OP 2025-01-26 Gatherings, Seminars – the Coast Guard is out here

โ€œBlack met black on the distant horizon, the stars alone distinguishing sky from lake. On the sand below, Silver Beach glittered at the water’s edge while on the north side of the river the lighthouse’s beacon signaled safe harbor.โ€

Erin Farwell Shadowlands

Good morning from St Lucia!

Good morning from St Lucia ๐Ÿ‡ฑ๐Ÿ‡จ SY DARK HORSE โ–ถ

LATEST NEWS

  • Pictures Of The Week
  • Ulus ๐Ÿ›ถ
  • Boat Yoga Pose Entry
  • Ocean Posse Caribbean Party
  • Ocean Posse South Pacific Seminars
  • One Sails Mexico ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ Sponsors the Ocean Posse
  • Marina Funchal ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น Madeira
  • Caleta Paradiso Costalegre ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ Mexico Pacific
  • History Of Increasing ๐Ÿ’ต Panama Canal Fees
  • Dugong ๐Ÿฆญ Manatee โ‹†๏ฝกหš๐“‡ผ โ‹†๏ฝกหš Seacows
  • Isla Cavada ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฆ Islas Secas Panama
  • Benefits Of Joining The Ocean Posse
  • Free Welcome Drink At Cloud 9
  • Marina Papagayo ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ท Costa Rica
  • Help !!! Meet The Fleet
  • Sensar Marine Boat Monitor โš™๏ธ
  • The Battle Of The Flowers Batalla De Flores
  • Break In Alert โš ๏ธ La Pax Mexico
  • Predict Wind๐ŸŒ€ Offshore App
  • House On The Hill ๐Ÿ‘ท๐Ÿปโ€โ™‚๏ธ On The Panama Canal

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฑ ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ณ ๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡จ ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ซ ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฎ ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฐ ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡บ ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ธ ๐Ÿ‡ผ๐Ÿ‡ธ ๐Ÿ‡ผ๐Ÿ‡ซ ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ด ๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ฏ ๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡บ ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡จ ๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ง ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ซ ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ ๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡น ๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ป ๐Ÿ‡ญ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฎ ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ท
๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฆ ๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡จ ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ด ๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ฒ ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡พ ๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ฟ ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡จ ๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ธ ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡บ ๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ด ๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ ๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ฎ ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡จ ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ป ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ถ ๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ฒ ๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ต ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ธ ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฑ ๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡ฎ ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ท ๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ด

1) PICTURES OF THE WEEK

PUNTA MALA

Sun setting behind Punta Mala lighthouse ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฆ Panama SY ALGONQUIN

Mystic departed San Francisco at 07:00 today headed for Willmington North Carolina via the Panama Canalโš“๏ธ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ˜Ž

MV MYSTIC departed San Francisco ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ at 07:00 today headed for Willmington North Carolina via the Panama Canalโš“๏ธ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ˜Ž

Itโ€™s not even noon and tucked in at playa azul is already busyโ€ฆ

Itโ€™s not even noon and tucked in at Playa Azul ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ด is already busyโ€ฆ
SY MAISON DE SANTE

Kosmos

MY KOSMOS ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ in the canal

Good morning from Isla Chichime San Blas Panama

Good morning from Isla Chichime
๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ MV MARTINI

JUBEL passing us in the canal

SY JUBEL ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆ in the canal

EVENSTAR

2) ULUS ๐Ÿ›ถ

CANUS

Guna Yala canoes in the San Blas, also known as ulus, are made from mahogany, bamboo, poles, fronds, and molas. Mahogany is a hardwood that’s considered the best for the rainforest

Ulus are a lifeline for the Guna people and a common sight for cruisers in these stunning islands. Youโ€™ll often see villagers paddling their ulus out to anchored yachts, trading lobsters, crabs, and other fresh catchesโ€”or their famous molas, vibrant appliquรฉd cloth designsโ€”for a cold drink, a hammer, or even a quick phone charge.

