“This Fall, I’m Sailing Away from the Noise.”
⛵CRUISING ° FLEET UPDATE & NEWS 2025-06-15
🌀 Hurricane Season in the East Pacific
📸 Pictures of the Week
🐾 Ocean Posse Pets Helping Pets
🏝️ Asinara National Park – Sardinia
⚓ Vintage Marina California – Channel Island Harbor
🍖 Ocean Posse BBQ Meet-Up – Marina Tahina, Tahiti
🦈 Fakarava South Anchorage – French Polynesia
☁️ PredictWind Marine Meteorology – Clouds
🔭 Must-See Along the Ocean Posse Route – CADIZ Spain
💧 The Watermaker Seminar Series
👨👩👧👦 Meet the Fleet – SY Njorth Clan
🇬🇩 Clarkes Court Boatyard & Marina Sponsors the Ocean Posse
🐋 The Orcas.pt Interview with Rui
📆 Official Ocean Posse 2025-2026 Schedule
🗞️ Media Partners – Latitudes and Attitudes
📡 Ocean Posse Fleet Tracking
🏊 Swim Through the Canal
🐳 Whale Superhighways Visualized
🌟 Extraordinary Cruising – Join the Fleet
HURRICANE SEASON IN THE EAST PACIFIC
HURRICANE SEASON Season timing: Runs from May 15 to November 30 in the Eastern Pacific—officially underway since mid‑May
• So far (mid‑June):
◦ Alvin: formed May 28 as the first named storm; trekked west offshore and dissipated by May 31
◦ Barbara: became the first hurricane of 2025 on June 9 (Category 1, ~75 mph); weakened by June 10 and dissipated mid‑month
◦ Cosme” formed June 8–9; neared hurricane strength but also weakened by June 10
◦ Dalila: formed yesterday “P Tropical Cyclone Four‑E” (by June 15) with advisories and watches are active for southwest Mexico 🇲🇽
Outlook: National Hurricane Center highlight an active early season, with multiple systems likely through June
Why It’s Active
◦ This follows one of the slowest starts in 30+ years, but has quickly ramped up
◦ Favorable conditions off Mexico (Madden‑Julian Oscillation and warm sea surface temps) have boosted cyclone formation
◦ ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation) is neutral—not strongly El Niño or La Niña—which typically supports robust activity
• Forecasts:
◦ NOAA projects 12–18 named storms in the Eastern Pacific (~5–10 hurricanes, 2–5 major), leaning toward a below‑to‑near‑normal season
◦ Mexico’s Servicio Meteorológico Nacional anticipates 16–20 storms, 8–11 hurricanes, 4–6 majors
Impact & Coastal Risk
• Most Eastern Pacific storms stay offshore, tracking west–northwest well south of Mexico’s coast nhc.noaa.gov.
• They can still produce dangerous surf, rip currents, and heavy rainfall in coastal areas of Mexico; even remnants may deliver moisture to Southern U.S.
• Very rare for these systems to affect the U.S. West Coast as hurricanes—last major landfall was circa 1858 near San Diego
1. Stay Updated Daily 🔎
-
Monitor NHC forecasts: https://nhc.noaa.gov
-
Using tools like PredictWind and NHC storm track cones.
-
Cyclone Four-E (aka Dalila will bring rain and swell to southern Pacific Mexico in the coming days.
2. Adjust Cruising Plans ⛵
-
-
Stay close to safe harbors and haul-out options
-
-
-
-
Strong moorings or tie-down systems with multiple lines with chafe guard
-
Surge protection and human support
-
Communications and emergency services or be self reliant for the duration for the storm plus 1 week buffer for local retunr to normalcy
-
-
3. Prep for Worst-Case Scenarios 🛠️
-
-
Review and rehearse:
-
Emergency haul-out procedures
-
Storm anchor rigging (consider adding extra chain/line) dual anchors, ensure you got fuel water and food for many days after the storm passes to charge systems and maintain your vessel
-
High wind tie-downs, fendering with weights, and chafe gear
-
-
Kaliyah underway from Barra de Navidad to Marina Riviera Nayarit About 137nm (24hrs). true winds from 10 to 15 knots on our nose. Bashing and getting salty! Running away the spinning storm behind us.
