FLEET UPDATE 2024-01-07

PANAMA POSSE 
 
FLEET UPDATE 

JANUARY 7, 2024

“It takes a big dog to weigh a ton.” 

—an old classic

TOP NEWS  

• Award Nominations: Boat Yoga & Picture of the Year 
• Season 7  Posse Seminars and Events Past and Future
• Current Report on Acapulco, Mexico 🇲🇽
• Getting Fuel in Huatulco, Mexico 🇲🇽
• Buddy Boating in the Perlas Islands, Panama 🇵🇦
• An Enchanting Journey in Belize 🇧🇿 
• Good Nautical: Yelapa, Mexico 🇲🇽
• Ocean World Marina, Dominican Republic 🇩🇴  
• Clearing into San Andres 🇨🇴 and Roatan 🇭🇳 
• Meet the Fleet: SY ISIDORE
• Security Alert
• Safe Anchoring Practices 
• Must See: The Castle of San Felipe de Lara 🇬🇹 

250 Yachts are signed up – JOIN YOUR POSSE 

1)  PICTURES OF THE WEEK

Humpback whale breaching in Manzanilla Bay, Mexico 🇲🇽

SY PRIYA    Brandt – Ericson 38 ′

SY CHALLENGE sailing in the San Blas Islands of Panama  🇵🇦 

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

View towards Panama City from Isla Taboga anchorage  🇵🇦 

MY CARINTHIA 🇺🇸 Dietmar & Susan – Lagoon 44′

Crossing the Bar into Bahia Del Sol, El Salvador, 🇸🇻

SY SUNDOWNER 🇺🇸 Jeffrey & Lynn – Californian 50′

2) SAVE THE DATE : 

FIESTA NAUTICA CLUB DE PESCA CARTAGENA 🇨🇴 

PANAMA POSSE JANUARY 20th 2024

SAILORS AND CRUISERS NETWORKING PARTY  

SCHEDULE

14:00 – SEMINARS

17:58 – INVOCATION OF THE FLEET

18:00 FOOD TASTING AND RUM BAR

18:45 GALLEY GOD AWARD

20:00  – CUMBIA SALSA LATIN DANCE

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

MUSIC – THE PANAMA POSSE LATIN PLAYLIST !

   PLEASE FILL OUT THIS FORM  BELOW 

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

3) POSSE MEMBERS 💥 RING IN THE NEW YEAR

Happy New Year Posse from Marina Ixtapa, Mexico 🇲🇽

MY TIDINGS OF JOY 🇺🇸 Jeff & Joy – DeFever 52′, 

Banderas Bay Beach Bonfire New Years Party 🇲🇽

SY REMEDY 🇺🇸  Natalie & Karl – Leopard 45’

Fireworks over Downtown Panama City 🇵🇦

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

4) SEASON 7 AWARD NOMINATIONS:

ANNUAL AWARDS INCLUDE:

• 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

Winners in each category receive a bottle of rum

NOMINATION FOR 🧘  BOAT YOGA POSE OF THE YEAR  

Ahhhh… the joys of boatwork… is it beer time yet?

SY LOST PEARL 🇨🇦 Onno – Hardin 45′

NOMINATION FOR PICTURE OF THE YEAR 

Sailing north off the Mexican Mainland

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

Nominate yourself, a crew member, or another boat   

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

Share the adventure

Luc & Viviane / SY O2 are heading to the South Pacific  with the South Pacific Posse after their Alaska Loop 

 
5) SEASON 7 PANAMA POSSE EVENTS 

The incredible nightlife in Cartagena de las Indias

Lush and picturesque streets

The small Fuerte de San Fernando – one of the 8 fortifications in the bay

(2) CLUB DE PESCA 
YACHT FEST 
SAT, JAN 20 ’24 CARTAGENA 🇨🇴 CO

Ileana Stevenson Covo  – GM
For
those coming from the lesser Antilles this will be the first event in
full on Latin style in Colombia – come celebrate the great food and
culture that is Colombia in it’s premier yacht club. 

FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT:

gerencia@clubdepescadecartagena.com

TEL  +57 (5)  660 6615

(3) OCEAN POSSE PARTY PANAMA + SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE 

FLEET MEET UP

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

IMPORTANT:
This event is in the middle of high season.  The Shelter Bay
Marina will be near capacity  so make reservations early.
Additionally, we are also going to organize a shuttle bus to get
folks to this event from alternate locations.

FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT: 

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

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

SAT. MAY 11 ’24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA  🇵🇦  PANAMA

This is a very exclusive signature event in the Hamptons of Panama.
The upscale resort Buenaventura is just 80 minutes west of Panama City
and is one of the most charming and reserved places on the Pacific coast
of Panama.
Only 60 nm from the Las Perlas.

FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT:

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

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

6)  ACAPULCO SITUATIONAL 🪇 UPDATE

Acapulco 🇲🇽 Skyline

Coming
down to the Acapulco area today the water was as smooth as a swimming
pool. The whole way. Light winds 5 to 7 knots. It was perfect for a
motoryacht. (We) anchored at La Roqueta (and were the) only yacht here.
(We saw) plenty of tourists on the beach and snorkeling. Looking across
the channel, lots of tourists at the hotels. Music is jamming. 

  Anchorage @  16° 49 N  99° 543 W  23.00 ft 7.30 m 

Two reports on anchoring at La Roqueta this week: 

1. From MV SUMMERBREEZE heading south:

We
got there and were the only ones anchored there. Wonderful spot.
Excellent snorkeling. Felt safe. But would not recommend going into town
still. We did go over to get a bite to eat. Have pesos when you go if
you go. Very crowded. Very little supplies. But all the lights are on at
night.

2. From SY BISOU heading north:

Went
ashore at Isla La Roqueta (Acapulco) this afternoon. Busy with lots of
local visitors. There are vendors walking the beach selling quesadillas
and ice cream or you can get a menu and order drinks and food from the
waiters. Lots of tables and chairs with umbrellas available. It’s a very
worthwhile stop and we were happy to help out these hard working people
who have lost so much!

Thank you for Sharing your Adventures on the water 

MV SUMMERBREEZE & SY BISOU!

MV SUMMERBREEZE 🇺🇸  – Kurtis – Bestway 46′

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

 SHARING YOUR STORIES
is the heart and soul of the Panama Posse 

Please
share pictures of your adventures, your award entries/nominations, your
breathtaking sunsets, and picturesque anchorages on our group
communications platform for others to enjoy in real time and/or email
Maurisa at editor@panamaposse.com
to share in the upcoming newsletter.  Maurisa is a sailor among
us.  She is part of the Ocean Posse crew and enjoys writing fun and
helpful updates to the Panama Posse. 

Gwen’s first sunset at sea, and my last sunset of 2023

7) POSSE PERK: INTEL

GETTING FUEL IN HUATULCO 🇲🇽 MEXICO
  

No Fuel Docks here

Report from SY BISOU:

There
is no longer a fuel dock at the marina in Huatulco, Mexico. It was
removed many years back. There is a fuel dock in Santa Cruz, but it is a
little sketchy and is best at high tide. Previously we have anchored in
Bahia Organo and taken the diesel cans in the dinghy to Santa Cruz and
filled them at the fuel dock. We timed it with a snorkel trip to Entrega
🤿.  

Alternatively,
there’s a dirt track that leads to the main road that heaps of taxis go
by on. It’s about 7km into town. My friend that regularly anchors here
said it’s the way to go.

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

8) 🇲🇽 MARINA PALMIRA TOPOLOBAMPO · 

SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE

25° 36.0166′ N 109° 03.5333′ W

It
is our pleasure to welcome you to Marina Palmira in Topolobampo,
Sinaloa, México. We are please to announce our sponsorship of the Panama
Posse and offer a 10% discount of our slip rates

Nelson Quintero

Manager Marina

Palmira Topolobampo

In
addition to the natural beauty of the Sea of Cortez, Marina Palmira
offers our guests a convenient berth in our wet marina, safe storage and
excellent customer service.

With 40 berths we are pleased to host ships ranging from 25 ‘to 145’ yachts.

Marina Palmira is pleased to announce the participation of the new management of Hotel Marina.

Whether
you choose to relax on your boat, in the pool, or on a trip to one of
the beautiful beaches that the port of Topolobampo offers, Marina
Palmira is the most convenient shipping point for the cruise community
in northern Mexico

CONTACT

+52 (668) 862 1544

contacto_topolobampo@marinapalmira.com.mx

Leave your boat safely to visit the Copper Canyon by train:

https://panamaposse.com/copper-canon-barranca-del-cobre-el-chepe

A very nice bay on the mainland side of the Sea of Cortez, Mexico.