SAN BLAS

Ulus are built tough and simple. Their sprit sail rigs are no-frillsโ€”just a rough-hewn spar to hold up the peak and a sail made of whateverโ€™s handy: old bedsheets, tarps, patched-up scraps. The sheet runs through a hole in the sternpost and gets tied off with a quick knot when the course is steady. Thereโ€™s even a little flying jib strung up to the masthead. And somehow, with just a carved skeg for a keel, these things sail to weather like champs. Theyโ€™re not just boatsโ€”theyโ€™re proof of what you can do with skill, ingenuity, and a whole lot of grit.

ulus with sails

Ulus under under Sail by SY Footloose

3) BOAT YOGA POSE ENTRY
AWARD ENTRY

BOAT YOGA POSE

BOAT YOGA expertly executed by Brandt onboard SY PRIYA ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ Ericson 38′

4) OCEAN POSSE AWARD CATEGORIES

5) OCEAN POSSE EVENTS & GATHERINGS

Meeting adventurers, sailors, and explorers is a great way to learn, share knowledge, and build lasting connections while embracing the spirit of exploration.

gatherings

Ocean Posse gathering watching the Ohio State beating Notre Dame at he cruisers lounge @ Shelter Bay Marina

6) OCEAN POSSE CARIBBEAN PARTY

24-25โ€ฒ PANAMA POSSE KICK OFF WEEKEND ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ BARRA DE NAVIDAD, MEXICO WHEN: December 4-8 2024 WHERE: Barra de Navidad, MX at the Marina Puerto de la Navidad RSVP PLEASE AND CONTACT THE MARINA DIRECTLY TO RESERVE A SLIP

SHELTER BAY MARINA ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฆ PANAMA

MEET THE FLEET EVENT OPEN TO ALL

09:00 โ€“ 12:00 Swap Meet @ Gazebo $1 Donation
12:00 – 21:00 Exhibits and Yacht Showings
14:00 LIFE RAFT INFLATION DEMO / Pool
14:30 Panama Canal Best Practices
15:00 Going Back To Cali Or Sea Of Cortez
15:30 Opencpn Sat Charts / Installation Usage
16:00 International Yacht Brokerage
16:30 South Pacific Posse Beyond Bora Bora
17:00 Safety And Security
17:30 Predict Wind
17:15 Open Bar By Flor De Caรฑa
17:45 Sunset & Local Folkloric Dance
18:00 Pig Roast / Pot Luck +the Posse Feast
19:00 Dance / Mexican Train / Texas Hold’em

RSVP TO GET YOUR ALL ACCESS WRISTBAND

SHELTER BAY

7) OCEAN POSSE SOUTH PACIFIC SEMINARS

seminars
APP Series

FEBRUARY 2025 PACIFIC CROSSING SEMINARS

WEDNESDAY Feb 5 2025 @ 19:00 UTC ( 14:00 ET )

THURSDAY Feb 6 2025 @ 19:00 UTC ( 14:00 ET )

FRIDAY Feb 7 2025 @ 19:00 UTC ( 14:00 ET )

SATURDAY Feb 8 2025 @ 19:00 UTC ( 14:00 ET )

TUESDAY Feb 11 2025 @ 19:00 UTC ( 14:00 ET )

WEDNESDAY Feb 13 2025 @ 19:00 UTC ( 14:00 ET )

THURSDAY Feb 14 2025 @ 19:00 UTC ( 14:00 ET )

FRIDAY Feb 15 2025 @ 19:00 UTC ( 14:00 ET )

RSVP HERE
FIJI

Fiji ๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ฏ welcomes cruisers and has been a friendly and safe haven for all yachts

10) MARINA FUNCHAL ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น MADEIRA
SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

MARINA FUNCHAL MADEIRA

32ยฐ38.7016′ N 016ยฐ54.6466′ W

We are please to sponsor the Ocean Posse with a 10 % discount

Welcome to Madeira !