SY KALIYAH 
Dieu & Greg Kelly-Peterson 46′
PICTURES OF THE WEEK
Sailing from Brincanco to Rosario and saw a waterspout a few miles away. Fun stuff
It formed and dissipated pretty quickly.
SY CAVU David & Marla – Tartan 37′
CELEBRATING YOUR WINS
MY TIDINGS OF JOY & SY BRIGADOON
Thanks for our Picture of the Year award! Enjoying our winnings with Brigadoon in Barranquilla.
To see if you won follow this link and send an email to registration@oceanposse.com to claim your bottle of Flor de Caña 12 year rum.
MY TIDINGS OF JOY Joy & Jeff – DeFever 52′
OCEAN POSSE PETS HELPING PETS
Yolanda: Hey pups! 🐾 Has any dog ever stayed at a dog hotel or sitter in Panama they actually liked? My human’s sniffing around for some trusted places. Personal sniffs only please!
Juneau: Oh yeah, I’ve bunked at VIP Vacation Kennels by the airport four times now. Stayed for about a month each time. The humans there? Total treat-givers. They post pics of us daily so our humans don’t panic. 10/10 would nap there again. 🐶✨
Yolanda: Thanks Juneau! Four stays? That sounds pawsitively solid. I’ll have my human sniff them out. 🐾
Luna: I haven’t stayed anywhere myself, but I know a human vet named Dr. Sandra—super gentle, lots of treats, great sniffer. She could help find a safe kennel. Want her details?
Yolanda: Tail wags to everyone for the recommendations! 🐾🐾
Juneau: No problem! Happy tail trails, Yolanda! 🐶💬
Asinara National Park 🇮🇹 SARDINIA – ITALY
The crystalline blue waters of Asinara National Park 🇮🇹 SARDINIA – ITALY are a renowned feature of this Sardinian marine reserve
Asinara National Park
Asinara National Park for Sailors – Clear and mutliple hues of blue Anchorage in the Mediterranean
For sailors exploring the northwestern coast of Sardinia, Asinara National Park offers a rare and unforgettable stop. The island—once a quarantine station and later a high-security prison—is now one of Italy’s most protected and pristine marine areas. Located just off the coast from Stintino and Porto Torres, it lies within a designated marine reserve, with strict anchoring regulations that preserve its unspoiled beauty.
Yachts can approach from the west or north, with authorized mooring buoys available in Cala Reale, Cala d’Oliva, and Fornelli—all stunning, secluded bays surrounded by turquoise water and low-slung hills. Anchoring is restricted outside designated areas, so advance planning and park authorization are advised.
Once ashore, sailors can walk or bike the island’s network of dirt paths through Mediterranean scrub, with sweeping sea views and abundant wildlife. Albino donkeys roam freely, and you’ll often spot falcons, wild boar, and rare seabirds. The old prison ruins and the tiny village of Cala d’Oliva provide a glimpse into the island’s layered history.
Snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters reveal healthy seagrass beds and vibrant marine life. Fishing is prohibited, which has helped the underwater ecosystem thrive.
Asinara is a place to slow down, respect nature, and soak in a wilder side of the Mediterranean—an ideal retreat for cruising sailors seeking peace, protection, and something truly different.
Anchorage and mooring Locations as per Navily
GET THERE
It’s an overnight sail from Rome / Civitavecchia 180 nm and about the same from Monaco and Menorca
-
The Park Authority authorizes 63 mooring buoys (for private boats) along the eastern coast—Fornelli through Cala d’Oliva—primarily active during the high season
-
In 2013, it was reported that approximately 8,600 people visited via private boats, with peak traffic in August when about 65% of the boats were present
-
Seasonal fishing-tourism operations comprised only 6 boats by 2013 (down from 13 in 2002)
HISTORY OF ASINARA
⚓ ASINARA PENAL COLONY OVERVIEW
📍 Location: Northwest Sardinia, Italy
🏝️ Island Name: Asinara (means “donkey island”)
🕰️ Key Dates
• 1885: Declared a quarantine station for infectious diseases and penal colony by Royal Decree.
• 1887–1997: Active penal colony, hosting a variety of prisoners under different regimes.
• 1997: Officially closed as a prison.
• 1998: Transferred to the Italian Ministry of the Environment.
• 2002: Became Asinara National Park and part of a marine protected area.
👥 Who Was Imprisoned?
• Common criminals: Throughout most of its history.
