FLEET UPDATE 2018-12-28
1) Bahia del Sol, EL SALVADOR
Toccata remains in Bahia Del Sol, has become a base for inland travel. After trips to Guatemala and Rivera Maya Mexico, the admiral has decided we should do land travel to Nicaragua and Costa Rica before heading for Panama. We will probably not arrive Panama until late March. I have to admit Bahia Del Sol is a great base of operations for Central American land travel. Will also give the Papagayos to soften.
Steven & Marilyn
TOCCATA
2) Golfito, COSTA RICA
Knot Right left Marina Papagaya CR on Friday 12/21 after refueling, traveled a whole 5 nm to Bahia Hermosa. Anchored, and dinghy to shore for an early dinner with friends who are local in Cocos. With 4 people, dinghy wheels and only a 9.9 HP engine, we were a little slow. It also didn’t help that we choose the wrong wave. Yes we got wet, but didn’t loose the boat. We still had an enjoyable time.
We left the next afternoon to head for Isla Tortuga, After we rounded the corner, we had a beam reach until 10 PM, with the Jib only, we exceeded my theoretical top speed of 8.8, we actually hit 10 at one time. Later that night and the next morning we had a wind and current on the nose. The period was less that 5 seconds, so we did take a beating.
We arrived at Isla Tortuga at 9 AM and motored around to find a go spot to anchor. We wanted to stay away from the human onslaught from the mainland to the island. We found 20 ft at low tide at 9 46.7147n 84 53.8016w. Calm evening, but some rolling in the AM (I think the workers for the party goers are coming ashore and it felt like the wakes of their transports). Did some snorkelling, not very clear. Heading to Golfito at 8 AM on 12/26.
Got to Golfito early, had to motor all the way. Went to the fuel docks (at IGY) and refueled, from there they permitted us to stay while we went to Customs, Immigration and the bank (don’t push it though).
There is also a Super (not so big) Mega for some provisioning. The customs office is 1 KM to SE walking distance, but very humid. Have three copies of everything, but if not he might be helpful to copy some papers. I think there is a copying place across the street. The Immigration is in the other direction about 2 (total 3) KM. Take a cab from customs to Immigration (anywhere $2-4). Immigration and the National Bank (third stop) is the duty free shopping area. If you want to buy anything here, I believe you need to stand in line to purchase a prepaid card of some sort. Didn’t bother because we wanted to hustle out of here. We purchased our wine when we got our provisions at the Supermega half way between Fuel Dock and Customs. The last stop is the port captain, his Zarpe did not list the personnel, so I asked and he gave me a stamped copy of my crew list (not taking any chances). The fuel dock charges for water and trash, but Posse people pay about half of that charge. Heading out to Pedregal Panama tonight 27-Dec at 4 PM, need to get to the mouth of the river just before high tide tomorrow at 7.
Walt & Jeariene
KNOT RIGHT
Note: Clearing in and Out of Costa Rica while time consuming and paperwork laden has been documented with detailed steps and all exact Lat and long of all government offices inside of Good Nautical
Here are the links for Playas del Coco
http://www.goodnautical.com/costa-rica/port-of-entry/playas-del-coco
and Golfito http://www.goodnautical.com/costa-rica/port-of-entry/golfito
3) The Panama Posse is now 76 vessels strong
Well on our way to the goal of 100 for this season - please help spread the word !
4) Here are the latest check ins from thePanama Posse 18-19 LINE Group Members
SPREZZATURA - Huatulco, MX
FOOTLOOSE - Leaving Acapulco, MX
WINE N DOWN - Approaching Bahia del Sol, El Salvador
KNOT RIGHT - Checking out of Golfito, Costa Rica
EPIPHANY - Heading south from Barra de Navidad, MX - see long line alert below
SANS CLES - Chiapas, MX - reporting plenty of room in the Marina
SLOW DANCER - Marina Vallarta, MX - discount confirmed but only pablo@marina-vallarta.com.mx has the info
MARIAH - La Paz
LIQUID - Barra de Navidad, MX
COQUETTE - Leaving Acapulco, MX
NILAYA - Leaving Puerto Vallarta
MAI TAI - Mazatlan heading to PV by the 26th and Barra after New Years
MADELEINE - Leaving Acapulco
AVANT - Bahia del Sol, El Salvador
FLOATING STONES - Barra de Navidad, MX
PARADISEA - Leaving Zihuatanejo for Acapulco, MX
FIREFLY - Barra de Navidad, MX
SEAGLUB - Barra de Navidad, MX
XENIA - Las Perlas, Panama
CARINTHIA - Vista Mar Marina, Panama
FLEET CHECK IN and MORNING NET on MONDAY'S at 16:00 UTC via LINE 5) Huatulco Marine Park & Tehuantepec, MX
We are currently (Fri Dec 28th, 4.30 pm) in Chachacual Cove (La India), Huatulco.
How beautiful it is here! We were thinking of crossing the Gulf of Tehuantepec starting on Sunday Dec 30th.
We based our decision on Saildocs and Windy. Can you confirm Chris if that is a good time? If you please would answer in Sailmail as well as in Line that would be great. Both SSB and internet via Telcel are difficult here. We are sometimes successfull with one, and sometimes with the other system. We left Acapulco Sunday dec 23rd. Had a beautiful trip to Huatulco. 1/3 was sailing. Nights with full moon. Calm weather. Beautiful coast. Dec 25th we arrived in Puerto Sacrificios (San Agustin), Anchored 15 41.36 N 96 13.98 W in 9.6 meter, good holding, sand. Beautiful bay, much tourism during the day, restless water. Maybe not so nice for monohulls. Tried to reach the beach by dinghy, but too much swell, was no success. We left today for Chachacual, also very very beautiful and much quieter. More protected. All tourists left at 3 pm. Anchored at 15 42.61 N 96 12.18 W, in 7.1 meter. Sand, good holding.
