Two squall cells @ or near 02 29' S 093 31 W COG 235 SOG 5.0 kts
Feeling alone over here but can see a boat named Eclipse and Nagual III, who we started together with two days ago from Galapagos, south of us.
Aura left Galapagos yesterday evening after five weeks
literally surrounded by life of all kinds! https://xk5ki.mjt.lu/img2/xk5ki/a4a311d8-1d9b-4ce1-bb0b-4c5bdd630a00/content
Winds and seas are really kind to us.
SY AURA 🇸🇪 Birgitta & Lasse - OE32
2) WE GOT COMPANY 🐬
Kaliyah underway! Left Vista Mar Marina 🇵🇦 around 9am. Aiming for Isla Cebaco. It’s about 146nm and about 24 hours. Sailing with main, Genoa, and Stay sail. True winds 11 to 14 knots, sailing 7.1 to 7.5 knots,AWA 63 -72, seas 2ft E, every 6secs
SY KALIYAH 🇺🇸 Dieu & Greg - Kelly-Peterson 46'
3) ALONG PATHFINDER'S જ⁀ JOURNEY
Spinnakers away
Jean-Philippe Nicole leaving the Galapagos
3 birds on a solar panel
Pacific Sunset
Bananas on toast
SY PATHFINDER 🇺🇸 Jean-Philippe Nicole - Lagoon 39'
4) PICTURES OF THE WEEK 📷
SY WAYFINDER 🇺🇸 Robert & Lori - Leopard 48'
Coco Bandero, San Blas Panama
MY TIDINGS OF JOY 🇺🇸 Jeff & Joy - DeFever 52'
⚠️
5) 🏴☠️ DO NOT ANCHOR HERE !
08°29.511503' N 079°03.272516' W
We are in Las Perlas in Bayoneta tucked back in a bit. Aeronaval came to visit…told us we were not in a safe spot and suggested we move. We showed them a map of the islands and they gave us the areas to avoid. Gave us their emergency number 108 and were very helpful! Thanks for all the work here Posse. Seems they are very proactive now about our safety !
This map is pretty accurate to what they said…but they said viveros, casaya, ampon, caracoles are all safe. Really I think they were saying just don’t hide…stay near other boats when you can. There are not many boats out here right now past Contadora …so suggested we stay in more visible locations. We moved to Casaya and met up with Rawhiti II which made us feel better protected and is fun (till they depart). Funny though there is an aeronaval boat anchored in the channel on the other side of casaya the last two days. Maybe we are the only ones to protect 🤷♀️ or we didn’t move far enough. Either way, feels safe. Haven’t tried calling the number to see how it works Michael. Probably a good idea but worried they will send over the Calvary with my not so excellent Spanish. And don’t want to cry wolf until we need to (but guess that will be moot if it doesn’t work when you need them)
Our boat's name is ATARAXIA, which comes from Greek philosophy and is - very roughly translated - a state of mind best described as 'stress free'. Just as with the ancient Greeks, Ataraxia is an aspiration, unfortunately not a reality.
Our boat is currently in Hiva Oa, Marquesas, and so far I think the Marquesas and in particular Fatu Hiva are magnificent destinations. We were lucky enough to arrive there 'early' in the season and we shared the anchorage in Baie des Vierges with only 3 other boats. The local people are so friendly and chatty (and it helps we are fluent in French) and we had the pleasure of sharing a 'Marquesan oven' evening with those boats, immediately establishing a camaraderie that is so typical of the sailing lifestyle.
You can call me a 'man on a mission'. I learned to sail in my late 20's (I am now in my mid 60's) and I promised myself that 'when I retire" I would sail around the world. My wife Anita and I sailed on chartered and owned boats over the years but never chartered in French Polynesia, as I had wanted to see those islands for the first time arriving on a sailboat. 5 years ago (right before the pandemic in fact) we bought a larger boat that we intended to use 'intensively'. Once the pandemic over, we sailed from Europe to the Carib, to NYC, back to the Carib and earlier this year from Panama to Hiva Oa with a stop in Galapagos. The "around the world' part may or may not happen. I would recommend people younger than me to start earlier if you want to do that. Somehow it doesn't get easier when you get older. The ocean was always my 'special place'. She asks a lot but she gives back a lot too and in my case I felt I received more than I had to give, so I kept going.