• Political prisoners: Especially during Italy’s fascist era (1920s–1940s).
• Anti-fascists and anarchists
• Mafia bosses: In the 1980s and 1990s, under Italy’s “41-bis” harsh prison regime, the island held dangerous Mafia figures in total isolation.
• WWI & WWII prisoners of war: Used for detaining Austrian, Hungarian, and other POWs.
Notable figures:
◦ Antonio Gramsci, co-founder of the Italian Communist Party, was briefly detained on the island before being moved.
◦ Members of the Mafia and others in the Cosa Nostra were held there under tight security.
VINTAGE MARINA CALIFORNIA
CHANNEL ISLAND HARBOR SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
34° 10.2283′ N 119°13.695′ W
We are excited to support the Ocean Posse.
First night free and 25% discount on a week of transient moorings
Michelle Lapointe
Marina Manager
Vintage Marina Partners
805-984-3366
www.vintage-marina.com
3150 Harbor Blvd, Oxnard, CA 93035
AMENITIES
- Newly Renovated Concrete Docks
- Electric Hookups: 30, 50, 100 amps
- Fresh Water Hookup
- Pre-wired for Spectrum Internet/Phone/Cable
- LED/Energy Efficient Dock Lights
- Docking Assistance
- Dock Box at all Slips
- Dock Carts at all Gates
- Dry Storage for Dinghies and Kayak
- Private Coin-Operated Laundry
- Private Renovated Restroom & Shower Facility
- Oil & Bilge Pad Exchange Program
- State of the art Key System into Private Docks
- Monthly Marina Newsletters
- Stunning Succulent and Drought Resistant Landscaping
- Environmentally Friendly & Clean Marina Certified
- Daily Garbage Collection
- Ample Tenant & Guest Parking with ADA Access
NEARBY
- Promenade Walkway Around the Harbor
- Pet Friendly Environment with Bio-Doggy Waste Bags
- Weekly Farmer’s and Fisherman’s Markets
- Year-round VMP & Harbor Sponsored Events
- Close to Harbor Patrol, US Coast Guard and Fuel Dock
- Community Parks & BBQ areas
- Easy access to Hollywood Beach
- Shopping & Dinning Nearby
- Year-round Sailing Courses
- Excellent jump of point to sail to the Channel Islands
OCEAN POSSE BBQ MEET UP 🔥
MARINA TAHINA 🇵🇫 TAHITI
SATURDAY JUL 14 14:00 – 16:00
Captain Alan of SY Cyrolia and Marina Tahina are hosting an impromptu BBQ this Sunday at Marina Tahina. 🧭 Bring Your finest grill-worthy protein anda side dish or treat to share with the fleet
🍹 Free Rum will be provided for all
SY CYROLIA Allan Jeanneau 52
FAKARAVA 🇵🇫 SOUTH ANCHORAGE FRENCH POLYNESIA
South Anchorages: Also known as the Hirifa anchorage (southeast edge of the atoll) and the South Pass anchorage, just west of the Tumakohua (Tetamanu) pass
Protection: The anchorage lies in a sandy bay with coral bars to the north and south, offering shelter from NE around to SW winds
Float your anchor chain
⚓ Anchorage Specs & Conditions
• Depth & Holding: Typically sandy bottom at 12–15 feet, with some coral heads, ideal holding but requires rational swinging space
• Space Available: Room for ~12 boats sometimes crowded when dive charters or more cruising boats arrive during weather windows
• Weather Sensitivity: Exposed to NW winds at Hirifa, but real shelter in prevailing southerlies
🌊 South Pass & Drift Diving
• Current & Dive: Strong channel currents create a renowned drift dive with the legendary “Wall of Sharks” and abundant marine life
According to some reports, this is one of the largest, densest gatherings of animals in the world… 10,000+ marbled groupers (aka camouflaged groupers) in the narrow pass of Tetamanu, in southern Fakarava atoll of Tuamotus archipelago, French Polynesia, gathering to spawn on the Full Moon.
Slack Windows:
Two slack-tide windows per day (~1 h each) safe for diving or dinghy transit
• Marine Life: Hundreds of grey reef and blacktip sharks, Napoleon wrasse, eagle rays, groupers, and schools of tropical fish
Dinghy & Moorings
• Access: Dinghy transit often requires tacking or tracking across shallow reefs to reach the pass
• Download the Digital Charts for Fakarava to plot your course
Moorings:
Several dive-boat mooring buoys exist; anchoring may be restricted near Sables Roses due to UNESCO reserve status currents.