Thanks,
Maaike & Huib
MADELEINE
5) Long Line alert - Mexico
Long Line at 19° 04.435' N, 104° 42.369 W
EPIPHANY
George & Suzanne
6) Fuel in Huatulco, MX
Due to the silting of the channel Marina Chahue is closed until further notice -
But you can use your dinghy to get it from the marina or approach the
commercial fuel dock in the next bay with lot's of fenders.
The location below has the working fuel dock
Eric
SPREZZATURA
7) Bahia del Sol - EL SALVADOR
Picture of the Week from El Salvador Rally - FISH VISCOUS exiting over the bar
Doug & Nancy
FISH VICIOUS
8) The Panama Posse 2018-2019 burgees are flying -
please take pictures for next weeks update of your new years celebrations !
SIMPLIFY - Robert
HALF MOON - Elizabeth & ?
CHARLY - André-Philippe & Sylvie
ARGUS - Bryan & Stephanie
Mattias and Regina of JASINA after a delightful Christmas dinner prepared by
Patrice of SONOMARA aboard FOOTLOOSE with PARADISEA
9) CROSSROADS ( from last season )
SAFETY/SECURITY TELEPHONE NUMBERS (Diane last season actually called every number)
U.S. COAST GUARD RESCUE COORDINATION CENTER
Rescue Coordination Center: (510) 437-3701. This is the number for group receiving EPIRB emergency beacon distress signals. They will coordinate with local country Coast Guards if boater is outside of the U.S. and they have translators, as the numbers at the local country Coast Guards in Central America will speak Spanish. They said it would be ok to call them in emergency.
CENTRAL AMERICA COUNTRY COAST GUARD CONTACT NUMBERS
These numbers were given to me by the U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Coordination Center. The individuals from these local Coast Guards will speak Spanish when you call them. If you cannot communicate with them, the Rescue Coordination Center can call them, but that will take more time.
El Salvadore Coast Guard: (505) 22500210, Extension 5103
Nicaragua Coast Guard: (504)22342507
Costa Rica Coast Guard: (506) 22314924
Panama Coast Guard: (507) 60451197
CALIFORNIA COAST GUARD OFFICES WHO COULD BE called if you cannot reach rescue coordination center, however the local coast guards will likely just go through the Rescue Center:
Coast Guard Sector LA/Long Beach: 310 521-3815
Channel Islands office: 805 985-9822
VHF EMERGENCY CHANNEL FOR MAYDAY: 16
U.S. COAST GUARD EMERGENCY SSB CHANNELS
MHZ UTC time
4.125 2300-11
6.125 24 hr.
8.290 24 hr.
12.290 1100-2300
HAM SSB NETS
World wide emergency Ham net: 14.313 24 hr.
Pacific Seafares Net 14300 @ 0300 UTC
Central America Ham net: 7.083 UTC time 1300
CENTRAL AMERICA EMBASSY CONTACT INFORMATION. Go to www.usembassy.gov/ for further information. For Central America embassies, emergency number is +1-202-501-4444, and press “0”, from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. EST. When dialing embassy numbers below probably start with “ +” depending on phone service.
COSTA RICA
+506 2519 2000
Calle 98 Via 104, Pavas, San Jose, Costa Rico
EL SALVADOR
+503 2501 2999
Final Blvd. Santa Elena, Antiguo Cuseatlan, La Libertad, San Salvador
GUATEMALA
+502 2326 4000
Avenida Reforma 7-01, Zona 10, Guatemala Cuidad, Guatemala
HONDURAS
+504 2238 5114 (after hours X4100)
+504 2236 9320 (per embassy website, but not communications received: 011-504 2236 9320)
Avenida La Paz, Tegucigalpa MDC, Honduras
MEXICO
+52 55 5080-2000
Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtenoc, 06500 Mexico, DF
NICARGUA
+505 2252-7100
Kilometer 5.5 Carreter Sur, Managua, Nicagagua
PANAMA
+507 317 5000
Bldg 783, Demetrio Basilio Lakas Ave, Clayton, Panama
REPORT U.S. CITIZEN MISSING ABROAD: 1-888-407-4747
GLOBAL MARINE DISTRESS SAFETY SYSTEM: 1-888-407-4747, press “0” for overseas citizen emergency services.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MARITIME ADMINISTATION, OFFICE OF MARITIME SECURITY.
They provide information on piracy and safety and security, and you can sign up for alerts by going online.
Emergency: 1-202-501-4444 (8-8 EST, M-F)
Stan & Diane (we wish you a speedy recovery Diane)
10) HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!
Please reply to this email with any
updates and we'll include it in the next Fleet Updates.
Please take pictures of your new years celebrations.
Dietmar & Suzanne
SV Carinthia
11) Opt-out from Fleet Updates simply reply with "REMOVE"
FLEET UPDATE 2020-12-23
1)
Marina Papagayo, Costa Rica
After
we crossed the bar at Bahia del Sol, El Salvador
we encountered some fishing vessels, so we decided
to motor past them before we unfurled the main. We
needed to get out further for a better coarse to
sail. We unfurled the main and it looked like we
needed to tighten the halyard, but no matter what
we did, nada. Dennis went forward to touch the
tack, and the main started to drop. (Expletive -
deleted). So we brought it down, flaked it on the
boom, looked down on the deck, and there was the
very narrow, long shackle without the pin. It
appeared that the pin on the shackle stripped out
and the head was no longer attached to the top
furler mechanism. It would have been a much better
problem to solve if the halyard had broken.
Anyway, what ever sailing we did, it was head-sail
only.
We
continued to Bahia St Elena, Costa Rica. The
Papagayos were kicking up, so we did have some
interesting winds and swells, especially since we
couldn’t use the main. We anchored away from the
winds that came along the mountain edge, around
10°54'41.7"N 85°47'29.6"W. We still had some 20 kt
winds during the night. The Rocna 25 anchor and
140’ of chain was very comfortable.
We
spent two nights there to rest, did not go ashore,
but there was a young couple that went exploring
each day for about a week.
We left
to go to Marina Papagaya, planned to get a shackle
and handle all of the other “show stopping
issues”. We rented a car (cheapest way to get
around in the area) to provision and handle
repairs. We couldn’t find the shackle, but we
found a machine shop and for $8.11 there were four
people working on re-tapping and aligning the old
one for a new larger pin that we commandeered from
an oversize shackle.
