Secundino Alvarez - Harbor Master Vessels Must be registered with the Panama Posse prior to Oct 31st to receive Posse discounts at Marina Puerto de la Navidad.
Ileana Stevenson Covo - GM For those coming from the lesser Antilles this will be the first event in full on Latin style in Colombia - come celebrate the great food and culture that is Colombia in it's premier yacht club.
(3) OCEAN POSSE PARTY PANAMA + SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
FLEET MEET UP
SAT. FEB 3 '24 SHELTER BAY MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
IMPORTANT: This event is in the middle of high season. The Shelter Bay Marina will be near capacity so make reservations early. Additionally, we are also going to organize a shuttle bus to get folks to this event from alternate locations.
(4) PANAMA POSSE AWARDSFUN ACTIVITIES, GOLF, POOL, DJ LOUNGE, + MARINE EXPO
SAT. MAY 11 '24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
This is a very exclusive signature event in the Hamptons of Panama. The upscale resort Buenaventura is just 80 minutes west of Panama City and is one of the most charming and reserved places on the Pacific coast of Panama. Only 60 nm from the Las Perlas.
Beat, Caroline, dogs & Heyson Garcia - YES PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB IS UBER DOG FREINDLY
>
We, Caroline Imfeld and Beat Rettich are running this place since January 2021. We moved from Switzerland to Belize in 2019 and found this treasure while looking for a dock for our yacht.
Simplicity on a high level is our aim and to make our guests happy.
FOR RESERVATIONS AND MOORINGS @ PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB
SY COURAGE goes a short 4 hours north from La Paz to Isla Espiritu Santo
Candelero Bay Anchorage @ 24° 302 N 110° 231 W 11.00 ft 3.90 m
First night here! Beautiful!
We (went) snorkeling! We swam around a little island in middle of bay where the pin drop is above by Playa Candalero. Saw a dozen species of fish and five kinds of coral. Had two beautiful beaches with easy access and hiking trails inland. We would have stayed longer but needed to get back to La Paz (4 hours away) for more work being done as we upgrade courage after our first three months out here!
SY COURAGE 🇺🇸 John & Kristine – Tartan 4100
Like many Panama Posse members before and many yet to come, SY COURAGE dropped their hook at Isla Espirtu Santo last week. This island is part of a national park system in the Sea of Cortez, Mexico just north of La Paz. Isla Espiritu Santo is separated by a narrow channel from another beautiful island called Isla Partida. There are anchorages all around both islands and in between. Each offer adventures, vistas, and shelter all their own. The desert cactus and turquoise water around Isla Espiritu Santo, 🇲🇽 Mexico make exploring underwater, at the surface, or ashore especially memorable!
Crystal clear waters are home to so much marine life.
In a short time at Isla Espiritu Santo one will see sea turtles poking their heads above the surface for some fresh air, rays jumping and splashing, and colorful fish navigating rock structures lining the shore.
Exploring onshore is a great way to see the island & look back on your mothership.
SHARING YOUR ADVENTURES is the heart and soul of the Panama Posse
Please share pictures of your adventures, your award entries, your breathtaking sunsets, and picturesque anchorages on our group communications platform for others to enjoy in real time and/or email Maurisa at editor@panamaposse.com to share in the upcoming newsletter. Maurisa is a sailor among us. She is part of the Ocean Posse crew and enjoys writing fun and helpful updates to the Panama Posse.
Thank you for Sharing your Adventures SY COURAGE...
...and your Sunsets!
7) PREDICT WIND & OCEAN POSSE SEMINAR
Weather Routing while under way
Friday, December 8, 2023⋅11:30am – 1:00pm PACIFC TIME
Complex weather analysis made easy.
Don’t spend hours plotting a course and checking forecasts to ensure a safe passage. PredictWind Weather Routing takes care of the heavy lifting to give you the perfect route, in seconds.
A question came up on the line call this week regarding what to feed the line handlers and advisors - how much water / coca cola etc. We wrote Panama Posse sponsor Marcus Santana, General Manager with Waypoint Marine. We asked him for recommendations. Below is his response:
There is no regulation on what kind of food, but for pilots (vessels) should provide bottled water during the whole transit, and the meal should be similar to the officers meals on board.
The yacht may provide on board food or drinks to other ACP personnel as a courtesy.
Additionally, according to the regulation stated in the Procedures for securing a Handline Transit of the Panama Canal (https://pancanal.com/maritime-services/informacion-para-clientes/), it states that:
• Sanitary Facility: it must be a Western – type toilet that has a storage tank of sufficient capacity during the transit, so as not to incur delays or additional charges when having to relieve the Pilot or Transit Advisor.
• Drinking water: must be individual sealed bottles of water, at least 3 liters per day for the consumption of the transit advisor or pilot, otherwise, there may be additional charges for this service.
• Meal available: a complete hot meal with protein, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, conditioned by transit schedule, otherwise, there may be additional charges for this service.
Although we understand that the aforementioned information already attends to your queries, please allow us to add a few suggestions, as per the below:
WHAT IS SUGGESTED?
WHEN STARTING THE TRANSIT, PROVIDE A SMALL BREAKFAST WHICH MAY INCLUDE, BUT DOES NOT NECESSARILY SHOULD, BLACK COFFEE, TEA, MILK, JUICE, SOFT DRINK OR WATER. SMALL PORTIONS OF COOKIES, TOAST, BREAD, AND, IN SOME SITUATIONS, EGGS, SALAD, SAUSAGE AND OTHERS.
DURING THE COURSE OF THE DAY, MAINLY, CLOSE TO NOON, A SMALL MEAL IS RECOMMENDED, ACCORDING TO EACH ONE'S TASTE, SUITABLELY ACCOMPANIED BY SOME DRINK.
FURTHERMORE, WE BELIEVE THAT GOOD COMMUNICATION AND VERBAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE PARTIES IS MORE VALID THAN THE WRITTEN ORDER OF THINGS. HOWEVER, WE UNDERSTAND THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE WHO DO NOT HAVE THE SAME EDUCATION, STANDARDS AND PRINCIPLES THAT WE HAVE. WHEN THESE CASES OCCUR, WE SUGGEST USING A CALM VOICE TO INFORM ALL CREW OF THE OPTIONS AVAILABLE ON BOARD AND CONTACT YOUR AGENT VIA PHONE TO MEDIATE THE SITUATION AND SEEK TO PEACE IN THE SITUATION.
THIS IS THE FAMOUS: THE UNWRITTEN ORDER OF THINGS, WHICH DENOTES OUR INTRISIC OBLIGATION TO TAKE CARE OF MATTERS NOT PREVIOUSLY DETERMINED BY WRITTEN ORDER, WHICH, HOWEVER, ARE PART OF THE LOCAL CULTURE, GOOD CUSTOMS, HABITS, AND ROUTINES. THIS IS THE FAMOUS "USAGES AND CUSTOMS", WHICH WE ARE REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH TO MAINTAIN GOOD ORDER AND EXPECTED PROCEDURE DURING TRANSIT, ESPECIALLY REGARDING WHAT TO OFFER OR WHAT TO EAT.
FURTHERMORE, WE NEED TO REMEMBER THAT WHEN WE INVITE A PERSON TO ENTER "OUR HOUSE", WE ENSURE THAT THEY MAKE THEM FEEL WELCOME AND AT EASE. BY OFFERING ONE OR TWO MEALS, IN ADDITION TO SHOWING A SIGN OF EDUCATION AND SOLIDARITY, IT SEEMS REASONABLE SINCE THE PERSON IS WORKING AND, IN ANY COUNTRY OR COMPANY, FOR EVERY 4 HOURS OF WORK THE PERSON HAS THE RIGHT TO REST, FOOD, WATER AND BATHROOM.
THEREFORE, IT SEEMS TO BE GOOD TO OVITRE TO OFFER THE MINIMUM NECESSARY TO MAINTAIN THE GOOD WORK OF THE PILOT ADVISOR AND LINE HANDLERS.
We hope that aforementioned information is under your expectation and appraisal, and we remain at your disposal for further information or clarification you may deem necessary, looking forward to hearing from you soon again.
PANAMA POSSE MEMBERS REACH OUT TO HELP ACAPULCO RESIDENT AND LONGTIME MARINER, VINCENTE
Hurricane Otis was the result of a tropical storm that rapidly intensified off the coast of Acapulco in October 2023. No one expected it and everyone was caught off-guard. In the dark of night three 20 foot waves came through the bay and destroyed everything. In one fell swoop the entire Acapulco Yacht Club was thrown on land. Four marinas are gone. Boats got swamped and sunk rapidly. 650 boats were destroyed or sunk. Some people escaped with their lives, others did not.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, the Mexican government has sent in assistance. Two ships arrived in from Mazatlan last week to help lift the boats out of the bay. Meanwhile, Panama Posse members have come together to help where they can.
Immediately following the devastation, Captain Dietmar attempted to make contact with longtime mariner, Acapulco resident, and friend, Vincente. Vincente ran the mooring balls in Acapulco and many vessels and crew that have travelled through Acapulco have had the opportunity to meet him. All communication lines were down following Otis and it took several weeks to discover that in fact Vincente was alive. He survived!
We quickly learned that his wife, son, and grandson were lost aboard his boat and he is left to make sense of what is left. A relief fund has been organized. If you or anyone you know would like to contribute to a man picking up the pieces in Acapulco, Vincente is a kind soul in need.
WE ARE RAISING MONEY FOR CAPTAIN VICENTE HERRERA
All funds (minus credit card fees) will go directly to Vicente
By these means I send you a report of the current situation that we are experiencing in Acapulco Guerrero: After the passage of Hurricane Otis, the Port of Acapulco is in total abandonment by the municipal government authorities, which is why we have certain shortcomings such as the docks of the Acapulco marina and Yacht Club closed and destroyed, the reconstruction of the marina is very slow therefore sailors or sea workers do not have work. The mooring balls are mostly found in their places of origin, almost all of them survived the hurricane. The marina area is guarded by the national guard and the marina therefore is very well maintained and safe. The entire population does not yet have water and electricity, but gasoline and diesel are already available throughout the city for the service of those who request it. The port captain’s office is already working its normal schedules and continues to search for the 55 missing people (captains and sailors). Currently what we need most is to repair our homes, household items such as beds, refrigerators, etc. Since most of us lost our homes. For example, at this moment I am staying with a neighbor because my home was taken away by the hurricane. I say goodbye to you, remaining at his command, Greetings.
