA
NOMINATION FOR GOOD SAMARITAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

Crossing the El Salvador bar!!
All went well for the three boats, StrayCat, Stella Blue and Pilialoha
🌊 Entering the bar into 🇸🇻 El Salvador

1) PANAMA / SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE PARTY
@ SHELTER BAY 🇵🇦 PANAMA

FRI FEB 03 ‘23

SPONSORED BY
🇧🇿
BELIZE TOURISM BOARD
PANAMA YACHT BROKERS
SHELTER BAY MARINA
CENTENARIO CONSULTING
PANAMA YACHT BROKERS

FLOR DE CAÑA RUM

GET READY FOR THE
OPEN FLOR DE CAÑA RUM BAR

JUANJO IS ROASTING A PIG

🐖+🔥+ 🍹

THE BEST SIDES AND APPETIZERS
WILL WIN PRIZES AND FAME

PLUS SPECIAL SAVINGS RUM SALE ON SITE FOR THOSE
HEADING TO THE 💰💰💰 SOUTH PACIFIC

ON SITE AWARDS

BEST GALLEY GOD(ESS) AWARD TO BE GIVEN TO
BEST SHARED DISH

HERE IS THE LIST OF SIDE DISHES YOU COULD WIN WITH

ALL VESSELS ARE WELCOME TO JOIN
BY LAND OR BY SEA BUT YOU NEED TO RSVP HERE

TEXAS HOLD'EM TOURNAMENT
organized by Casino Magnate Nina from SY Enjoy

MEXICAN TRAIN MASTER OF THE OCEANS TOURNAMENT

DETAILS +
AND RSVP HERE

2) PICTURES OF THE WEEK

Thanks to Kim on Stella Blue for the pic of us sailing along at sunset.

SY STRAY CAT II Derick & Barb - Lagoon 38′

Bahía Papanoa, Guerrero 🇲🇽 Mexico

SY SEEKER 🇺🇸 John & Tammy - Selene 62′

Sunset at Isla Ballena Costa Rica

But
no response from Los Suenos Marina in Herradura. So still not an option
for fuel or anything. 2 Anchorages listed in Good Nautical, we’re very
happy here and found new inflatable paddleboards

And Herradura, CR has amazing sunsets. 🧡🌅1

Bahia / Playa Herradura 🇨🇷 CR has amazing sunsets.

SY PATHFINDER 🇺🇸 Nicole & Jean-Philippe - Lagoon 39′

Sunrise this morning at Rodriguez Key. On our way to Marathon 🇧🇸 Bahamas.

SY NO REGRETS 🇺🇸 Bruce & Lynette - Fast Passage 39′

SY REVERENCE 🇺🇸 Mike & Leah - Tayana 58′

San Blas, Bliss 🇵🇦 Panama

Starlink operational in Panama

SY ZEPHYR 🇺🇸 Laura & Chris - Lagoon 45′

Vingathor Just crossed the bar, all went smooth. @Pilialoha, @STELLA BLUE - Larry, @SV Stray Cat 2 - we are waiting for you!

VINGATHOR 🇸🇮 Dino & Maja Tayana 42′

3) HAPPY FACES OF THE 22-23 PANAMA POSSE

304 Yachts from 27 Ensigns form the forward scouting sensors of the fleet

https://panamaposse.com/tracking

SIGN UP

4) ENTRY INTO THE BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT

5) AND ENTRY INTO HIGHEST WIND RECORDED

33.7 knots

MY NAVIGATOR 🇨🇷 Dave - Nordhavn 46′

28 knots

SY DA MMAD CAT 🇺🇸 Andrea & Danny - Lagoon 42'

6) SEMI-UNINVITED VISITORS

Live as it happens!

We are 55 nm off shore and this little swallow flew around the bridge of the boat twice and then came in and sat by the window!

He then flew out and came in and is now sitting on Sandy’s arm.

He/she must be pretty tired and tuckered out to do this. He can stay as long as he wants!

MY TIDWALKER 🇨🇦 Alan & crew - Nordhavn 57′

Had this lil' guy taking a break from last nights not so fun rolly seas.