There
is a Walmart in Liberia Costa Rica, but there are
many other places to provision that you would
definitely enjoy. There is a Do-It center (Home
Depot style) at the corner of the road from the
peninsula (where the marina is located) and the
main road. Turn left to go to the International
Airport and Liberia, turn right to go to Hermosa
and Coco. Dennis and Geri have some friends that
live near Hermosa so we went out to dinner with
them for Dennis’ birthday (don’t tell him I told
you).
Except
for the marina, the peninsula is a gated community
with a half dozen resorts and a dozen restaurants
(we didn't bother, we're cruisers).
We’ve
been staying at the marina because we need the
wifi access to try in get replacement parts
ordered. Most of these parts will be spares for
parts that we have seen some wear and tear
(anybody have a Volvo Penta PC-740 top mount
single lever throttle control, not having much
luck finding or getting it sent to Panama). The
marina has great security, fuel dock, a cable TV
room, coin operated laundry, showers with some
warm water, a small ships store open seven days a
week, with a very helpful staff that even handle
the rental car. The “Dive Bar” is a little steep
in price, but the food is good. The coffee shop is
REALLY expensive. The resort pool is available to
marina quests. The docks have better than usual
wifi, high pressure potable water, 250 amp, head
pump at the slip. Almost all of the staff will
speak english and Dan Eaffaldano is the manager
who can help with most of your needs. Marina is
+506 2690 3600 email: dan.eaffaldano@marinapapagayo.com
or VHF 16 maybe 23A.
So our
plan is to leave the marina on Friday 12/21, go to
Bahia Hermosa (5 nm)
until Sunday 12/23, then probably to Bahia
Ballena, Tambor Costa Rica.
Walt
& Jeariene
Knot Right
2)
Mexico - Picture(s) of the week
Night over Maruata Bay
Manzanillo at night, from Carrizal
Cove
Sierra Madre
Huibert & Maaike
MADELEINE
3) Marina Ixtapa, Mexico
COQUETTE
! 90 US cents per foot plus
tax is the daily rate
Simple
Life is parked there for
Christmas. .70c +tax for 35 days.
Crocs
included. Dry storage more
expensive.
4) WEEKLY 2018-2019 PANAMA
POSSE FLEET CHECK IN and MORNING NET
on MONDAY'S at 16:00 UTC via LINE
We have been testing a new
"LINE" tool for weekly
vessel check ins and GROUP
calls -
last years SSB check-ins
had several draw backs due
to propagation -so we have
done some testing and came
up with something pretty
nifty ...
It's a new way of doing
things - please download
and install LINE https://line.me/en-US/
Works on Android / ios /
Windows / MAC OS
- Register using your
VESSEL name as the
USERNAME ie SV
SEAGLUB
- Next search for
panamaposse or SV
Carinthia or Seaglub and
befriend us -
- wait and accept your
PANAMAPOSSE GROUP INVITE
Connect every Monday at
16:00 UTC and send us
your position via the
message system and
listen to the vessel
check ins
(all free as long you have
IP connectivity which we
now know is pretty much
all along the coast)
The LINE system allows for
up to 200 live
conference call
participants.
Check in tomorrow at
Monday Dec 24th, 2018 at 16:00
UTC
with
your vessel location and
holiday updates
5) Panama - getting parts from
the US
Getting parts / mail into Panama. ( they
do also have offices in Costa Rica,
and operate in Belize, Honduras
and Guatemala )
There are several ways to get parts delivered
in Panama - but one of the more innovative
ways is
via Mailboxes Etc.
a) Register for a free unique ID
online at www.mbe-ca.com
(top right corner change language to English
and select a city near you depending on your
Marina / etc )
b) verify your email with a
picture of your passport and agree to their
terms.
c) Purchase anything in the US and
have it shipped to your unique ID and
Miami, Florida Address (you pay regular
US shipping charges or free if you use Amazon
Prime)
d) As soon as your package arrives
in Florida you get an email and it is
forwarded to the Mailboxes etc store (you
chose from the cities above) in Panama
e) 3- 4 days later you get
an email and go to the local store and pick
up your package for a nominal fee
(example a 8x5x7 inch box with a pound of
generator parts
was $ 11.95)
6) Vista Mar Marina - Panama
Holiday and Christmas Celebration setup -
Panama Posse meets first time Puddle Jumpers
The north winds are blowing and the local dogs
are lined up for Christmas goodies ...
The "cold" full moon
Happy Holidays
Dietmar & Suzanne
CARINTHIA
7) Good Nautical is an official
501(c)3 and holds the detailed Panama Posse
info
https://panamaposse.com/route
Scroll down
for stops - and there is also the link to
all the Sponsor Marinas and services at
https://panamaposse.com/sponsors
just follow
the link (icons) enter your membership
credentials which have been emailed to you
if you need help login in or how to use the
site just send an email to dietmar@goodnautical.com
8) Please reply to this email
with any updates - contenders for picture
of the week
and we'll include it in the next Fleet
Updates - happy happy !
Dietmar & Suzanne
SV Carinthia
9) opt-out from the Fleet
Updates ( especially if you are not in
central America anymore ) simply reply with
"REMOVE"
FLEET UPDATE 2018-12-20
1) Zihuatanejo, MX
We had a great time in Zihuatenejo but are itching to spend
time in Huatulco and Chiapas so chugging south.
Mid-cruise to Acapulco today with ETA of 17:30 and mooring with
Vicente.
Saw two humpbacks breach then we cruised along with them until
they took a deep dive.
Some porpoise too. 5k wind, dead calm sea, 29.5C, clear skies.
Beautiful!!
Eric & new Crew Kim
SPREZZATURA
2) Acapulco, MX
Meet Vicente and his sons - our Panama Posse man in Acapulco -
Vicente Herrera, phone +52 (1) 744-439-8184.
Moorings near 16° 50.4735 N 99° 54.3468 W
Approach
SPREZZATURA Eric & Kim
3) Bahias de Huatulco National Park, MX
The national park of Oaxaca, Mexico ~ 30,000 acres.