Sincerely Acapulco Guerrero on November 30, 2023 Captain Vincente Herrera Carrillo Telephone: 7444398184
Update 2023.12.03
The money is coming to me, thank you very much 🙏 I still feel devastated and desperate for not finding my family, the search is very slow, I have paid many divers and still not even the boat has been found but we are standing and waiting for the group Panama Posse to serve you as we always have, a big hug for the entire group.
Blessings 🙏
I already collect the initial support money from Oxxo
Thank you
VICENTE IS GREATFUL & A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL THESE DONORS
CARINTHIA · Suzanne & Dietmar · $500
FLOATING STONES · Bryan & Cheryl Stone · $500
SUMMER BREEZE · Kurtis Bell · $150
JULIA MAX · George & Sue Stonecliffe · $50
TOKETEE · Dar & Diane Winkler-Nelson · $50
DAWN PATROL · Laney Gale · $50
PRIYA · Brandt Faatz · $50
TIDINGS OF JOY · Jeff & Joy Dornick · $25
SUNDOWNER · Rhiannon Venier · $50
ONE LIFE · Douglas & Mary David · $100
PINCOYA · Aimee Souza · $250
DELTA SWIZZLER · Mark & Cindy Miller · $100
GALATEA · Sarah & Mark · $25
MAISON DE SANTE · Nicole & Keenan Smith · $250
· Elaine Bailey · $50
FORTITUDE X · Stefanie & Torsten Schulz · $50
SJ · Sarah & Craig Dempsey / Tyler · $50
Friend of Maison de Santé · Devon Dunlap · $25
SUNDOWNER · J and L Venier · $250
Friend of Maison de Santé · Tiffany Hsu · $25
Friend of Maison de Santé · Michelle Hamdani · $100
Friend of Maison de Santé · Susanna Tuan · $200
Friend of Maison de Santé · Niyati Shah · $25
CHEMISTRY · Sean Anderson · $100
KNOT RIGHT · Walt Childson & Jearine · $200
HO'OKIPA · Charles & Lisa Lenhoff · $100
OZ · Steve & Susan Warner · $50
· Delphine McCourt · $30
BISOU · Robin Felicity Foley · $100
BUG OUT BOAT · Bob Sadler · $50
ZORBA · Limor Zimerman · $25
FREEDOM · Sheri Normandin · $100
PERCEPTION · Melinda & James Hall · $100
SPLINTERS · Kim Paulsen · $100
Mandalay Bay · Alison Gabel · $100
GREEN FLASH · Robert Ritner · $100
· Blouin Pierre · $25
FELICITÀ · Gretchen & Tim · $100
SUNDOWNER · Donovan Kessler · $25
· Lauren Empey · $100
Family of Maison de Santé · Meredithe & Mitchel Katz · $500
A Courtesy dock can be found just inside the estuary in the east side of the anchorage in Drake Bay
Drake Bay is a wonderful anchorage to stop in on your way north or south along the pacific coast of Costa Rica. Bahía Drake (Drake Bay) is a generous bay on the north side of the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park on the coast of southwestern Costa Rica. The Bay is surrounded by lush jungle, blooming tower-size plants, swinging monkeys, and colorful birds.
Lobster Claw Heliconia stores water for birds and insects.
Historically, this bay is believed to be a port once used by Sir Francis Drake during his raids on the Spanish Main in the 16th century and the location of one of the British pirate’s fabled hidden treasures.
Today, Drake Bay is an out of the way home and destination for many an adventurous soul. Drake Bay is difficult to get to by land and if the swell is not favorable, it is difficult to stay on the water. This is to say, anyone lucky enough to get there and have the favorable conditions to stay has much to enjoy.
The ramp up the dinghy dock has a towering entrance at low tide
At the top of this ramp is a path. To the left you can walk to town (very nice walk), to the right you can walk all the way to Corcovado National Park. Walking in this direction is awesome! Along the path towards Corcovado are many secluded beaches and eco resorts on the hill. The area is super picturesque and it is impressive how maintained the path is for being in the jungle zone.
How far will you go?
OPTIONAL ADVENTURE:
If you walk the trail towards Corcovado for a couple few miles (?) and get to a flat open area where there is what looks to be a closed school (or official building of some sort) and then a small church. Just at/past the small church there is a path to the left. Walk this path a short ways. It will feel like you are in someone's backyard and you will get to a Soda (a small, local Costa Rican eatery). IF you chose this adventure, and my description is sufficient, enjoy and let me know what you think.
Bahia Careyes is a small bay which has been developed for luxury living and upmarket tourism. Moorings and tour boats tend to occupy the more sheltered parts of the three coves which make up the bay however there is still space to anchor outside the mooring field off Playa Careyes in the southern cove
Anchorage is possible in the northern lobe however the holding is poor and the beach is private property.
Even during the winter months swell diffracting between the islands tends to make this a rolly anchorage. SY VOYAGER recently took a mooring in Careyes. Ed and Liz report:
We took a bow and stern mooring with Captain Crunch. Quiet picturesque anchorage. Nice restaurant and beach ba shore. Easy beach landing.
(You can) make a res for mooring with Captain Crunch. +52 315 112 7044 on WhatsApp. He texts in Spanish. Speaks some English in person. Capital Crunch will meet you in his panga and hand you mooring lines. No need to have lines pre-rigged on your boat 😊 $50/night
Approaches
Keep good lookout for isolated, uncharted rocks as you approach the anchorage from the south-west.
Anchorage
Anchor outside the moorings in 7.3m on sand. Check your anchor is well set as the holding is moderate. Playa Careyes is buoyed for guest swimming and cannot be approached by dinghy. Instead go ashore at Playa Rosa in the central cove.
Facilities
A couple of restaurants can be found at Playa Careyes and Playa Rosa. Swimming and snorkeling are heavenly in the crystal clear waters.
Easy beach landing with a great view of the mothership
SY VOYAGER 🇺🇸 Ed & Liz - Hylas 54'
14) MARINA PUERTO VELERO 🇨🇴
SPONSORS PANAMA POSSE
Latitude 10° 55' 48" N, Longitude 75° 03' 32" W
Hello Panama Posse, thanks for the interest with our marina.
The rates are on our website and we can offer your affiliates a 10% discount on these rates.
For reservations the phones are: +57 304 228 7282 / +57 311 286 2836
The Panama Jazz Festival was created in 2003 with the mission of improving people's quality of life through excellent musical experiences.
Offering educational and artistic activities of the highest academic and professional quality, the Festival inspires and educates while providing tools and opportunities to build a better future for individuals and their communities.
Since its inception the Festival has announced more than 5 million dollars in national and international scholarships, has attracted more than 500,000 people from around the world to Panama and has offered more than 1 million dollars in music education of the highest quality to Panamanian students and the rest of Latin America in their educational events.
The 2024 XXI Panama Jazz Festival will be dedicated to highlighting the work of Panamanian jazz drummer and composer, Billy Cobham .
Billy Cobham, born in Columbus, was named in 2001 as one of the 25 most influential drummers by Modern Drummer Magazine.
In his extensive career, he has released more than 50 albums as a solo artist and has collaborated with artists such as Miles Davies, Carlos Santana, Ron Carter, Gil Evans, Fania all Star, James Brown, Peter Gabriel, Quincy Jones, Sonny Rollins, among many others. .
Tickets for the Panama Jazz Festival are 50% off now.
LONG LINES ARE ILLEGAL or RESTRICTED IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE WORLD…
WATCH OUT FOR THEM ALONG THE CENTRAL AMERICAN PANAMA POSSE ROUTE
Be on the look out for a black flag that can mark an end or a mark along a longline.
Long lines are typically tended by local fisherman in open boats called Pangas
Also be on the look out for floating plastic bottles that may mark fishing nets.
Moving along the Pacific Coast between Mexico and Panama, a vessel will likely see or encounter longlines, dragnets, and/or unmarked fishing devices.
ENVIRONMENTAL & CRUISER RISKS OF MICROPLASTICS AND LONG LINES
Long lines, driftnets, ghost nets, and other illegal fishing techniques are the main source of microplastics pollution in the Pacific Ocean. Further these environmentally damaging fishing systems increase the percentage of by-catch, causing many millions of tons of fish and marine life to be wastefully and tragically discarded yearly.
Panama Posse participants are advised that Longlines along the Pacific Coast from Mexico to Panama create risk for your voyage. For this reason we have created this page https://panamaposse.com/longlines to help located longlines that can disable your vessel (see below). Most countries have jurisdiction over the waters within 200 nautical miles of their shores, called the exclusive economic zone, set by the Law of the Sea, however enforcement is very limited.
Longlines are a lethal weapon to the fish they seek and other marine animals.
Longlines catch and kill marine life indiscriminately and far more than they target. The non target animals are called “bycatch”; they can be seabirds or sharks to aquatic mammals.
WHAT ARE LONG LINES?
Longline fishing is a prevalent form of commercial fishing and allows for massive fish yields. Longlines can be used near the surface (pelagic longlines) to catch open-water fish such as tuna and swordfish, or near the seafloor (demersal longlines) to catch bottom-dwelling fish such as cod or halibut. Longlines consist of a very long mainline (up to 60 miles long) that is set and dragged behind a boat. The mainline has thousands of attached branchlines, each containing baited hooks used to lure and capture target fish. An unfortunate consequence of the longline design is that it attracts and easily snags non-target marine life (known as bycatch). A wide range of animals such as sea turtles, sharks, seals, seabirds, and marine mammals can get caught on hooks or entangled in fishing line (above). Interactions with longlines can cause non-target animals, many of which are endangered, to suffer injury and even mortality.
LONGLINE DANGERS
Longlining practices lead to the creation of Ghost Nets as the plastics degrade in the water. These nets were at one time made from hemp and other naturals substance however in recent decades they are made from microplastics that do not degrade. Storms, strong current, accidents, and purposeful discarding of these net-like lines create extremely dangerous situations in our oceans.
RISK TO SAILORS
A surface long line may extend as many as 3 miles perpendicular from the shore. It poses immediate risk to any boat traveling along the coast. Longlines can easily become trapped in a propeller and immobilize a vessel.
RISKS TO ENVIRONMENT
When a long line gets loose or is degraded to the point where it is discarded, it will begin a journey that leads to catastrophic risk to the environment. Since these lines have hooks made of metal and plastic that do not biodegrade they will create hazards that damage marine life. These drifting lines can easily be lost or abandoned at sea due to storms and/or neglect. Synthetic nets are resistant to rot or breakdown, therefore ghost nets fish indefinitely in the oceans. Marine animals are easily tangled in ghost nets as are the predators the dead animals attract. The float line on the net allows it to be pushed in the current which causes ecological damage to plant life and substrate habitats as the nets drag the sea floor. In addition, oceanic microplastics pollution is largely caused by plastic-made fishing gear like drift nets, that are wearing down by use, lost or thrown away.