We typically don't identify as 'cruisers' because we don't really live on the boat full time. We describe ATARAXIA more as a 'voyaging sailboat' since we move a lot, and while the boat may stay some place, we typically cannot (think work etc). As a result we sail very often with a rotating crew. Many of them are younger than us (funny how that gets easier the older we get) and sharing the beauty of the ocean and the passion for sailing with the next generation is an important facet of our travels.
Given our approach to sailing, I had to build a 'roster' of crew. Initially we invited friends and family to come and sail with us but we very rapidly adopted the adage that it is 'easier to make friends out of sailors than sailors out of friends'. I dreaded that very much. I am a quiet person, I long for silence and solitude and all that, so the idea of sailing long distances with 'total strangers' was definitely a hurdle for me. But now several years later, I can look back and see that I have built a group of new friends, something that is not easy and unfortunately 'rare' in our society. So I am very happy with that. This was not how I thought it would be when I was dreaming about long distance sailing the past 40 years or so but I was wrong. Again.
There are 3 words that I try to remind myself of as being important : Acceptance, Kindness and Humility. It doesn't always work obviously but approaching new destinations with those in mind can lead to incredible experiences. Upon arrival in Saint Lucia after our ARC January 2022 transat I used the (men's) bathroom and an elderly rasta guy was grooming himself in the mirror, stark naked. Rasta's have to take care of their bodies and it was obvious that he had. He turned around, produced a big smile and said 'welcome to paradise', then started to laugh when he explained that his name was actually "Paradise". It startled me a bit. Us westerners are not in the habit of being naked while shaving in a public bathroom and definitely not starting conversations with others, well, at least that is my experience. So it was a bit of 'sweet revenge' when on my next trip there, I saw some very good looking Lucian ladies waiting to order their ice creams while this same man was paying a lot of attention to the scene. He for good reasons had not seen me approaching and when I told him "welcome to Paradise" ...he was startled now too.
SY ATARAXIA 🇳🇱 Ludwig & Anita - ETAP YACHTING 46
8) LATEST LANDFALLS 🏝️
Zedna made landfall in Hiva Oa yesterday. A nice welcome by Paikea and some fresh fruit made our day a very memorable one.
SY ZEDNA 🇸🇪 Trevor & Lena - Robertson and Caine 38'
Putting up our new OP burgee newly in 🇵🇫
SY HORIZON 🇺🇸 Stephanie - Tayana 55'
9) REACHING PARADISE ISLA GAMEZ 🇵🇦 GULF OF CHIRIQUI 08 °0.6683' N 082°19.0466' W
The Moment You Realize You Have Arrived In Paradise ... and you got an islands all to yourself
Islas Secas Gulf de Chiriqui Panama
SY BEAGLE SPIRIT🇺🇸 Bret & Kay - Hallberg Rassy 46'
10) PORT OF ENTRY 🟨 PUERTO ARMUELLES REOPENS IN PANAMA 🇵🇦
For those considering checking in or out of Panama at Port Arrmuelles, some brief notes about our experience last Thursday (happened to be Holy Thursday holiday, so overtime required). Omar the AMB representative was extremely helpful in getting all our paperwork organized in advance (WhatsApp +507 6606-0647) and coordinating with other agencies (immigration, customs, agriculture). Best check in experience we’ve had yet, took about 1 hour, he even arranged for a panga to pick us up at our boat (beach landing very sketchy at high tide). He also arranged for all the agents to work overtime during the holiday to accommodate our late afternoon arrival. And provided GPS coordinates on where to anchor (about 8m depth)
Total cost about $440 USD including panga, overtime and normal fees.
The anchorage itself is fully exposed to south swell. A stern anchor would have been a good idea but since we only planned to stay one night we didn’t bother. Water quality seemed good, we enjoyed a swim. Happy to answer any questions about our experience.