9) BUDDY BOATING IN THE PERLAS ISLANDS 🇵🇦

View from Isla Contadora

Presently,
there are a fair number of cruising vessels in the Perlas Islands.
For safety and comradery most vessels are buddy boating and/or
anchoring near other vessels.   Most are staying in the more
northern islands for proximity to provisions, and/or resorts with
amenities and guards.  Contadora is one of the northenmost islands
known as an island for the wealthy and the elite.  While many
people come on private boats, Contadora has daily ferry service and air
service to and from Panama City.  The island is absolutely
stunning: white sand beaches, turquoise water, coral reefs, and old
growth tropical trees that lean out to sea.

SY PATHFINDER, SY GALATEA, & SY WHIRLWIND on anchor off Isla Contadora

Sometimes the BEST place for the Pathfinder crew to be is the water hammock.

Walking onshore among the deer and manicured streetsides on Isla Contadora

Sundowners taste great in the Perlas

Hanging out after sundowners also works

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

SY GALATEA 🇺🇸 Sarah & Mark – Morgan 46′

 

10) CULTURE: 

An Enchanting Journey Through Time and Space

🇧🇿 BELIZE

Prepare
to embark on an enchanting journey through time and space, to a world
unlike any other – the mystical and ancient civilization of the Mayans.
With their deep-seated beliefs in a pantheon of gods, sacred rites,
spiritual gateways, and fascinating traditions, the Mayans offer a
captivating and unique experience. Nestled in the heart of Belize, this
melting pot of cultures boasts a rich and colorful heritage that is sure
to leave you spellbound.

Although
the Mayan civilization is shrouded in mystery, its architectural legacy
– intricate temples, awe-inspiring artifacts, and fascinating
traditions – has withstood the test of time. At its zenith, the Mayan
Empire spanned from Mexico to El Salvador, with Belize serving as its
epicenter. The Yucatec, Kekchi, and Mopan Maya groups shared similar
customs and dialects, contributing to the country’s cultural diversity
through their dance, traditions, and ancient temples.

Mayan
architecture is renowned for its complexity and sophistication,
surpassing even that of the ancient Egyptians. The temples and palaces
were built with precision and mathematical accuracy, allowing the Mayans
to observe and study the stars with great fascination. Today, many of
these revered temples remain well-preserved and open for exploration,
including Xunantunich, Caracol, and Lamanai.

Exploring Our Temples

Follow
the winding path westward, where the land of Belize reveals its ancient
secrets. Amongst the verdant forests and sacred hills of this land lies
Xunantunich, a sacred site of the Classic Period. Its name, “maiden of
the rock” or “stone woman” in the language of the Maya, echoes through
the ages, beckoning the curious and the mystically inclined. Though
occupying only a modest 300 square meters, its vast periphery spans
several kilometers. Behold the grandeur of its main palace, where an
astronomical frieze adorns the walls, soaring up to 133 feet, the second
tallest temple in all of Belize. Gaze upon the visage of the sun god,
etched in intricate detail upon the grand structure. Xunantunich boasts
six majestic plazas, 25 temples and palaces, and a museum, drawing
travelers from far and wide to bask in its ancient magic.

Venturing
deeper into the Chiquibul Forest Reserve of Western Belize, one
discovers the enigmatic Caracol, shrouded in mystery and myth. The
Spanish word “Caracol,” meaning “shell,” gives this site its name. It is
the largest known Maya site within the country, and its crown jewel is
the awe-inspiring “Canaa,” or “Sky Place,” standing tall at 140 feet.
Though accessing the site may prove challenging, the journey is worth
it, as the route reveals breathtaking vistas that leave a lasting
impression upon the soul.

Further
north, amidst the rustling leaves and gentle murmur of the river, lies
Lamanai, the “submerged crocodile” of the Maya language. It is one of
the largest ceremonial centers of the Maya people, its original name
retained across the ages. Explore the remnants of a bygone era, where
the echoes of ancient rituals still reverberate through the land. Take a
leisurely river cruise, where exotic birds and plants abound, or wind
your way through the villages to discover this ancient site. Behold the
Christian churches of the 16th century, and the 19th-century sugar mill,
remnants of colonial times. Lamanai’s vast history spans many
centuries, from the Classic Period to the Post Classic, allowing one to
witness the evolution of Maya construction techniques over time. Let
Lamanai’s magic wash over you and transport you to a time of wonder and
myth.