There are 9,000 species of plants (about 50% of the species are
reported throughout Mexico) in the forest and mangroves on the
coast.
264 animals species, which includes armadillos and white-tailed
deer
701 Bird species including hummingbirds, pelicans and hawks
470 reptile include the Black Iguana, salamanders and snakes
Dolphins, whales and turtles are sighted species off the coast
line, out of the identified 100 amphibian species.
Vegetation is dominated by the low forest growth with high trees.
Lot's to discover - details for these anchorages in
goodnautical.com
As a side note for you movie buffs - Bahia
Cacaluta (15°43.3053'
N 096° 09.8316' W)
was the filming location for the "secret" beach scenes from the
award-winning Mexican cult flick
"Y TU MAMA TAMBIEN" -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Qg6n7V3kO4
4) ACAPULCO - MX
I think Vicente was very disappointed when we left for the
marina. He was very friendly and willing to take us ashore, but we
really did not want to have to call him every time we wanted to go
ashore. And we do not have toilet facilities on board which last
longer than a few days. We have a pro forma very small waste tank.
And I wanted to wash the boat. From capt Pats Guide you might get
the impression that Marina Performance really is the best to go.
But the slips are med mooring right on the street. Not a nice
environment, busy and air pollution. We tried to dock the dinghy
there and we could, but at a fee of MXN 190 per hour. In the Yacht
Club we waited endlessly for the harbormaster and then left.
Marina Acapulco, where we are now, is under construction and will
become nice. Much space. Toilet facilities are now in the cantina
for the personnel, clean, but 1 shower and toilet for men and 1
for women. Closed at night. Water not potable. Wifi is bad, you
have to be in the harbormasters office to be able to connect. But
it is directly on the main Avenue Aleman. Supermarket is across
the street, Superama, very good. Capt Pat speaks about swimming
pool and laundry in the marina, but no. Laundry is not very far
away and cheap, though. We are here for convenience and have a
nice place alongside, at the bay. Clamps on the pontoons are not
spaced very well, so when the wind picks up in the afternoon you
have quite a job to tie up well. Sometimes across the pontoon.
People are very friendly, relaxed atmosphere. For us, 42ft, it is
50 USD per night. Mentioned the Posse and showed him the burgee.
We left Zihua earlier then we planned. We never realized that
there are no dinghydocks in Mexico. We traveled quite a bit and
everywhere there was a dock, sometimes in bad shape, but it was
there. We have a hard bottom dinghy, so not very light. Good for
rough water. In Zihua we had to bring in on the beach, helped by
fishermen. I had back surgery a few months ago and Huib has
attacks of cardiac arrhythmias every now and then. Next day my
back was really hurting and Huib had an attack. So you can imagine
how reluctant we are for this kind of exercise. I will send you
pictures from the laptop. I think we will leave one of these days
and not be in Acapulco for Christmas. We have seen the sightings
and move on. Keep you informed,
Huibert & Maaike
MADELEINE
(note on availability of dinghy docks - there are very
few dinghy docks in Nicaragua - Costa Rica and Panama due
to the increasing tidal range so be prepared to haul your dinghy
up and down the beaches as a quick fix you can use 2 wheel
barrel wheels and rig a temporary attachment to your dinghies
transom)
5) Panama Posse Safety Alert
Please, please, please always hoist your dinghy up and
lock it at night !
Always lock your dinghy - especially if you go on shore.
Tie it to a sturdy pole or tree and remove any valuables.
Thieves are opportunists may swim out to cut your dinghy's
painter and
then use rocks on the beach to break off locks.
Please use a (pad) lock with a difficult point of attack and a heavy
chain
or re-in-forced coated wire - see a sample lock below.
6) HIP HIP HOORAY
the Panama Posse Fleet is at 72 vessels and 8
Flag States
7) Isla Tigre, Honduras
We visited Isla Tigre, Amapala, in Honduras, in the Gulf of
Fonseca.
We stayed a week and had a great time. Good food, safe, dinghy
security by Hector.
Free check in and out. ATM and Latin market style shopping. Highly
recommend this stop
Please note - no fuel, no services, little to no
repair options
PICTURE OF THE WEEK
View from the Check-in
Anchorage
Playa Grande
This is the ferry to the
mainland
Jim & Susy
OCTOPUS GARDEN
8) Bahia del Sol - El Savador
Fish Vicious arrived from Chiapas yesterday. They will spend
Christmas with Bill & Jean.
Doug & Nancy
FISH VICIOUS
9) WEEKLY 2018-2019 PANAMA POSSE FLEET CHECK IN
and MORNING NET on MONDAY'S at 16:00 UTC via LINE
We have been testing a new "LINE" tool for weekly vessel check ins
and GROUP calls -
last years SSB check-ins had several draw backs due to propagation
-so we have done some testing and came up with something pretty
nifty ...
It's a new way of doing things - please download and install LINE
https://line.me/en-US/
Works on Android / ios / Windows / MAC OS
- Register using your vessel name as the USERNAME ie SV
SEAGLUB
- Next search for panamaposse and befriend us -
- wait and accept your PANAMAPOSSE GROUP INVITE
Connect every Monday at 16:00 UTC and send us your position via
the message
system and listen to the vessel check ins (all free as long
you have IP connectivity
which we now know is pretty much all along the coast)
The LINE system allows for up to 200 live conference call
participants.
11) Panama Posse 2018-2019 Burgees are being hoisted -
thank you Chris from Seaglub and Michael Footloose for the latest
deliveries
Panama Posse TAG @ ANY Restaurant in Zihuatenjo ( that's BIG )
COQUETTE has the Burgee
MALAKAI has the Burgee !
Tappan Zee has the Burgee
Kathleen with the Burgee
TOP CIDER - about to hoist the Burgee
SIRENA has the Burgee
10) Please reply to this email with any
updates - holiday decorations -
contenders for picture of the week - your favorite song for our
list -
and we'll include it in the next Fleet Update
Dietmar & Suzanne
SV Carinthia
Happy 30th pearl wedding anniversary to
my wife Suzanne - a true saint !