🌴 Nearby Beach & Facilities
• Hirifa Motu: Offers beach anchoring in good conditions, with occasional pig roasts and local hospitality at “Lizas”
• Tetamanu Village: Small shore-based dive camps with buffets, dinghy docks, and dive/tour boats for pass excursions
Tips for Safe Anchorage
1 Anchor in sandy patches to avoid coral heads—float your chain to minimize fouling currents.
2 Plan dive timing around slack tide (~1 hr) to avoid strong currents . or DRIFT DIVE OFF YOUR DINGY
3 Be cautious of swell: NW or SE winds can bring heavy seas to open anchorage spots— Hirifa offers some protection in southerlies and South Easterlies
4 Please Respect mooring zones: Sables Roses is no-anchor; buoy etiquette and local regulations must be observed
🔹 Common Strong Wind Events in the Tuamotus:
1. Mara’amu
• What it is: A strong, cool, and persistent southeasterly trade wind typically blowing between May and October.
• How it develops:
◦ Caused by the South Pacific high-pressure system interacting with migrating cold fronts and polar air masses moving northward.
◦ Strengthens when there’s a pressure gradient between a high over the southern Pacific and a trough near the equator.
◦ It is most pronounced during the Austral winter.
• Impact: Can cause rough seas and heavy chop, especially in pass entrances and lagoons. It may reach 25–30 knots and persist for days.
2. Squalls (Grain or Grains)
• What they are: Localized, intense rain and wind events.
• How they develop:
◦ Warm, moist tropical air rises and condenses quickly, often in the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) or near tropical disturbances.
◦ Squalls in the Tuamotus are common year-round, particularly during the wet season (November to April).
• Impact: Sudden wind shifts, gusts exceeding 30 knots, low visibility, and confused seas.
3. Convergence Zone Gusts
• What they are: Winds from the South Pacific Convergence Zone (SPCZ) when it’s active over or near the Tuamotus.
• How they develop:
◦ When two different air masses meet—such as moist equatorial air and drier subtropical air—intense convection and thunderstorms develop.
◦ This leads to unstable conditions, gusty squalls, and unpredictable wind shifts.
🧭 Additional Notes:
• Atoll effect: Atolls can funnel and accelerate winds through passes and low-lying motus, especially during Mara’amu conditions.
• Anchoring risks: Sudden changes in wind strength and direction can make lagoon anchorages precarious, especially near coral bommies. AKA FLOAT YOUR CHAIN
Weather FAKARAVA TUAMOTUS FRENCH POLYNESIA
OCEAN POSSE PARTNERSHIP MARINAS
🇦🇺 AUSTRALIA
Rivergate Marina 
Scarborough Marina
🇧🇸 BAHAMAS
-
Browns Marina -
Elizabeth on the Bay Marina -
Blue Marlin Cove Resort & Marina - Great Harbour Cay Marina
-
Romora Bay Resort and Marina
🇧🇿 BELIZE
Hummngbird Marina – Placencia
Placencia Yacht Club 
Hakim Marina & Boatyard
🇧🇲 BERMUDA
Pier 41 Marina 
Caroline Bay Marina
🇧🇷 BRAZIL
Stella Marina
🇻🇬 BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
Virgin Goda Yacht Harbour 🇨🇻 CAPE VERDE
🇰🇾 CAYMAN ISLANDS
🇨🇱 CHILE
🇨🇴 COLOMBIA – Caribbean
- ClubNautico Cartagena
- Club de Pesca Marina Cartagena
- Marina Puerto Velero
- IGY Marina Santa Marta
- Manzanillo Marina Club
🇨🇷 COSTA RICA – Pacific Coast
🇨🇺 CUBA
