FLEET UPDATE 2020-04-26
in this weeks fleet update
- Pictures of the Week
- Nicaragua to Mexico Notes on Arrival
- Country Updates
- Vessel Locations
- Severe Weather Alert
- a non-Panama Posse vessel's actions in Costa Rica during the lock down
- Official Dinghy Dock Petition in Zihuatanejo, MX
- A BIG thank you to our Sponsors
- Sign up for next Panama Posse season
- Send in your fleet updates
- Opt-Out
Much as our ancestors did ages ago, we thrust forward into the unknown.
Pioneers set forth on an uneasy course, just as we are now facing history and
certain adversity while we aim to thrive.
certain adversity while we aim to thrive.
1) Pictures of the Week
The shark ate my tuna...
Sharks 2 Bonzai 0 for tuna dinner while under passage.
Don
BONZAI

Bob & Margie
BLESSED LIFE
Pool under construction at Chiapas Marina

Bill & Lisanne
ROCINANTE
Catch of the week !

Jeffrey & Paula
SEA LARKS

Brian & Tracy
WOODWIND 1
Finding one part on board tearing it all apart aka boat yoga


Nick, Gema & crew
MOIRA
Admiral's dress code under stay in place orders

Suzanne & Dietmar
Carinthia
2) Nicaragua to Mexico - Arrival

We just wanted to update you, that Happy Dance arrived in Chiapas Mexico at 0700 April 26. We had an easy 3 day passage from Puesta del Sol, and we're very happy to report that we'll be going to check into Mexico in the morning!!
One funny note, (at least it's funny now), is that an email from the US Embassy was sent to my inbox two hours after we left the dock in Nicaragua, advising us that the Nicaraguan government had agreed to let us stay! Timing is everything..ha!
I should also note that in all the confusion while we were figuring out the situation in Nicaragua, the people at Puesta del Sol couldn't have been nicer. Robert, the owner, was making calls on our behalf, Juanita was keeping us informed, the Navy was friendly, and of course all our fellow cruisers were offering plenty of moral support. Special thanks to Vicki on Taliesin Rose for getting us groceries!
We plan to stay here for the month of May while we fix the prop seal, and wait to see what happens next in Mexico.
All the best,
Sue & Marty
HAPPY DANCE
3) Country Updates
Mexico 13,8421,305†
implemented temperature-screening measures at some of its airports.
Passengers with abnormal temperatures and travel to high-risk areas might be subject to additional health screening.
Several ports have restrictions on movement - clearing in and out of Chiapas and Ensenda is still possible
Guatemala 473 13†
full lock down - no entry permitted - Curfew extended
El Salvador 298 8†
full lock down - no entry permitted
Honduras 627 59†
full lock down - no entry permitted
Nicaragua 13 3†
closed as of this week - no entry permitted
On Wed Apr 22 unofficially
(and not publicly) closed its borders to entry of recreational boats.
From this moment Marina Puesta del Sol will not be able to receive boats.
Costa Rica 695 6†
full lock down - no entry permitted
existing tourist visas have been extended curfew to may 15 th
Panama 5,538 159†
Panama - 14 day quarantine has been obtained by some in internal movements
The Civil Aeronautical Authority (AAC) of Panama extended the suspension of international flights to the country until May 23.
The airports have been closed since the early hours of Monday, March 23, as a sanitary measure due to the advance of the corona-virus. The measure was originally adopted for a month, but this Monday, April 20, the AAC announced that the ban will be extended for an additional month.
The resolution was published in the Official Gazette, and bears the signature of the AAC director, Gustavo Pérez. These actions are based on information provided by the Ministry of Health, regarding the evolution of the coronavirus pandemic in other countries.
Read here AAC Resolution No. 53 of April 14, 2020.
https://www.gacetaoficial.gob.pa/pdfTemp/29006/78214.pdf
4) Vessel Locations
NAME | LOCATION | STAY IN PLACE | MOVE ON TO | LOGISTICAL ISSUES | |
1 | BAJA FOG | Barra de Navidad, MX | |||
John & Monique | |||||
3 | TALIESIN ROSE | puesta del Sol, Nicaragua | |||
Victoria & Rowan | |||||
4 | THISLDU | Puesta del Sol, Nicaragua | |||
Garrett & Audrey | |||||
5 | LUNA | barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Bob & Kris | |||||
9 | CARINTHIA | barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Dietmar & Suzanne | |||||
10 | SEAGLUB | san jose del cabo | |||
Chris | |||||
12 | JEAN ANNE | Chiapas, MX | |||
Steve & Chelsea | |||||
13 | SINGULARITY | Vista Mar, Panama | undefined future | ||
Robert & Carol | |||||
16 © | ENJOY | in bocas del toro - hanging well | getting a lot of work | ||
Don & Nina | |||||
19 © | KNOT RIGHT | Vista Mar Marina, Panama | separation - nothing | ||
Walt & Jeariene | |||||
20 © | COMPROMISE | Marina Chiapas, Leave boat on the hard | no issues leave | ||
Ronald & Karen | |||||
23 | TOP CIDER | Chiapas, MX | |||
Chuck & Sharon | |||||
25 | HALF MOON | Puesta del Sol, Nicaragua | |||
Brain & Elizabeth | |||||
26 | MADELEINE | vessel in el salvador | |||
Huibert & Maaike | |||||
27 | ANGELIQUE | Florida | |||
Dan & Angela | |||||
29 | DELTA SWIZZLER | Tenecatita - 9 vessels | |||
Mark & Cindy | |||||
30 | FIREFLY | las hadas | |||
Brenda & Ted | |||||
34 | ONE LIFE | barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Doug & Mary | |||||
37 | WISHLIST | las hadas - life copy | |||
Chris Brenda | |||||
40 | AVANT | Shelter Bay, Panama - vessel is in panama - we are in rainy Canada | linton bay marina - are abel to accept vessels and able to update to - | ||
Rob & Debra | |||||
48 © | DENOVO | Boat is Puerto Pensaco. MX - we are in canada | |||
Andre, Naomi & crew | |||||
50 | ANDURIL | Chiapas, MX | |||
Alice & Greg | |||||
51 | GREEN FLASH | California - vista mar in boat | |||
Bob & Joan | |||||
52 | BONZAI | key west florida - cases are climing in mx - all marinas are closed - anchoring out in key west After 1.5 years from leaving California we have now arrived in Key West Florida. As Mexico is escalating into a level three for the virus we recognized things in the US were on the back side of the bell curve and found a weather window. Bonzai utilized an agent that is on staff at Puerto Isla Mujeres Marina and it was worth every penny for efficiency. 450 miles later in 60 hours we are here. |
processed thorugh staff - cbp roam app - ke west maintain social distancing | ||
Don | |||||
54 | STAND DOWN | vista Mar Marina, Panama | |||
Richard & Nancy | |||||
58 | KATHLEEN | barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Robert & Karen | |||||
59 | RAVEN | barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Neil, Tammy, & Jan | |||||
61 © | WILDEST DREAMS | chiapas, MX | |||
Grant & Michelle | |||||
64 | SECRET WATER | la paz, mx | |||
Annie & Chris & Crew | |||||
65 | WOODWIND 1 | paradise village - boat projects - rest down - yacht club does take out - run | |||
Brian & Tracy | |||||
67 | CHIMERA | costa rica | |||
Dennis & Margaret | |||||
69 | ALIZANN | still at red frog marina | remain in place | full lock down - week to week decision - keeping the boat top operational | |
Martin & Suzanne | |||||
70 | FLOATING STONES | bahamas | |||
Bryan & Cheryl | |||||
74 | MAISON DE SANTE | barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Keenan & Nicole | |||||
85 | FOLLOW YOU FOLLOW ME | San Diego | |||
Allan & Rina | |||||
88 © | SEA LARKS | Chiapas - fleet start moving - en route to | |||
Jeffrey & Paula | |||||
95 | WAVE DANCER | costa rica | |||
Vladimir & Galinda | |||||
96 | MALOLO | in manzanillo - las hadas from ixtapa | |||
Matt & Britt | |||||
99 | HO’OKIPA | Barra de Navidad, MX | until further notice all good | ||
Lisa & Lucky | |||||
100 | VOLARE | Barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Jessica & Adam | |||||
109 | JOY | Barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Jeff & Roxanne | |||||
117 | PILIALOHA | maina chahue with a care taker - we are in hawai | |||
Rick & Maria | |||||
121 | ANKYRIOS | barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Dennis, Brandy & Crew | |||||
124 © | INDEPENDENCE | raotan barefoot key marina went way for the hotel - west end - smoky - | serious - sneaking in - still on lock-down - people are hanging low | ||
Larry & Jamie | |||||
125 | LILY ROWAN | marina chahue | |||
Jim & Zyanya | |||||
129 © | NESHUMA | on the hard at mazatlan marina | |||
Carl & Cynthia | |||||
131 | MAR Y SOL | Marina Vallarta, MX | |||
Bob & Marisol | |||||
138 | BLESSED LIFE | doing great at marina pez vela - weather rain - contract end of fall | tip with the boat bond - | ||
Bob and Margie | |||||
143 © | SEA GLASS | panama | |||
Chris | |||||
149 © | MOIRA | in bahia ballena - weeks and weeks - plan is weathe r- may to hawai | |||
Nick, Gema & crew | |||||
152 © | SUSIMI | Barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Paul & Hazel | |||||
157 | SOL GOOD | boat is in vitsta mar - cornado panama | all | ||
Jeff | |||||
161 © | SPREZZATURA | Curfew expanded to the end of may sat and Sunday closed down | |||
Eric | |||||
171 | GenM | in marina la paz - maintence - all on lock down | canal not go out after 10 PM - | ||
Marvin and Laurie | |||||
176 | REEF DANCER | staying put for the foreseable | duffy is very quiet … | ||
Jerry & Debra | |||||
178 | Happy Dance | Chiapas, MX | |||
5) Severe Weather Alert
...EARLY TROPICAL DEPRESSION FORMS IN THE EASTERN PACIFIC...
NHC is issuing advisories on newly formed Tropical Depression One-E, centered as of 8 a.m. PDT over the open waters of the eastern North Pacific Ocean about 730 miles (1175 km) southwest of the southern tip of Baja California.
This marks the earliest formation of a tropical cyclone in the eastern North Pacific basin since the satellite era began in 1966.
The depression is moving toward the northwest near 7 mph (11 km/h). This general motion is expected for the next day or so, followed by a turn toward the west on Sunday.
Maximum sustained winds are near 35 mph (55 km/h) with higher gusts. Little change in strength is anticipated today. The system is forecast to become a remnant low by late Sunday. It is not a threat to land.
The next advisory will be issued by NHC at 2 p.m. PDT - https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/#One-E