11) opt-out from the Fleet Updates simply reply
with "REMOVE"
FLEET UPDATE 2018-12-23
1) Marina Papagayo, Costa Rica
After we crossed the bar at Bahia del Sol, El Salvador we encountered some fishing vessels, so we decided to motor past them before we unfurled the main. We needed to get out further for a better coarse to sail. We unfurled the main and it looked like we needed to tighten the halyard, but no matter what we did, nada. Dennis went forward to touch the tack, and the main started to drop. (Expletive - deleted). So we brought it down, flaked it on the boom, looked down on the deck, and there was the very narrow, long shackle without the pin. It appeared that the pin on the shackle stripped out and the head was no longer attached to the top furler mechanism. It would have been a much better problem to solve if the halyard had broken. Anyway, what ever sailing we did, it was head-sail only.
We continued to Bahia St Elena, Costa Rica. The Papagayos were kicking up, so we did have some interesting winds and swells, especially since we couldn’t use the main. We anchored away from the winds that came along the mountain edge, around 10°54'41.7"N 85°47'29.6"W. We still had some 20 kt winds during the night. The Rocna 25 anchor and 140’ of chain was very comfortable.
We spent two nights there to rest, did not go ashore, but there was a young couple that went exploring each day for about a week.
We left to go to Marina Papagaya, planned to get a shackle and handle all of the other “show stopping issues”. We rented a car (cheapest way to get around in the area) to provision and handle repairs. We couldn’t find the shackle, but we found a machine shop and for $8.11 there were four people working on re-tapping and aligning the old one for a new larger pin that we commandeered from an oversize shackle.
There is a Walmart in Liberia Costa Rica, but there are many other places to provision that you would definitely enjoy. There is a Do-It center (Home Depot style) at the corner of the road from the peninsula (where the marina is located) and the main road. Turn left to go to the International Airport and Liberia, turn right to go to Hermosa and Coco. Dennis and Geri have some friends that live near Hermosa so we went out to dinner with them for Dennis’ birthday (don’t tell him I told you).
Except for the marina, the peninsula is a gated community with a half dozen resorts and a dozen restaurants (we didn't bother, we're cruisers).
We’ve been staying at the marina because we need the wifi access to try in get replacement parts ordered. Most of these parts will be spares for parts that we have seen some wear and tear (anybody have a Volvo Penta PC-740 top mount single lever throttle control, not having much luck finding or getting it sent to Panama). The marina has great security, fuel dock, a cable TV room, coin operated laundry, showers with some warm water, a small ships store open seven days a week, with a very helpful staff that even handle the rental car. The “Dive Bar” is a little steep in price, but the food is good. The coffee shop is REALLY expensive. The resort pool is available to marina quests. The docks have better than usual wifi, high pressure potable water, 250 amp, head pump at the slip. Almost all of the staff will speak english and Dan Eaffaldano is the manager who can help with most of your needs. Marina is +506 2690 3600 email: dan.eaffaldano@marinapapagayo.com or VHF 16 maybe 23A.
So our plan is to leave the marina on Friday 12/21, go to Bahia Hermosa (5 nm)
until Sunday 12/23, then probably to Bahia Ballena, Tambor Costa Rica.
Walt & Jeariene
Knot Right
2) Mexico - Picture(s) of the week
Night over Maruata Bay
Manzanillo at night, from Carrizal Cove
Sierra Madre
Huibert & Maaike
MADELEINE
3) Marina Ixtapa, Mexico
COQUETTE ! 90 US cents per foot plus tax is the daily rate
Simple Life is parked there for Christmas. .70c +tax for 35 days.
Crocs included. Dry storage more expensive.
4) WEEKLY 2018-2019 PANAMA POSSE FLEET CHECK IN and MORNING NET on MONDAY'S at 16:00 UTC via LINE
We have been testing a new "LINE" tool for weekly vessel check ins and GROUP calls -
last years SSB check-ins had several draw backs due to propagation -so we have done some testing and came up with something pretty nifty ...
It's a new way of doing things - please download and install LINE https://line.me/en-US/
Works on Android / ios / Windows / MAC OS
- Register using your VESSEL name as the USERNAME ie SV SEAGLUB
- Next search for panamaposse or SV Carinthia or Seaglub and befriend us -
- wait and accept your PANAMAPOSSE GROUP INVITE
Connect every Monday at 16:00 UTC and send us your position via the message system and listen to the vessel check ins
(all free as long you have IP connectivity which we now know is pretty much all along the coast)
The LINE system allows for up to 200 live conference call participants.
Check in tomorrow at Monday Dec 24th, 2018 at 16:00 UTC
with your vessel location and holiday updates
5) Panama - getting parts from the US
Getting parts / mail into Panama. ( they do also have offices in Costa Rica, and operate in Belize, Honduras and Guatemala )
There are several ways to get parts delivered in Panama - but one of the more innovative ways is
via Mailboxes Etc.
a) Register for a free unique ID online at www.mbe-ca.com
(top right corner change language to English and select a city near you depending on your Marina / etc )
b) verify your email with a picture of your passport and agree to their terms.
c) Purchase anything in the US and have it shipped to your unique ID and Miami, Florida Address (you pay regular US shipping charges or free if you use Amazon Prime)
d) As soon as your package arrives in Florida you get an email and it is forwarded to the Mailboxes etc store (you chose from the cities above) in Panama
e) 3- 4 days later you get an email and go to the local store and pick up your package for a nominal fee (example a 8x5x7 inch box with a pound of generator parts
was $ 11.95)
6) Vista Mar Marina - Panama
Holiday and Christmas Celebration setup - Panama Posse meets first time Puddle Jumpers
The north winds are blowing and the local dogs are lined up for Christmas goodies ...