MV SUMMER BREEZE 🇺🇸 Kurtis & Sam - Bestway 46'
11) LAND TOUR TO ANTIGUA 🇬🇹 GUATEMALA
San José Cathedral Antigua Guatemala is located in a section of the old Primate Cathedral of Antigua Guatemala, which was destroyed by the 1773 Guatemala earthquakes. The first construction of the cathedral began in 1545 with the rubble brought from the destroyed settlement in the Almolonga Valley, which had been a second attempt to found a town in the region.
The hospital in San Pedro, also called Hermano Pedro hospital, is an old sanatorium in Antigua Guatemala (Sacatepéquez, Guatemala). Of Baroque architecture, it began its construction in 1654 under the architect Joseph de Porres next to the adjacent church of St. Peter the Apostle.
The Santa Catalina Arch is one of the distinguishable landmarks in Antigua. Built in the 17th century, it originally connected the Santa Catalina convent to a school, allowing the cloistered nuns to pass from one building to the other without going out on the street. A clock on top was added in the era of the Central American Federation, in the 1830s. The Guatemala Post Office Building in Guatemala City is based upon the arch.
The prominent volcano behind Antigua, Guatemala is Acatenango. It's a stratovolcano located near the city and is known for its two peaks, Pico Mayor and Yepocapa. While Acatenango is not as active as Volcán de Fuego, it's popular for hiking and offers a great view of the surrounding area, including the nearby Volcán de Fuego
The Convento de las Capuchinas in Antigua, Guatemala. This convent, completed in 1736, is notable for its architecture and historical significance. The structure features a series of arches supported by columns, with a second level above, all constructed from stone. Greenery, including vines and small bushes, adorns the convent walls and courtyard, adding a natural element to the historic setting. The courtyard is paved with cobblestones, and a woman is visible standing under one of the arches.
Cerro de La Cruz a pot with a 1930s cross & sweeping views,and a view of Volcan Agua.
SY STRAY CAT 2 🇨🇦 Derick & Barb - Lagoon 380
12) OCEAN YACHT MARINA PORTSMOUTH 🇺🇸 VIRGINIA SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
We are please to offer a 5 c x gallon discount for all Ocean Posse Yachts
GM Ocean Yacht Marina & Tidewater Yacht Marina
Ocean Yacht Marina has many options to accommodate all of your boating needs! We have 122 wet slips that can accommodate any vessel up to 250′.
AMMENITIES
Fuel
Laundry
122 Slips
Repairs at Sister Marina
Electricity
Marine Center Store
AC Showers and Restrooms
Two Pump Outs
MUST SEE NEARBY
⚓ 1. Olde Towne Historic District
Stroll through one of the largest collections of 18th and 19th-century homes in the U.S. This area offers a self-guided walking tour featuring over 200 historic buildings, quaint shops, and waterfront views.
🧒 2. Children’s Museum of Virginia
As the largest children's museum in the state, it boasts interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and one of the East Coast's largest antique toy and model train collections.
⚓ 3. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum & Lightship Portsmouth
Discover over 250 years of naval history at the shipyard museum. Adjacent to it, the Lightship Portsmouth—a National Historic Landmark—offers a glimpse into life aboard a lightship.
🎬 4. Commodore Theatre
Experience a movie in this restored 1945 Art Deco theater, which combines first-run films with a full-service dining experience.
🌳 5. Portsmouth City Park
This expansive park features a 9-hole golf course, playgrounds, a fishing pier, and scenic views of the Elizabeth River—perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.
🚣 6. Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve
Engage with nature through kayaking, birdwatching, and hiking in this 142-acre preserve, home to diverse wildlife and serene landscapes.
🎭 7. Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion
Attend concerts and events at this 6,500-seat outdoor amphitheater located on the waterfront, offering performances ranging from music to cultural festivals.
🎲 8. Rivers Casino Portsmouth
Try your luck at Virginia's first permanent casino, featuring a variety of gaming options, dining venues, and live entertainment.
🏠 9. Hill House Museum Step back in time in this preserved 1825 English basement home, filled with original furnishings and artifacts from the Hill family, offering insights into 19th-century life
🛤️10. Railroad Museum of Virginia
Explore vintage railroad artifacts, rolling stock, and interactive exhibits that showcase the rich history of rail transportation in the region.