A recent study reported that “Fibers caused by long-lining were found to be the most common plastic particle in the open water. These tiny particles have been found to travel as far as 10,000 kilometers in the Pacific Ocean and have reached even the most remote areas such as Galapagos Islands, polluting its pristine waters and rich wildlife.
Without a Shark Shaft the way in which one deals with a longline depends on their vessel, how they are moving, and what time of day it is.
If you are sailing and not using engines – simply check your boat speed and look aft to see if a tell tale V comes to the surface – if you see a V and your vessel is slowing down attach a sharp kitchen knife to your boat hook (with 2 hose clamps ), cut the line, and continue on – on larger keels or bulb shaped keels it may be difficult to see if you are free so watching your boat speed is key here – if the line is wrapped around your keel you can carefully reverse or jump in and cut the line to free yourself.
If this happens at night all bets are off as your ability to see if you snagged the line is greatly diminished. A drastic decrease in boat speed is usually a good indication. A waterproof flashlight can sometimes be lowered aft so you can try to see the line. Proceed with caution – wake up the crew – and talk through the process of freeing your vessel.
If you are under power using engines – and you see the line in time – place your engines in neutral and coast over the long line ( if you have folding props this folds them to reduce the chances of snagging the line). Simply check your boat speed and look aft to see if a tell tale V comes to the surface – if not you are free
Alternatively PLACE THE ENGINE(S) INTO NEUTRA IMMEDIATELY
– if you see a V and your vessel is slowing down attach a sharp kitchen knife to your boat hook (with 2 hose clamps ) and cut the line and continue on as soon as the v slips away – let the current wind drift you out of the location and continue on
– if the line has wrapped around your prop you are going to have to inspect the level of damage first – stop the engine and use a sharp knife to cut off the wrapped line –
With sail drives there is a possibility that the line has entered into the seal area and the line is keeping your oil from gushing out – if you are on a cat use the spare engine – watch your sail drive oil level like a hawk after the incident
– consider adding prop protecting line cutters in the future
17) MEET THE FLEET: Eric and Pati on
SY SHEARWATER
HAVE BEEN WITH THE PANAMA POSSE
SINCE THE BEGINNING
Eric and Pati sporting their Season 3 Burgee
SY SHEARWATER framed bay a picture perfect rainbow in Bocas del Toro, Panama
Panama Posse Season 5 Picture of the Year WINNER
Receiving their Season 6 Burgee
Eric and Pati have been with the Panama Posse since its conception in Barra de Navidad in 2017. Over the years they have shared and continue to share their journey with the Panama Posse.
Over the years there have been many Beautiful Sunsets.
Sweet underwater creatures
Slow sloths
Here's to another great season together Eric and Pati. Thanks for your longterm participation!
SY SHEARWATER 🇺🇸 Eric & Pati – Formosa 50’
17) LATITUDES AND ATTITUDES
ADVENTURE SAILING MEDIA PARTNER
The #1 Cruising Lifestyle publication on the planet just keeps getting bigger and better! Incredible destination articles and features by the cruisers themselves, including how-to’s, DIY and exciting new products! You could say it’s like a gorgeous buffet just waiting for you to dive in! Access and download each digital issue now for only $14.99/year.
dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power, typically involving bribery.
Corruption in the form of bribery is most common form of corruption for cruisers to encounter. 2024 is a Political year in Panama meaning that many officials in office at the beginning of the year may or most likely may not hold their position through the end of the 2024. People in the Port Captains office, Immigration may be looking for kickbacks while they still have the power to seek them.
Here are some steps to take to mitigate this scenario:
1) if asked or hinted for a bribe offer to buy them a Soft Drink / Cookie
2) if he / she insists ask to use the bathroom
3) start a voice recording of what happens next - ask the official to confirm their name - while recording on govt properties are often illegal - you are not video recording - it's a butt dial
4) do not pay the bribe - the govt official will use TIME to pressure you - don't give in say that you need to leave to get the money you have plenty of time ... and leave
5) take a picture of outside the office and email us the information including date and time etc
6) leave the area and fill out a corruption report and submit it to registration@panamaposse.com - we will then contact the embassy on your behalf and next steps
7) IF YOU PAY A BRIBE YOU FORCE THE NEXT SAILOR TO ALSO HAVE TO PAY A BRIBE - PLEASE HELP STOP CORRUPTION !
20) MUST SEE: 🇲🇽 TEQUILA
Pro Tip: It is Best to stay overnight and savor the offerings.
The official town of Tequila – a 3 hour drive from Banderas Bay and Barra de Navidad on the Pacific Coast on Mexico –offers Museum Tasting and the 'How to" on Tequila Production.
The 34,658 ha site, between the foothills of the Tequila Volcano and the deep valley of the Rio Grande River, is part of an expansive landscape of blue agave. This landscape is shaped by the culture of the plant and has been used since the 16th century to produce tequila spirit.
Within the landscape are working distilleries reflecting the growth in the international consumption of tequila in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the agave culture is seen as part of national identity. The area encloses a living, working landscape of blue agave fields and the urban settlements of Tequila, Arenal, and Amatitan with large distilleries where the agave ‘pineapple’ is fermented and distilled.
The property is also a testimony to the Teuchitlan cultures which shaped the Tequila area from AD 200-900, notably through the creation of terraces for agriculture, housing, temples, ceremonial mounds and ball courts.
Tequila is produced by removing the heart of the plant in its seventh to fourteenth year . Harvested piñas normally weigh 80–200 pounds This heart is stripped of its leaves and heated to convert the inulin to sugars.
True tequila is made from blue agave. The production of tequila is divided into seven steps: harvesting, cooking, fermentation, distillation, aging and bottling.
21) PANAMA POSSE BOATS FOR SALE
SV ARROW 1973 CARTER 37
FULLY EQUIPPED & READY TO GO ANYWHERE
SY ARROW flying her spinnaker in the Sea of Cortez 🇲🇽 Mexico
*37' Performance Cruiser for sale by owner*
Arrow is Fully Equipped and ready to go cruising self sufficiently: water maker, solar and wind power, well insulated fridge, navigation system with radar, GPS chartplotter, AIS, depth sounder and speedo, a quiver of sails for a variety of wind conditions, 10' dinghy with 6hp motor, safety gear including life raft, EPIRB, satellite system, ditchbag, lee cloths for all main salon sea bunks, lots of custom shade and rain awnings/enclosures, topside barbeque, equipped galley down below. Fully equipped to sail, adventure, and cruise coastwise or offshore.
Ready for her next adventure; Arrow is a sweet sailing, seaworthy, live-aboard, performance cruiser from a classic period in yachting history. She is a Carter 37 and has been upgraded and maintained to be an excellent, well prepared, self-sufficient yacht with lots of extras. As her owners we are standing by ready to show Arrow and pass her off to her next Owners/ Sailors/ Adventurers.
Arrow was designed by Dick Carter and built in Greece. She is a masthead sloop with removable inner forestay. Her large fin keel with lead ballast and skeg hung rudder provide a safe platform for coastal and offshore adventures alike. With a moderate ballast to displacement ratio, Arrow is a great light air boat while at the same time maintains a kind motion in a seaway.
24) PANAMA CANAL AGENT CENTENARIO CONSULTING ERICK GALVEZ
To arrange for transit with the Panama Canal Authority please contact Eric Galvez our dedicated Panama Canal agent and sponsor of the Panama Posse and the Pacific Posse
Erick Gálvez
info@centenarioconsulting.com
www.centenarioconsulting.com
Cellphone +507 6676-1376
WhatsApp +507 6676-1376
25) WAYPOINT YACHT SERVICES
“Our vision is to provide a top tier service to our customers while covering every potential need they may have when approaching shore.
Small yachts (up to 38.1 meters LOA) are expected to experience substantial delays, and in the meantime, we will be able and willing to help you mitigate this impact and serve you.
Pierre and Marie reunited on the water. Starting Season 7 with pride.
SY VIVA 🇺🇸 Pierre & Marie - Amel 52′
Stretching their sea legs on the Beach at Cabeza Negra 🇲🇽
SY SERENITY 🇺🇸 Mark & Kathryn – Antares 44′
2) SAVE THE DATE :
#1) PREDICT WIND & OCEAN POSSE
Weather Routing while under way.
Friday, December 8, 2023⋅11:30am – 1:00pm
Complex weather analysis made easy.
Don’t spend hours plotting a course and checking forecasts to ensure a safe passage. PredictWind Weather Routing takes care of the heavy lifting to give you the perfect route, in seconds.
Join us for an informative session on Weather Routing with PredictWind.
CAN'T GET THERE BY BOAT ? THE RESORT HAS A SPECIAL EUROPEAN PLAN $3,199 MXD x night at the Hotel Grand Isla Navidad Resort email reservations@islaresort.com.mx
Stay at the Grand Isla Navidad Resort located across Barra de Navidad and you will discover the comfort of our rooms and suites and the excellence of our personalized 4 Diamond award service.
In addition, we have a variety of activities available: on-site golf on our 27 hole championship course, spa services, tours and excursions of the surrounding area, arts & crafts shopping.
"Staying in barra is like a little slice of heaven - or a Mexican Monaco in the making"
Thankful for plenty of fruits and veggies @ Super 99 in Rio Hato, 🇵🇦 Panama
Dozens of trucks with agricultural merchandise - coming from Tierras Alta – left David early Monday morning, heading for Panama after sections of the Inter-American highway in Chiriquí that have been closed for the last 20 days, due to protests over the mining contract, were gradually reopened. The trucks are monitored by the National Police. The authorities will ensure that the trucks will arrive in Panama City this afternoon, after weeks of shortages. Most supermarkets do not have vegetables such as lettuce, tomato, cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, among others.
Ricardo Martinelli founder of 99 supermarkets is the son of Ricardo Martinelli Pardini and Gloria Berrocal Fábrega. He completed his secondary education at Staunton Military Academy in Staunton, Virginia, in the United States. In 1973 he graduated with a bachelor of science in business administration degree from the University of Arkansas. He was the 36th president of Panama from 2009 to 2014.
SY CARINTHIA 🇺🇸 Dietmar & Susan - Lagoon 44′
Felicita is on the WATER!