Keeping our traditions Alive

The
Mayan traditions have been kept alive through the ages, offering a
glimpse into their rich cultural heritage. The ancient sport of Pok ta
Pok, for instance, was a ceremonial ball game played in the courts of
temples, and today it is kept alive through reenactments and world cup
tournaments.

Pok ta Pok team

Tournament champion

The
Deer Dance, another unique Mayan tradition in Belize, features dancers
adorned in intricate costumes and carved wooden masks, performing to the
music of a marimba. The dance represents the Mayans’ respect for nature
and animals and depicts their resistance to Spanish invasion.

Deer Dancer in ceremony

Exploring
Toledo, the cultural heartland of Belize, offers a tantalizing glimpse
into the Mayan’s gastronomic heritage. The Mayans revered chocolate as a
gift from the gods, imbued with extraordinary power. Embark on a food
tour that takes you on a journey to listen to traditional Mayan
instruments, grind corn, bake tortillas, or prepare chocolate. 

For
a more authentic experience, try “Caldo,” a traditional soup made from
locally raised chicken, indigenous spices, and vegetables, served hot
with corn tortillas or “poch” (masa steamed in leaf).

Whether
you choose to visit ancient temples, swim beneath majestic waterfalls,
or hike through stunning caves, the Mayan world offers a unique and
unforgettable experience. Horseback riding through the lush jungles in
the Mayan Mountains is another option for a more adventurous experience.
The Mayan civilization may have been lost to history, but its people
have persevered, preserving their customs, traditions, and religion.
Come and immerse yourself in the rich and colorful culture of the Mayans
in Belize, and discover a world that is truly enchanting – if you’re
brave enough!

11) GOOD NAUTICAL
⚓
YELAPA 🇲🇽 MEXICO

#1 tip from SY MAISON DE SANTÉ :

The
most comfortable way to enjoy Yelapa is to insist on a stern ball to
keep you pointed into the swell. At night the wind usually switches and
puts the swell on the beam and it can be miserable but with it, you can
be comfortable in some swell. They’ll want to charge more to use two
balls but it’s worth it. 

https://goodnautical.com/mexico-pacific/mooring/yelapa-edgars-moorings

There’s
about a 4 mile hike to smaller waterfalls most people don’t visit… just
follow the river, you will pass homes and donkies and might have
doggies visit you too 

Walking the beach and meeting the local dogs

Sweet water: can’t beat it!

Donkeys in Yelapa can also be rented to ride and explore on Donkeyback

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

12) OCEAN WORLD MARINA 🇩🇴 

SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE

19° 49.655′  N 070°43.9833′ W 

We are excited to welcome the Panama Posse to the Dominican Republic.

Enjoy our marina, services and amenities with our special welcome rates.

Jorge M. Fernandez

Director de Operaciones

www.oceanworldmarina.com

info@oceanworldmarina.com

  Mobile.: 809-669-7660

  809-970-3373  Ext. 4004

https://panamaposse.com/ocean-world-marina 

Ocean
World is located on Cofresi beach, near town of Puerto Plata. With an
abundance of hotel rooms and recreation opportunities that include,
golf, fishing, scuba diving, horseback riding, and even white water
rafting, Puerto Plata is already celebrated as an affordable Caribbean
vacation playground. Puerto Plata’s airport (POP) is a 30 minute drive,
and has daily flights from Miami, NYC and cities in Europe. Ocean World
Marina, now the only full-service marina located between the heavily
traveled Florida/Bahamas area and the Puerto Rico/Eastern Caribbean
region.

13) HO’OKIPA REPORT

 ON CLEARNING INTO SAN ANDRES 🇨🇴 AND ROATAN 🇭🇳

As
a motor yacht we needed to take on fuel to make the passage to Roatán,
Honduras from Bocas Del Toro, Panama.  That meant a stop in Isla de
San Andrés, Columbia. (The other Columbian island relatively nearby,
Isla de Providencia, has no fuel dock and fuel is only available with
jerry cans being brought ashore.)  