The "cold" full moon
Happy Holidays
Dietmar & Suzanne
CARINTHIA
7) Good Nautical is an official 501(c)3 and holds the detailed Panama Posse info
https://panamaposse.com/route
Scroll down for stops - and there is also the link to all the Sponsor Marinas and services at
https://panamaposse.com/sponsors
just follow the link (icons) enter your membership credentials which have been emailed to you
if you need help login in or how to use the site just send an email to dietmar@goodnautical.com
8) Please reply to this email with any updates - contenders for picture of the week
and we'll include it in the next Fleet Updates - happy happy !
Dietmar & Suzanne
SV Carinthia
9) opt-out from the Fleet Updates ( especially if you are not in central America anymore ) simply reply with "REMOVE"
FLEET UPDATE 2018-12-13
1) The Panama Posse is now 61 vessels strong and
growing and on the move with 7 flag states flying the
Panama Posse burgee !
2) Picture of the WEEK from SV FOOTLOOSE
Thank you for sharing this lovely moment and for a great write
up on the Panama Posse on your blog
https://www.sailfootloose.com/index.php/2018/12/09/season-three-panama/
Michael & Lisa
FOOTLOOSE
3) Marina Puesta del Sol, NICARAGUA
Now at Marina Puesta Del Sol, very reasonable price with the
Posse discount.
Highly recommended. We are doing some tours of the country with
Luis.
Be sure to negotiate prices for the tours.
Jim & Suzy
OCTOPUS GARDEN
4) PIRATES in Barra de Navidad, Mexico
Pirates!! We had our first encounter with true pirates
last night. We're all safe but I can't say the same for
our food! After a day trip to Manzanillo where we bought some
fresh avocados and other items, we woke up this morning to a
mess in our forward stateroom. Even though we may not really
need it, we're still running with air conditioner at night as
long we're plugged into the dock. We close off the forward
stateroom by closing the connecting door, no need to air
condition a room we really are not using, but we do leave the
forward hatches open. Barra Marina has a lot of hungry little
coatimundi raccoons. They found their way into our forward
stateroom last night and had their way with the groceries
we had failed to put away. Clever little critters.
Chris, Monica & Penny
SEAGLUB
(note1: Penny - you had one job ... ) (note2: wait till you encounter the Capuchin Monkeys at Manuel Antonio Park in
Costa Rica )
5) LONG LINES - Mexico
Long Line Alert
17 54.678 N102 22.397 W
10 miles off from Lazaro Cardenas.
Saw nothing until 2 pangas heading my location at high speed.
Then saw one small white float. Fortunately we didn’t pick up
anything and pangas went on their way. Proceeding to Isla
Ixtapa.
Long Line semi-Alert
Another long line 6 miles out about 15 miles from Isla Grande
(Ixtapa).
We headed toward the panga tending the line and asked how far
was the end and he said 1000meters. All orange floats.
Then he told us to go between floats. I asked was the line deep
enough and he said yes. Went through without issue.
Sample image of a Longline marker
Eric
SPREZZATURA
(note as we mentioned in the safety seminars - be
on the lookout for these long lines - here is
what they can look like -during day time - imagine spotting
this at night ;-( and have a plan to stop your vessel - stop
your engine(s) and cut them off - kitchen knife attached with
hose clamps to our boat hook )
6) Maruata Bay, Mexico
Ahoy Panama Posse,
Dec 5th
Mad and Simple Life anchored in Maruata Bay, a lovely
piece of water and beach. Lots of room.
Our pos was 18 16.06 N 103 20.5 W in 10.4 meter, good
holding in sand. Saw turtles swimming.
Simple Life went ashore, we did not. People were friendly. No
cell phone coverage.
http://www.goodnautical.com/mexico-pacific/anchorage/bahia-de-maruata
We had to replace the remote control for the anchor winch next
morning and as we saw on the gribfiles from Sailmail we would
have wind in the afternoon. So we all set sail and had a lovely
sail on spinaker, sometimes making 7-8 knots.
7) Of course we realized we could not reach Caleta
de Campos before dark, but we figured the bay would not
be that difficult. We barely reached Caleta at 7 pm, could see a
little bit. We anchored near the breakwater. Simple Life
came in an hour later and they anchored a bit more in, to the
east. We both had not expected the bay to be so small and
hearing the surf so close by was not very nice.
Our position was 18 04.32 N 102 45.02 W depth 7.7 m
good holding. We were comfortable but Simple Life was
not and they left very early this morning for Isla Grande. There
is not much wind, and on the nose, we will anchor just east of
Lazardo Cardenas and continue tomorrow. We did not have GE
charts of Maruata and Campos.
http://www.goodnautical.com/mexico-pacific/anchorage/caleta-de-campos
OpenCPN was way off, Navionics fairly accurate. I will send you
pics when on land, not by Sailmail.
Huibert & Maaike
MADELEINE
8) Good Nautical is now an official 501(c)3
and holds the detailed links for anchorage info and
sooo much more.
Just follow these links
above and enter your membership credentials (which have been
emailed to you)
If you need help login in or how to use the site just send an
email to dietmar@goodnautical.com
9) Costa Rica - For those of you heading their please
feel free Alejandro on SV REBELLIOUS
our Panama Posse participant. He'd be happy to meet up with you
in Costa Rica !
donacuisa@gmail.com
+506 881-00001
Alejandro
REBELLIOUS
(Note: he may be able provide some logistical help ;- )
10) High resolution Pictures of the Panama
Posse kick off event are available for all to see and
download !
To check them out go to https://panamaposse.com/2018-vessels/2018-2019-panama-posse-kick-off-party
11) WEEKLY 2018-2019 PANAMA POSSE FLEET CHECK IN
and MORNING NET on MONDAY'S at 16:00 UTC via LINE
We have over 40+ vessels in LINE and the calls are great
and very efficient and the Chatroom is open 24/7
It's a new way of doing things
- please download and install LINE https://line.me/en-US/
Works on Android / ios /
Windows / MAC OS
How to use it ....
- Register using your vessel name as the USERNAME
ie SV SEAGLUB
- Search for panamaposse or SV Carinthia or
Seaglub and befriend us -
- wait and accept your PANAMAPOSSE GROUP INVITE
- join the group chat -
it's awesome !