Rob & Debra
AVANT
6) a non-Panama Posse vessel's actions in Costa Rica during the lock down
... based on your recent lock down update we spotted a boat named Malolo and his owner /captain Rick Appel. (not Panama-Posse)
...this boat showed up here right before Samana Santa (Easter) directly from Panama.
Borders closed and he landed on our fuel dock. No zarpe no nothing totally illegal in every way.
The agencies and Peninsula management went nuts because Panama is considered a Covid 19 hot spot and the border is closed to prevent these arrivals.
He basically showed up and said I don't care what you have to do,
I am out of fuel and on my way to California. If you have to arrest me then go ahead and arrest me.
.... to say this was a complete fiasco is an understatement. It took our lawyers and all of the agencies working
overtime to workout a solution for this idiot. In the end Immigration, the health ministry, the Port Captain and
Aduana all agreed the best solution was to sell him the fuel and send him away.
We had to suit up one of our guys in haz mat gear to pump the fuel.
... still dealing with the fall-out from this as we still could be fined for allowing the boat into the marina.
This has placed our concession at risk because this was ultimately considered a Health Ministry violation and they have a lot of power in Costa Rica.
The issue is, we didn't allow him to come in. No radio call no nothing he just charged in and dropped lines before my guys could get to the
end of the fuel dock placing the marina, our staff and fellow mariners at risk.
Marina Papagayo

7) Official Dinghy Dock Petition in Zihuatanejo, MX
In 2019 we officially petitioned Zihuatanejo to put in a dinghy dock - this was 14 months ago.
While cruising is severely impacted by the C19 virus our petition still stands.
If you know of any other locations you wish to have a dinghy dock please let us know
DINGHY DOCK
- Well maintained stable floating dock to adjust to tides and water levels protected from waves
- Handrails from shore to the Dinghy Dock with non skid surface on the plank - Small strong galvanized marlin cleats with ability to run chain through
- Long Painters on Each Dinghy & Dipping the Eye Use only one line. Do not tie bow and stern.
- Ability to lock dinghy to dock with a long chain and padlock
- Do not lock out other dinghies - Throw-able Life ring with floating line - No fishing allowed / No Swimming / No fish cleaning - Well lighted area with 24/7 video surveillance - Guarded or in “shouting” range of authorities - In cellphone and VHF rage of the main anchorage
- Nearby road to hail taxis, buses or uber and walking distance to town - Ability to load and unload packages and provisions
- Establish a No Wake Zone
- Potable water spigot to take on fresh water / wash dingy
- Trashcan
- Message Board for relevant announcements
- Do not lift engine up to avoid damage to other dinghies

8) A BIG thank you to our Sponsors
Official Panama Posse Sponsors, Partners and Ambassadors
- Marina Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta – Mexico
- Marina Puerto de La Navidad – Barra de Navidad – Mexico
- Marina Ixtapa, Ixtapa – Mexico
- La Marina Acapulco, Acapulco – Mexico
- Marina Chiapas – Mexico
- Marina Bahia del Sol – El Salvador
- La Palma Moorings – Bahia del Sol, El Salvador
- Marina Puesta del Sol – Nicaragua
- Marina Papagayo – Costa Rica
- Marina Pez Vela – Costa Rica
- Banana Bay Marina – Costa Rica
- Vista Mar Marina – Panama
- Shelter Bay Marina – Panama
- Red Frog Marina – Panama
- Bocas Marina – Panama
Official Panama Canal Agent
Official Panama Posse Ambassadors
- Jaime Figueroa Navarro – Panama
- Bill & Jean – El Salvador Rally, El Salvador
- Ralph Hewitt – Nicaragua
Panama Posse Partners
- Vicente’s Moorings – Acapulco – Mexico
- Discover Tours Chiapas – Mexico
- Park Avenue Villas – San Juan del Sur – Nicaragua
- Coconutz – Annual Papagayo Victory Party – Playa Cocos – Costa Rica
- Abernathy – Chandlery – Panama
- Advertising Partners – Las Vegas
- Safe-Esteem.com – Delaware
9) The 2020-2021 Panama Posse is forming
and 38 vessels have signed up already.
This season will end on June 1st - Line group will stay open - but not monitored
and we may continue the Saturday extraordinary calls for another few months.
Our goal is to expand the Panama Posse route in 2021 with a northbound
leg from Panama to the Keys in the Caribbean a.m.o. stay tuned for details.

To sign up for next Panama Posse season - please reply with - "sign me up".
9) Please reply to this email with any
updates and we'll include it in the next Fleet Updates
Dietmar & Suzanne
SV Carinthia
10) opt-out from the Fleet Updates simply reply with "REMOVE"
FLEET UPDATE 2020-04-19
- A special thank you to our sponsors
- Add comments while you are sheltering in place and bored
- Country Updates
- Vessel Locations and plans
- Lighting Mitigation
- Pictures of the Week
- Exiting Panama - en route to Nicaragua
- Long term plans - heading to Chile
- PANAMA - Burning a “stuffed man” in effigy - the traditions is that of the Muñecos
- Reply to this email
- One season ends but 38 vessels have already signed up for next Panama Posse
- Opt-out
1) A special thank you to our sponsors
- Marina Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta – Mexico
- Marina Puerto de La Navidad – Barra de Navidad – Mexico
- Marina Ixtapa, Ixtapa – Mexico
- La Marina Acapulco, Acapulco – Mexico
- Marina Chiapas – Mexico
- Marina Bahia del Sol – El Salvador
- La Palma Moorings – Bahia del Sol, El Salvador
- Marina Puesta del Sol – Nicaragua
- Marina Papagayo – Costa Rica
- Marina Pez Vela – Costa Rica
- Banana Bay Marina – Costa Rica
- Vista Mar Marina – Panama
- Shelter Bay Marina – Panama
- Red Frog Marina – Panama
- Bocas Marina – Panama
Official Panama Canal Agent
Official Panama Posse Ambassadors
- Jaime Figueroa Navarro – Panama
- Bill & Jean – El Salvador Rally, El Salvador
- Ralph Hewitt – Nicaragua
Panama Posse Partners
- Vicente’s Moorings – Acapulco – Mexico
- Discover Tours Chiapas – Mexico
- Park Avenue Villas – San Juan del Sur – Nicaragua
- Coconutz – Annual Papagayo Victory Party – Playa Cocos – Costa Rica
- Abernathy – Chandlery – Panama
- Advertising Partners – Las Vegas
- Safe-Esteem.com – Delaware
2) Things you can do while sheltering in place ... Add you comments !!!
Log into Good Nautical and make your relevant comments in any of the places you have been
Please make your reports - simply ADD A NEW COMMENT in Good Nautical for each spot