BOOK A SLIP NOW !
Marina Funchal Madeira

  • Showers
  • Water
  • Laundry
  • Electricity 16/32 220 V
  • Internet
  • Port of entry
  • Fuel Dock open 7 days a week from 8:00 am to 17:30 pm
  • 24 hour surveillance
  • Offices open MON โ€“ FRI 9:00 am to 18:30 pm

  • Bar
  • Restaurants
  • Historical Sites
  • Sail Repair
  • Chandleries
  • Mechanics
  • Supermarkets
  • Bakery

Marina Funchal Madeira

11) ANCHORAGE REPORT
PLAYAS PARADISO
COSTALEGRE ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ MEXICO PACIFIC

Playas Paraiso

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ Caleta Playa Paradiso 19ยฐ 28.3394′ N 105ยฐ 3.6214′ W

Approaches

Uncharted reefs and rocks make the northern entrance hazardous and it is recommended to approach this bay from the west, taking great care passing between the islands and the peninsula between the northern and southern coves.

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ Playa Paradiso

Anchorage

The cove shoals rapidly and the bottom is rocky. Find a sandy patch close to the mouth of the inlet in 3-4m. Dinghy ashore to any of the small beaches in the bay except the beach in the southern cove which is claimed to be owned by the hotel.

 19ยฐ 28.3394' N 105ยฐ 3.6214' W

This anchorage is located in the northern bay of Caleta Paraiso. It is a tiny cove with swinging room for just one boat and might be tight fit for larger vessels larger than 55โ€™. The bay is well protected from the south and east and has moderate shelter from northerlies but swell from NW-N wraps around the headland.

Paradiso

SY PRIYA ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ Brandt – Ericson Yachts 38′

PRIYA BRANDT

12) RECENT HISTORY OF INCREASING
PANAMA CANAL ๐Ÿ’ต FEES

Panama Cana fee increases

Since 2001 the fees have been filling up

PANAMA CANAL FEES in 2001

2001-2002: Tolls for small vessels were based on the Panama Canal Universal Measurement System (PC/UMS). Specific rates for vessels under 65 feet during this period are not detailed in the available sources.

2007: The ACP restructured its pricing to better align with the value provided to different market segments. This restructuring aimed to reflect the “true value” of the Canal’s services to its customers.

Autoridad del Canal de Panamรก

2016: A more complex toll system was introduced on April 1, 2016. For small vessels up to 125 feet, tolls were assessed based on length overall (LOA). The rates were:

Up to 50 feet: $800

50.01 to 80 feet: $1,300

80.01 to 100 feet: $2,000

100.01 feet and above: $3,200

2023: As of January 1, 2023, the transit cost for yachts less than 65 feet was $1,760. Additional fees included a $75 Transit Vessel Inspection (TVI) charge and a $165 security charge. A buffer deposit of $1,060 was also required if no agent was used, refundable upon successful transit without incident.

PANAMA CANAL FEES 2025

PANAMA CANAL RATE
INCREASE IN 24 YEARS FOR SMALL VESSELS

Percentage increase in panam canal fees since 2024

13) DUGONG ๐Ÿฆญ MANATEE โ‹†๏ฝกหš๐“‡ผ โ‹†๏ฝกหš SEACOWS

DUGONG

Dugongs and manatees are the only predominantly herbivorous aquatic mammals. Given that manatees use both marine and fresh water ecosystems they tend to have a broader diet, eating many kinds of submerged, floating or emergent algae and seagrass (even bank growth!). On the other hand, dugongs are a strictly marine species and primarily feed on seagrass, which may look very similar to seaweeds, but are in fact marine flowering plants.

Seagrass tend to form underwater shallow meadows that are among the most productive ecosystems in the world6. In fact, dugong grazing influences the biomass, species composition and nutritional quality of seagrass meadows. Just like we take care of our gardens, dugongs regulate seagrass ecosystems. But there is more. Research conducted in the Great Barrier Reef indicates that seagrass seeds that have been digested by dugongs germinate at a faster rate. As well as playing a role in dispersal, it appears that dugongs are pooping seeds with enhanced germination potential, hence participating to seagrass meadow resilience.