12) Please reply to this email with ...
anything really
- your updates
- contenders for picture of the week
- holiday decorations of your vessel - links to your favorite SONGS
- relevant blog posts - and of course your valuable suggestions
and we'll include it in the next FLEET UPDATE
13) Panama Posse Teaser
Preview of Maya script, also
known as Maya glyphs the writing system of the Maya.
The only Meso-American writing system which has been substantially
deciphered.
Palenque a mayor archeological site has an excellent museum
so you can view them up close
- reachable from the Chiapas Marina with an organized
tour
http://www.goodnautical.com/mexico-pacific/point-interest/palenque
14) Keep em 'coming
Dietmar & Suzanne
Carinthia
15) opt-out from the Fleet Updates simply
reply with "REMOVE"
FLEET UPDATE 2018-12-16
1) Acapulco, Mexico
Ahoy Panama Posse,
We just arrived dec 13th 10 am in Acapulco. We left
Zihuatanejo dec 12th and did not really like the anchorage
of Papanoa, so we sailed on. No problems in the night. Saw
whale and dolphins. Vicente immediately came out when we
entered the bay. I will give him a 2019 Posse small burgee.
He proudly showed me the one from last year. His smile went
even bigger when I mentioned you, Dietmar. No other Posses
here (yet). Saw Sprezzatura come into Zihua when we left.
Huibert & Maaike
MADELEINE
(note please take a
picture of Vicente with his 18-19 Panama Posse tag)
2) Bahia del Sol, El
Salvador
Bar crossing adventures
continue
This is Knot Right crossing the Bar while
leaving Bahia Del Sol, El Salvador.
After Jeariene took the pictures, she had to swim fast
to catch up with us. (lol)
Currently In Marina Papagayo, Costa Rica. Probably
there for more than a week.
Need to get some repairs accomplished.
(Sat image of the Bahia del Sol Bar - El Salvador)
Walt, Jeariene, Dennis, Geri
KNOT RIGHT
3) Marina Puerto de La Navidad, Barra de
Navidad, MXPICTURE OF THE WEEK
Yet another generous offer from
the harbor master here in Barra de Navidad...
For those in the marina, on Friday December 21
the marina staff will be walking around to judge
Christmas lights and decorations. The
staff will take a vote then award first place.
The winner will receive dinner for two or a
free night in the resort (great for
visiting parents or children!). For those of
you still north of Barra, this would make for a
great target date to be in the marina here in
Barra. Let's get those lights up and show off
the strong presence of the Panama Posse!
Chris, Monica & Penny
SEAGLUB
4) Chiapas, MX
For those heading towards Chiapas to see the
breathtaking and astonishing Mayan archeological
sites in the area
We did an amazing 4 day tour last season with him
between 3 vessels and split the cost)
Mayor archeological site near Chiapas and
Huatulco tagged in Good Nautical
Here is the info for the Panama Posse Chiapas Tour
guide
Luis Sanchez
email: luis86same@gmail.comwhatsapp: +521962 216 661
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/xoconoshtours/
5) Marina Puesta del Sol, Nicaragua
Luis, from Pinolero Tours, pinolerotoursnicaragua@gmail.com
took us to the Flor de Cana rum factory tour and
Leon.
He speaks good English and he is very knowledgeable on
Nicaragua history, geography and culture.
They operate brand new air conditioned cars and vans.
We went one day to Chinandega for $70 total on a
shopping trip/tour.
The 2nd day we did the larger tour for $75 each.
Be sure to tell him you’re from Panama Posse!
They have other tours, including coffee and volcanoes.
They also accommodate your shopping and dining needs
and they pick you up
at
Marina Puesta Del Sol but will also get
you in Corinto. They have vans for larger
groups
Jim & Susy
OCTOPUS GARDEN
6) Barra de Navidad, MX
Crab Pots Alert - 4nm for the entrance to Barra de
Navidad
~ 19° 12.07 N 104° 45.33 W
SIRENA
Greg
7) Panama Posse Weekly Line Net -
we currently have 41 vessels taking
part
MONDAY'S at 16:00 UTC via LINE and open 24/7
to all !
( go to line.me and download
the app works on WIN/MAC/IOS/ANDROID )
- Register using your vessel name as the USERNAME
SV CARINTHIA
- Search for panamaposse or SV Carinthia or Seaglub
and be friend us
- wait and accept your panamaposse GROUP INVITE
- send us your position via the message system and
listen to the vessel check ins
- the LINE system allows for up to 200 live
conference call participants !
8) Barra de Navidad, MX
FLOATING STONES receiving their Panama
Posse Burgee !
Bryan & Cheryl9) long term planning dates ...
Turtle Release Beach Party
Playa La Madera, Zijuatanejo,
MX (Dec’ / Jan' 18)
Mayan Adventures & Pot LucksMarina Chiapas
MX (Dec-Apr)
Bar Crossing Celebrations
Bahia del Sol, El Salvador (Dec-Apr)
Flor de Caña Rum Tours
Puesta del Sol, Nicaragua -
(Dec-Apr)
Papagayo Survivors Party
Coconutz , Playa Cocos, CR
(Early Feb’19)
Golfito Marina Village an IGY
Destination - Party Golfito, CR (May 1st,
’19)
Rally Completion Party
Vista Mar Marina, Panama
(May’19)
10) Live Weather & safety chats every
Monday at 16:00 UTC in the Panama Posse LINE
Group
Tehuantepec - Papagayos - El Salvador Bar
crossing - Punta Mala - a.m.o
11) Vista Mar Marina - Panama
18-19
PANAMA POSSE Songlist of all vessels XENIA
It's Christmas on Xenia. Mele Kalikimaka! -
Bing Crosby
XENIA
Tara & Mike
12) Please reply to this email
with
any updates - songs - pictures - alerts
and we'll include it in the next Fleet Updates
Happy Holidays to all from
Dietmar & Suzanne
CARINTHIA
13) opt-out from the Fleet Updates
simply reply with "REMOVE"
FLEET UPDATE 2018-12-07
1) Ahoy from Mexico Panama Posse, Madeleine left Barra Dec 3rd for Carrizal Bay. Arrived just before dark set in. Found Simple Life there and AIS ed Sonomara in Santiago Bay. Pos was 19 05.68 N 104 26.19 W depth 12.8 m. Had a nice night. there is room for more boats than Capt Rains suggests. Dec 4th went to Punta Cabeza N North, also with Simple Life. Could sail from 7-9 am with genoa and main. Then tried the spi but the wind was too light. Had our first (on this trip) long line at 18 52.84 N 104 08.00 W. Easy to remove from our port transom. Luckily we were on SB engine alone, so no problem. Only a shouting fisherman. Pos at Cabeza 18 36.32 N 103 41.96 W, depth 11 m. Again a peaceful night, but maybe a bit rolly for monohulls. We left at 7 am. I do not think we are going to make it to Caleta de C., Days are rather short and we mostly run one engine 1800 rpm. We will head for Maruata Bay.