🇩🇲 DOMINICA
🇩🇴 DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
🇪🇨 ECUADOR
🇸🇻 EL SALVADOR
🇬🇮 GIBRALTAR
🇬🇩 GRENADA
🇬🇹 GUATEMALA – Pacific Coast
🇬🇹 GUATEMALA Rio Dulce
🇫🇯 FIJI
- Copra Shed Marina
- Nawi Island Marina
- Denarau Marina
- Musket Cove
- Royal Suva Yacht Club
- Sau Bay Moorings
🇭🇳 HONDURAS – Bay of Islands – Roatan
🇮🇹 ITALY
- Marina dei Presidi
- Marina di Balestrate
- Marina di Brindisi
- Marina di Chiavari
- Marina di Forio
- Marina di Teulada
- Marina di Policoro
- Marina di Vieste
- Marina de Procida
- Marina de Villasimius
- Marina Molo Vecchio
- Marina Salina
Venezia Certosa Marina
🇯🇲 JAMAICA
🇲🇽 MEXICO – Caribbean
- Marina Makax – Isla Mujeres
- Marina Puerto Aventuras
- Marina V&V – Quintana Roo
- Marina El Cid – Cancún
🇲🇽 MEXICO – Pacific Coast
- ECV Marina – Ensenada BC
- IGY Marina Cabo San Lucas BCS
- Marina Palmira Topolobampo – SI
- Marina y Club de Yates Isla Cortes – SI
- Marina el Cid – Mazatlan – SI
- Marina Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta – JA
- Marina Puerto de La Navidad – Barra de Navidad – CL
- Marina Ixtapa, Ixtapa – GE
- La Marina Acapulco, Acapulco – GE
- Vicente’s Moorings, Acapulco – GE
- Marina Chiapas – CS
🇳🇿 NEW ZEALAND
🇳🇮 NICARAGUA – Pacific Coast
🇳🇺 NIUE
🇵🇦 PANAMA – Pacific Coast
🇵🇦 PANAMA – Caribbean
- Shelter Bay Marina
- Bocas Marina
- Solarte Marina
- Linton Bay Marina /a>
- Turtle Cay Marina
- IGY Red Frog Marina
🇵🇹 PORTUGAL
🇵🇷 PUERTO RICO
🇱🇨 SAINT LUCIA
Marigot Bay Yacht Haven🇸🇽 SINT MAARTEN
🇪🇸 SPAIN
🇰🇳 ST KITTS & NEVIS
🇹🇳 TUNISIA
🇹🇴 TONGA
🇹🇨 TURCS AND CAICOS
🇻🇮 US VIRGIN ISLANDS
🇺🇸 USA – East Coast
- Safe Harbor – Marathon, FL
- Pier 66 Hotel & Marina – Ft. Lauderdale, FL
- Titusville Marina – FL
- Port 32 Marina Jacksonville – FL
- Oasis Marinas at Fernandina Harbor Marina – FL
- Morningstar Marinas Golden Isles St. Simons Isl. – GA
- Windmill Harbour Marina – Hilton Head , SC
- Coffee Bluff Marina – Savannah GA
- Hazzard Marine – Gerogetown, NC
- Holden Beach – Town Dock, NC
- Tideawater Yacht Marina, Portsmouth, VA
- Ocean Yacht Marina, Portsmouth, VA
- York River Yacht Haven – VA
- Yorktown Riverwalk Landing – VA
- Regatta Point Marina – Deltaville, VA
- Regent Point Marina – Topping, VA
🇺🇸 USA – Pacific Coast
- Safe Harbor Ventura Isle, Ventura CA
- Vintage Marina , Oxnard, CA
- Safe Harbor South Bay – Chula Vista, CA
🇻🇺 VANUATU
Predict Wind ☁️ Marine Meteorology ☁️ CLOUDS
- Cloud classification and cloud types
- Cloud formation
- Impact of low-level clouds on surface winds
- Impact of clouds on sailing
Introduction
Clouds are great visual indicators of atmospheric conditions and upcoming weather changes. This article begins by explaining different cloud types and their names, helping you identify clouds when you see them in the sky. We then explore how clouds form and their influence on surface winds. Finally, we examine real-world examples of how clouds impact sailing.
-
GET YOUR DATA HUB NOW AND INTEGRATE IT WITH THE NEW PREDICT WIND ANCHOR ALARM
MUST SEE ALONG THE OCEAN POSSE ROUTE
CADIZ 🇪🇸 SPAIN
⚓ 1. El Teatro Romano de Cádiz (Roman Theatre)
• Era: 1st century BCE
• Discovered in 1980, this Roman theater speaks to Cádiz’s importance as a port in the Roman Empire (then Gades). Romans developed it as a commercial and naval base.