On
Isla de San Andrés, fuel, the Nenes Marina, and the anchorage are found
up a well-marked and well-lit channel on the north east end of the
island, the windward side. Our approach near the mid-channel buoy was 12
32’.16N   081 41’.28W  (A word on the anchorage.   We
did not have first-hand experience, but we heard from other cruisers it
gets rolly, and when the channel is dredged the sand is disposed of into
the anchorage and thus does not pack down and holding is poor.
Boats were dragging when the winds picked up.)  

Nenes Marina — 12 34’.714N 081 41.849W 

Nenes
Marina is connected to the Texaco gas station.  Texaco has a long
hose to reach boats at the marina.  I contacted Capt. Nenes ahead
of time via WhatsApp (+57 315 303 7643) and email
(nenesmarina@hotmail.com) to ask for availability.  He confirmed.
When we arrived, the marina was even smaller than imagined.
The depth at the dock is 11 feet.  Being windy, the dock
hands wanted us to drop our anchor while we backed to the dock and use
it to keep us from blowing into the wooden dock.  We used our
thrusters instead.  Much easier.  The dock hands used a
separate line attached to small buoys off the dock (steer clear of them
when docking) which then ran to our bow and stern to keep us off the
dock.   We would be there 36 hours.  The rate was $60/day.
Total $90.  We took on 296 gallons of diesel at $3.50/gallon.

The Agent and immigration team delivered passports and paperwork stamping us into and out of Columbia for our refueling mission.

In
Columbia, the law requires an agent be used to clear into the country.
The agent arranges all with Immigration and the Port Captain.
Prior to leaving Bocas Del Toro, Panama we contacted Rene Cardona
who came highly recommended by participants on Noonsite, Active Captain
and No Foreign Land.  We reached Cardona via WhatsApp  +57 315
680 7980 and email:  Serrana_agencia@hotmail.com .  His fee
is $70 which included clearing us in and out in one go due to our short
stay.   As he had all our documents via email in advance it was a
very easy process.  He was punctual and efficient.  He
arranged for Immigration to come to our boat at Nenes Marina where the
Immigration Officer had us sign paperwork, collected copies of our boat
documents, and took our passports back to her office to get them
stamped.  We always have multiple copies of all documents in
advance to give to everyone, which speeds the process.  Agent Rene
stayed throughout.   (Very disconcerting having our passports out
of our possession, but that’s how they roll.)  Another local
authority person came by our boat to meet our agent to collect the $35
p.p Tourist Tax. That money was given to Agent Rene who paid the man
directly.   The next day Rene returned with our Zarpe and La Señora
de Immigration returned with our Passports stamped in and out of
Columbia.  She also asked if her team, who were in tow, could come
aboard Ho’okipa so they could take a video to be used internally at
their office in celebration of their 90th anniversary.  We said,
“Absolutely.”

Ho’okipa Report on Clearing into Roatán, Honduras

Forty-eight
hours before our arrival, as required by Honduran law, we notified
Honduras Authorities our ETA through the HonduranZarpes on-line website.
Super easy to do.  Info is on Panama Posse website but here
is the link DGMM-HN (jotform.com)In addition, however, you must go to
Immigration and the Port Captain in person to check in and get passports
stamped and Zarpe issued once in country.  

We
arrived on a Saturday morningbut a few days prior to arrival we were
told by folks at Barefoot Cay Resort and Marina where we had a
reservation, that Immigration and the Port Captain offices were closed
on the weekends.  We thought about anchoring in the bay at Coxen
Hole but decided against it.  Too busy with cargo ships, shrimpers,
and cruise ships, tricky to navigate, and our dinghy was not healthy.
Easier to go directly to the marina for a softer landing.  

On
arrival at the marina, we were informed that in fact Immigration is
open until 12:00pm.  Our crew wanted to fly the next day back to
Panama, so we headed to Immigration.  He would not be needed at the
Port Captain’s Office on Monday when we would get our cruising
permit/Zarpe.   Barefoot Cay Resort and Marina (A Panama Posse
sponsorthat offers a 20% discount on slip fees.) arranged a car to take
us to Immigration and bring us back.   $32 r/t for the 3 of us.
The Immigration office is in Plaza Mar, upstairs, in a small
office on the 2nd floor, in Coxen Hole, about a 15-minute drive from
Barefoot Cay Resort and Marina.  Immigration is Saturdays and
Sundays but it was indeed open Saturday until 12pm.  Probably to
accommodate the tourists we found there coming in on a cruise ship,
which happens regularly.  