2) Country Updates
Mexico 7,497 650†
- border closings between USA and Mexico but commercial entry permitted - outbound and inbound vessels still possible
- certain ports are closed or locking down and exit zarpes are issued electronically for a fee via agents if required this
includes Puerto Vallarta and Areas of the Sea of Cortes
Mexico has implemented temperature-screening measures at all airports and many road checks. Reduced flights and Capacity.
Passengers with abnormal temperatures and travel to high-risk areas might be subject to additional health screening.
The Mexican government declared a national health emergency on March 30 and imposed restrictions on non-essential activities in the public, private, and social sectors until April 30. On April 16, the Mexican government extended the health emergency and the accompanying restrictions in most municipalities until May 30. Essential activities include medical services and supplies, grocery delivery services and stores, restaurants (for delivery and carry out only), public safety, fundamental economic functions, government social programs, and critical infrastructure.
Mexico Visa Extensions
Cruisers with visas expiring in April were able to renew for 180 days in La Paz Mexico yesterday.
Those with visas expiring in May were told they would have to wait until next month
Mexico Port Closings
This is direct from Antonio at Marina Fonatur San Blas as of 4/14/2020.
The marina is not letting any new boats in. Boats currently inside are allowed to depart.
The port captain is not allowing anchoring in the estuary in front of the marina. Anchoring in Bahia de Matanchen is just fine.
The fuel dock at Marina Fonatur San Blas is open, and they will sell you fuel (diesel and unleaded are available). No one is allowed off the boat though, and you must immediately leave after fueling up. If it helps, at low tide the shallowest we saw was about 7' deep when entering the river.”
Jalisco, Mexico new requirements
The Governor of Jalisco announced today that beginning tomorrow, wearing a mask will be required whenever you leave your home. He also stated that parks, etc. are all closed to recreational activities. Whereas up to now the preventative measures have been voluntary, now they are obligatory and people can be fined for being out for anything but essential business.
*People may leave their homes only for essential business. *A mask must be worn any time one leaves the home. *The use of public spaces for sport or recreational purposes is prohibited.
The following groups are not permitted to leave the home at all:
- over age 60 - pregnant - high blood pressure - diabetes - chronic cardiac or pulmonary disease - liver or kidney dysfunction - suppressed immune system
Guatemala 257 7†
- full lock down - no entry permitted - Curfew extended to April 28th
It also banned cruise ships from docking. All nationals, residents and diplomats are required to be quarantined upon arrival.
President Alejandro Giammattei also banned travel between the different departments inside of the Central American country before and during Easter.
El Salvador 201 7†
- full lock down - no entry permitted †
El Salvador’s Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that the government
cannot arrest people accused of having failed to comply with a mandatory household quarantine nor confiscate vehicles or property.
But El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele said on Wednesday he would not accept several Supreme Court rulings
meant to stop him from enforcing some measures to curb the spread
Honduras 472 46†
Honduras - full lock down - no entry permitted - all borders closed except for cargo.
Nicaragua - 10 2†
Check in with Marina Puesta del Sol ahead of time - they will coordinate to send a health inspector out - after which customs, immigration will clear you in
Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega said Wednesday that the country “has not stopped working” and that it will maintain its vision of responding to the emergency without social confinement.
Costa Rica 660 4†
- full lock down - no entry permitted - Curfew expected to be extended
Panama 4,273 120†Panama - no entry permitted 14 day quarantine has been obtained by some in internal movements
- curfew w/ 1 hour movement x certain day for with 30 minutes based on ID number and day and gender - no alcohol sales -
Fines for curfew violations
4) Vessel Locations and plans from the Saturday 18th Extraordinary 6th Line call ( these calls will continue every Saturday at 16 UTC until further notice
NUMBER | NAME | LOCATION | STAY IN PLACE | MOVE ON TO | LOGISTICAL ISSUES |
1 | BAJA FOG | Barra de Navidad, MX | |||
John & Monique | |||||
4 | THISLDU | Puesta del Sol, Nicaragua | |||
Garrett & Audrey | |||||
10 | SEAGLUB | San Jose del Cabo | |||
Chris | |||||
12 | JEAN ANNE | Chiapas, MX | |||
Steve & Chelsea | |||||
13 | SINGULARITY | Vista Mar, Panama | because so many people violating | ||
Robert & Carol | |||||
14 | SLOW DANCER | bocas marina | no lifting of restrictions | ||
Dale & Kenneth | |||||
19 © | KNOT RIGHT | Vista Mar Marina, Panama | all good - | ||
Walt & Jeariene | |||||
20 © | COMPROMISE | chiappas, mx - co | |||
Ronald & Karen | |||||
23 | TOP CIDER | isla ixtapa will sail further | good snorkeling | ||
Chuck & Sharon | |||||
29 | DELTA SWIZZLER | tenecatitia, | making water | alge | |
Mark & Cindy | |||||
30 | FIREFLY | las hadas | everything the ame | 3 boats beaches are empty patrol boat comes around | |
Brenda & Ted | |||||
40 | AVANT | Shelter Bay, Panama | in canada - 3 western states are coordianting openings - boats are free to move | ||
Rob & Debra | |||||
43 | RHAPSODY | vista mar marina, Panama | |||
Sarah & Bob | |||||
50 | ANDURIL | Chiapas, MX | |||
Alice & Greg | |||||
51 | GREEN FLASH | san clemente , wet and well and cold | away - to get to panama | ||
Bob & Joan | |||||
67 | CHIMERA | Costa Rica - have not seen enough - really don’t have we will wait it out - | |||
Dennis & Margaret | |||||
88 © | SEA LARKS | en route to nicaragua - puesta del sol | may go to chiapas | ||
Jeffrey & Paula | |||||
95 | WAVE DANCER | florida in costa rica | |||
Vladimir & Galinda | |||||
96 | MALOLO | isla grande - been here - quiet - propane dingy ashore - | leaving to | ||
Matt & Britt | |||||
99 | HO’OKIPA | Barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Lisa & Lucky | |||||
100 | VOLARE | Chiapas, MX | |||
Jessica & Adam | |||||
101 © | KIANGA | in la cruz marina - everything very quiet waiting | |||
Beat & Daniela | |||||
117 | PILIALOHA | we are in hawai'i vessel is in marina chahue | longing | ||
Rick & Maria | |||||
124 © | INDEPENDENCE | barefoot cay honduras | boat maintenance - boat in perfect shape - varnished - | ||
Larry & Jamie | |||||
129 © | NESHUMA | on the hard at mazatlan marina | |||
Carl & Cynthia | |||||
131 | MAR Y SOL | Marina Vallarta, MX | |||
Bob & Marisol | |||||
138 | BLESSED LIFE | how is the vessel clearing in from | weather in costa rica | ||
Bob and Margie | |||||
144 © | ELSKA | vista mar marina - shut down | 4 boys - bring the boat | ||
Ben & Mary Jane | |||||
147 | GRASSHOPPER | Chiappas, | remain here - few months - comfortable - but restaurat baos is closed | ||
Jeffrey & Cheri | |||||
152 © | SUSIMI | tenecatita | 10 - 15 boats - since Thursday hoping to head north | ||
Paul & Hazel | |||||
173 © | BISOU | bocas del toro | |||
Robin and Tad | |||||
176 | REEF DANCER | barra de navidad, MX | |||
Jerry & Debra | |||||
178 | HAPPY DANCE | playa samara | have a leak on the prop shaft - limping to puesta del sol thunder storm |
5) Lighting Mitigation
Lightning mitigation and preparation: what we did on Avant.
When in lightning prone areas, we buy jumper cables at an auto parts store and connect them to the upper shrouds and drop the loose end (in the water) or connect to jack stands (when on the hard). This increased the grounding of the vessel and may help make you less of a target or mitigate a strike.
Open flat areas are worse than areas with prominent tall geographic features.
Being next to a larger boat with a taller mast, or a catamaran or other lightning friendly target is also a good strategy if you can arrange it.
Rob & Debra
AVANT
Carinthia (Cat) spend the summer of 2018 in Vista Mar Marina in Panama and we deployed the following lighting mitigation
- top of mast has a lighting rod - taller and thicker than the VHF antenna
- base of the mast ( deck stepped) has a attachment point and a thick electric cable is lowered into the water below the keels
- we dropped our anchor in the marina in our slip and wrapped a short chain around the base of the mast and connected this chain to the deployed anchor chain
- at the shroud deck-plates just below the turnbuckles we attached truck battery charging cables and dropped them into the water below the keels
- disconnected most electronics from power and all network connections
- 2 catamarans did get hit that season with a lighting strike - Wine'n'Down ( lateral hit ) & Samara Explorer (direct hit 800 K damage )
- 1 catamaran Sugar Shack got hit in the Southern Costa Rica the following season (direct hit)
- check your insurance policy
Dietmar & Suzanne
CARINTHIA
6) Pictures of the Week
Samara, CR
Samara, CR
Bob & Margie
BLESSED LIFE
Still life - Two fish, cutting board and knife
Garrett & Audrey
THISLDU
7) Exiting Panama - en route to Nicaragua
An update from Happy Dance traveling with Candine. We left Punta Balsa yesterday planning on a three day run to Nica. When we reached the Gulf of Nicoya we started seeing squalls. This soon turned into major thunderstorms that wrapped around us even as we tried to change course. Long story short we eventually escaped by heading toward shore. We tried anchoring in Domicelito but the swells were running straight in. We then went to the southern Manuel Antonio anchorage and planned to wait out the afternoon storms. Unfortunately we ended up with the wind blowing onshore and big thunderstorms over us. That's also when the GuardaCostas arrived! They politely asked for our passports and papers and went off to look them over. In the meantime the anchorage was deteriorating rapidly. The GC then came back and said to raise anchor and follow them. We didn't know why, but since they had our passports we thought it might be a good idea to go. 🤣 Getting out of the anchorage was a challenge now that it was a dangerous lee shore with large rollers coming in, blinding rain and a headwind. Not fun. They led us to the northern Antonio anchorage where we are now. Much safer and tranquillo.
The GC guys were very friendly and asked many questions about our health, where we'd been, etc. After a good hour of them talking on the phone they finally brought our passports and paperwork back and told us we were not allowed to go to shore. We'd already tried to explain that we had no intention of going to shore, that we only stopped due to weather. Since the weather was pretty bad right then, I think they got it! All this to say that they were helpful and polite and gave us their phone number in case we needed it. We're leaving in the morning to continue towards Nicaragua. Hopefully the rest of the GC are as easy going if/when we stop again. Just wanted to share our experience in case others are planning to travel through Costa Rica while their borders are closed. Cheers!⛵
Nora decided to go on today and is heading to Chiapas. We're going to be stopping at night the rest of the way...
Update on the drip! The grease helped slow down the flow substantially! We sailed most of the day so that helped too. The weather is great, slight onshore breeze, thunderclouds over the mountains. Mucho mejor !!!
We're staying at anchor for now and have the leak wrapped up and slowed down substantially. We're setting up the boat to be ready for a major fail 😬 but will hopefully get to Puesta and then to Chiapas. We're waiting for Wildest Dreams to get here so we'll also have a buddy boat if needed. Fingers crossed!!!🥴⛵️
Marty & Sue
HAPPY DANCE
8) Long term plans - heading to Chile
SV Sänna plan to head down the Pacific coast to Ushuaia Chile beginning around October-ish for the southern hemisphere spring and summer. They’re teaming up with Jimmy Cornell to route-plan. Sänna are happy to forward their route planning to any Pacific-side boat who might be interested in making this passage. You can contact Dave at dave@sanna-uk.com.
Dave & Marie
SANNA
9) PANAMA - Burning a “stuffed man” in effigy - the traditions is that of the Muñecos
These life sized effigies are an old Panamanian tradition Muñecos or Judas Dolls
They are stuffed with firecrackers and are lit and beaten at the stroke of midnight on new years eve.
According to folklore, by beating and setting the effigies aflame, the sins and evil spirits of the old year are destroyed.
Making way for good fortune in the new year. The fire crackers are said to help drive the evil forces away, since ghosts are afraid of light and noise.
The Muñecos are usually made to look like well-known politicians or movie stars from the outgoing year....