SEA COWS DUGONGS

“sea cow”

DUGONG MUNCHING

Dugong muching away

DUGONG vs MANATEE

Manatee vs Dugong

DUGONG vs MANATEE

Watch this Dugong + Turtle and a Manta Shrimp:
Filmed by Kurt Roll in Lamen Bay on the island of Epi in Vanuatu ๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡บ
Dugongs are endangered like the Manatee and both at sea grass.

14) GOOD NAUTICAL

ISLA CAVADA ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฆ ISLAS SECAS
PANAMA

ISLA CAVADA APPROACH

Approach

ISLA CAVADA ANCHORAGE

โš“ 07ยฐ 59.6160′ N 082ยฐ 1.9220′ W

SV Remedy, SV Sancerre, SV Triaena plus a few other sailors in the anchorage of Isla Cavada ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฆ PANAMA

15) BENEFITS OF JOINING THE OCEAN POSSE

pacific

โœ”๏ธ Up to date and verified information by fellow yachts โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ“Š Communications focused on facts, not opinions or unsolicited advice โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ’ฐ Save real money at 70+ Marinas with discounts * โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ›ฐ๏ธ Free vessel and fleet tracking courtesy of Predict Wind โœ”

๐Ÿšฉ Free Burgee โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ’ฐ Save with service providers and chandleries โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ•ต๏ธ dedicated, experienced and discounted Canal and clearing in agents โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Free aid to navigation 150 Gb OpenCPN satellite charts (mac/pc/android) โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ’ฐ Save Money on parts with a Westmarine Pro Discount โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ’ฐ Save Money with a Predict Wind Pro Discount โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Free Printable Reference Charts emergency backup to your electronics โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ“น Free Video Seminars on destinations from those who are there โœ”๏ธ

๐ŸŒฉ๏ธ Top weather routing avail by Marine Weather Center Chris Parker โœ”๏ธ

โ›ต Community of voyagers all are welcome, kids, single-handers, pets โœ”๏ธ

โš“ Peer support in emergencies with escalation procedures โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ›ˆ Fleet Updates via email โ€“ free โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ† Fun Award Categories โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ“ Free access to GOOD NAUTICAL Anchorage reports โœ”๏ธ

โ˜Ž๏ธ Free Weekly live calls on Mondays via dedicated LINE.me group โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ’ฌ Free 24/7 LINE group channel โœ”๏ธ

๐ŸŒŠ Benefit from the latest information and prior experience participants โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿ”ญ Be part of a fleet of sensor for those who come behind you or meet โœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿšท Always priority traffic โ€“ for participants by participants โœ”๏ธ

(* as long as you do not have prior contracts or reservations in place and subject to a marinaโ€™s availability )

JOIN THE OCEAN POSSE โ–ถ

16) FREE WELCOME DRINK AT CLOUD 9

CLOUD 9 ๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ฏ FIJI ยท SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

CLOUD 9 ๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ฏ FIJI ยท SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

BULA BULA โ€“ WE WELCOME THE SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE TO FIJI

JUST FOR VISITING US FOR THE FIRST TIME YOU RECEIVE 2 FREE WELCOME DRINKS PER SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE YACHT

CLOUD 9 ๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ฏ FIJI ยท SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

17) MARINA PAPAGAYO ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ท COSTA RICA
SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