We
were asked by Immigration for a plane ticket showing travel exiting
Honduras.  Explaining we arrived on our own boat and would be
cruising on to Belize and showing our boat documents, resolved that
issue.  We received the maximum 90-day visa stamp in our passports.
We were also informed that Honduras is part of the CA-4 Group
which consists of Central American countries Honduras, Guatemala,
Nicaragua, and El Salvador.  The CA-4 Group shares a 90-day visa
limit.  You cannot stay more than 90 days in the CA-4 group region.
You must leave the region for 72 hours and then re-enter for only
1 extension of an additional 90-day visa.

Immigration
DID ask to see our Yellow Fever vaccination cards which we had.
Our crew did not have one even though as Immigration noted we
arrived from San Andres, Columbia.  Immigration informed us
Columbia also requires it, but no one asked for it there, much to the
Roatán Immigration Officer’s surprise. (consternation.?)  When
asked, our crew and I stated he did not get off the boat in San Andres
(or barely which we conveniently omitted).  That and the fact that
our crew was leaving in the morning helped smooth the way for
Immigration to make an exception for our crew member’s oversight.
Glad it worked out.  

(FYI,
we told our crew to get a vaccination in Bocas Del Toro, which he could
do, and was going to, but then at the last minute he decided not to get
one.  Even though, as we told him, in our experience from our
conversations with the vaccination agents we have used in Los Angeles
before all trips to off-the-beaten-path places, getting a yellow fever
vaccination is not a big deal, no more than any other vaccination shot,
especially if you have no underlying conditions, and it’s a one-time
lifetime shot.By now days before departing Bocas Del Toro, we were in a
jam, so we decided to let the chips fall where they may, hoping no
authority asked for his yellow fever vaccination card which seemed
possible from what we’d heard from other cruisers, but claim ignorance
if they did.  Absolutely NOT my favorite way to handle border
crossings.  I am thankful it was resolved successfully, but it
could have been a major problem and I’m not sure what might have
happened to him and to us and our boat had Immigration pressed the
issue.  Just glad in Roatán they like and need tourists.
Roatán is reputed to be the easiest entrance to Honduras for
exactly that reason.  Crew was able to fly out Sunday morning and
back to Bocas Del Toro with no issues.)

Monday,
we had a difficult time finding the Port Captain’s Office on our own.
We asked around and no one knew where it was even though we had a
general idea.  According to one online source, “Next to a park that
is across from a bank”.  Finally, a nice man escorted us there.
We had driven past it about ten times!   We had asked the
guards outside the bank it was near, and even they had no idea where it
was when in fact it was across the street!!!  So, to be clear, the
Port Captain’s office is in centro Coxen Hole and is next door to the
Eldon’s Supermarket on Main Street.  It’s on the water in the very
back of a little tiny square that has a couple of statues and a little
clock tower that’s on Main Street.  It is NOT a park.  You
cannot see the office from the street.  It’s too well-hidden way in
the back where it sits next to a dock.  

Port
Captain’s assistant said they were open on Saturday so not sure why we
were informed otherwise.  Our Zarpe is for 90-days and includes the
crew list with our crew member’s name on it.  We told the Officer
that our crew is not with us and had flown back to Panama, but he said
it made no difference and not to worry.  When we get our exit
Zarpe, it will be changed to reflect just the two of us.  FYI, it
is possible to check in and out of the nearby island Guanaja as well.

MY 🇺🇸 HO’OKIPA  Lucky Chucky and Lisa – Selene 43′

14) MEET THE FLEET 
⛵

SY ISIDORE

 Photo taken in Zihuatanejo, Mexico in December 2023. 

We
are S/v Isidore.  We are en route to Baja from Montreal. 2 crew,
myself and my husband, George, who took the photo. Our vessel is a 36
Tashing Tashiba. A Robert Perry design. 