SY FELICITÀ 🇺🇸 Gretchen & Tim – Catalina 42′
Anchor down in Clarence Town, Bahamas 🇧🇸
SY CERCA TROVA 🇺🇸 Bruce & Lynette - Manta MK IV 42′
4) SUPPORT VICENTE
Our good friend Vicente has lost his wife his son and his grandson and his livelihood ! We are starting a Vicente support fund for him. All funds donated will be donated directly to Vicente ( - credit card processing fees ) .To donate please follow this link https://panamaposse.com/donate-vicente
Our good friend Vicente has lost his wife, his son and his grandson and his livelihood !
SV CARINTHIA - Suzanne & Dietmar have already donated $ 500 add your name to list !
A letter from Vicente:
To whom it may concern: Present.
Through this channel I report the events that occurred on October 24 of this year with the ship Rosemary Cristine, which sank on the day of the arrival of Hurricane Otis in the port of Acapulco. At approximately 11:00 p.m., Hurricane Otis began to blow strong winds and waves that caused the boat to lose stability and break loose from where it was anchored. The engines also did not respond to me and each time the waves increased in size. To such an extent that only the boat withstood three large waves of six meters causing it to sink, that night I was accompanied by my family who was always with me, my wife Maria Hilaria Delgado Valdovinos, my son Luis Sebastian Herrera Delgado and my grandson Luis Alberto Lopez Sarabia. That day only I survived, I was shipwrecked all night and was rescued by the Navy but my family was lost at sea. Today I ask for help to recover the remains of my family since I have a feeling that they were trapped in the aforementioned boat. I remain at your service. and hoping to be favored with your support to search for my family missing at sea.
Sincerely, Acapulco Guerrero, November 24, 2023
Captain Inocente Herrera Carrillo
Address: Adolfo Lopez Mateos Street Block 42 Lot 9 Colonia Fuerza Aire Telephone: 7444398184
Watch Otis rip through Acapulco with the force of a cat 5 hurricane - this video was taken from the now destroyed Acapulco Yacht Club
Secundino Alvarez - Harbor Master Vessels Must be registered with the Panama Posse prior to Oct 31st to receive Posse discounts at Marina Puerto de la Navidad.
Ileana Stevenson Covo - GM For those coming from the lesser Antilles this will be the first event in full on Latin style in Colombia - come celebrate the great food and culture that is Colombia in it's premier yacht club.
(3) OCEAN POSSE PARTY PANAMA + SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
FLEET MEET UP
SAT. FEB 3 '24 SHELTER BAY MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
IMPORTANT: This event is in the middle of high season. The Shelter Bay Marina will be near capacity so make reservations early. Additionally, we are also going to organize a shuttle bus to get folks to this event from alternate locations.
(4) PANAMA POSSE AWARDSFUN ACTIVITIES, GOLF, POOL, DJ LOUNGE, + MARINE EXPO
SAT. MAY 11 '24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
This is a very exclusive signature event in the Hamptons of Panama. The upscale resort Buenaventura is just 80 minutes west of Panama City and is one of the most charming and reserved places on the Pacific coast of Panama. Only 60 nm from the Las Perlas.
Beat, Caroline, dogs & Heyson Garcia - YES PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB IS UBER DOG FREINDLY
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We, Caroline Imfeld and Beat Rettich are running this place since January 2021. We moved from Switzerland to Belize in 2019 and found this treasure while looking for a dock for our yacht.
Simplicity on a high level is our aim and to make our guests happy.
FOR RESERVATIONS AND MOORINGS @ PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB
Many Panama Posse members had the fortune to spend Thanksgiving on the water in new places, with new friends.
Thanksgiving in Rio Dulce, 🇬🇹 Guatemala
SV MARIA NOA🇩🇪 Hans-Joerg & Brigitta - Lagoon 40′
Happy Thanksgiving Nicole and Keenan!
Thanksgiving in Quepos, 🇨🇷 Costa Rica
SY MAISON DE SANTÉ 🇺🇸 Nicole & Keenan - Cal 46'
First Thanksgiving dinner on the boat with all the fixin's
SY CERCA TROVA 🇺🇸 Bruce & Lynette - Manta MK IV 42′
Thanksgiving Fest in Paradise Village, Banderas Bay, 🇲🇽 Mexico
SY DAWN PATROL 🇺🇸 Laney & Mark - Outbound 46
Thanksgiving in Panama Pacific Coast #buenventura
Buenaventura Marina's outgoing Harbormaster Emilio Lua, Dalis, Walt from SV Knot Right, David and Suzanne from SV Carinthia
8) THE HOLY GRAIL OF SHIPWRECKS
MAY HAVE BEEN FOUND:
MANY LAY CLAIM TO HER TREASURES
“And in this sort of race, there’s no silver medal for finishing second.” – Henry Jones (aka Indiana Jones)
A Samuel Scott painting, “Wager’s Action Off Cartagena,”.
This painting shows an attack by British Commodore Charles Wager on the San José in 1708. The Spanish galleon, the San José , set sail from Seville, Spain in 1706 with 600 people aboard and a cargo that estimated worth over $20 billion today. The ship is thought to have sunk with a huge amount of treasure aboard, including 200 tons of silver, emeralds and eleven million gold coins.
A treasure lost in one thing and a treasure found is another thing entirely. It is believed that the location of the sunken San José has been found. Granted there is debate as to who found it first and, more accurately and most importantly, WHO has rites to said treasures.
Of course the Spanish say that the ship is theirs and therefore any treasure recovered is theirs as well. There are also the Columbians who believe it is theirs as it is in their waters. There are Indigenous who may lay claim as the original excavators of the treasures under the duress of the Spanish Empires bidding. Further complicating matters, there is an American investment group who says they found the wreck and provided the coordinates of the wreck to the Columbian Government and are entitled to half the value of anything found. Among the Columbians there is debate as to whether this treasure should be excavated or left and investigated in place.
11 million gold coins are thought to have been on board
Perhaps the most interesting question rising to the surface amid the debate of who, how, when, and why is: How much money has the Spanish Empire brought from the New World to the Old World and back again? And how did their wealth of old affect Spanish wealth and development today? Travelling in Central America one sees clearly the Spanish Empire's dominion and influence from the 1500's onward. However, for all their glory and gold, while they used their riches for trade and expansion, they did not develop very much industry internally in their homeland.
The debate may have reason to get heated and resolved in the coming years. Colombian President Gustavo Petro has deployed search units to recover the San Jose and aims to have it completed before his term ends in 2026.
Please share pictures of your adventures, your award entries, your breathtaking sunsets, and picturesque anchorages on our group communications platform for others to enjoy in real time and/or email Maurisa at editor@panamaposse.com to share in the upcoming newsletter. Maurisa is a sailor among us. She is part of the Ocean Posse crew and enjoys writing fun and helpful updates to the Panama Posse.
10) MACAWS
TROPICAL BIRDS THAT MATE FOR LIFE
Macaw in the wild.
Macaws inside their aviary at the Rio De Janeiro zoo in Brazil
Inside the Macaw aviary at the Rio de Janeiro zoo a large net enclosure keeps the birds sheltered from outside predators. Interestingly, the Rio de Janeiro Zoo has one very rare WILD Macaw that has been visiting the aviary from the outside almost every day for two decades. This Macaw has been named Julieta by zookeepers and is believed to be the last remaining wild specimen of her species left in Brazil. The Canindé macaws are blue-and-yellow macaws; they once flew far and wide in this environment.
Canindé macaws can live into their fifties, and when one finds a partner, it's for life. (Tuane Fernandes for The Washington Post)
Meet Romeo, identifiable by his missing eye, inside the aviary.
(Tuane Fernandes for The Washington Post)
Julieta, left, and Romeo. (Tuane Fernandes for The Washington Post)
Their story is both impressive and inspiring, yet sad and dangerous. There are different theories as to why, how and, when Romeo and Julieta met and became faithful. And there are varying theories on what can be done to shift their love story from one of separation to one of true union. A solution in nothing short of complicated as one bird is in the wild and one is in captivity.
Nonetheless, Romeo and Julieta's reality is quite unique. Blue and Yellow Macaw were once abundant in the forests in and around Rio de Janeiro. However, over the last two centuries between heavy trophy hunting, city development, and urban expansion very few to only one have been seen in and around Rio de Janeiro. The one, Julieta, risks exposure to predators every time she flies between her forested nesting area and the zoo aviary where she visits Romeo almost daily. She calls upon her arrival and flies to greet her. They nuzzle and they visit. And yet, because they are separated by the zoo enclosure they cannot consummate their love and reproduce.
This partnership is 20 years strong. There have been times when the zoo relocated the aviary and zookeepers wondered and worried whether Julieta would be able to find Romeo and their ritual continue. And of course she does. Their love is a heartwarming tale of loyalty and connection.
Bahia Careyes is a small bay which has been developed for luxury living and upmarket tourism. Moorings and tour boats tend to occupy the more sheltered parts of the three coves which make up the bay. That said, there is still space to anchor outside the mooring field off Playa Careyes in the southern cove. Anchorage is possible in the northern lobe however the holding is poor and the beach is private property.
Even during the winter months swell diffracting between the islands tends to make this a rolly anchorage.
Approaches
Keep good lookout for isolated, uncharted rocks as you approach the anchorage from the south-west.
Anchorage
Anchor outside the moorings in 7.3m on sand. Check your anchor is well set as the holding is moderate. Playa Careyes is buoyed for guest swimming and cannot be approached by dinghy. Instead go ashore at Playa Rosa in the central cove.
Facilities
A couple of restaurants can be found at Playa Careyes and Playa Rosa. Swimming and snorkeling are heavenly in the crystal clear waters.
Anchor Down in Careyes. Looking good Voyager!
SY VOYAGER 🇺🇸 Ed & Liz - Hylas 54'
😄 FUN FACT portions of KILL BILL II where filmed in Careyes
"Beatrix finally catches up with Bill at his hacienda, which is the estate of Sea" and Heidi Klum at Costa Careyes, on the western coast of Mexico.
Neville has decided that we will join the Panama Posse !
DISCOUNT
We will offer the Panama Posse group a 15% discount for slip fees.
Utilities will be charge on consumption with no discounts applied.
FUEL – VALVTECT MARINE FUEL
SCOTTS LANDING, our dockside fuel station, is the islands exclusive dealer of ValvTect Marine Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel and Valvtect Marine Premium 93 octane gasoline. Our fuel is guaranteed to be free from water or any other contaminants and is the highest quality fuel available anywhere in the Cayman Islands.