7) AND ENTRY INTO BOAT YOGA POSES

SY LA VIDA GYPSEA 🇺🇸 Kurt, Linda & Rigby - Catana 47′

8) THE BAYS OF HUATULCO NATIONAL PARK 🇲🇽 MEXICO

the bays are quiet after all the panagas with tourists leave

there are many bays to choose from while waiting for parts or the Tehuantepec to die down

Lot’s to discover – details for these anchorages in goodnautical.com

As
a side note for you movie buffs – Bahia Cacaluta @ 15°43.3053′ N
096° 09.8316′ W was the filming location for the “secret”
beach scenes from the award-winning Mexican cult flick

“Y TU MAMA TAMBIEN” -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Qg6n7V3kO4

dive and snorkel sites in these bays

SY MAISON DE SANTÉ 🇺🇸 Keenan & Nicole Cal 46′

9) PANAMA POSSE PARTIES

Ramble On Rose and Da MMAD Cat enjoyed getting SHIP FACED with Paul and Katie! Welcome to the Posse

MY SHIP FACED 🇻🇮 Paul and Katie - Nordhavn 60′

10) MANUEL ANTONIO 🇨🇷 COSTA RICA
PARK UPDATE

The quintessential Panama Posse anchorage @ Manuel Antonio Park CR

https://panamaposse.com/manuel-antonio-park

It
was established in 1972 and considered the smallest of any Costa Rica
national park. It is well known for its beautiful beaches and hiking
trails. In 2011, Manuel Antonio was listed by Forbes as among the
world’s 12 most beautiful national parks.

Thanks
to your write up and seminar video we were able to enter Manuel
Antonio Park, CR. But there are new details/rules to follow.

https://manuelantoniopark.com/

*The park is now CLOSED on TUESDAYS ( not Monday )

*Anchoring
at the park requires an in person deposit at Banco Nacional (there’s
one in Quepos) prior to anchoring. The park ranger did not give us the
account number. He tried to purchase online with us but couldn’t, we
bought two kids’ admissions ($10usd)for our $8usd anchorage instead. I
don’t think they will allow that purchase again.

*
IT’S “ILLEGAL” TO ENTER THE PARK BY THE BEACH WHERE YOU ANCHOR. (To
quote angry park ranger) Especially before 7am, park’s first entrance
time. (If you want to try to enter by the park beach, wait until people
arrive to mix in with the crowds.Then walk through park to front
entrance. They are watching.) Technically you must come to shore at
Espadilla Beach and enter through the official entrance.

*You can’t leave anything on the official park...

From Pez Vela marina regarding Manuel Antonio Park, CR:

With the payment of the anchorage fee you can enter the beach with a dinghy dinghy.

You
must have with you the proof of payment and the entrance fees because
the park rangers will ask for them and you can only access one of the 3
beaches of the national park, we believe it is #2.

We also share with you the website where you can buy tickets to the national park. https://serviciosenlinea.sinac.go.cr/

SY PATHFINDER 🇺🇸 Jean-Philippe & Nicole Lagoon 39′

11) ⚠️WARNING
FISHING CONTRAPTION OUTSIDE
PLAYA VENAO 🇵🇦 PANAMA

fishing contraption outside playa venao hazard @ 07 24.522' N 080 11.37' W

SY CARINTHIA 🇺🇸 Dietmar, Suzanne & Maxi - Lagoon 44'

12) THE BARREL OF HOPE >>

SV MAISON DE SANTE IS CARRYING THE TORCH

The
goal for the Panama Posse barrel is to identify ways in which we can
help communities and entities living on the edge and define new
standards of sustainability.

Our goal is to find the silver lining and long term solutions to communities living in coastal impact zones.

https://panamaposse.com/vicentes-moorings

Agua termales in the Huatulco hills. Making lemonade out of lemons as we wait for a new depth sounder.

SY MAISON DE SANTÉ 🇺🇸 Keenan & Nicole & Jack - Cal 46′

13) LATITUDES AND ATTITUDES
IS A MEDIA SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE

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!

https://panamaposse.com/latitudes-and-attitudes

14) MUST SEE FROM YOUR YACHT 🇧🇿 BELIZE

Belize
is a nation on the eastern coast of Central America, with a relativly
small population of just 400,00 people with the Caribbean Sea shorelines
to the east and dense jungle to the west. Offshore, the massive Belize
Barrier Reef, dotted with hundreds of low-lying islands called cayes,
hosts rich marine life. Belize’s jungle areas are home to Mayan ruins
like Caracol, renowned for its towering pyramid; lagoon-side Lamanai;
and Altun Ha, just outside Belize City. English is the official language
of Belize, but most of the population also speaks a creole patois.
Yucatec, Mopán, and Kekchí are spoken by the Maya in Belize.

ALTUN HA IS A MAJOR CEREMONIAL CENTER IN BELIZE
OCCUPIED DURING THE CLASSIC MAYAN PERIOD.

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.

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.

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

t was an mayor link in the coastal trade routes, and had contact with Teotihuacan at an early time in Maya history.

https://panamaposse.com/altun-ha

This is one of over 40+ MUST SEE SITES ALONG THE PANAMA POSSE ROUTE

15) DRAKE BAY 🇨🇷 COSTA RICA

Great find in Drake Bay to get in the nature and hike, for free!