SY ISIDORE 🇨🇦 Kate & George – Tashing Tashiba 36′

15) POSSE SWAG

 

16)  SECURITY ALERT:

2023-12-22 – Colombia – Santa Marta – Taganga Bay – Assault

Caribbean Safety and Security Net : Know Before You Go

The
Caribbean Safety and Security net is a site that aims to keep people on
the water aware of any incidents on the water and where they are
happening.  We advise vessels to familiarize yourself with the site
and check into any incident reports in the areas plan to cruise.
Know before you Go.

There
is a report recent of an incident on the north coast of Columbia off
Santa Marta in Taganga Bay.   The vessel was anchored alone,
boarded by masked armed men that abused and stole electronics.  It
is advisable that, in light of this incident, captains may want to seek
alternative anchorages and or anchor with other boats that they remain
in radio contact with.  

The details of the incident can be found at the link below:

https://safetyandsecuritynet.org/incident-3176/

  SAFETY MESSAGE:

SAFE ANCHORING PRACTICES

Ketches like SY WHIRLWIND can sit on anchor with their mizzen mast as a steadying sail

Safe
anchoring practices are exceptionally important for cruising vessels.
Anchoring a vessel is not rocket science however, one is wise to
pay attention to some key aspects in order to anchor safely every time
you drop the hook

1. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

The
location an anchor is dropped is very important.  We want wants
large open, muddy or sandy spot that can accommodate 360 degree
swing.  When looking for a safe spot to set the hook, we consider
all wind shift and current changes as possibilities and imagine how they
could effect the boats location.  We allow for space between all
other vessels in the anchorage.  Beware of mixed rocky bottoms and
coral structures. We try to  not anchor anywhere your anchor or
chain will wrap around rocks or touch any coral .  Coral is fragile
and easily destroyed.The ocean floor where we plan to anchor does often
provide   chart notes from multiples sources. So we sometimes take
a motor through the area   looking for any structures underwater,
and avoiding them.  

Anchoring with others: allow space for everyone to swing & listen to their own music.

2. DEPTH AND SCOPE

When
our anchor is fully set and stretched you ideally want anywhere from a
5:1 to 7:1 ration between the amount of rode and/or chain and the depth
of water the vessel is in so we get good holding power from your anchor
burying into the seafloor.

Our
scope used is often related to the amount of wind and current affecting
our vessel on anchor. The holding power  in different conditions
varies.  According to Fotress Anchor, “A good rule of thumb to
remember – as the wind speed doubles, the holding requirement
quadruples!”  

2. SETTING THE ANCHOR 

In
general, we come into your spot head to wind and proceed one to two
boat lengths ahead of where we want your vessel to sit.  Boat speed
near  zero as the hook lowers into the water.  Some people
use the anchor as a reference.  As soon as it looks like we are
drifting backwards we drop the anchor to the bottom and stop the chain
from falling when the anchor lands.  As our vessel slowly backs
down on the seafloor we lay the chain down and letting out  more
and more scope    Depending on the wind and conditions, we
either motor slowly in reverse or just let the wind do the work of
setting the hook into the seafloor..

3. VISUALLY CHECK THAT THE ANCHOR IS SET WHEN BACKING DOWN HARD  

After
anchoring, take visual sightings of onshore objects or buoys in the
water to help you know where your boat is positioned. While at anchor,
recheck these sightings frequently to make sure the anchor is not
dragging. you can also use your dodger as a visual reference between the
shore and if there is a visual difference or change in angle – you are
dragging  

3. ANCHOR ALARMS

There
are different anchor alarms available.  Some are integrated into a
vessels electronics, many are available as apps.  Set an anchor
alarm 4 to 1 range (so in 20 feet we do 80 foot radius) so that if the
boat moves outside this field you are alerted to hop up top and assess
the situation.  Another setting is related to know obstacles in the
circle – run a radar sweep to the shoreline – measure and set your safe
zone based on this 

A handheld anchor alarm next to you even if you are sleeping soundly
 will alert you to dragging or major changes in your relative position to shore

17)  MUST SEE:  UP THE RIO DULCE

🇬🇹 THE CASTLE OF SAN FELIPE DE LARA

(CASTILLO DE SAN FELIPE DE LARA)

The Castillo de San Felipe is a Spanish colonial fort at the entrance to Lake Izabal in eastern Guatemala.