We also offer complementary dockside sewage pump-out to marina customers and duty free fuel for vessels leaving the island on presentation of your outbound clearance, which represents a substantial savings of CI$0.85 per imperial gallon for diesel and CI$0.75 per imperial gallon for gasoline.
Call 1(345)943-3743, visit www.valvtect.com for more information, or hail us on VHF channel 16.
It would be preferred if in coming boats contact info@barcadere.com prior to arrival to send Boarder Control information and we like to make sure that every Captain has received the approach to the Barcadere Marina.
Also note that we are not able to except any boats with a draft higher than 8′ do to the North Sound conditions and any boat higher than 7′ would be requested to arrive during high tide.
Individually metered power and potable water is provided to a dock pedestal for every slip. We can supply 120/208 volt, 60 hertz, through twin 30amp or 50amp single phase outlets to every single slip and offer twin 100amp single phase or twin 100amp three phase power at designated slips. We also offer free WiFi and luxury washrooms, all in a safe, secure and well lit environment with nightly security provided.
On-site service center, chandlery, haul out & boat yard
Popular On-site restaurant, bar and pool
Dockside ValvTect Marine Fuel (duty free fuel available for transient vessels).
Fixed concrete and hardwood docks with berthing for vessels up to 150′ in length
30, 50, 100 & 200 amp single phase, or 100 & 200 amp 3 phase, 60hz, power.
Potable water supplied directly to every dock pedestal and individually metered.
Complimentary sewage pump out service available to our customers.
Free Marina-wide Wireless Internet.
Private changing rooms with showers.
Safe, well-lit environment, with nightly security.
DINING AND RELAXING
The GEORGE TOWN YACHT CLUB (GTYC) is located on the waterfront at The Barcadere Marina, Grand Cayman, and is the perfect place to relax after a day out on the water, unwind poolside after a day in the office, to share your fish stories or simply hang out with good friends. The Club is conveniently located near the airport and a is a great pit stop for breakfast or lunch before a flight.
14) MEET THE FLEET:
SV VIVA
Pierre and Marie's first date was on a sailboat in 1987 in Kingston, Ontario, isn't that romantic?! Now fast forward 35 years, after completing fulfilling careers and raising two beautiful daughters, cruising life has finally arrived. VIVA and crew left Portland Oregon in Sept 2022 and made their way down the coast to join the Baja-Haha rally in San Diego. This is where they first met Captain Dietmar and were exposed to the Panama Posse. They joined Season 6 last year and are returning members in Season 7!
Viva spent summer 2023 on the hard in Puerto Penasco and are happy to report that season 2 has just started. SY VIVA splashed on Oct 20 after a month of grueling yard projects. Plans for this upcoming season are to spend more time exploring the beautiful Sea of Cortez, then mainland Mexico (south of Banderas bay this time) and planning to do the big jump to the south pacific in April 2024.
Last week we posted an article about outfitting your vessel's offshore medical kit. This week we will expand and share that Mexico is a great place to beef up your offshore medical kit.
LIST OF PHARMACEUTICS AND
DOC TALK !
Here in Panama and in Mexico there are a lot of vessels prepping for the Pacific Crossing and the South Pacific Posse and the journey to the Marquesas and luckily one of the vessels is skippered by a doctor who speaks on all sorts of medical topics on the local morning net at Vista Mar Marina.
He recently shared with us details about Antibiotics which he keeps on board and when he would use them.
THEIR INTENDED USES FROM A DOCTOR WHO WENT CRUISING
Keflex/Cephalexin
Boat stores:40 tablets 500 mg
Infections of the skin and periphery-infected cuts, stabs, thorns, legs and arms.
Dosing: 1 pill every 6 hours till redness gone plus one day then stop. Also let’s say a penetrating wound or open wound.
This is the antibiotic to use for prophylaxis.
Levofloxacin
Boat stores:250mg. 20 tabs 2nd line but powerful.
Reason: can be associated with tendon tears, peripheral nerve and central nerve issues later on.
Pneumonia, severe uti, urogenital infection, kidneys, anthrax, plague, severe stomach infections, chronic bronchitis
Dosing: for pneumonia or severe infection:750mg once a day. For Uro 250mg once a day for 3 days. GI issue: 500mg x 3-5 days.
Azithromycin
Boat stores: 250mg 20 tabs
Acute sinusitis, pneumonia, respiratory infections but also gonorrhea, chlamydia Lyme disease
Dosing: Always taken same way: 500mg first day, then 250 each day after. Usually for 5 days
AND MORE...
for additional recommendations, dosage and usage see this link:
“The earth opened and swallowed many people, before my face, and the sea I saw came mounting in over the wall, upon which I concluded it impossible to escape.”
Edmund Heath, survivor and eyewitness to the devastating 1692 earthquake wrote these words in a letter from the safety of a ship moored in the city’s harbor, overlooking the ruins of his city. Port Royal, once called “the most wicked and sinful city in the world” was famous the world over for its booze—the blackout-inducing Kill Devil Rum, its pirates, and its sex workers. Needless to say, when the city was nearly destroyed, there were some parties that saw it as a convenient solution to an ugly problem.
The English and their pirate friends were relatively new to the area. Jamaica had been held by the Spanish since Columbus first declared it “the fairest island eyes have beheld” in 1494. Lacking gold or other obvious exploitable wealth, the Spanish held it but did not focus much energy there. It came under English power in 1655, after Cromwell sent English raiders to invade and capture the Spanish stronghold at Hispaniola (now Haiti and Dominican Republic, then the center of Spanish trade in the Caribbean). Cromwell’s men failed spectacularly at taking Hispaniola and turned to Jamaica as a second choice, better-than-nothing option.
Located on the southeast coast of Jamaica, the natural harbor at Port Royal became the center of English life in Jamaica. By the late 1600s it had become one of the largest European cities in the new world, second only to Boston. It had also become the infamous home of pirates, sex workers, and Englishmen on the make. Far from home, they made their livings off of the slave trade, slave labor in plantations, and the money that the pirates brought in from their looting forays against the Spanish.
It may be seen as an indicator of the caliber of vice in Port Royal that in 1675 the notorious pirate Henry Morgan became the Lieutenant Governor. In fact, Morgan began to crack down on overt piracy as the grand era of privateering he had been part of began to enter its waning phase. He died just four years before the earthquake struck and was buried in the Palisadoes cemetery.
On the morning of June 7, 1692, a massive earthquake estimated at a 7.5 magnitude hit the island. The city, largely built over sand, suffered instantly from liquifaction, with buildings, roads, and citizens sucked into the ground. Geysers erupted from the earth, buildings collapsed, and finally the city was hit by tsunami waves, dragging what had not been destroyed out to sea. In the end, some 33 acres of the city disappeared under water, four of the five forts were destroyed or submerged, and 2000 people were killed. The cemetery where Captain Morgan was buried slipped into the sea, its bodies floating up to mix with the freshly dead.
Even before the earth stopped shaking, locals reported that the looting began, one writing: “Immediately upon the cessation of the extremity of the earthquake, your heart would abhor to hear of the depredations, robberies and violences that were in an instant committed upon the place by the vilest and basest of the people; no man could call any thing his own, for they that were the strongest and most wicked seized what they pleased….”
As news spread of the destruction of Port Royal, it was picked up as a cautionary tale and a sure sign of divine retribution for the lewd behavior of the pirates and sex workers, the pretensions and wealth of the gentry of the town, or the sins of slavery, depending on the city and the audience.
But at any rate, the earthquake did not end Port Royal’s wicked ways, nor its relationship with vice or with pirates who continued to stop by for another 50 years while they preyed on Spanish ships. In fact, in 1720, John “Calico Jack” Rackham was hanged at Gallows-Point in Port Royal by order of pirate hunter—and former privateer—Woodes Rogers (best known for his rescue of the castaway Alexander Selkirk, the inspiration for Robinson Crusoe).
click this link to read more about the sunken pirate city at Port Royal:
SY ARROW flying her spinnaker in the Sea of Cortez 🇲🇽 Mexico
*37' Performance Cruiser for sale by owner*
Arrow is Fully Equipped and ready to go cruising self sufficiently: water maker, solar and wind power, well insulated fridge, navigation system with radar, GPS chartplotter, AIS, depth sounder and speedo, a quiver of sails for a variety of wind conditions, 10' dinghy with 6hp motor, safety gear including life raft, EPIRB, satellite system, ditchbag, lee cloths for all main salon sea bunks, lots of custom shade and rain awnings/enclosures, topside barbeque, equipped galley down below. Fully equipped to sail, adventure, and cruise coastwise or offshore.
Ready for her next adventure; Arrow is a sweet sailing, seaworthy, live-aboard, performance cruiser from a classic period in yachting history. She is a Carter 37 and has been upgraded and maintained to be an excellent, well prepared, self-sufficient yacht with lots of extras. As her owners we are standing by ready to show Arrow and pass her off to her next Owners/ Sailors/ Adventurers.
Arrow was designed by Dick Carter and built in Greece. She is a masthead sloop with removable inner forestay. Her large fin keel with lead ballast and skeg hung rudder provide a safe platform for coastal and offshore adventures alike. With a moderate ballast to displacement ratio, Arrow is a great light air boat while at the same time maintains a kind motion in a seaway.
Located in Vista Mar, Panama A DAYSAIL TO THE PERLAS ARCHIPELAGO
SY ARROW on anchor in paradise.
Asking 34k USD
19) PILOT CHARTS
Every maritime area along the Panama posse has a zoom level pilot charts for each month of the year.
They depict averages in prevailing winds and currents, air and sea temperatures, wave heights, visibility, barometric pressure, and weather conditions at different times of the year and is divided into 12 months
The information used to compile these averages was obtained from oceanographic and meteorologic observations over many decades during the 19th & 20th century.