10) Please reply to this email with
– your updates - self quarantine info
– contenders for picture of the week –
– relevant blog posts – and of course your valuable suggestions
and we’ll include it in the next FLEET UPDATE – Keep em ‘coming
Dietmar & Suzanne
Sheltering in place in Barra de Navidad
SV Carinthia
11) This 2019-2020 Panama - officially ends on May 31st
but you can already sign up for next season and
here is the list of valiant entrants, explorers and adventurers
https://panamaposse.com/2020-2021-vessels
12) Opt-out from Fleet Updates simply reply with “REMOVE“
FLEET UPDATE 2020-04-12
“all that is true is rare and difficult”
― Unknown
We want to thank the 39 vessels which have already
signed up for the next 2020-2021 Panama Posse Season
( to do so reply with "sign me up again" )
1) As a affirmation to LIFE, the camaraderie with fellow seaman
and as a demonstration that we shall overcome this virus as a species
please join us and fellow Panama Posse vessels in your area
at 17:00 LOCAL TIME and emit 3 prolonged (4-6 seconds) blasts know as "show blasts"



A special thank you to
Ho'Okipa, Joy and Dragonfly here in Barra for participating
2) PANAMA CANAL TRANSIT UPDATE FOR VESSELS UNDER 65 FEET
3rd party Panama Canal update:
Our boat Lazy Travels, with Ohana and Nutmeg just crossed the Panama Canal from Atlantic to Pacific
Here are the details for how it happened for us:
We were allowed to use 4 line handlers for the entire 3 boat raft. Each boat had a transit advisor provided by the canal.
We were not allowed to use Canal line handlers, we had to find boats to transit with us that in combination would provide us with enough crew for the raft (4 line handlers, 3 captains, and if any children onboard someone separate to look after them. Seriously you need all 4 line handlers to be able to give their undivided attention at all times).
We were also unable to rent lines, fenders or tires to reduce contamination. We had to make sure that we had enough to meet the requirements (4 long lines, plus enough fenders for the raft and canal. Personal recommendation is to have a lot of fenders, and a few big round ones).
It seems like you must use an agent at this time, although we only used one to process our payment and paid a reduced fee ($150 USD, name Roger, organized by Shelter Bay Marina).
Shelter Bay Marina with the help of cruisers themselves organized the measurement of the boats. There is currently an excel spread sheet that lists all boats that want to cross the canal with their information. This is not an official document, but makes it easier to coordinate with all the yachts.
Basically we had to organize our own: measurement, crew, lines and fenders. The most difficult part was finding 3 boats who together meet all the requirements and were ready to cross.
Our transit advisor said HIS OPINION is that the canal will continue to stay open for small vessels. I think this is based on need, and how smooth everything went using reduced line handlers.
Serious thank you to all the cruisers and staff at Shelter Bay Marina who basically made this happen.
To many more happy canal crossings !!
Posted from FB Panama Cruisers by SV Singularity

3) Country Updates
Mexico 4,219 273†
- border closings between USA and Mexico but commercial entry permitted - outbound and inbound vessels still possible
- certain ports are closed or locking down and exit zarpes are issued electronically for a fee via agents if required this
includes Puerto Vallarta and Areas of the Sea of Cortes
Mexico has implemented temperature-screening measures at all airports and many road checks. Reduced flights and Capacity.
Passengers with abnormal temperatures and travel to high-risk areas might be subject to additional health screening.
REPORT FROM HUATULCO
A little bit more color on what is occurring in Mexico (from our perspective of being in Huatulco):
- There was some slowing of the town a month ago (Cruise ships and tourists stopped coming then) but everything has got much tighter in the last week.
- Restaurants, bars, hotels are all closed. Just the supermarkets, gas stations and Oxxo’s are open.
- A very few restaurants have switched to take-aways but that is comparatively rare. The city is a ghost town.
- The mayor has posted municipal police in road blocks at multiple points across the city, questioning the purpose of any trip.
- The airport is now also closed to domestic flights, with the exception of one single flight a week to/from Mexico City.
- The Federal Highway remains open but many (if not most) exits are blocked off - by municipal police in the case of organized towns and by groups of locals (unarmed, so far as we can tell) in the smaller communities – refusing entry to outsiders. That seems to now be the norm, everywhere.
- It would therefore now be difficult to get out of here by either air or by road (unless you drive non-stop - you would likely find no hotels on route).
- The “social distancing” thing seems to be misunderstood – not all police wear face masks when they question you (up close). Moreover, these local groups (they can feel more like mobs) blocking roads are congregating in groups of 20, 30 or more, missing the entire point of the lock down.
- The Navy has stationed a vessel at the entrance to the harbor (at least during daylight hours). We haven’t actually seen any boat attempt to leave the harbor (not even one single panga), to know what the navy’s orders are – but we understand the harbor master is instructing vessels not to leave (although we have heard there is an exception for foreign vessels leaving the area or the country but do not have first-hand knowledge on that).
- While there seems to be no actual restriction on 3rd party contractors, working on boats, the reality is that many of the local workers voluntarily stopped work. Our mechanic reported that his employees simply abandoned him, some ten days ago, making it hard to continue offering any service.
- On a personal note, we are still working on the rebuild of the engine. Getting the parts across the US: Mexico border was challenging (we had to find someone with an essential job who was authorized to travel in both California and across the border). Nonetheless, provided no new restrictions are implemented, we are hopeful it will be complete within a few weeks / a month max. Provided we successfully get away, we will head to Bara Navidad. Please note, however, that we spoke to Miriam today and she advised that she is not certain she can accommodate us, as the marina is nearly full.
Stephen & Ana Veronica
MOONRISE
Guatemala 155 5†
- full lock down - no entry permitted - Curfew extended to April 28th
El Salvador 125 6†
- full lock down - no entry permitted †
Honduras 393 25†
Honduras - full lock down - no entry permitted
Nicaragua - 9 1†
Check in with Marina Puesta del sol ahead of time - they will coordinate to send a health inspector out - after which customs, immigration will clear you in
Costa Rica 577 3†
- full lock down - no entry permitted - Curfew extended to end of April
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy San Jose (8 April 2020)
Location: Costa Rica – Level 4: Do Not Travel
Event: Costa Rica has now confirmed 502 cases of COVID-19 in the country. Costa Rica today announced that the borders will remain closed to non-citizens and residents until April 30, an extension of the previous closure announcement.
NOTE:Just to let you know that today (6th April) the Costa Rican government announced that they will keep the border closed until 30th April.
The U.S. Embassy will be closed Thursday April 9 - Monday April 13, due to observance of local holidays. If you have an emergency requiring Consular assistance, please call 506-2519-2000.
The U.S. Embassy in San Jose and the U.S. State Department have coordinated with United Airlines to offer a commercial flight from Juan Santamaria Airport (SJO) in San Jose, Costa Rica to Houston, Texas (IAH) on Friday, April 17. The flight will depart SJO at 11:30 am and arrive at IAH at 4:30 pm. This flight is open to public booking; you are encouraged to book ASAP as seats are limited.
We have received reports of social media notices purporting to provide assistance in receiving COVID-19-related checks from the U.S. government. These notices claim immediate support and contain a link which requests personal information. Do NOT provide personal or financial information to businesses you don’t know or haven’t verified. For official information regarding economic impact payments, see the websites of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Department of Treasury (DOT).
As always, Americans who need assistance can contact us at the numbers or email address below.
Actions to Take:
- Follow instructions of Costa Rican authorities. Not doing so could result in arrest and potential fines.
- Visit the Costa Rican Ministry of Health's Facebook Page for updated information.
- Visit our Embassy COVID page for information on conditions in Costa Rica.
- Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the United States.
- Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information on COVID-19.
- Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.
- Work with your airline, travel provider, or hotel/lodging directly regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
- Call Costa Rican emergency number 911 or COVID hotline 1322 right away if you believe you may have COVID-19 (or similar symptoms) or were exposed to someone who may have COVID-19 in the last six weeks.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy San Jose