Lake
Izabal is connected with the Caribbean Sea via the Dulce River and El
Golfete lake.  The fort was strategically situated at the narrowest
point on the river. The Castillo de San Felipe was used by the Spanish
for several centuries, during which time it was destroyed and looted
several times by pirates

The fort is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List and is a popular regional tourist destination.

The
Castillo de San Felipe was built to protect the port of San Antonio de
las Bodegas on the south shore of Lake Izabal from frequent pirate
attacks, mostly by English pirates.

After
nightfall, passage along the river into the lake was blocked by a large
chain that crossed from the fort to the far bank.  San Antonio was
the main port for receiving Spanish shipping carrying goods for the
Captaincy General of Guatemala and was responsible for supplying and
garrisoning the fort.  Guatemalan records contain details of
captains being appointed to the fort well into the 18th century.

The
position was a joint post, also including the position of mayor of San
Pedro de Amatique and San Antonio de las Bodegas. The latter post was in
name only, since the towns were soon abandoned due to constant slave
raids by the Mosquito Zambo that left the Motagua delta and shores of
Lake Izabal largely deserted, with those inhabitants that did not flee
being sold into slavery in the British colony of Jamaica.

A
tower already existed on the site by 1604, when it is recorded as
having been destroyed.  The fort was built in 1644 under the orders
of Diego de Avendaño, then governor of the Kingdom of Guatemala. At the
time it was known as Fuerte Bustamente (“Bustamente Fort”) and the
Torreón de Defensa (“Defence Tower”).

The
fort was redesigned in 1687 by Diego Gómez de Ocampo in the style of
the French military architect Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban. The
modified design was implemented in 1689. Three bastions were functioning
by 1697.

https://panamaposse.com/castillo-de-san-felipe

 

19)  75+ PANAMA POSSE MARINA SPONSORS 

🇺🇸 Safe Harbor South Bay – Chula Vista, USA

🇺🇸 Safe Harbor Ventura Isle –  Ventura, USA

🇲🇽 Cruise Port Village – Mexico

🇲🇽 IGY Marina Cabo San Lucas  – Mexico  

🇲🇽 Marina Puerto Escondido – Mexico

🇲🇽 Marina Palmira Topolobampo – Mexico

🇲🇽 Marina y Club de Yates Isla Cortes – Mexico

🇲🇽 Marina el Cid – Mazatlan – Mexico

🇲🇽 Marina Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta – Mexico  

🇲🇽 PANAMA POSSE HQ  – Marina Puerto de La Navidad – Mexico  

🇲🇽 Marina Ixtapa, Ixtapa – Mexico 

🇲🇽 La Marina Acapulco, Acapulco – Mexico  

🇲🇽 Vicente’s Moorings, Acapulco – Mexico 

🇲🇽 Marina Chiapas – Mexico  

🇬🇹 Marina Pez Vela – Guatemala  

🇸🇻 Marina Bahia del Sol – El Salvador  

🇸🇻 La Palma Moorings – Bahia del Sol – El Salvador

🇳🇮 Marina Puesta del Sol – Nicaragua  

🇨🇷 Marina Papagayo – Costa Rica  

🇨🇷 Banana Bay Marina – Costa Rica  

🇪🇨 Marina Puerto Amistad – Ecuador  

🇵🇦 Buenaventura Marina – Panama 

🇵🇦 PANAMA POSSE PACIFIC HQ Vista Mar Marina – Panama 

🇵🇦 Shelter Bay Marina – Panama  

🇵🇦 Bocas Marina – Panama 

🇵🇦 Linton Bay Marina – Panama 

🇵🇦 La Playita Marina – Panama

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🇵🇦 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  

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🇺🇸 Regent Point Marina – Topping, Virginia USA 

MARINA V&V – QUINTANA ROO 🇲🇽 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  
   

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.

 Contact us today through panama@waypointyacht.com

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

one of the many significant Mayan carved crafts along the Panama Posse route

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

24) MORE POSSE NEWS FROM 
AROUND THE OCEANS

ATLANTIC POSSE  
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FOR YOUR CROSSING

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voyage between the  Mediterranean  and  the Caribbean 

25) SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE SEASON 4 

EARLY REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN 
JOIN THE SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE

South Pacific Posse burgees available after January 15  

WE OPERATE UNDER INTERNATIONAL MARITIME LAW

YOUR VESSEL YOUR CREW YOUR RESPONSIBILITY 

 

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