Mexico Pilot Chart for the Month of December
The charts are intended to aid the mariner in selecting the fastest and safest ocean and coastal routes with regards to the expected weather and ocean conditions and many ocean routes are derived from these observations
EXPLANATION OF WIND ROSES ON PILOT CHARTS :
20) 75+ PANAMA POSSE MARINA SPONSORS
🇺🇸 Safe Harbor South Bay – Chula Vista, USA
🇺🇸 Safe Harbor Ventura Isle - Ventura, USA
🇲🇽 Cruise Port Village - Mexico
🇲🇽 IGY Marina Cabo San Lucas – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina Puerto Escondido – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina Palmira Topolobampo – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina y Club de Yates Isla Cortes – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina el Cid – Mazatlan – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta – Mexico
🇲🇽 PANAMA POSSE HQ – Marina Puerto de La Navidad – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina Ixtapa, Ixtapa – Mexico
🇲🇽 La Marina Acapulco, Acapulco – Mexico
🇲🇽 Vicente’s Moorings, Acapulco – Mexico
🇲🇽 Marina Chiapas – Mexico
🇬🇹 Marina Pez Vela – Guatemala
🇸🇻 Marina Bahia del Sol – El Salvador
🇸🇻 La Palma Moorings – Bahia del Sol - El Salvador
🇳🇮 Marina Puesta del Sol – Nicaragua
🇨🇷 Marina Papagayo – Costa Rica
🇨🇷 Banana Bay Marina – Costa Rica
🇪🇨 Marina Puerto Amistad – Ecuador
🇵🇦 Buenaventura Marina – Panama
🇵🇦 PANAMA POSSE PACIFIC HQ Vista Mar Marina – Panama
🇹🇨 South Bank Marina & Boatyard – Turks and Caicos
🇧🇸 Romora Bay Resort and Marina – Bahamas
🇧🇸 Elizabeth on the Bay Marina – Bahamas
🇧🇸 Great Harbour Cay Marina – Bahamas
🇧🇸 Blue Marlin Cove Resort & Marina – Bahamas
🇩🇴 Ocean World Marina – Dominican Republic
🇩🇴 Marina Puerto Bahia – Dominican Republic
🇺🇸 Marathon Marina – Marathon Keys
🇺🇸 Pier 66 Hotel & Marina – Ft. Lauderdale, USA
🇺🇸 IGY Marina at Ortega Landing – Jacksonville, FL , USA
🇺🇸 Oasis Marinas at Fernandina Harbor Marina – FL , USA
🇺🇸 Morningstar Marinas Golden Isles St. Simons Isl. – Georgia, USA
🇺🇸 Windmill Harbour Marina – Hilton Head South Carolina , USA
🇺🇸 Coffee Bluff Marina – Savannah Georgia , USA
🇺🇸 Hazzard Marine – Gerogetown, North Carolina , USA
🇺🇸 Holden Beach – Town Dock, North Carolina , USA
🇺🇸 Portside Marina – Morehead City, North Carolina USA
🇺🇸 Tideawater Yacht Marina – Portsmouth, USA
🇺🇸 Ocean Yacht Marina, Portsmouth, USA
🇺🇸 Yorktown Riverwalk Landing – Virginia USA
🇺🇸 Regatta Point Marina – Deltaville, Virginia USA
🇺🇸 Regent Point Marina – Topping, Virginia USA
MARINA PUERTO BAHIA 🇩🇴 SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
ON SITE AMENITIES
On-Site Customs & Immigration
30 and 50 amps, 125 and 250 volts, 60 Hz
Water
High Speed Pump Fueling Pier
24-Hour Security
Restrooms and Showers
Laundry Room
Mini-Market
Garbage Pickup
Free Internet Access
Bars and Restaurants
Infinity Pools
Gym
Spa and Beauty Salon
Taxi and Car Rental
Water Taxi to Cayo Levantado Island
Parking
21) PANAMA POSSE SPONSORS
BELIZE TOURISM
CHRIS PARKER - MARINE WEATHER CENTER
DELTA MIKE MARINE SUPPLY PANAMA
DOWNWIND MARINE
FLOR DE CAÑA
HERTZ RENTAL CARS MEXICO
HOME DEPOT PRO MEXICO
LATITUDES AND ATTITUDES
PANAMA YACHT BROKER
PREDICT WIND
SAFE HARBOR SOUTH BAY MARINA EVENT CENTER
SAILMAIL
SAN DIEGO MARINE EXCHANGE
SEVENSTAR YACHT TRANSPORT
WAYPOINT YACHT SERVICES
WESTMARINE PRO
YACHT AGENTS GALAPAGOS
Thrilled to announce that Panama Yacht Broker has teamed up with the one and only Panama Posse! As a leading cruising resource, Panama Posse brings a world of sailing knowledge and resources to the table. From route planning and local intel to connecting with other cruisers, Panama Posse has it all. We are honored to join that list of resources thanks to our partnership.
Our clients have exclusive access to complementary yacht brokerage expertise, and discounts on listing agreements. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just setting sail for the first time, Panama Yacht Broker has a boat for everyone and can also help you sell your boat when the time is right.
22) PANAMA CANAL AGENT CENTENARIO CONSULTING ERICK GALVEZ
To arrange for transit with the Panama Canal Authority please contact Eric Galvez our dedicated Panama Canal agent and sponsor of the Panama Posse and the Pacific Posse
Erick Gálvez
info@centenarioconsulting.com
www.centenarioconsulting.com
Cellphone +507 6676-1376
WhatsApp +507 6676-1376
23) WAYPOINT YACHT SERVICES
“Our vision is to provide a top tier service to our customers while covering every potential need they may have when approaching shore.
Small yachts (up to 38.1 meters LOA) are expected to experience substantial delays, and in the meantime, we will be able and willing to help you mitigate this impact and serve you.
MY TIDINGS OF JOY and SY SERENITY meet up in Bahia Tenacatita 🇲🇽 Mexico
MY TIDINGS OF JOY 🇺🇸 Jeff & Joy - DeFever 52′
SY SERENITY 🇺🇸 Mark & Kathryn – Antares 44′
Pool Party in Marina Chiapas
SY YO-D-YO 🇺🇸 David & Mary – Hunter 45’
Egg Island 🇧🇸 The Bahamas
Marsh Harbor 🇧🇸 the Bahamas
MV CELT 🇺🇸 Gerry & Angela - Nordhavn 43′
2) MEET THE FLEET 🇬🇧 TEULU TRIBE
SY TEULU 🇬🇧 Becka & Zach - Colvic 40' joins the posse this year
Buying a boat and sailing around the world was such a distant dream for so long, but, a little naivety and a lot of determination later, we are now doing it, *correction*, bloody doing it! https://www.teulutribe.com/
3) PANAMA POSSE SEASON 7
5,500 nm 550 ⚓ 75+ marinas 17 countries 8 months pure fun no schedules
Secundino Alvarez - Harbor Master Vessels Must be registered with the Panama Posse prior to Oct 31st to receive Posse discounts at Marina Puerto de la Navidad.
Ileana Stevenson Covo - GM For those coming from the lesser Antilles this will be the first event in full on Latin style in Colombia - come celebrate the great food and culture that is Colombia in it's premier yacht club.
(3) OCEAN POSSE PARTY PANAMA + SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
FLEET MEET UP
SAT. FEB 3 '24 SHELTER BAY MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
IMPORTANT: This event is in the middle of high season. The Shelter Bay Marina will be near capacity so make reservations early. Additionally, we are also going to organize a shuttle bus to get folks to this event from alternate locations.
(4) PANAMA POSSE AWARDSFUN ACTIVITIES, GOLF, POOL, DJ LOUNGE, + MARINE EXPO
SAT. MAY 11 '24 BUENAVENTURA MARINA 🇵🇦 PANAMA
This is a very exclusive signature event in the Hamptons of Panama. The upscale resort Buenaventura is just 80 minutes west of Panama City and is one of the most charming and reserved places on the Pacific coast of Panama. Only 60 nm from the Las Perlas.
Beat, Caroline, dogs & Heyson Garcia - YES PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB IS UBER DOG FREINDLY
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We, Caroline Imfeld and Beat Rettich are running this place since January 2021. We moved from Switzerland to Belize in 2019 and found this treasure while looking for a dock for our yacht.
Simplicity on a high level is our aim and to make our guests happy.
FOR RESERVATIONS AND MOORINGS @ PLACENCIA YACHT CLUB
Amongst the reefs and mangroves, the colors are spectacular.
Bocas del Toro is a charming archipelago on the Caribbean side of Panama. Bocas is a young backpackers mecca, a destination for surfers, and has something for everyone who has a soft spot for paradise. As a private vessel one can explore the islands and anchor out in solitude, go to an island to a little cafe, or stay near the big island Colon where Bocas Town is and enjoy the small town that’s very walkable with its stores, restaurants and night life. There are multiple marinas and resorts to choose from as well. There is an airport in Bocas with flights twice a day to Panama City making Bocas a great place for family and friends to come visit cruisers.
SY JUBEL on anchor in Bocas del Toro.
The water is so clear.
The beaches are great for relaxing.
This floating bar serves cocktails in the main Anchorage in Bocas town.
Common Green Snake found on the beach in Bocas
Bocas is pretty awesome. It's cool being in amongst all the reefs and mangroves. All the anchorages are super protected, except escudo de veraguas ( which is also the prettiest). You can get anything you want while you're there, and if you can't find it there, it can be easily imported. All the anchorages are close to bocas town, and most of the time the water is really clear.
SY JUBEL 🇨🇦 Leah & Kyle - Gulfstar 44'
Thank you for Sharing your Adventures SY JUBEL!
Lot's of anchorages in Bocas del Toro are in Good Nautical
10) SHARING YOUR ADVENTURES is the heart and soul of the Panama Posse
Please share pictures of your adventures, your award entries, your breathtaking sunsets, and picturesque anchorages on our group communications platform for others to enjoy in real time and/or email Maurisa at editor@panamaposse.com to share in the upcoming newsletter. Maurisa is a sailor among us. She is part of the Ocean Posse crew and enjoys writing fun and helpful updates to the Panama Posse.
11) SOLARTE MARINA 🇵🇦
SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
09° 18.5983′ N 082° 11.8233′ W
Marina Solarte is located in Bocas del Toro.
We are excited to sponsor the Panama Posse with a 15 % discount for visiting vessels and a special 4 days for the price of 3 discount.
Our Photovoltaic system – connected and functional
Our LiFePO4 batteries (30kWh) – connected and functional
Free Filtered rainwater is available on the whole dock (people love to use it for cleaning their boats or refill the tanks)
Free Starlink internet for all guests of our Marina
Cold drinks available in the Marina Office
Pathways on two islands connected to the Marina
Boat brokerage and sailboats for sale
Hull polishing, stainless steel work, carpentry, marine electrician, generator repairs, and other services are available
We are hosting potluck BBQs every Friday starting at 4 PM (more and more sailors are joining, even anchoring in front of the Marina just to join)
Weekly Potlucks are always fun!