+506-2519-2000
ACSSANJOSE@state.gov
https://cr.usembassy.gov/
State Department - Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Panama 3,234 79†
Panama - no entry permitted 14 day quarantine has been obtained by some in internal movements
- curfew w/ 1 hour movement x certain day for with 30 minutes based on ID number and day and gender - no alcohol sales -
This was posted via email by Marina Pez Vela:
Pursuant to Administrative Resolution DM-RM-0852-2020, issued by the Ministry of Health on April 2, from April 3 at five in the afternoon and until April 12 at midnight, the marina will be closed to the public.
During this period there are to be no offered services including, but not limited to: issuance of zarpes, issuance of floats plans, repairs, haul out or launches, among others.
After April 12, it is expected to be able to return the Marina to operations and therefore apply the following protocols until the Government declares the state of Emergency ended.
We appreciate your understanding and we ask you to abide by the regulations to avoid sanctions and above all in support of this campaign for the health of all concerned.
Marina Pez Vela is a company and a family, which has always distinguished itself by its solidarity and commitment to the social, cultural and environmental causes of the surrounding community. In the past few weeks and foreseeable future, this general commitment also must include meeting the standards of prevention and containment of the global pandemic known as COVID-19. The project not only has a commitment to the health and security of our clients, contractors and staff, whom we care for in all aspects, but also to fulfilling our National Responsibilities as a Marine Concession. Our concession requires that we must comply with a series of general provisions, legal parameters old and new, such as those established on March 10, 2020 by the Executive Decree number 42221-MP_S as well as the National Law on Emergencies and Risk Prevention, Law 8488 of November 22, 2006, both of which outline our legal responsibility to support in the prevention of pandemics and any other health risks, and specifically in reducing the contagion curve of COVID-19.
Therefore, we respectfully request and urge you to take the following steps:
- Minimize and avoid, if possible, the use of your boats for unnecessary purposes, and that the boat remains docked to your respective slip or dry dock (as the case may be). These measures of limited use have been suggested by the Costa Rican Health Ministry in relation to asking everyone to stay home so that the presence of the workers, captain or owners of the boat is only for the purposes of required maintenance, care, and security.
- For all boats that are for private, recreational use: In the event that you are required to navigate due to an emergency, required maintenance, provisioning, or other reason that is of absolute necessity, all navigation must be done in accordance with the float plan. Boat capacity will be restricted to half the normal number of people (including captain and crew) No navigation plans will be authorized to any other port of landing or marina as a point of arrival, except in cases of emergency.
- Always request your due Float Plan at the main office, in the event you are stopped by the Coast Guard, it is important for them to know what your port of Origin is.
- We urge vessels that maintain their operations within the marina (tourist fishing vessels, catamarans, diving vessels) to minimize their operations for a reasonable period, until the authorities remove the national alert and restrictions. Also, please abide by the rules of distance between one person and another to avoid potential exposure to one another, and decrease the number of guests, clients or persons on board by at least 50 percent of the boat's capacity.
- Extreme basic hygiene measures inside your boats should be taken, insuring that any and all aboard can wash with antibacterial soap, alcohol gel, disposable paper towels, and trash cans with lids for disposal.
- In the case of vessels that are under temporary importation, have the National Zarpe issued by the Port Captain Office.
- Additionally, we urge all clients and visitors, workers or collaborators of the Marina to rationally use public services, especially water, since this is a resource that is of utmost importance for sanitary reasons and is already being rationed in many parts of Costa Rica.
- As a Marina, we cannot deny the use of your boats, however, we urge you to stay at home to avoid the spread of the virus.
We are always at your disposal to assist you.
Best regards,
Carter Ludwing TakacsCédula # 18400124735Administrador Marina Pez Vela
From the Panama Canal Authority effective 09 April:
ADVISORY TO SHIPPING No. A-14-2020
TO :
SUBJECT: Temporary Procedures for Small Craft Transits during COVID-19 Pandemic
Due to the current outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Republic of Panama and around the world, through the Ministry of Health (MINSA), the Panamanian government has imposed a total quarantine in the Republic of Panama. Consequently, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) deems it necessary to implement strict measures to reduce the exposure to COVID-19 and protect the health of its employees, the Panamanian people, as well as vessels’ personnel, in order to prevent further spread of the virus. Therefore, the following procedures will be implemented for all small craft below 20 m (65 feet) in length overall (LOA) effective April 09, 2020:
1. Upon arrival at Balboa Anchorage or Cristobal Breakwater, the small craft shall contact the corresponding signal station announcing its arrival and requesting anchoring instructions, if applicable.
2. All crew and passengers arriving in Canal waters on board pleasure yachts are required to remain aboard under observation and surveillance by Panamanian authorities for a period of not less than 14 calendar days, regardless of port of origin or amount of days at sea.
3. Uponcompletionofthis14dayperiod,theywillbeevaluatedbytheMinistryofHealth (MINSA) to determine if there is any risk of contagion. Likewise, the master/skipper shall report to Canal and Panamanian health authorities if any passenger or crewmember on board shows virus-related symptoms or any other sickness.
4. In order for personnel on board to properly maintain quarantine, all transit arrangements shall be made by a representative ashore, such as a local agent or the corresponding marina where the small craft is anchored or moored.
5. The small craft representative shall call the ACP Admeasurement Unit (tel. 272-4577) in order to provide all the required information.
6. Inaddition,thesmallcraftrepresentativeshallsendtoNTOT-AS@pancanal.comthe following information:
- Yacht SIN number, name, flag, length (m), beam (m), arrival date confirmation (provided by the representative or the marina)
- Arrival crew list
- Yacht’s register
- Profile picture of the yacht
- Signed Release form
- Completed Handline Lockage Request form
- Copy of all crew passports
7. Theagentorrepresentativeshallmakearrangementsforplacementofthetransit guarantee, or payment in cash, which shall include tolls and other maritime services, as well as the buffer.
8. Once the guarantee has been confirmed, the representative or marina shall call the ACP vessel scheduler, at 272-4202 to coordinate their transit date.
9. In addition to the master/skipper, the small craft shall have at least four line handlers available, as required by ACP regulations. These linehandlers must have already been on board the small craft during the quarantine period mentioned in (2) above.
10.All other transit requirements remain the same and are available at:
http://pancanal.com/common/maritime/forms/4352-2020.pdf
11.On the day of transit, only the ACP transit advisor will board the small craft and disembark once his assignment has been completed. Only ACP personnel will be permitted to board or disembark the small craft.
The ACP is continuously monitoring the current situation with the COVID-19 pandemic and will announce any changes to these measures in a timely manner.
ORIGINAL SIGNED
Ilya R. Espino de MarottaActing Vice President for Transit Business
(other destinations)
French Polynesia 51 1 critical case
- full lock down
Colombia 2,709 100†
- full lock down - Colombia under 19-day nationwide quarantine
Ecuador 7,466 333†
- full lock down ""
Belize 14 3†
- full lock down
Cayman Islands 53 1†
- full lock down - able to get fuel and provisions via q dock
Cuba 669 92†
Bahamas 46 8†
- full lock down
Hawaii 486 8†
- 14 day Quarantine for US flagged Vessels
Florida 19,347 452†
- reported entry possible via Key West with health checks for US flagged Vessels
For those heading to Key West USA, on return from your Panama adventures, the Stock Island Marina took us in as a temporary safe harbor from overseas on arrival, until we were ready to safely leave in a bit over a week having done our fixes, provisioning, and weather window. A five star facility. Not cheap. But great help in the face of a county government that shut down the Florida Keys.MV ANGELIQUE
California 22,424 634†
- reported entry possible via San Diego t with health checks for US flagged Vessels
4) Pictures of the Week
Ho'okipa - Still Life with Strawberries Kosher Bilge