13) CRUISING GROUND COSTALEGRE 🇲🇽 MEXICO THE HAPPY COAST
Costalegre translates to the Happy Coast. The 135 nm stretch of coast in Mexico known by this name runs from Cabo Corrientes (the southern limit of Banderas Bay) to Manzanillo. There are 20+ wonderful anchorages along this stretch of coast that make it a fabulous place to cruise. As always, choose your own adventure and take your time to enjoy the most Happiness you can along the Happy Coast.
The water is usually warm and pleasant with gentle dinghy beach landings, Some of these remote anchorages are solitary with the exception of Tenecatita which at the height of the cruising season will have up to 50 yachts at anchor.
⚓ Bahia Careyes - N @ 19° 26.6418' N 105° 02.1684' W
⚓ Ensenada Teopa @ 19° 23.9448' N 105° 01.4672' W
⚓ Tenacatita - Outer bay @ 19° 17.1346' N 104° 52.0404' W
⚓ Tenacatita - Inner Bay @ 19° 17.8725' N 104° 50.1806' W
⚓ La Manzanilla @ 19° 16.8747' N 104° 47.4327' W
⚓ Bahia Cuastecomate - SE @ 19° 13.8132' N 104° 43.8949' W
⚓ Melaque @ 19° 13.1810' N 104° 42.5871' W
⚓ Barra de Navidad - Lagoon @ 19° 11.5084' N 104° 40.3672' W
⚓ Ensenada Carrizal @ 19° 05.7860' N 104° 26.2464' W
⚓ Higueras Cove @ 19° 06.2471′ N 104° 24.7503′ W
⚓ Bahia Santiago – N @ 19° 06.6530′ N 104° 23.4890′ W
⚓ Bahia Manzanillo – Las Hadas @ 19° 06.0977′ N 104° 20.6284′ W
⚓ Bahia Careyes - N @ 19° 26.6418' N 105° 02.1684' W
⚓ Ensenada Teopa @ 19° 23.9448' N 105° 01.4672' W
⚓ Tenacatita - Outer bay @ 19° 17.1346' N 104° 52.0404' W
⚓ Tenacatita - Inner Bay @ 19° 17.8725' N 104° 50.1806' W
⚓ La Manzanilla @ 19° 16.8747' N 104° 47.4327' W
⚓ Bahia Cuastecomate - SE @ 19° 13.8132' N 104° 43.8949' W
⚓ Melaque @ 19° 13.1810' N 104° 42.5871' W
⚓ Barra de Navidad - Lagoon @ 19° 11.5084' N 104° 40.3672' W
⚓ Ensenada Carrizal @ 19° 05.7860' N 104° 26.2464' W
⚓ Higueras Cove @ 19° 06.2471′ N 104° 24.7503′ W
⚓ Bahia Santiago – N @ 19° 06.6530′ N 104° 23.4890′ W
⚓ Bahia Manzanillo – Las Hadas @ 19° 06.0977′ N 104° 20.6284′ W
Along this route there are several rocks which protrude out especially on the south entrance to Tenecatita - these dangers are marked in Good Nautical
14) INTRODUCING A NEW PARTNERSHIP MARINA
OCEAN VILLAGE MARINA 🇬🇮 GIBRALTAR SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
36° 08.9983’N 005° 21.295′ W
We are excited to welcome the Ocean Posse to Gibraltar !
It’s a pleasure. We are pleased to offer a discount to Ocean Posse members.
AMENITIES
Shore-power
Water
24 Hour Security
Restaurants
Bars
Shops
Laundry
Airport
Chandleries
Markets
MUST SEE NEARBY
Visit the Skywalk: The Skywalk is a glass platform built on the edge of the Rock, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Explore the World War II Tunnels: These tunnels, built during the war, provide a glimpse into Gibraltar's military history and offer stunning views.
Hike the Footpaths: The Rock of Gibraltar has numerous footpaths, offering various levels of difficulty and panoramic views.
Visit St. Michael's Cave: This natural cave system, with its stalactites and stalagmites, is a fascinating place to explore.