https://oceanposse.com/marina-papagayo/

10ยฐ 38.3783โ€ฒ N 085ยฐ39.225โ€ฒ W

  • GATEWAY TO THE EASTERN TROPICAL PACIFIC
  • Situated below the hurricane line and sheltered from the northern Papagayo winds, Marina Papagayoโ€™s naturally protected harbor offers a year-round safe haven in a yachting paradise, just 30 minutes from an international airport. An idyllic stop-off point and staging area for epic diving and underwater adventures in the Eastern Tropical Pacific Seascape. Malpelo Island, Isla del Coco, Coiba and the Galรกpagos are all close by.
  • A Full Service Deep Sea Port
  • Marina Papagayo offers 180 fully serviced berths for yachts up to 250 feet LOA, with both single & 3-phase electrical service, grey & black water disposal and wireless broadband. All complimented by a wide range of services and amenities, including mooring assistance, 24/7 monitoring, yacht assist, on-site provisioning, fuel bunkering and dockside concierge service. From airport transfer, shuttle service, car rentals, dining reservations and activities for captains and crew members, the marina concierge team is at your service.
  • Where Captain is King
  • While staying at Marina Papagayo, captains and crew enjoy access to select facilities and amenities on Peninsula Papagayo. Including seven spectacular beaches, the Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, Andaz Costa Rica Resort Beach House and miles of hiking and biking trails. For insider access to nature unleashed, check out Papagayo Explorers Club. Their expert guides, naturalists and translators are available for crew expeditions off the beaten path.
  • Vessels of all shapes and sizes
  • Among its ultra-wide, custom-designed floating dock system, 180 owner and guest slips can accommodate a wide variety of watercraft. From superyachts and luxury cruisers to schooners and sportfishing vessels. Ultimately, 350 slips will fill the marina, making it the largest and most advanced in Costa Rica.
  • MARINA SUITES
  • The village at Marina Papagayo is undergoing a metamorphosis, offering new and enhanced amenities for owners and guests. A refreshed seaside apartment hotel offers studio, 1- and 2-bedroom suites with daily housekeeping, pool, gym, lounge and meeting rooms.
https://oceanposse.com/marina-papagayo/

The Papagayo Peninsula, located in the northwest region of Costa Rica within the province of Guanacaste, is a stunning expanse of tropical paradise. Renowned for its luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and biodiversity, the peninsula is a haven for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the Pura Vida lifestyle. Stretching into the Pacific Ocean, this unique geographic feature boasts an array of natural and cultural wonders that make it a must-visit destination.

Geography and Nature

The Papagayo Peninsula spans over 1,400 acres of lush tropical landscapes. It is surrounded by the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, with numerous coves and beaches dotting its coastline. The regionโ€™s dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and verdant forests are a testament to the rich volcanic origins of Costa Rica, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.

The area is part of the Guanacaste Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which highlights its ecological importance. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from dry tropical forests teeming with wildlife to vibrant coral reefs offshore. The surrounding waters are ideal for snorkeling and diving, offering a glimpse of marine life like sea turtles, manta rays, and colorful fish.

Beaches and bays in the Papagayo Peninsula

The Papagayo Peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, each with its unique charm:

Playa Nacascolo: A secluded and serene beach, Playa Nacascolo is a favorite for those seeking a quiet escape. Its calm waters are ideal for swimming and paddleboarding.

Playa Blanca: Known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, Playa Blanca offers excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Playa Panama: This beach is perfect for families, with gentle waves and plenty of shade. Itโ€™s also a great spot for kayaking and fishing.

Playa Hermosa: Located near the peninsula, this expansive beach is popular for its laid-back vibe and stunning sunsets.

Playa del Coco: A vibrant beach town near the peninsula, Playa del Coco is a hub for nightlife, dining, and shopping.

PAPAGAYO PENINSULA COSTA RICA

Luxury and Resorts

The Papagayo Peninsula is synonymous with luxury. The development of high-end resorts and residences has transformed the area into a premier destination for affluent travelers. Notable resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica, Ritz-Carlton Reserve at Peninsula Papagayo and the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo provide world-class amenities, from spa treatments to gourmet dining and private beach access.

RITZ CARLTON

Wildlife and Ecotourism

Costa Rica is renowned for its commitment to conservation, and the Papagayo Peninsula is no exception. The region is a haven for wildlife, with numerous opportunities for eco-tourism:

Birdwatching: The peninsula is home to an array of bird species, including toucans, parakeets, and hummingbirds. Guided tours are available for avid birdwatchers.

Wildlife Spotting: Monkeys, iguanas, and coatis are commonly seen in the area, while sea turtles nest on nearby beaches during certain times of the year.

Sustainability Initiatives: Many resorts and tour operators in the Papagayo Peninsula prioritize sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy, supporting local communities, and protecting native habitats.