12) BARRA DE NAVIDAD 🇲🇽 MEXICO
RESOURCE GUIDE
Sculpture on the malecon at the entrance to Barra de Navidad
Barra de Navidad is home to the annual Panama Posse kick off event. As such many cruisers have spent many, many moons cumulatively over the years. We have put together a resource guide that is by no means exhaustive BUT is certainly thorough and vetted. If you are in Barra or heading there, check out this guide to acquaint yourself with this special place. On the dock Pancho (whatsapp +52 315.104.3289 ) is the go-to guy for all boat issues and has lot's of resources. There is also an active Facebook group: Isla Navidad Cruiser Group (started by Panama Posse members) that has up to date information and active, helpful participants which can help identify resource and service availability.
Posse Ambassador, Nicole, sharing a cold brew with Barra ambassador, Pancho.
Many Panama Posse members enjoy celebrating Thanksgiving on their boat. They may be at a marina or on the hook in Mexico, Costa Rica, or Panama where Thanksgiving is not a local tradition. For active cruisers:
Home is where we drop our anchor
& our traditions go with us wherever we go.
May making a feast among fellow mariners prove quite joyful and heartwarming.
Wherever you are this Thanksgiving
May you find much to be thankful for and friends to celebrate with.
14) MARINA PORTOBELLO 🇨🇴 COLOMBIA
SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
10° 23.2066′ N 075° 31.0866′ W
Portobello Haul-out
SY OZ in the slings at their recent and successful haul out at Marina Portobello
Recently SY OZ went to Marina Portobello. Their experience and comments are below:
Captain Dietmar thank you for the recommendation and for working out a special with Marina Portobello, Cartagena, 🇨🇴 Columbia. Overall, I my experience at Marina Portobello was positive:
Initial communication and coordination: Vilmaida was responsive and concise. [used google translate]
Cost Estimates: All estimates go through Luis, Director of Operations. Luis was very easy to work with. He speaks English, but for business, we used google translate most of the time. Nothing gets done without signed approval from both the customer and Luis. There were no hidden surprises, and no final invoices were more than the estimates.
Haul out/Yard: The lift looks brand new. The operators were professional and thoughtful about the process. Vladamir dove the boat to ensure the lifting straps were in the correct position. The yard is very clean, and the lift had plenty of room to maneuver.
Majority of work: I had the bottom sanded, primed, and painted. In addition, we needed some fiberglass, painting and gel coat work done, among other things. Diego, owner of Marine Plus Services took the lead on these projects. Diego comes with over a decade of marine industry service in Ft. Lauderdale. He speaks excellent English and is very responsive. He is very engaging, walking the yard from project to project. I am happy with the final product – good as new!
The Crew: Hard workers and good customer service.
Saildrive maintenance: Carlos Garcia was excellent. Great mechanic and knew Yanmar and Cummins very well. I actually used him after I spashed to clean out my heat exchanger on my Onan. He charged $60 for 2-hours of work.
Billing/Finance: Professional and responsive. Invoices were clear and payment was easy – I was able to use my credit card through a system called – Wompi.
Splash: As good as the haul out. I was able to take my time and check engines, bilges, etc. Easy backing out of the slings – plenty of room.
Conclusion: I would definitely use them again. Oz looks as good as new. I’m currently underway and all systems are ‘green’.
The Yard at Portobello is well maintained and clean.
CONTACT
Luis Carrasquilla
directoroperaciones@marinaportobello.com
Cartagena de Indias – Colombia
servicioalcliente@marinaportobello.com
+57 324 303 3138
SERVICES
PAINT HULL / TOP AND BOTTOM
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC SERVICE
ENGINE SERVICE & REPAIR
PROPULSION MAINTENANCE & REPAIR
SEALING AND POLISHING
SPARE PARTS AND LOGISTICS
CARPENTRY
15) BELIZE 🇧🇿
THE GARIFUNA CULTURE
Belize Miss Earth 2021 in Garifuna gift shop
Belize is truly a hidden paradise in the Caribbean. Its ancient Mayan cities, lush jungles, indomitable barrier reef, and sandy beaches kissed by turquoise waters make it the envy of the world.
Whether you are tempted to sail Belize's coastline, trek its Mayan Mountains or explore the marvels of its caves while floating on a tube- there is something for everyone to do in Belize.
But despite its natural allure, it is the diverse cultures that are woven into the colorful tapestry of Belizean identity that makes the experience even more warm and worthwhile.
These diverse cultures are a personification of the audacity of hope which was evident when the Garifuna people fled slavery in St. Vincent and migrated to Belize in the 1800s.
They brought their vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, language, and powerful music as they settled in the Stann Creek District and formed the town of "Dangriga" which is translated to mean "standing waters."
Every year in November, Belize celebrates 'Garifuna Settlement Day' to commemorate this infusion that has redefined what it means to be a Belizean. It is a time of festivity.
Attending a Garifuna Settlement Day celebration should be on your bucket list! On November 19, there are huge celebrations across the country with storytelling, dancing, and reenactments of the arrival of the Garinagu in Belize.
Traditional music created by the Garifuna is on full display with colorful costumes and performed throughout the streets of Belize. It is a great time to immerse yourself in the street dances and enjoy Garifuna dishes like 'hudut' (fish cooked in coconut milk) and 'ereba' (cassava bread).
Traditional Hudut (fish cooked in coconut milk)
Belize Street Festivities in November
Garifuna drummers
While a national holiday, you are sure to get a better experience in Dangriga, Seine Bight, Hopkins, and Punta Gorda. With the biggest celebration in Dangriga Town, you just have to make your way to the southeast coast of Belize.
You'll have to be on the beach at the crack of dawn to experience the reenactment of the arrival of the Garifuna on the shores of Dangriga. The group will arrive in canoes filled with traditional drums and lively singing and dancing.
Once they arrive, the celebration will continue on the beach followed by an exciting parade through the main streets. Here you will meet the famous 'jankunu dancers' with unique masks and costumes performing the most unique dance you may ever witness.
Dangriga is also home to the origin of Punta Rock and home to many cultural musical bands. The town offers visitors an opportunity to join in the festivities with live drumming, indulging in unique cultural foods, and dancing.
Migration re-enactment
Belize Minister of Tourism in Dangringa in traditional Garifuna clothing
You can further explore the Garifuna culture by visiting the 'Gulisi Garifuna Museum' which exhibits the migration and the legendary Thomas Vincent Ramos.
Dangriga is also a mainland access point to many popular cayes in southern Belize such as South Water Caye and Tobacco Caye.
Hopkins, a 30-minute drive from Dangriga, is a village you should visit when in southern Belize.
Upon entering the quaint village, you will be able to indulge in the picturesque scenery of birds and other wildlife basking in the marshes that extend to the entrance.
It is a delightful and friendly village on the coast of Belize with a mix of eco-friendly stays and beachfront luxury rooms to suit your aesthetic. The beach nightlife in Hopkins boasts small huts on the beach with an open-air vibe for dining and a blissful atmosphere to unwind after a long day of adventure.
The village lifestyle features more laidback with great beaches that spread along the coastline. The village is bustling with locals selling art, and cultural food and offering unique cultural experiences such as drum lessons and cooking traditional dishes. Much like Dangriga, Hopkins is also one of the best places to join in the festivities on November 19th. Here you will get to experience villagers celebrating to the beat of the drums and going house to house greeting one another and sharing food and locally made drinks. The festivities continue into the night where you can find several beach parties to enjoy.
In Hopkins, you can also find some of the best fishing spots and further out you can visit the South Water Marine Reserve and go for an adventurous dive.
Nightlife in Hopkins
Dangringa entrance
Did You Know:
1. The Garifuna people have their own flag, which is made of three horizontal stripes: black, white, and yellow.
2. The Garifuna language and culture achieved official recognition by UNESCO in 2001.
Exploring further south...
Further south is Punta Gorda (PG), which translates to Fat Point, a unique coastal town that is a mixture of Mayan, East Indian, and Garifuna people. Although it is the smallest and southernmost town in Belize, Punta Gorda offers excellent fishing experiences, river trips, birding, and ancient Mayan temples.
There is nothing better than to wake up to a calm beachfront with the sun casting shimmers on the glorious Mayan mountains that can be seen in the morning before the tide rises.
While in PG, be sure to visit the street market for local spices, souvenirs, and food. You can also explore the Garifuna culture in PG and take some cooking lessons or drumming lessons at the Warasa Drumming School to brag to your friends back home.
From Punta Gorda, you can take a 2.5-hour trip to the southernmost marine reserve, the Sapodilla Cayes which boasts over 38 thousand acres of pristine mangrove islands and beaches. This reserve serves as a habitat for threatened species such as corals, marine turtles, and numerous types of fish. Sapodilla Cayes is also considered a world-class sportfishing destination and is well known for the grand slam (bonefish, tarpon, and permit). Here you can also choose to scuba dive or snorkel and experience the unique aquatic life such as parrotfish, angelfish, turtles, dolphins, rays, and other underwater life. It is considered to be the most remote part of the Barrier Reef system.
Another option down south is the Sarstoon-Temash National Park which is home to exotic wildlife such as the white-face capuchin monkey and over 200 species of birds. If you are more daring you can take a boat tour to the most remote national park in the country!
Whether you choose to stay underwater or on the beaches, it is worth the trip. Take a chance to sail in Belize in the calm seas protected by the Barrier Reef and get a chance to scuba dive or snorkel the pristine waters. Or take a break to immerse yourself in the culture, food and people this November!
A tasty spin on the traditional Hudut.
Sources
Belize.com
Belize Hub
National Today
The Blonde Abroad
Travel Belize
M.Goodin
16) PANAMA POSSE 🦃 THANKSGIVING
This Thanksgiving there are a many things to be grateful for. The open seas, remote anchorages, coves, beaches and oceans are still the best source of fresh air and wellness for explorers and seafarers alike. We reflect on all the things to be grateful for —friends, family loved ones and a well charted course are things to be cherished We want to thank you for being part of this group of exceptional individuals who look at the horizon each day and say “where to next ?”
We are thankful to the 75 Marinas partners and sponsors who will host us and help us to re-provision, refuel and rest so that we can get underway again.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you, admirals, captains, skippers, quartermasters and crew.
Happy Thanksgiving to all !
SY Carinthia
17) GOOD NAUTICAL:
LOS FRAILES 🇲🇽 Mexico
Bahia Frailes on the Seaside of the southern Baja Peninsula is a very welcome break after rounding Punta Gorda and beating northwards up the east coast towards Punta Arena. Although Cabo Los Frailes is only a minor headland the bay is wide enough for a dozen boats to find shelter close to the north shore and wait for a more favorable wind.