Huibert & Maaike
HubertMAAIKE SV Madeleine
2) Zihuatanejo, MX - Turtle Release event(s)
As more vessels area heading south toward Zihuatanejo please be sure and plan to set up yoru very own Panama Posse Turtle Release Bar on Playa La Madera.
Hatch Each season these hatchlings try to avoid the birds and other predators who feast on them - so the local bar collects them during the day and puts them in a big blue bath tub -as the night approaches and margaritas are mixed - they are released from your very own hands. Seven of eight Sea Turtle species are present in Mexico. Baby sea turtles hatch about 40 to 50 days after the mother turtle lays her eggs. Sea turtles are generally released after dark. That’s because there are less predators such as birds that can kill and eat them. Fewer than 10% of these turtles live to be adults - but will return to the very place they left from many years later. So help a tiny creature out will ya ? Look for the Panama Posse Tag in the bar on the beach and take a picture. For details about Zihuatanejo - be sure to visit SV Liquid's excellent write up at http://www.svliquid.com/zihuatanejo.html
Guerrero, Mexico (Playa La Madera - turtle release beach ~ 17 38.33 N 101 33.16 W)
Marc & Laura Marc
Laura SV LIQUID
3) We are now officially at 59 vessels ! and as the 18-19 season gets underway we hope that you come across more vessels who will enjoy the benefits of being part of the Posse. For an up to date list of sponsors please visit www.panamaposse.com/sponsors
Burgee 4) Marina Puerto de La Navidad, Mexico - our Mexican Headquarters has made us a deal ! Thanks to Harbormaster Secundino and Gm Juan Carlos - you can enjoy the following PP discount throughout their high season (Dec - May) $ 16 x foot x month ( minimum stay 15 days ) $0.84 x foot x day ( short term rate ) Barra If you plan on having family / friends visit you at this luxury resort $110 x night incl. taxes and this resort is very classy with multiple pools / spa / golf / tennis a.m.o. Golf
For Marina details - approach and contact info https://panamaposse.com/start For resort and amenities details (- 45 minutes from Manzanillo Airport) at https://www.islanavidad.com.mx/site/US/index.php Harbormaster Secundino Alvarez Harbormaster
Secundino Alvarez
5) El Salvador Posse folks, when you’re heading south from Chiapas and planning a stop in Bahia del sol - El Salvador, contact Annual Salvador Rally (Bill and Jean picture below) to arrange a pilot over the bar. Bill and Jean Also, contact them a few days in advance to get their requests from Mexico (not as charity, but as paid cargo for the passage). For example, good tequila is expensive and harder to find in El Salvador and Bill is always looking for a good source of supply (Note: from Devon Thurtle Anderson ... Bill always wants his Velveeta! ) To get your mooring ball from Bill & Jean visit http://www.goodnautical.com/el-salvador/mooring/bills-moorings-la-palma-moorings-bahia-del-sol-el-salvador
Bar from the air Use their pilot - to go in - and only when the swell is low ( under 3 feet ) Bar Last season's Panama Posse vessels crossing the bar into Bahia del Sol, El Salvador ! Pool Party Yep - fun in the shady part of the pool at the Sponsor Marina del Sol, El Salvador - For reservations and info go to http://www.goodnautical.com/el-salvador/marina/marina-hotel-bahia-del-sol Rob & Debra
RobDebra
AVANT
6) Panama Posse Weekly Line Net - we currently have 38 vessels taking part MONDAY'S at 16:00 UTC via LINE ( go to line.me and download the app works on WIN/MAC/IOS/ANDROID ) - Register using your vessel name as the USERNAME SV CARINTHIA - Search for panamaposse or SV Carinthia or Seaglub and befriend us
- wait and accept your panamaposse GROUP INVITE - send us your position via the message system and listen to the vessel check ins (all free as long you have IP connectivity which we now know is pretty much all along the central American coast) - the LINE system allows for up to 200 live conference call participants ! Line
7) Isla Tigre, Gulf of Fonseca, Honduras. I It’s nice here a great change of pace. It’s a wonderful calm anchorage. No fee to clear into Honduras. PICTURE OF THE WEEK !!! Picture of the Week What a feast ! meal
El Tigre Anchorage details at http://www.goodnautical.com/honduras/anchorage/isla-el-tigre-n-amapala Jim & Suzy JimSuzy SV Octopus Garden 8) THE PANAMA POSSE Songlist of all vessels is filling up "If I had a Boat", Lyle Lovett: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4evzpIVnMVs & of course, "Footloose", Kenny Loggins https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyD8BxoB2To go ahead.... "cut loose, Footloose, kick off your Sunday shoes" --
Michael & Lisa
LisaMichael SV FOOTLOOSE
9) INFO -> Boat Mechanics in Barra de Navidad, MX
These guys are working on a large boat next to ours in Barra de Navidad. Just sharing as a resource for others.
MechanicGeorge & Suzanne
GeorgeSuzanne
SV EPIPHANY
10) Please reply to this email with any updates - news - contenders for picture of the week - songs and we'll include it in the next Fleet Updates Dietmar'Suzanne
Dietmar & Suzanne SV Carinthia Burgee
11) opt-out from the Fleet Updates simply reply with "REMOVE"