Climate

The Papagayo Peninsula enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:

Dry Season (December to April): This is the most popular time to visit, with sunny skies and little rain. Itโ€™s perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

Green Season (May to November): While this period sees more rain, itโ€™s also when the landscapes are at their most lush. Afternoon showers are common, but mornings are often sunny.

MARINA PAPAGAYO

18) HELP !!! MEET THE FLEET

MEET THE FLEET

19) SENSAR MARINE
BOAT MONITOR WITH BILGE SENTRY

https://sensarmarine.com/

Key Features:

Exact Bilge Temperature & Depth

The Sensar Marine Bilge Sentry provides an exact measurement of the water in your bilge. In addition, it measures the temperature in the bilge so that you can ensure that your boat is not exposed to harmful frost and icing.

Battery Bank Monitoring

Sensar Marine monitors two battery banks and alerts you when charge is diminishing. The device will monitor 12, 24 & 48 volt banks and recognizes Lithium batteries. You will always know that your boat is ready to go.

Long Life Internal Battery

Sensar Marine has an internal battery that will operate for 40+ days without taking a charge from your boatโ€™s battery. It will only charge when your boat is running, connected to shore power or solar charging. The internal battery will continue operating in temperatures from -40f to 185f. The device will always operate when on a mooring for an extended period.

Easy Installation

Sensar Marine is simple to install and easy to operate. The Sensar Marine app will let you know that your boat is OK, even when you are away.

Contact Information:

Paul Garland Email โ€“ paul.garland@sensarmarine.com

20) THE BATTLE OF THE FLOWERS
BATALLA DE FLORES @ CARNIVAL BARRANQUILLA
Sat, Mar 1, 2025 โ€“ Tue, Mar 4, 2025

CARNEVAL IN BARANQUILLA

A Celebration of Chaos and Color

The Barranquilla Carnival kicks off four days before Ash Wednesday, exploding into life with a riot of color, music, and unrestrained revelry. The crescendo arrives Saturday with the legendary Batalla de las Floresโ€”a dazzling clash of Colombian joy, where the streets become battlegrounds of flowers, costumes, and unyielding celebration.

Tatiana, la reina del Carnaval 2025

Tatiana, la reina del Carnaval 2025

Prelude to Madness: Pre-Carnival Frenzy

Though the carnival officially starts with the Lectura del Bandoโ€”a proclamation demanding uninhibited dancing and wild abandonโ€”Barranquilla starts to buzz weeks ahead. Pre-Carnival events are electric with anticipation. From the Toma de la Ciudad (Taking the City) to the crowning of the Carnival King and Queen, the city pulses with life. But the highlight of this buildup is La Guacherna, a Friday night parade where cumbias, masquerades, and infectious rhythms light up the streets like a thunderstorm of joy.

BARANQUILLA

Saturday: The Battle of the Flowers

Saturday delivers the Batalla de las Flores, a spectacle etched into history since 1903. For six vibrant hours, colossal floats roll down the avenues, each a masterpiece of artistry and exuberance. Iconic carnival characters like Rey Momo, Marรญa Moรฑitas, and the mischievous Hombre Caimรกn come to life, delighting the crowds. The queen of the carnival leads the charge, throwing flowers and dancing with her court, while marimondasโ€”figures with long noses and vibrant costumesโ€”march alongside gigantonas, dwarfs with oversized heads. Itโ€™s a symphony of chaos and jubilation.

BARANQUILLA Saturday: The Battle of the Flowers

Sunday: The Grand Parade

Sunday sheds the floats but not the fervor. Itโ€™s a day for masks, disguises, and fierce competition as dance groups battle for the honor of performing in next yearโ€™s Batalla de las Flores. Folk traditions like the Torito dance, the mesmerizing moves of the Garabato, and the elegant Hilanderas (Spinners) take center stage during the Gran Parada. The energy is raw, the stakes are high, and the streets pulse with life.

Sunday: The Grand Parade

Monday: The Sound of Carnival

Monday cranks the volume up with the Festival de Orquestas. Caribbean and Latin bands ignite the city, vying for the coveted Golden Congo award. Amid the music, the Fantasy Parade adds a kaleidoscope of costumes and creativity, pushing the limits of imagination.