⚓ 2. Castillo de San Sebastián & La Caleta Anchorage
• Location: On a small island at the end of La Caleta beach
• 1706 (fortress), with earlier watchtower ruins
• This fort guarded the northern approach to Cádiz and served as a key element of the city’s coastal defense system.
• Classic coastal fortification visible from sea—offering protection to fleets and warning to foes.
• Anchoring Tip: While anchoring is generally restricted, La Caleta offers a dramatic shoreline with the fortress on one side and Castillo de Santa Catalina on the other—classic “arrival in the old world” vibes.
⚓ 3. Museo de Cádiz
• Houses Phoenician sarcophagi, Roman relics, and maritime artifacts that tell the story of Cádiz’s role in Mediterranean and Atlantic trade.
• Offers a visual record of Cádiz’s evolution from a Phoenician port to a Spanish imperial launchpad.
⚓ 4. Plaza de España & Monument to the 1812 Constitution
• Cádiz hosted Spain’s liberal 1812 Cortes (parliament), while under siege by Napoleon. The constitution emphasized freedom and was a product of maritime trade-fueled Enlightenment ideals.
⚓5. Torre Tavira & the Camera Obscura
• Why It Matters: The 18th-century watchtower was Cádiz’s original maritime lookout. Today it still offers 360° views of the harbor, coast, and historic city—a practical and symbolic high point for sailors.
⚓6.Naval and Maritime Legacy
• Cultural Echoes: Cádiz was once the capital of the Spanish Navy. The city still hosts the Spanish Naval Academy, and maritime pride runs deep. Ask around—locals love sharing stories of shipbuilding, trade winds, and conquest.
⚓.7 Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
• Vibe Check: Narrow streets, historic seafarers’ houses, tapas joints, and lively plazas.
• For Sailors: Stock up at Mercado Central, grab a Galician octopus dish, and feel the city’s deep maritime roots—this is where Columbus sailed from on multiple voyages.
Founded by the Phoenicians around 1100 BCE as Gadir, Cádiz is widely regarded as the oldest continuously inhabited city in Western Europe. Its location on a narrow spit of land in southwestern Spain made it a natural hub for maritime trade and military strategy.
The Carthaginians used it as a naval base, and after their defeat, it was absorbed into the Roman Empire, where it thrived as Gades, becoming a wealthy port exporting garum (fermented fish sauce), wine, and olive oil.
In the Middle Ages, Cádiz changed hands between the Visigoths, Moors, and finally Christian Spain in the 13th century. Its true resurgence came in the 16th and 17th centuries, when it became the main port for trade with the Americas, replacing Seville due to its deeper harbor.
From here, galleons laden with New World silver set sail or arrived under heavy guard.
Cádiz was also the site of frequent attacks by English privateers, most famously Sir Francis Drake, who “singed the King of Spain’s beard” in 1587 by burning ships in the harbor.
In 1812, during Napoleon’s occupation of much of Spain, Cádiz served as the stronghold of Spanish resistance and the cradle of liberalism, where Spain’s first constitution, La Pepa, was signed.
Today, Cádiz remains a proud seafaring city, rich in maritime history, baroque architecture, and cultural resilience, still echoing the spirit of centuries of exploration and defense.
READY FOR CRUISING THIS FALL ?
THE WATER MAKER SEMINAR Series
Marine Watermakers Seminars Part 1 ▶
Marine Watermakers Series PART 1 JULY 10 Segment 1: Watermaker Fundamentals & Choosing the Right System
Marine Watermakers Seminars Part 2 ▶
Marine Watermakers Seminar Series Segment 2: Installation & Operation at Sea
Goal: Walk through real-world installation examples and BEST PRACTICES
Marine Watermakers Seminars Part 3 ▶
Marine Watermakers Segment 3: Maintenance, Repairs & Emergency Workarounds
Goal: Equip participants with the knowledge to keep their system RUNNING
PRESENTED BY RICH
MEET THE FLEET 🇦🇺 SY Njorth Clan
We are currently in Grenada, Caribbean and plan to leave for Bonaire at the end of June 2025, making our way to Panama for Feb 2026, for our Canal crossing, with a few stops a long the way: Curacao and Colombia. Our favourite …that is always tough. Each place has been special in its own way for different reasons. We love the sea and what better way to live than to live on the sea. It’s a great way to travel, meet new people, see new places and experience the very interesting cultures. I have learnt to relax more and while some days can be tough …its just so beautiful waking up to the view that surrounds after being gently rocked all night. Of course some nights, its not so gentle but that comes with the life.