Apes all Around: Gibraltar is home to Barbary macaques, Europe's only wild monkeys, which roam freely on the Rock. You can get close to them on guided tours or while hiking.
Search for Neanderthal Man: Gibraltar is believed to have been inhabited by Neanderthals, and you can explore the areas where evidence of their presence has been found.
Climb the Mediterranean Steps: These steps, built into the side of the Rock, offer a unique perspective on the area and a challenging but rewarding climb.
Visit the Great Siege Tunnels: These tunnels were built during the 18th century and played a crucial role in Gibraltar's defense.
Stay Behind Cave: A secret cave built as part of Operation Tracer, where six British spies were to remain behind if Gibraltar had fallen to Germany during World War II.
Princess Anne's Battery: Explore the artillery guns of Princess Anne's Battery and discover an old military lookout and storage areas.
15) MEET THE FLEET SY 🇺🇸 BETTER TOGETHER
Homeport: Rancho Murieta, CA
We left Alameda, CA Sept 30, 2024. After a leisurely trip down the coast, we joined the Baja Ha-Ha and traveled to Cabo, then up into the Sea of Cortez for a few months. We've been on the mainland coast since January, and we're currently in Barra de Navidad. Honestly, every area has offered highlights - the California coast and Catalina Island were iconic, the Sea of Cortez deserted anchorages were beautiful and easy to explore, and the coastal Mexican towns have been lovely. We're grateful for every new place we get to explore!
The boat name was Inspired by one of our favorite Jack Johnson songs, it sums up our experience. After 37+ years of marriage, we believe that everything we do is more enjoyable and better-executed when we are together, and that includes sailing.
Why cruising?
After working and raising a family for decades, we were ready--and fortunate to be in a place where we could--go on an adventure. Inspired by the early YouTuber sailors, we spent 18 months getting our US Sailing certifications together. When COVID shut down our club, we ended up buying our own boat with a dream to cruise one day. Once we had the boat, we decided to move up "one day," take a 2-3 year sabbatical, and put the 2024 Ha-ha on our calendar! Cruising has taught us 2 important things: 1) we're capable of a lot! 2) being flexible and willing to change plans is key to happy sailing - and life!
We see cruising as an adventure - an opportunity to learn new things and challenge ourselves. We are excited for the personal and joint growth we have and will continue to experience. A moment that changed our outlook on life are the laidback days in the Sea of Cortez which offered a powerful transition from our previously hurried lives.
We've both been a bit surprised at how comfortable and content we can be in our tiny floating home. The number and depth of friendships we've made has also been a pleasant surprise.
What’s next ?
We plan to transit the Panama Canal and look forward to the blue waters and white sands of the San Blas and Caribbean islands and are looking forward to connecting with others who will head the same direction this winter. Our current plan is to leave the boat in Chiapas for a few months, return in mid-October, and then explore Costa Rica and Panama in Nov-Jan. Boating with buddies is the best! On Instagram @sailing.bettertogether
The boat name was Inspired by one of our favorite Jack Johnson songs, it sums up our experience. After 37+ years of marriage, we believe that everything we do is more enjoyable and better-executed when we are together, and that includes sailing.
Why cruising?
After working and raising a family for decades, we were ready--and fortunate to be in a place where we could--go on an adventure. Inspired by the early YouTuber sailors, we spent 18 months getting our US Sailing certifications together. When COVID shut down our club, we ended up buying our own boat with a dream to cruise one day. Once we had the boat, we decided to move up "one day," take a 2-3 year sabbatical, and put the 2024 Ha-ha on our calendar! Cruising has taught us 2 important things: 1) we're capable of a lot! 2) being flexible and willing to change plans is key to happy sailing - and life!
We see cruising as an adventure - an opportunity to learn new things and challenge ourselves. We are excited for the personal and joint growth we have and will continue to experience. A moment that changed our outlook on life are the laidback days in the Sea of Cortez which offered a powerful transition from our previously hurried lives.
We've both been a bit surprised at how comfortable and content we can be in our tiny floating home. The number and depth of friendships we've made has also been a pleasant surprise.
What’s next ?