Monday: The Sound of Carnival

Tuesday: The Farewell of Joselito

Carnival ends with bittersweet revelry on Calle 84. Here, the queen of the carnival, dressed in mourning black, grieves the symbolic death of Joselito Carnaval, the soul of the party. Her theatrical fainting marks the passing of the festivities, but not before the streets explode once more with music, cumbia dancers, and costumed revelers, ensuring the carnival ends in unforgettable style.

The Barranquilla Carnival isnโ€™t just a festivalโ€”itโ€™s a full-throttle celebration of life, history, and the unbreakable spirit of Colombia. Each dance, costume, and note of music is a testament to the grit, joy, and passion that define this legendary event.

https://www.barranquilla.gov.co/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/whatsapp-image-2019-03-05-at-5-01-01-pm.jpeg

Stay at Marina Puerto Velero on your yacht to enjoy the nearby carnival

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Dfm23UkwuMXtoZ2r6
MARINA PUERTO VELERO

SOO MUCH TO MUST SEE

THE MANY MUST SEE’S ALONG
THE OCEAN POSSE ROUTES

21) BREAK IN ALERT

BREAK IN

Sailboat Break-In in La Paz Bay ๐Ÿšจ MEXICO

Attention, cruising community:

We regret to inform you that a sailboat anchored in La Paz Bay was recently broken into and stripped of valuables. This serves as an unfortunate reminder to remain vigilant and take extra precautions to secure your boats and belongings.

โš ๏ธ What You Can Do:

โœ…Ensure hatches, doors, and lockers are securely locked when leaving your boat.

โœ…Avoid leaving high-value items visible or easily accessible.

Install motion lights, alarms, or cameras if possible.

โœ…Donโ€™t leave your boat unattended; if you must, inform your neighbors so they can keep an eye out.

โœ…Report any suspicious activity to the local cruiser network or authorities immediately.

๐Ÿ“ข If You Notice Anything:

Please share any information about suspicious activity or sightings with the local boating community or your marina office to help keep everyone safe.

Let’s work together to protect our vibrant community and each other. Stay safe, everyone!

๐ŸŒž La Paz Yachts

22) THE OCEAN POSSE FLEET IS TRACKING

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DATA HUB

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MARINAS

25) OCEAN POSSE SPONSORS

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27) House on the Hill on the Panama Canal

PANAMA CANAL HOUSE OF THE ENGINEER

The House on the Hill on the Panama Canal, often referred to in historical accounts, served as the residence of the chief engineer or project manager during the construction of the canal. It stands as a symbol of the monumental effort and leadership required to oversee one of the most ambitious engineering feats in history.

Key Facts about the House on the Hill and Its Role:

1. The Historical Context

The house was built during the early 20th century, during the American-led construction of the Panama Canal (1904โ€“1914) by lead engineer John Frank Stevens.

It provided a commanding view of the canal’s construction areas, symbolizing authority and oversight.

2. The Role of the Chief Engineer

The chief engineer was the lead figure in managing the canal’s construction, with responsibilities ranging from technical problem-solving to labor management.

Notable chief engineers include:

John Frank Stevens: Credited with reorganizing the project and prioritizing worker health and safety.

George Washington Goethals: Known as the “Man Who Finished the Canal,” he oversaw its completion and managed the transition to operations.

3. Strategic Location

Situated to provide a panoramic view of the canal’s progress, the house symbolized the leadership’s ability to “oversee” every aspect of the project.

Its location reinforced the project manager’s central role in coordinating the vast workforce, machinery, and resources.

4. Living Conditions

The house offered better living conditions compared to the workers’ accommodations, emphasizing the hierarchy within the project.

It was equipped with amenities that allowed the chief engineer to work and host meetings effectively.

CENTENARIO CONSULTING Erick Gรกlvez Erick Gรกlvez info@centenarioconsulting.com www.centenarioconsulting.com Cellphone +507 6676-1376 WhatsApp +507 6676-1376
Erick Galvez

OCEAN POSSE

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