Crossing the Atlantic, changed the way we see the world; it reminded me of how small and vulnerable we are but it also taught me to trust in myself and those around us. This is definitely a shared adventure. There is so much to learn and experience. Talking to the locals when on an island, exploring the island, all help to enhance the experience of visiting and connecting. The unexpected lesson has been living with someone 24 hours day but i really wouldn’t have it any other way. We don;t have a bucket list per se but life decide for me (maybe that is a lesson i have learnt ..sometimes you can’t get to an island or place because of the weather or whatever and u just need to accept it. U can’t go everywhere. Life is not a dress rehearsal, u have 1 chance at it …so enjoy it, with everything that it has to offer.
GRENADA 🇬🇩 INFORMATION ON THE OCEAN POSSE WEBSITE
CLARKES COURT BOATYARD & MARINA 🇬🇩 SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
THE ORCAS.PT INTERVIEW WITH RUI
In this recorded session from June 2025, Rui, founder of Orca.pt, shared detailed knowledge about orca interactions with vessels transiting the Iberian coast, especially near Portugal, Spain, and Morocco. These incidents, which began in 2020, typically involve orcas targeting sailboat rudders. Ruy, a lifelong sailor with a background in telecommunications, launched the Orca.pt platform to centralize real-time data and build a knowledge-sharing community. The platform now includes over 2,000 active members via Telegram and WhatsApp.
The Ocean Posse’s participation brought first-hand questions from cruising captains and motor yacht owners planning Mediterranean passages. Ruy engaged directly with Ocean Posse members, offering advice tailored to their specific vessels and planned routes. His warm, collegial tone and detailed answers gave skippers confidence and clarity.
Key takeaways:
-
Sightings vs Incidents: Orca.pt maps distinguish between simple sightings (blue) and actual interactions (red), where orcas made contact with or damaged a rudder.
-
Safety Zones: Waters shallower than 20 meters (65 ft) are considered safe—no tuna, no orcas. Deep water (500+ meters) also carries lower risk.
-
Avoiding Damage: Keep moving. Do not stop the boat. Use engines if needed. Autopilot can fail or worsen interactions—hand-steering is advised in high-risk zones.
-
Boat Differences: Motorboats typically suffer less damage due to stronger rudders and better maneuverability, though they’re not immune to interaction.
-
Unreliable Defenses: Firecrackers, sand, loud music, and “spiked” rudders have been tested with inconclusive results; many are illegal or ineffective.
-
Emergency Protocols: In Portugal, SAR does not tow—private companies charge steep fees. Spain’s SAR is more responsive. Use VHF 16 and notify nearby vessels.
Rui emphasized cooperation between sailors and scientists and invited Ocean Posse members to join Orca.pt’s Telegram channels for ongoing updates and support.
OFFICIAL OCEAN POSSE EVENTS
THE OCEAN POSSE WELCOME ♨️ BBQ & RUM 🍹 FÊTE @ MARINA TAINA 🇵🇫 TAHITI
Marina Taina 🇵🇫 Tahiti, Puna'auia, French Polynesia
SOUTH PACIFIC CROSSING PARTY AT Nawi Island Savusavu 🇫🇯 Fiji
NAWI ISLAND MARINA & RESORT, SAVUSAVU FIJI
OCEAN POSSE & BEN TAYLOR STREET PARTY @ CANNES 🇫🇷 YACHTING FESTIVAL
TAQUERIA LUPITA, 72 Rue Meynadier, Cannes
OCEAN POSSE 🇪🇸 KICK OFF PARTY @ YACHT PORT CARTAGENA
YACHT PORT CARTAGENA SPAIN, MURCIA SPAIN
ANNAPOLIS BOAT SHOW 🇺🇸 MARYLAND USA
ANNAPOLIS, Annapolis Town Dock Booth VB 9
OCEAN POSSE 🇺🇸 SAN DIEGO BAY 4 DAY CRUISING SEMINARS SERIES @ SAFE HARBOR SOUTH BAY
SAFE HARBOR SOUTH BAY EVENT CENTER, CHULA VISTA, SAN DIEGO, CA
OCEAN POSSE KICK OFF 🇲🇽 BARRA DE NAVIDAD, MEXICO December 3-7 2025
MARINA PUERTO DE LA NAVIDAD, BARRA DE NAVIDAD, MEXICO
OCEAN POSSE SPONSORS
- ABERNATHY – PANAMA
- BELIZE TOURISM BOARD
- BOAT HOW TO