We plan to transit the Panama Canal and look forward to the blue waters and white sands of the San Blas and Caribbean islands and are looking forward to connecting with others who will head the same direction this winter. Our current plan is to leave the boat in Chiapas for a few months, return in mid-October, and then explore Costa Rica and Panama in Nov-Jan. Boating with buddies is the best! On Instagram @sailing.bettertogether
SY BETTER TOGETHER 🇺🇸 Lisa & Byron & Buffy - Catalina Morgan 45'
16) INTRODUCING A NEW PARTNERSHIP MARINA DI VILLASIMIUS 🇮🇹 SARDINIA SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
39°07.13′ N 9°30.4366′ E
We are pleased to support the Ocean Posse participants with a 10 % discount at our marina.
CONTACT
VFH 09
Tel. (+39) 070 7978006
info@marinadivillasimius.it
NAUTICAL SERVICES & AMENITIES
Electricity 220-380 volts, 125 amps
Mooring assistance H24
Video surveillance H24
24-hour security
Dock lighting
Wi-Fi
Petrol and diesel fuel dispenser on quayside
Technical assistance
Weather service
Bunkering
Galley
Water and sanitation
Internal/external cleaning
Waste collection
Waste oil and battery collection
Bilge suction
Water cleaning
Anti-pollution equipment
SEABIN for microplastic collection
Hauling and launching
Shipbuilding
Fire-fighting service
NEARBY MARINA DI VILLASIMIUS
Villasimius, a charming coastal town in Sardinia, is rich in cultural and natural significance. Near the Villasimius Marina, here are five culturally important aspects:
Fortezza Vecchia (Old Fortress) – This historic fortress dates back to the 14th century and was built to defend against pirate raids. It offers stunning views and insight into Sardinia’s defensive past.
Capo Carbonara Lighthouse – A symbol of Sardinia’s maritime heritage, this lighthouse has guided sailors for centuries. The surrounding area is part of a protected marine reserve.
Museo Archeologico di Villasimius – This small yet fascinating museum showcases artifacts from Nuragic, Phoenician, and Roman periods, reflecting the deep history of the region.
Nuragic Ruins – Sardinia is famous for its Nuragic civilization (1900–730 BCE), and there are several sites near Villasimius where you can see remnants of these mysterious ancient stone towers.
Sagra della Madonna del Naufrago (Festival of the Madonna of the Shipwrecked) – Held annually in July, this religious and maritime festival involves a procession to an underwater statue of the Madonna, celebrating the town’s deep connection to the sea.
17) SPECIAL GATHERING DURING THE CARTAGENA FESTIVAL 🇪🇸 SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 28 16:00-21:00
brought to you by YACHT PORT CARTAGENA & FLOR DE CAÑA RUM
Flor de Caña Rum tasting
Networking with fellow cruisers
Pot Luck BBQ with prices for best food
Insights on cruising with the OCEAN POSSE to the Caribbean, Panama and Pacific routes Whether you’re continuing to cruise the Med or embark on the grand passage to the Caribbean, this event is the perfect way to celebrate the call of the sea and the journey ahead and meet and mingle with the fleet.
Yacht Port Cartagena is a full-service marina located in the heart of one of the most historically rich ports in the western Mediterranean. Sheltered within a deep natural harbor, the marina offers excellent protection year-round and is a preferred overwintering spot for many long-range cruisers. It features over 300 berths for vessels up to 140 meters, with all the technical services, security, and amenities expected of a modern facility—including 24/7 dock staff, a well-equipped boatyard, and haul-out services.
Will Freeman, fellow for Latin America studies at CFR, sits down with James M. Lindsay to discuss calls for the United States to retake control of the Panama Canal.
The Panama Canal is a chokepoint for global trade. Today, the canal handles 5 percent of all maritime trade and 40 percent of all U.S. container ship traffic. It was originally built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with thousands of Panamanian laborers, making it a historically important symbol to the Panamanian nation
To arrange for transit with the Panama Canal Authority please contact our dedicated Panama Canal agents and sponsors of the Panama Posse and the Pacific Posse
Update on ‘Quiet’. John Jones on Quiet, single handing out of El Salvador since January 13 and under jury rig since January 27th, has arrived in Papeete Tahiti for repairs.
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