Drake Bay Hiking Trail starts from the west/south end of the beach.

We
just had an amazing walk/hike through the jungle and past gorgeous
beaches(in water shoes no problem) to arrive at San Josecito Beach.

It took us 3 1/2 hours one way including a small boat across the river near high tide ($2usd per person)

We are feeling so good about this experience and

the freedom to explore on our own, not so bummed about the organized tour after all.

SY PATHFINDER 🇺🇸 Jean-Philippe & Nicole - Lagoon 39′

16) 41+ LONG LINES REPORTS
ALONG THE PANAMA POSSE ROUTE

Follow this link to review* and submit for long line encounters
https://panamaposse.com/longlines >>

*
These are reported long line locations by fellow mariners - this is
simply a collection of reports and by no means offers an accurate
picture or does not guarantee safety as they are moved and deployed
often. Mexico alone has over 100,000 pangas.

17) PANAMA YACHT BROKERS
FEB 3rd 2023 @16:00
PRESENTATION AT SHELTER BAY MARINA

International Yacht Brokerage –
how to buy or sell a yacht overseas –

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

RSVP FOR THE EVENT

18) NOMINATION FOR
GOOD SAMARITAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

"HUGE THANKS to Bet & Cam on @SouthernCrossEh!
BC for getting out of bed at 1am and walking half a mile around town to
find my dog, Sophie, who escaped from the boat after being scared by
fireworks! We had at happy ending by 2am after finding her at her
favorite restaurant, The View, in good hands with the owner, Manuel. If
you’re ever in Barra de Navidad, be sure to visit The View above the
marina & lagoon and eat some yummy pizza & play pool at The
View."

Rochambeau-Bev&Rolf & SOPHIE

@Rochambeau-Bev&Rolf We all love a happy ending. Glad she’s home safe and sound. Sleep well 🐾

SY SOUTHERN CROSS EH ! 🇨🇦 Bet & Cam - Ta Yang 42′

Alka's 2021-2022 Entry

19) PANAMA POSSE 23' AWARD CATEGORIES

HERE ARE THE CATEGORIES

BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT*
PICTURE OF THE YEAR
YODA OF THE YEAR
SPEEDY AWARD – SEVENSTAR AWARD
THE CAPTAIN RON AWARD
MOST UNWELCOME VISITOR ONBOARD
HIGHEST WIND RECORDED
SPIRIT OF EXPLORATION
GALLEY GOD(ESS) ✔ WINNER HULA KAI
GOOD SAMARITAN OF THE YEAR
BOAT YOGA POSE OF THE YEAR
COURAGE AWARD

*no bill-fish entries ✔winner announced already

The Rio Frio Cave is one of the many caving systems throughout Belize.

This view of the entry 65 feet tall.
Rio Frio Cave 🇧🇿 BELIZE

20) 71+ PANAMA POSSE MARINA SPONSORS

🇺🇸 Safe Harbor South Bay – Chula Vista, USA

🇲🇽 Marina Coral, Ensenada – 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

🇨🇷 Marina Pez Vela – Costa Rica

🇨🇷 Marina Bahia Golfito – Costa Rica

🇨🇷 Banana Bay Marina – Costa Rica

🇪🇨 Marina Puerto Amistad – Ecuador

🇵🇦 Buenaventura Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 PANAMA POSSE PACIFIC HQ Vista Mar Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Shelter Bay Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Bocas Marina – Panama