- CABRALES BOAT YARD
- CENTENARIO CONSULTING – PANAMA CANAL
- CHRIS PARKER – MARINE WEATHER CENTER
- DELTA MIKE MARINE SUPPLY PANAMA
- DIGITAL YACHT
- DOWNWIND MARINE
- EL JOBO DIST. COSTA RICA
- FLOR DE CAÑA
- HAKIM MARINA AND BOAT YARD
- HERTZ RENTAL CARS MEXICO
- HOME DEPOT PRO MEXICO
- LATITUDES AND ATTITUDES
- MARINA PAPAGAYO
- NOVAMAR YACHT INSURANCE
- PANAMA YACHT BROKER
- PREDICT WIND
- SAFE HARBOR SOUTH BAY MARINA EVENT CENTER
- SAN DIEGO MARINE EXCHANGE
- SAFETY ONBOARD COSTA RICA
- SEVENSTAR YACHT TRANSPORT
- SHAFT SHARK
- SUN POWERED YACHTS
- WESTMARINE PRO
- YACHT AGENTS GALAPAGOS
MEDIA PARTNERS
LATITUDES AND ATTITUDES
OCEAN POSSE FLEET 🛰️ TRACKING
This page is designed to give interesting parties an overview. For specific vessel details including their floatplan, latest updates, changes, positions and specific location related questions please contact each vessel directly. Due to privacy we do not provide vessel contact information. You may track vessels via it’s own tracker or request AIS tracking from https://www.marinetraffic.com/ please note that this is also not accurate. There are many reasons why a vessel’s position is not updated and please do not conclude that a vessel has an emergency or is in need of assistance because it has not reported in lately. Sometimes they may just want to get away from it all and not tell you where they are. It is the responsibility of each vessel to file a float and check in plan and escalation procedures.
JOIN THE OCEAN POSSE
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| MEET UP @ BOAT SHOWS AROUND THE WORLD | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SAVE MONEY, TIME AND REDUCE BOAT STRESS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
SWIM 🏊 THROUGH THE CANAL
The Panama Canal charges by weight — and once, a man swam through it and got charged a toll of just 36 cents.
His name was Richard Halliburton, an American adventurer who swam the entire 50-mile canal in 1928. Because tolls are calculated by tonnage, they weighed him and charged him based on his “displacement tonnage” — about 140 pounds worth.
He proudly paid his 36 cents — still the cheapest canal transit in history — and probably the sweatiest.
So yes, technically, a skinny guy in a swimsuit once used the Panama Canal as his personal lap pool.
OCEAN POSSE CANAL AGENT
CENTENARIO CONSULTING
info@centenarioconsulting.com
www.centenarioconsulting.com
Cellphone +507 6676-1376
WhatsApp +507 6676-1376
Whale Superhighways VISUALIZED @ bluecorridors.org
A coalition of leading scientists, civil society, governments, tech innovators and WWF have launched BlueCorridors.org. In a major advance for marine conservation, a global coalition of leading scientists, civil society, governments, tech innovators and WWF have launched BlueCorridors.org—a dynamic new platform that brings together three decades of whale tracking data with information on overlapping marine life data >>
Extraordinary Cruising °°° Join the Fleet
- Access vetted local knowledge, safety resources, and prior experiences to make your passage safer and more enjoyable.
- Unlock a Life of Adventure
Explore hidden destinations, experience new cultures, and discover the freedom of life at sea or near shore – on your terms. - Get VIP Perks & Discounts at marinas, chandleries and boatyards
Get exclusive discounts, priority access, and personalized support at partner marinas across the globe. - Observe the actions of Experienced Captains
Tap into a wealth of tips, tools, and real-world know-how from seasoned mariners to grow your skills and gain confidence. - Make Every Nautical Mile Memorable
Join events, meetups, and shared journeys that turn you voyages into unforgettable stories and lasting memories. - Cruise with a Conscience
Gain insights into sustainable practices and join a movement that protects the waters you love to explore.