Lisa & Lucky
HO’OKIPA
PINK MOON PICTURES
Steve & Chelsea
JEAN ANNE

Michael & Vicki
BONZER

Bob and Margie
BLESSED LIFE

Dietmar & Suzanne
CARINTHIA

Nick, Gema & crew
MOIRA

Rick & Maria
PILIALOHA
Dan & Marlene
TRANCE
5) Location of vessels
NAME | LOCATION | STAY IN PLACE | MOVE ON TO | LOGISTICAL ISSUES | |
1 | BAJA FOG | Barra de Navidad, MX | took a flight on alaska airlines till may 30th | 2/3 full - 5 people jet | |
John & Monique | |||||
2 | ANGELIQUE OF VANCOUVER | vessel is in mazatlan - | currently back in Canada | mom passed | |
Mike & Jacquie | |||||
4 | THISLDU | Puesta del Sol, Nicaragua | |||
Garrett & Audrey | |||||
5 | LUNA | Mexico | |||
Bob & Kris | |||||
9 | CARINTHIA | Barra | shelter in place | ||
Dietmar & Suzanne | |||||
10 | SEAGLUB | Marina Los Cabos | |||
Chris | |||||
11 | BONZER | Barra | |||
Michael & Vicki | |||||
12 | JEAN ANNE | Chiapas, MX | |||
Steve & Chelsea | |||||
13 | SINGULARITY | Vista Mar, Panama | shelter in place for 3 more months | our home - do some toolling around | |
Robert & Carol | |||||
14 | SLOW DANCER | Bocas del Toro | |||
Dale & Kenneth | |||||
16 © | ENJOY | red frog marina - sheltering in place - | weathe ris rainy | ||
Don & Nina | |||||
19 © | KNOT RIGHT | Vista Mar Marina, Panama | all is well | did not anounce - curve has not reached apex | |
Walt & Jeariene | |||||
20 © | COMPROMISE | chiappas - copy heading north ensenada port captain closes at 1 PM | |||
Ronald & Karen | |||||
23 | TOP CIDER | Zihuatanejo | |||
Chuck & Sharon | |||||
25 | HALF MOON | Puesta del Sol | |||
Brain & Elizabeth | |||||
26 | MADELEINE | Vessel in El Salvador - we are in the Netherlands | |||
Huibert & Maaike | |||||
27 | ANGELIQUE | Florida | |||
Dan & Angela | |||||
29 | DELTA SWIZZLER | tenecatita - watermaker issues | |||
Mark & Cindy | |||||
30 | FIREFLY | las hadas - 4 boats today | sheltering in place | ||
Brenda & Ted | |||||
34 | ONE LIFE | No change in barra - pandemic | staying in place | ||
Doug & Mary | |||||
37 | WISHLIST | las hadas bay | stay and boucne around - settle down | ||
Chris | |||||
40 | AVANT | Shelter Bay, Panama day patrol - able to go out | IN CANADA - glasd to help | ||
Rob & Debra | |||||
43 | RHAPSODY | vista mar - walking the golf course | sheltering in place | eyeing french polynesia | |
Sarah & Bob | |||||
50 | ANDURIL | Chiapas, MX - | In Vancouver | ||
Alice & Greg | |||||
51 | GREEN FLASH | San Clement California | getting stuff down at home vessel is vista mar | ||
Bob & Joan | |||||
52 | BONZAI | isla mujeres - carrebeen | good market nearby - | free to to do anything still issueing zarpes - 2 week quarantine - | |
Don | |||||
53 | GARGOYLE | Puesta del Sol Nicaragua | |||
Kevin & Carla | |||||
54 | STAND DOWN | Vista Mar Marina Panama | |||
Richard & Nancy | |||||
59 | RAVEN | Barra de Navidad | |||
Neil, Tammy, & Jan | |||||
60 | BLUE OASIS | blue oasis - came to fuel dock - fueld up - arrived in Tamap | |||
Barry & Kathy | |||||
61 © | WILDEST DREAMS | Puntarenas, CR | |||
Grant & Michelle | |||||
64 | SECRET WATER | La Paz | |||
Annie & Chris & Crew | |||||
67 | CHIMERA | bana bay CR - able to walk into town - shelter in place | |||
Dennis & Margaret | |||||
69 | ALIZANN | Red frog marina bocas de otoro | doing well | plan to stay here - until we have to move - not necessary to move so hoping every one is down - canal is open to small vessel 65 feet - 3 boats went though yesterday successfully - they are slowly alowing boats to transit - requirements | |
Martin & Suzanne | |||||
70 | FLOATING STONES | Bahamas | |||
Bryan & Cheryl | |||||
74 | MAISON DE SANTE | staing in barra | working | ||
Keenan & Nicole | |||||
81 | AY CARAMBA ! | Florida | |||
Juan & Michelle | |||||
82 | BULA | Mexico | |||
Kenny & Cari | |||||
85 | FOLLOW YOU FOLLOW ME | san jose de cabo - victor gives great service all done - U$ 250 digital zarpe | |||
Allan & Rina | |||||
86 | CONTEXT | We are in So- Califoria - record rains here | |||
John Jan | |||||
87 | EL GATO | Mexico | |||
Jules & Jeff | |||||
88 © | SEA LARKS | Banana Bay Marina, CR | |||
Jeffrey & Paula | |||||
95 | WAVE DANCER | Vessel fishhook - golifito we are in Florida | |||
Vladimir & Galinda | |||||
99 | HO’OKIPA | Barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Lisa & Lucky | |||||
100 | VOLARE | las hadas, 8 boats anchored | motored the holes | ||
Jessica & Adam | |||||
117 | PILIALOHA | Vessel is in Marina chahue - we are in Oahu Hawaii - happy to help any vessel en route | q 14 days strict inter island curfew in effect - 11 - 5 AM | ||
Rick & Maria | |||||
119 © | TRANCE | Shelter Island San Diego | |||
Dan & Marlene | |||||
121 | ANKYRIOS | Barra de Navidad, MX | |||
Dennis, Brandy & Crew | |||||
124 © | INDEPENDENCE | barefoot cay in roatan honduras | extendend the lockdown to the 19th of | groceries stores are full of supplies | police chief came back to the island with 12 officers with navy personell and got shipped back to - civil unrest - had extra security |
Larry & Jamie | |||||
125 | LILY ROWAN | chahue in marina all is well got fuel - next bay - a cat was thieves - next bay - impossible dream - | local supermarket is open well stocked - | ||
Jim & Zyanya | |||||
128 © | AMANDLA | Marina Pamleira in La Paz | here for the future | port restrictions - in la paz - 96 lock down is a rumor - stores | |
Lisa & Captain Fabio | |||||
129 © | NESHUMA | on the hard at mazatlan marina | |||
Carl & Cynthia | |||||
131 | MAR Y SOL | Marina Vallarta, MX | |||
Bob & Marisol | |||||
133 | BIG CITY FISH | Barra in Navidad | |||
Rick & Linda | |||||
138 | BLESSED LIFE | Bahia Herradura, CR | |||
Bob and Margie | |||||
143 © | SEA GLASS | rich boren - cruise hro - was news of a lockdown - lined up with easter weekend | preventing travel | have had problem in the mainland | home depot is open - strictly adherence to the rules |
Chris | |||||
147 | GRASSHOPPER | chiappas marina - plan to shelter in place | pool concrete foundation | local supplies - walmart - and home depot |
|
Jeffrey & Cheri | |||||
150 | MILAGRO | I'm still at Bahia Ballena CR with no crew planning to stay here for now | |||
Robert & crew | |||||
152 © | SUSIMI | Barra sheltering in place | |||
Paul & Hazel | |||||
155 © | LEILANI | in shelter bay marina - locked down for easter weekend - well secured - | |||
Richard & Tracy | |||||
161 © | SPREZZATURA | solo again crew left - left for florida - bocas del toro - stay for season | slight wrinkle - boat movement - they are relaxing the movement to allow anchorage to marina | ||
Eric | |||||
171 | GenM | san blas - mexico | weather window - story from milo - | ||
Marvin and Laurie | |||||
172 © | AMEKAYA | red frog marina - panama down the dock from alizann | planing to stay - had plans to go back to the states | ||
Maris and Linda | |||||
173 © | BISOU | anchored inbocas del toro town | planning to stay unitl Monday morning | ||
Robin and Tad | |||||
176 | REEF DANCER | Barra sheltering in place | dive sites in the area | ||
Jerry & Debra | |||||
178 | HAPPY DANCE | Leaving Panama - En route to Nicaragua | |||
Sue & Marty |
6) Line Calls WEEKLY PANAMA POSSE FLEET CHECK IN and MORNING NET on MONDAY'S at 16:00 UTC via LINE
These regular Monday call will stay active until May 31st, 2020
We have over 140+ 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
- Search for dietmarpetutschnig or SV Carinthia and send a message-
- wait and accept your PANAMAPOSSE GROUP INVITE
- join the group chat
7) Hurricane and Lighting Season
From a long-term planning standpoint you now have 7 -12 weeks
before the begging of the North Pacific Hurricane season
- which typically does not have mayor storms starting until the end of July
- and runs through early November
For details and links please visit
https://www.panamaposse.com/weather#Lightning
8) Update departure from Panama , Shelter Bay Marina - to Twinn Dolphin Marina Bradenton, Florida
Tuesday morning we initiated exit paperwork from Panama with SV Litha(also Seattle flagged).
( we had pre-prepped for this push)
Our plan- get our exit paperwork from Panama and sail to Florida.
Step 1. Quarantined in place minimum of 14 days at Shelter Bay Marina. We did not leave the Marina premises. Although we did walk around the Marina using social distancing protocols.
Step 2. After the quarantine period, Marina manager requested and received a health certificate from the government.
Paraphrasing- it states we have been in a supervised quarantine at SBM in our named vessel, with no c-19 symptoms at any time or at present.
Step 3 - obtain a Zarpe, which required the health certificate. To get the Zarpe we were in a bit of a quandary. The Colon Port Captain said we needed to go to Colon to obtain the Zarpe. We did not want violate the quarantine so took that option off the table.
Since we had transited the canal, we had an agent Erick Galvez who had all our paperwork. We had previously contacted Erick and he said he couldn’t help us. The port captain suggested that Erick could use a VUMPA ( not sure but this appears to be an electronic request for Zarpe from a system canal agents have access to) Anyway, agent still claimed it was a two day process including a trip to Flamenco. After some additional inquiries and gentle proding and providing all paperwork again and the new health certificate. We received a Zarpe electronically.
Step 4. Print your Zarpe and present it to immigration. Fortunately SBM has an immigration office and again the SBM marina manager was a hero and requested that immigration return to the office for a second time in the same day to stamp our passports with the marine exit stamp.
Step 5. Now armed with our paperwork and an extra copy in case we are stopped by Aeronaval or other CG entity. Again JuanJo went to discuss our exit with the aeronaval station watch ( at the entrance to SBM) and advised that 2 vessels would be departing the marina and exiting the Canal Zone breakwater. ( there was a patrol at the canal/colon breakwater)
Step6. Execute the departure from the breakwater and head North. ( this was Tuesday 3/31 mid afternoon).
We are grateful and indebted for all the help from JuanJo at SBM for helping Blue Oasis and Litha get out of Panamá officially in one day.
Next Chapter the sail North, Blue Oasis covered 600nm to Grand Cayman arriving last evening 4/4 .
This was our personal longest non-stop double hand. But wait there is more.
Port of Caymans is closed for clearance. We knew this but they are providing fuel to private vessels in transit. The very nice port security also asked if we needled groceries. Barry plans to ask for Beer, Rum and ice!
Of course today is Sunday, no fuel til tomorrow morning Monday.
We plan to top up and proceed to the Yucatán straits then arc north on the gulf loop current towards Tampa. Next update in about a week. Thank you to fellow posse members for support through our satellite comms enroute. You know who you are. We are humbly appreciative.. will be sharing beer, rum, tequila when our paths cross again.
Our buddy boat Litha is out here too, they didn’t need to stop for fuel top up. So we’ll be chasing them tomorrow to the straits.
All the best to everyone on this uncharted journey we are all on.
Be patient, but focused, be kind, smile it goes a long way.
1400nm 11 nights 12 days at sea. Shelter Bay Marina Panama to Twinn Dolphin Marina Bradenton Florida. Amazing weather windows, nothing significant broke! All our repairs held. We carry 90gal diesel(including Jerry cans) sip it at 1 1/3 gal/ hour. Topped up fuel in Grand Cayman (closed port, but port captain was happy to have us hang on a mooring ball overnight and as long as we stayed on leave our vessel,Saturday the 4th) no fuel on Sunday. Saturday we scrapped our bottom free of barnacles from 5 weeks at SBM.
Monday the 6th we topped up. After a good mix of wind and current between Colon and Grand Cayman,600nm, there was only 4-5 knots directly behind us up to the Yukatan straits. Motor on. So we wanted to make sure we had enough fuel to cross the Gulf of Mexico if the wind continued to be uncooperative.
We swung into Isla Mujeres for literally a 1 hour stop at the fuel dock. Our great buddy boat Bonzai arranged for us to get fuel (va & ven) and few much appreciated fresh fruits and veg.
From Isla Mujeres we caught the emerging Gulf Stream North into the deep part of the Gulf. 10 hour spinnaker run, followed by a fast 13 hour reach. Almost 24 hours with no engine at all. Tremendous. Due to a cold front from south US we angled to Ft Meyers, to foot the knock. We were 3nm from the coast waiting for the knock.... 1am Saturday, there it was , like we ordered it. The wind clocked right around to the North to North East off shore. Tack to the Mark!!!! The rest of the night was a beautiful off shore sail 15-20 app Kts, close reach, with the din of USA starboard. Sunrise over longboat key! We made it!
Barry and Kathy
Blue Oasis
9) Uninvited Visitor of the Week
Barry and Kathy
Blue Oasis
10) Reply to with any updates or pictures /
Dietmar & Suzanne
CARINTHIA
11) opt-out from the Fleet Updates simply reply with "REMOVE"
FLEET UPDATE 2020-04-05
- Ready to sign up for next season ?
- Pictures of the Week
- Thank you to our Sponsors
- Here is where each country stands
- FOR LONG TERM PLANNING
- Puerto Penasco / Rocky Point MX
- 4th Extraordinary Fleet Call 50+ Vessel Reports
- NEW PANAMA CANAL CROSSING REQUIREMENTS
- Summary of live talk from the US ambassador to Mexico
- SECRETARY OF THE MARINA - MEXICO # 13
- Line calls Mondays and Saturdays @ 16:00 UTC
- Reply to this email
- opt-out
“The good seaman weathers the storm he cannot avoid,
and avoids the storm he cannot weather.”
- unknown
1) Ready to sign up for next season 2020-2021 Panama Posse ?
Simply reply to this email with "SIGN ME UP AGAIN"
We are at 32 vessels for next season https://panamaposse.com/2020-2021-vessels
2) Pictures of the Week
Still BAR Life

Lisa & Lucky Chucky
HO’OKIPA
Yesterday while sailing from Huatulco yo Puerto Angel