🇵🇦 Linton Bay Marina – Panama

🇨🇴 ClubNautico Cartagena – Colombia

🇨🇴 Club de Pesca Marina Cartagena – Colombia

🇨🇴 Marina Puerto Velero – Colombia

🇨🇴 IGY Marina Santa Marta – Colombia

🇯🇲 Royal Jamaica Yacht Club – Jamaica

🇯🇲 Errol Flynn Marina – Jamaica

🇯🇲 Montego Bay Yacht Club –Jamaica

🇰🇾 The Barcadere Marina –Cayman Islands

🇭🇳 Barefoot Cay Marina – Roatan – Honduras

🇭🇳 Fantasy Island Marina – Roatan – Honduras

🇭🇳 Jonesville Point Marina -Roatan – Honduras

🇬🇹 Marina Nana Juana Resort & Boatyard – Guatemala

🇧🇿 Thunderbirds Marine – Placencia – Belize

🇧🇿 Placencia Yacht Club – Belize

🇲🇽 Marina Makax – Isla Mujeres – Mexico

🇲🇽 Marina V&V – Quintana Roo – Mexico

🇲🇽 Marina El Cid – Cancún – Riviera Maya – Mexico

🇨🇺 Marina Marlin Nautica Cayo Largo – Cuba

🇹🇨 South Bank Marina & Boatyard – Turks and Caicos

🇧🇸 Romora Bay Resort and Marina – Bahamas

🇧🇸 Elizabeth on the Bay Marina – Bahamas

🇧🇸 Great Harbour Cay Marina – Bahamas

🇧🇸 Blue Marlin Cove Resort & Marina – Bahamas

🇩🇴 Ocean World Marina – Dominican Republic

🇩🇴 Marina Puerto Bahia – Dominican Republic

🇺🇸 Marathon Marina – Marathon Keys

🇺🇸 Pier 66 Hotel & Marina – Ft. Lauderdale, USA

🇺🇸 IGY Marina at Ortega Landing – Jacksonville, FL , USA

🇺🇸 Oasis Marinas at Fernandina Harbor Marina – FL , USA

🇺🇸 Morningstar Marinas Golden Isles St. Simons Isl. – Georgia, USA

🇺🇸 Windmill Harbour Marina – Hilton Head South Carolina , USA

🇺🇸 Coffee Bluff Marina – Savannah Georgia , USA

🇺🇸 Hazzard Marine – Gerogetown, North Carolina , USA

🇺🇸 Holden Beach – Town Dock, North Carolina , USA

🇺🇸 Portside Marina – Morehead City, North Carolina USA

🇺🇸 Tideawater Yacht Marina – Portsmouth, USA

🇺🇸 Ocean Yacht Marina, Portsmouth, USA

🇺🇸 Yorktown Riverwalk Landing – Virginia USA

🇺🇸 Regatta Point Marina – Deltaville, Virginia USA

🇺🇸 Regent Point Marina – Topping, Virginia USA

https://panamaposse.com/thunderbirds-marine-belize

THUNDERBIRDS MARINE 🇧🇿 SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE

21) PANAMA POSSE SPONSORS

PREDICT WIND
SEVENSTAR YACHT TRANSPORT
HOME DEPOT PRO MEXICO
HERTZ RENTAL CARS MEXICO
YACHT AGENTS GALAPAGOS
FLOR DE CAÑA
SAFE HARBOR SOUTH BAY MARINA EVENT CENTER
WESTMARINE PRO
SAILMAIL
CHRIS PARKER - MARINE WEATHER CENTER
SAN DIEGO MARINE EXCHANGE
DOWNWIND MARINE
BELIZE TOURISM
PANAMA YACHT BROKER
LATITUDES AND ATTITUDES

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

https://oceanposse.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/new-panama-canal-graphic.jpg

23) STRATEGIC PARTNERS

SEVEN SEAS CRUISING ASSOCIATION

Vicente’s Moorings – Acapulco – Mexico

Park Avenue Villas – San Juan del Sur – Nicaragua

Coconutz – Playa Cocos – Costa Rica

Abernathy – Chandlery – Panama

Pacific Posse

Atlantic Posse

Advertising Partners – Las Vegas

Safe-Esteem.com – Delaware

SIGN UP FOR THE 22-23 PANAMA POSSE

23) WORK REMOTELY FROM YOUR YACHT
JOIN THE OCEAN POSSE ORGANIZATION

HAVE AN IDEA ?
SUGGESTIONS ?
WANT TO HELP ?
CAN YOU HELP WITH GOOD NAUTICAL ?
PROGRAMMING SKILLS ?
CAN YOU NEGOTIATE ?
SALES ?
LIKE DETAILS ?
PROJECT MANAGEMENT ?
PARTY PLANNING ?
DOCUMENTING ?
ORGANIZING ?
SPEAK FLUENT FRENCH ?

We can always improve - so if anything peaks your interest please email registration@panamaposse.com

WE OPERATE UNDER INTERNATIONAL MARITIME LAW

YOUR VESSEL YOUR CREW YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

Panama Posse we sail where the Coconute Grow

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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.

ALTUN HA 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

Altun Ha

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.

ALTUN HA - Belize 7
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.

Altun Ha jade head Kinich Ahau

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LAMANAI 🇧🇿 BELIZE

Lamanai "submerged crocodile" in Yucatec May is a Mesoamerican archaeological site

Lamanai "submerged crocodile" in Yucatec May is a Mesoamerican archaeological site located in northern Belize,
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 "submerged crocodile" in Yucatec May is a Mesoamerican archaeological site located in northern Belize,
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. Lamanai Jaguar Temple, Mask Temple and High Temple

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. Belize

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

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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

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.

Luaabtun Masonry

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.

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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.

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PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB 🇧🇿 BELIZE SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB 🇧🇿 BELIZE SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
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