Jim & Zyanya
LILY ROWAN
Sunset

Steve & Chelsea
JEAN ANNE
This morning at Puesta del Sol, Nicaragua

Laurin
SECOND WIND
Baja Ferries Mazatlan

Chris
Bob & Margie
BLESSED LIFE
3) Thank you to our Sponsors
Official Panama Posse Sponsors, Partners and Ambassadors
- Marina Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta – Mexico
- Marina Puerto de La Navidad – Barra de Navidad – Mexico
- Marina Ixtapa, Ixtapa – Mexico
- La Marina Acapulco, Acapulco – Mexico
- Marina Chiapas – Mexico
- Marina Bahia del Sol – El Salvador
- La Palma Moorings – Bahia del Sol, El Salvador
- Marina Puesta del Sol – Nicaragua
- Marina Papagayo – Costa Rica
- Marina Pez Vela – Costa Rica
- Banana Bay Marina – Costa Rica
- Vista Mar Marina – Panama
- Shelter Bay Marina – Panama
- Red Frog Marina – Panama
- Bocas Marina – Panama
Official Panama Canal Agent
Official Panama Posse Ambassadors
- Jaime Figueroa Navarro – Panama
- Bill & Jean – El Salvador Rally, El Salvador
- Ralph Hewitt – Nicaragua
Panama Posse Partners
- Vicente’s Moorings – Acapulco – Mexico
- Discover Tours Chiapas – Mexico
- Park Avenue Villas – San Juan del Sur – Nicaragua
- Coconutz – Annual Papagayo Victory Party – Playa Cocos – Costa Rica
- Abernathy – Chandlery – Panama
- Advertising Partners – Las Vegas
- Safe-Esteem.com – Delaware
4) Here is where each country stands (cases / deaths)
https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html
Mexico 1,890 † 202
Mexico has implemented temperature-screening measures at some of its airports. Passengers with abnormal temperatures and travel to high-risk areas might be subject to additional health screening.
Guatemala - full lock down - no entry permitted - Curfew extended to April 28th
Mexico - border closings between USA and Mexico but commercial entry permitted - USA inbound vessels US flagged only
Ports with Hotels are closing
Guatemala 61 † 2
The U.S. Embassy has now individually notified all confirmed travelers for the State Department charter flights departing from Guatemala City to Dallas-Ft. Worth (DFW) airport on Saturday, March 28th and Monday, March 30th. These flights are now fully booked.
There are two additional State Department charter flights scheduled for Tuesday, March 31st. The U.S. Embassy will notify confirmed passengers by Monday, March 30th if they are confirmed for the Tuesday, March 31st flights.
El Salvador 62 † 3
El Salvador - full lock down - no entry permitted
Honduras 268 † 22
Honduras - full lock down - no entry permitted
Nicaragua 5 † 1
Nicaragua - Check in with Marina Puesta del sol ahead of time - they will coordinate to send a health inspector out - after which customs, immigration will clear you in
Costa Rica 435 † 2
Costa Rica - no change but upon entry you may be asked about prior countries / health issues - crew flying in from overseas will be subject to questioning at airport(s)
April 13th
Panama 1,801 † 46
Panama - no entry permitted 14 day quarantine between ports has been obtained by some in internal movements - curfew w 1 hour movement x day for with 30 minutes based on ID number sex and day - no alcohol sales
No vessels under 65 allowed to transit
French Polynesia 40 1 critical case
Colombia 1,406 † 32
Colombia orders 19-day nationwide quarantine
Ecuador 3,646 † 181
Lock down
Belize 5 † 1
Lock down
Cayman Islands 35 † 1
Cuba 320 † 8
Bahamas 28 † 1
Lock down
Puerto Rico 475 † 20
Lock down
if you have specific additions to this please reply
Hazards to Navigation
5) FOR LONG TERM PLANNING
From a long term planning standpoint you now have 8 -12 weeks before the beginning of the North Pacific Hurricane season
- which typically does not have mayor storms starting until the end of July - and runs through early November.
The Marina in Barra de Navidad has discounts available to all vessels seeking shelter and typically has greatly discounted summer rates
- many posse boats will spend the summer here and a much discounted summer rate -
contact Secundino harbormaster@islaresort.com.mx
Harbormaster Secundino Alvarez
For those of you in or near Barra you are able to get the Super Hawaiian store from
Melaque to deliver to you our vessels as you shelter in place
and said store is also doing weekly runs to Costco in Guadalajara.
Delivery is about 100-120 pesos above the regular bill and done within 2 hours
usually
To contact the store and place your order send a
WhatsApp message in English with your information to Alex Key +52 314 141 9457
delivery comes on Panga and takes credit cards via a wireless terminal.
Make sure you mention that you are part of the Panama Posse
6) Puerto Penasco / Rocky Point MX
Post by Cabrales boatyard Puerto Peñasco, MX
Cabrales boatyard will be closed like all years on easter week and is currently scheduled to reopen on Monday April 13th, but there are lots of rumors on government enforcing strict quarantine and business closures. So as of 12:43pm there are no guarantees we will finish out the work week or reopen until the quarantine is over. Also, as of this message there are no reported cases of coronavirus in Puerto Peñasco.
I also just spoke again with the port master in Puerto Peñasco. As you have heard, the new 24 hour lockdown applies to everyone nationwide, it appears that there will be a sanitation barrier or checkpoints located strategically to limit non-essential movements around town.
Cruisers are still welcome to arrive from any destination (national or international). The update is that they are required to report to the portmaster directly upon arrival and will not be allowed to disembark until a medical team has cleared them to do so. If you wish to depart puerto peñasco by car it is allowed as long as you're returning to your home country, and then the port master will supply the crew with special documentation allowing such transport.
Needless to say that this situation is unprecedented, and will likely be more updates in the future.
Stay safe,
Salvador
7) 4th Extraordinary Fleet Call 50+ Vessel Reports April 4th 2020 16:00 UTC
# | NAME | LOCATION | STAY IN PLACE | MOVE ON TO | LOGISTICAL ISSUES |
1 | BAJA FOG | Barra | shelter inplace | flying back to us this week | |
John & Monique | |||||
3 | TALIESIN ROSE | Puesta del sol | no restrictions - 2 day notification | ||
Victoria & Rowan | |||||
4 | THISLDU | Puesta del sol | |||
Garrett & Audrey | |||||
10 | SEAGLUB | San Jose del Cabo | met with harbormaster | email in Mexico - port Vallarta is shutting down - logistical issues - paid for 7 months | |
Chris | |||||
11 | BONZER | Barra | |||
Michael & Vicki | |||||
12 | JEAN ANNE | Zihuatanejo | going north as soon as we can Barra - | ||
Steve & Chelsea | |||||
13 | SINGULARITY | vista mar | shelter in place inde | ||
Robert & Carol | |||||
19 © | KNOT RIGHT | vista mar | stay in place | limited available beer | |
Walt & Jeariene | |||||
20 © | COMPROMISE | chiapas | move south | worried about port clusures | |
Ronald & Karen | |||||
22 | DUE WEST | Barra | |||
Kirk & Heidi | |||||
23 | TOP CIDER | en route ti zihuat | |||
Chuck & Sharon | |||||
25 | HALF MOON | Puesta del sol | |||
Brain & Elizabeth | |||||
26 | MADELEINE | vessel in El Salvador in need for all repairs Netherlands | in Amsterdam | health wise - treatment and healthy - huib - he is doing fine | bored - |
Huibert & Maaike | |||||
27 | ANGELIQUE | Vessel in Florida key west | clamp down to get into a marina Jamaica | ||
Dan & Angela | |||||
28 | JO | Barra | drove across the border now in san antonio tx | ||
Phillip Jay & Kelley | |||||
29 | DELTA SWIZZLER | Barra | stay in the area | ||
Mark & Cindy | |||||
32 © | MORNING STAR | Shelter bay marina | haul out an't thank JuanJo, Eddie, Frank, Carol and all the team in Shelter Bay enough for everything they are doing for the cruisers. Dave and I are back in the UK, having caught the last flight out of Panama to Europe, thanks to the British Embassy giving us a link to the necessary KLM web page. Hope to be back in January.
Thanks to Panama Posse giving us all information and a sense of community in difficult times. |
||
David, Stella & … | |||||
34 | ONE LIFE | barra | Shelter in Place | self isolating | |
Doug & Mary | |||||
37 | WISHLIST | las hadas | came to hotel - vessel at anchor | ||
Chris | |||||
40 | AVANT | shelter bay to be hauled out | in canada - vancouver | keep an eye out - - possible to exit colon if you need a zarpe - 14 day quarantines - | |
Rob & Debra | |||||
43 | RHAPSODY | Shelter Bay | shelter place | doing well - | |
Sarah & Bob | |||||
47 | WIND SWEPT | LA PAZ | |||
Scott & Jan | |||||
51 | GREEN FLASH | vessel in Vista Mar - san clemente | sheltering in place | embassy list unplanned flight - jumped on that vista | |
Bob & Joan | |||||
52 | BONZAI | Isla Mujeres Cancun, MX | sheltering in place | changed a bit tightend the bit - at anchor - restrictions to go shopping - vessle 2 week quarantine - first case on the island - long term - standing by until july | |
Don | |||||
53 | GARGOYLE | pueste del sol nicarga | Shelter in Place | waiting to hear costa rica | |
Kevin & Carla | |||||
54 | STAND DOWN | Vista Mar | sheltering in place | ||
Richard & Nancy | |||||
55 | SONAMARA | Red frog marina | shelter in place | ||
Louis & Patrice | |||||
61 © | WILDEST DREAMS | Anchored in Golfito - | last week to banana bay - allowed to leave - extend immigration - to stay - until they opne the border - take through the marina - looking to exit - | ||
Grant & Michelle | |||||
63 | SECOND WIND | puesta del sol | waiting for development to get to costa rica | ||
Laurin | |||||
69 | ALIZANN | bocas del toro red frog maina | staying in place staying in the Caribbean | conditions is ready to go ready | 2 case sof corona v aearol naval - any boats moving - unless you are in a a panga or dinghy for purchases |
Martin & Suzanne | |||||
70 | FLOATING STONES | Bahamas | |||
Bryan & Cheryl | |||||
74 | MAISON DE SANTE | barra | sheltering in place | everythign fine | |
Keenan & Nicole | |||||
88 © | SEA LARKS | banana bay marina golfito CR | hoping to travel north - us embassy | ||
Jeffrey & Paula | |||||
92 | BAIT ‘N SWITCH III | papagayo marina costa rica - | tips 90 day import permit are extend | ||
John & Laurie | |||||
94 © | MARIAH | West end Ruatan. Honduras | all fine staying waiting for pandemic to blow over - waiting to go up to key west - | hello all doing fine in west bay of island roatan island have beem locked down for 20 days - can provision 20 vessels on suzy II rally - close to - important - french boats left | |
Trish & John | |||||
95 | WAVE DANCER | Florida left the boat in golfito last plane fishhook | cost rica - boat will be 1/2 have to bond - | ||
Vladimir & Galinda | |||||
96 | MALOLO | isla grande | novamar | heading to barra | heading north - |
Matt & Britt | |||||
99 | HO’OKIPA | Barra de Navidad | stay in place | nothing | |
Lisa & Lucky | |||||
100 | VOLARE | zihuatenaje | heading north | ||
Jessica & Adam | |||||
104 © | MIDNIGHT BREEZE | vista mar marina | UK | ||
Richard & Caroline | |||||
109 | JOY | barra | sheltering in place | ready to move | sheltering in place |
Jeff & Roxanne | |||||
111 | SEAQUEL | Belize sheltering in place | heading up via isla mujeres | moving out to the cav - yesterday - could leave the country - could get a stamp getting - getting fuel - hide - 14 day quarantine in isla mujeres | |
Michael | |||||
117 | PILIALOHA | vessel in marina chahue | hawaiii | spoke with the marina - marina is closed - doing watches - | |
Rick & Maria | |||||
121 | ANKYRIOS | Barra | |||
Dennis, Brandy & Crew | |||||
124 © | INDEPENDENCE | barefoot key ruatan honduras get zarpe to leave hang around there great stores plenty of supplies | florida | captain looked around - boats moving around | |
Larry & Jamie | |||||
125 | LILY ROWAN | Puerto Angeles tried to get in chahue | port answer - closed - Ezequiel - did not want anywhere in the jurisdiction - not here right now - tourist - message - | ||
Jim & Zyanya | |||||
128 © | AMANDLA | Marina Palmaira Baja / La Paz | visas | ||
Lisa & Captain Fabio | |||||
130 | SIMPLIFY | marina chahue | staying here | decide to leave from hawaii | town is closed down - rent bicycles - grocery stores are open - |
Randy & Marina | |||||
138 | BLESSED LIFE | costa rica quepos pez vela | shelter in place | solid intel - not due to may - | |
Bob and Margie | |||||
147 | GRASSHOPPER | en route to chiapas | |||
Jeffrey & Cheri | |||||
148 © | ELEVEN 11 | Chahue | We are staying put here in Marina Chahue where we learned this week that movement in or out is not permitted. The Navy and National guard are here in town and patrolling the waters, and the beaches and resorts are closed. There are a few restaurants open for takeout and the grocery stores are allowing one person per party to go into the grocery store. There is a limit on sugar, eggs, rice, and a few other things. rumor has it, that they are going to shut down alcohol sales here soon, so naturally, we did a huge alcohol provision today! There is absolutely no room for another item on our boat. Every nook and cranny accounted for! We were told that there are roadblocks going into and out of the city and at night, the policia are patrolling the streets playing an announcement. I'm assuming it's a curfew at night? Not sure about that.
We are taking advantage of being quarantined, by addressing our engine issues. We took out our injection fuel lines to be replaced, we are working on our starter, and various other cosmetic projects and otherwise! We hope everyone is doing okay out there. If you're not where you want to be, hang in there! We feel for everyone out there who may feel stuck. We will get through this! Take care everyone! Stay safe! |
engine issues boat pulle din the middle of the night - as looking for paperwork zarpe - needed paperwork - marina office - sad to see - small vessel - navy patrolling everything - playing a recording - | |
Tim, Kim & | |||||
149 © | MOIRA | Bahia Ballena CR | It’s quiet here and we are managing to get ashore to get supplies at the local fruit and veggie market and the buses still run to Cobano for supermarket shopping. Our plans for the near term are to stay put but we are thinking ahead to hurricane season. Our original plans for French Polynesia are of course on hold. Possibilities currently are to make for the north of the Sea of Cortez or more likely, Hawaii. A lot depends on how things develop in Mexico. All the best to you and our fellow cruisers, Nick, Gema, Oliver and Sofia |
||
Nick, Gema & crew | |||||
150 | MILAGRO | ||||
Robert & crew | |||||
152 © | SUSIMI | barra lagoon | Puerto penasaco | opportunity to move north | |
Paul & Hazel | |||||
161 © | SPREZZATURA | received permit bocas del toro | no movement on yachts Sunday is closed wear masks all the time limited movement kind appeal port | ||
Eric | |||||
171 | GenM | la cruz, mx | head north | boat is in good conditions - heading - mexico has closed all ports with hotels - | |
Marvin and Laurie | |||||
172 © | AMEKAYA | sorry missed this info | |||
Maris and Linda | |||||
173 © | BISOU | Bocas del Toro at anchor - bocas town | stay in place | fine | |
Robin and Tad | |||||
174 | ARROW | north in chamela | stay near to barra | ||
Maurisa & Mike | |||||
175 | VAGABUNDO DOS | acapulco bay - beaches are closed | heading south chiappas | heading towards chahue - nicaragua - | |
Grant & Donna | |||||
176 | REEF DANCER | Barra | shelter in place | ||
Jerry & Debra | |||||
177 | HAPPY DANCE | boca chica Boca Chica | trying to get to Mexico | ||
Sue & Marty |
8) PANAMA CANAL CROSSING REQUIREMENTS ( currently only vessels over 65 feet are allowed )
Issued today by the Panama Canal Authority
April 3, 2020
TO : All Shipping Agents, Owners, and Operators
SUBJECT: COVID-19 Vessel Precautions
The Panama Canal Authority (ACP), concerned with the threat of transmission of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) to ACP employees, respectfully requests vessel operators to take precautionary measures before and during the transit of their vessels through the Panama Canal and when making local port calls. These measures are necessary and imperative to prevent any further spread of this virus in the Republic of Panama.
Please note that some of these measures must be implemented before ACP employees board these vessels, and include, but are not limited to the following:
- One hour prior to the boarding of the ACP inspector and pilot, wipe down the boarding facilities, pilot cabin, elevator/stairway, as well as the entire bridge, to include the chart table, navigational equipment, chairs, helm, entire console, handrails, windows, door handles and toilets, with a 5% solution of bleach water or equivalent disinfecting solution.
- Minimize the number of crew members standing by at the pilot boarding station.
- Periodically disinfect any surfaces that the pilot or crew members have come into contact with, such as binoculars, radar control panels, ECDIS control panels and VHF radios.
- Periodically wipe down toilets designated to be used by ACP linehandlers, as well as working area.
- Allow only essential personnel inside the navigation bridge while an ACP pilot is on board.
- Any crew members intending to enter the bridge must wash their hands and face prior to entering the bridge, and once inside the bridge, must immediately wash their hands again.
- A supply of alcohol-based hand sanitizer must be maintained on the bridge.
- Close contact should be avoided at all times, maintaining a distance of at least 1.5 meters or more, whenever possible.
- All coffee cups and utensils must be washed thoroughly immediately prior to being used by the ACP pilot.
9) Summary of live talk from the US ambassador to Mexico
Hi all,
We have been asked to summarize the facebook live talk from the US ambassador to Mexico. The video coverage was very spotty, but we got most of it. Here are the major points:
- If you are here on 180-day tourist visa or you are planning to return to the US sometime soon, it is strongly advised to GO HOME to the US NOW, while there are still some flights available. This may change in the near future, if airlines stop flying and airports close.
- It is strongly advised to sign up for the STEP program, this will supply you with daily updates on the status of airlines and airports and other things pertinent to US citizens in Mexico
- https://step.state.gov/STEPMobile/Default.aspx
- If you are US Citizen with a Mexican residente permanente or residente temporal, you need to weigh the pros and cons of staying in Mexico long-term versus returning home. Each person’s circumstances will be different and require a different answer.
- US policy is to allow citizens to return to the US whether by car or boat or plane, but they may be asked to quarantine for 14-days, and there may soon be a time when airports close and/or airlines stop flying in the near future which would limit your options to being able to return home easily.
- If you decide to stay in Mexico, please abide by the Mexican government rules surrounding stay at home, wash your hands, make the best of things. Be safe and stay healthy.
- Please check your health insurance policies carefully, most health insurance policies are not covering COVID-19 because it is a named world pandemic, (similar to a named hurricane.) Most medevac flights will also not cover COVID-19 situations.
If you have specific questions you may email the US Embassy in CDMX directly to this email address:
acsmexicocity@state.gov
Or call: 55 852 62 561
Hope that is helpful, The Facebook video should be up on the Facebook page for viewing, Facebook.com/Mexico.USEmbassy
Heidi & Kirk
DUE WEST
10) SECRETARY OF THE MARINA - MEXICO # 13
MARINA f, 2020 Unit of Port Captaincies and Maritime Affairs,
Deputy General Directorate of Port Captains.
"Instructions are issued to deny dispatches and departures to dedicated vessels
to the provision of nautical tourism services to third parties, with boats smaller than
Mexican and foreign recreation and sports. "
l. BACKGROUND.
All the Capitanias of Puerto del País.
M. BACKGROUND.
My Various Circulars issued with Instructions regarding Prevention, Care and Control
of the COVID-19 ".
ML. INFORMATION.
On March 24, 2020, the AGREEMENT issued was published in the Official Gazette of the Federation.
by the Secretary of Health, which establishes the preventive measures that must be
implement to mitigate and control the health risks of the disease
by the SARS-CoV2 virus (COVID-19). This Agreement mentions in its third paragraph of
ARTICLE ONE that the civil, military and private authorities, as well as
dependencies and entities of the three levels of government, will be obliged to
Instrumentation of preventive measures against the disease for the SARS-CoV2 virus
(COVID-19), referred to in the first paragraph of this article.
Likewise, subsection €) of SECOND ARTICLE, mentions that the dependencies and entities
of the Federal Public Administration and organizations from the social and private sectors, such as
preventive measure must temporarily suspend the activities of the sectors
public, social and private that involve physical concentration, transit or displacement
of people from the entry into force of this.
Finally, in consideration of the recommendations issued by the Secretary of Health in the
press conference "Report on COVID-19" on Saturday 28 of the current
take actions to prevent the rapid spread of SAR-GpV-2.
IV. INSTRUCTIONS.
This Deputy General Directorate of Port Captaincies in my charge, following the
recommendations issued in the aforementioned AGREEMENT; and based on what
established in articles 37 and 49 fraction IV of the Maritime Navigation and Commerce Law
they are instructed to perform the following action:
1, From the date and until further notice, you must deny dispatches and departures at
boats dedicated to the provision of nautical tourism services to third parties, with
minor Mexican and foreign recreational and sports boats, the above with the
In order to prevent the spread of the SARS-CoV2 virus (COVID-19).
Log leaders of the Port Captaincy are held responsible for the dissemination and compliance of the
This Circular, with the fact that said measure does not apply to cabotage navigation of
boats and transport of people and supplies, reminding them that they should
observe in all to recommendations regarding the healthy distance,
Mexico City, March 29, 2020.
SECRETARIAT Of Ina Contralmi CG. DEM.
11) We will continue our LINE CALLS
Monday's @ 16:00 UTC and extraordinary Line calls on
Saturdays @ 16:00 UTC
Everyone please mute your mikes ( green line through the mic )
12) Please reply to this email with any updates - your vessel location -
contenders for picture of the week -
Dietmar & Suzanne
SV Carinthia
13) opt-out from the Fleet Updates simply reply with "REMOVE"