Snorkeling amongst the fissures and boulders at the base of Cabo Los Frailes is surprisingly satisfying and hiking up the steep rugged path to the top of the granite headland is a good workout. The view along the coast and into the inland hills is fantastic.
Tuck in close the cliff on the north side of the bay and drop the anchor in 8m on a sandy bottom. Holding is good but watch out for rocks at the foot of the cliff. The bay is open to the south and east and can be rolly in a NE wind. Surf on the beach so taking the dinghy in can sometimes be a bit of an adventure.
Recent report from SY COURAGE: 18 boats in the anchorage with plenty of room
SY COURAGE 🇺🇸 John & Kristine – Tartan 4100
18) CULTURE OF THE CARRIBEAN 🇨🇺
CUBAN CIGARS AKA EL HABANO
The soil and environmental conditions that the Cuban tobacco grow in are unique
The Pinar del Rio province is the most important for tobacco cultivation in Cuba. It is located at the western end of the island .
Tobacco framing in Vinales
To those that seek great cigars Cuban cigars are among the world's most flavorful because of the soil the tobacco is grown in. Specifically, the Vuelta Abajo region, Semi Vuelta, as well as in farms in the Viñales region in Cuba have the perfect climate and soil for rolling Cuban Cigars. These cigars have three main components: the filler, the binder, and the wrapping tobacco. Some cigars get their flavor from the outer wrapper. Cuban cigars get their flavor from the inside - out. These cigars are so sought after for their flavor that they represent one quarter of the value of the island nations exports.
Fully hand-made cigars are highly sought after and usually rolled by women
The Cuban cigar is an icon of the island nation.
Historically the growing, harvesting, drying, and rolling of tobacco may go back as far as Mayan times in the earlier centuries of AD. Uses may have been recreational, medicinal, or spiritual. Some say, the Spanish were introduced to this herb in the 15th century when ships full of explorers made landfall on what is now the island nation of Cuba. This land was, in time claimed by the Spanish crown. Early explorer went ashore and began meeting and trading with indigenous people. They discovered an herb that was smoked and had a relaxing effect. As trade began to flow back and forth across the Atlantic, tobacco was among the cargo shipped to Europe. Popularity spread and eventually it was determined that the best way to bring the tobacco over was rolled in cigars. The Spanish crown then set up their first cigar factory in Cuba in the mid 1500's. Cuban cigars made their way around the world over the next 500 years gaining favor, losing favor, and gaining favor once more.
In the early 1960's a two events had a dramatic impact on the Cuban cigar and the rise of the non-Cuban cigar:
1) Fidel Castro nationalized the industry. With Cuban nationalization came a concentration of resources and the elimination of brands.
2) The United States imposed an embargo on Cuba. On February 7 1962, United States President John F. Kennedy, after some say he made a large personal procurement on his favored Cuban cigars, imposed a trade embargo on Cuba to sanction Fidel Castro's communist government. This embargo made it illegal for American citizens and manufacturers to buy and/or import Cuban products including tobacco.
The combination of these two events became an opportunity for other nearby island nations such as Jamaica, Canary Islands (Spain), the Dominican Republic (D.R.), Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua to take strains of tobacco from Cuba, replant them in similar environments and begin their own tobacco growing ventures. Tobacco growing and processing for cigars has become a successful business in many countries.
That said, for the 8 years of the Obama administration there was an easing of restrictions against the Cuban Cigar. For this brief period Americans were allowed to buy Cubans outside of the US and bring them back to the states for personal consumption. In 2020, Trump removed this easing and it is currently, again, illegal to bring a Cuban Cigar into the USA.
Among cigar aficionados the true Cuban Cigar still holds a distinct allure. Perhaps because it has now long been a forbidden fruit or perhaps because the soil and environment really, truly is perfect for the best tasting cigar tobacco to grow.
MV HO'OKIPA shares their experience encountering Cuban tobacco between the Western US and Panama:
"We rarely smoke Cubans anymore as we have found better cigars elsewhere for a lot less. This is due to Cuban seeds being planted in other countries (like Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, to name a few) by Cubans who left during the Revolution and Cuban rollers who left too. We found this in Nicaragua where we visited a small cigar maker on a road trip to the north. We had a guide who helped arrange an appointment at this place that had about 50 rollers, some Cuban, and saw them make cigars womb to tomb. It was so fun to watch them in action. We’ve had excellent cigars made in Mexico and Panama too. (In Panama City at a cigar club we heard about a good cigar place in Penonome, Panama. We were on a driving trip and went there and found it was this old woman. Not sure if she owned it but she was in charge. She had two woman rollers who worked in a little room making cigars and she kept the bundles of rolled cigars in an old metal barrel. She only rolled one size, like a corona. They were about $2.50 a stick (compare to Cohiba that is around $25 a stick) They were so good. Great cigars. We bought two bundles and when they were gone we were so sad. Haven’t found cigars anywhere in Bocas Del Toro. Another time, several years ago, in a major city in Canada, we learned of a man who imports Cuban leaf from Cuba and has 3 rollers who are Cuban roll his cigars and puts his Canadian label on them and ships his “Canadian” cigars to American. We saw his small operation and sampled them. They’re delicious. Had a few boxes sent to us in Los Angeles."
MV HO'OKIPA 🇺🇸 Lisa & Lucky Chucky - Selene 43′
19) MARINE WEATHER CENTER ☁️ CHRIS PARKER SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
CHRIS PARKER – MARINE WEATHER CENTER ☁️ SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE
Panama Posse Weather Package Discounts 10- 35 % off
Steve and I have lived and have traveled all around the globe on planes✈️, trains🚉, and automobiles 🚘with our three daughters. They are adults now, so the timing was perfect for the two of us to continue our adventure, but this time on a boat.⛵️
We started our adventure in Seattle, ‘The Emerald City’, aboard Oz. She is a 2019 4.1 Bali Catamaran. In August 2022, we joined the Coho Hoho rally from Seattle to San Francisco. Then on Halloween 2022 we joined the Baja Haha Rally. At the same time, thanks to Dietmar’s outreach in San Diego, we joined Panama Posse. We are now enjoying our second season.
Thus far we have made 125 stops at marinas, anchorages, mooring balls, and roadstead anchorages, visiting six countries.
We crossed the Panama Canal on September 16th, 2023. Oz is now in the Caribbean for the first time; made it to San Blas! Oz will make her way to Columbia and eventually head towards Florida (we think?). We have met so many good-crazy (you know who you are), helpful, adventurous, and fun people. But, most of all, meeting boat dogs and cats has been extra special!
Steve & I are grateful for the wonderful friends we made and know we will make many more as we continue our adventure. Thank you Panama Posse!
Cheers!
Susan and Steve
SY OZ 🇺🇸 Sue & Steve - Catana 40′
21) BARREL OF HOPE IN SHELTER BAY
Catch and sign the barrel of hope in Shelter Bay Marina with Juanjo
When we prepared Avant for offshore six years ago, we looked carefully at what we would pack for first aid preparedness. We could easily imagine a wide range of scenarios where one or the other of us, or another cruiser or local, was injured (grievously), and needed first aid in an inconvenient, remote location. You know, unconscious bleeding from a compound fracture surrounded by crocodiles while darkness falls in some mangrove swamp, or something like that. We determined that:
We needed to be able to react to a broad variety of potential medical emergencies quickly and comprehensively;
We would likely be short handed in responding (so the response would have to be easily transported by one person);
The emergency may happen aboard Avant, aboard another vessel, or ashore so we would need to be able to move the appropriate materials for response to the injured person, and then move the injured person from the site of the incident back to Avant or from the site of the incident to another place for treatment or evacuation;
We would be at least hours, and might be days or even weeks from professional medical facilities and professional medical help (so we would need enough supplies to treat issues for a prolonged period with instructions on how to use them);
There were ‘levels’ of response that would be appropriate, so segregating supplies into appropriate kits suited to different levels of response would make sense; and
We would need reference materials suited to the kind of ‘medicine’ we would be practicing.
Before you carry on reading, please note that we’re over prepared. Period!
First, we looked for organizations that had worked systematically to solve this set of problems so we could emulate their methods and techniques. The military immediately came to mind, as they have applied science and rigor to responding to emergency medical situations in rustic locations (although they admittedly seem to focus on gunshot wounds and extreme blunt force trauma as the primary sources of injury). We also read up on mountaineering and other wilderness response experiences, and found the ‘prepper’ community had many guidelines, tips and resources that seemed useful. The Ministry of Transport in the UK also had relevant resources. While many sources suggested that buying supplies separately would be cheaper than buying a kit, we found the reverse to be true, and that the kits we looked at offered value as well as convenience.
So after our obsessive research, we equipped ourselves with a simple ‘boo-boo kit’ for day to day stuff.
The full and detailed continuation of this article with kit lists can be found at the following link:
In addition to the nitty gritty supplies in an offshore medical kit, it is imperative to outfit the medical kit with medicine. Medicines that are already taken by specific crew and emergency medicines that may be necessary to take if you are on a passage or too distant from definitive care to get proper medical attention.
Medicines one may add to their offshore kit include:
An assortment of antibiotics, and infection fighting herbs and medications. Think ears, eyes, skin, internal organs (high and midline).
Extreme pain meds that will work in a pinch (tramodol is available OTC in Mexico)
Cold and/or flu medication
Allergy medicine (cream, liquid antihistamine, epi-pen)
Today, modern day Belize sits where a major hub of the Maya Empire once thrived. This makes the land of Belize one of the critical spiritual sites for one of the most prominent cultures in Mesoamerican history. Many Mayan sites have been discovered in Belize.
Belize Mayan Ruin Map
An Entry and and Exit: A portal between worlds
Th Maya believed there were three layers to the cosmos:
The Sky (the upper world)
The Earth (the middle world)
The Caves (the underworld)
These caves are particularly fascinating as they offer a window into a time and place when Mayan performed rituals and spiritual ceremonies over 1000 years ago.
Water drips contantly from Stalagtites
Exploring the cave may only be done with professional guides.
There are artifacts and ancient pottery in the cave.
Perhaps the most enigmatic, significant, & exceptional is this preserved skeleton.
Most of the remaining skeletons are found in a part of the cave that opens up to an area as big as two football fields with stalactites and stalagmites that are 30 and 40 columns of calcium. There are as many as 15 skeletons in the cave that have been found. Many are young people (still over 1000 years old). A small room further in the cave is where the most preserved skeleton remains: the Chrystal Maiden. Some are now questioning whether this is indeed a man. Regardless of the gender the intact crystalline skeleton in a wonder to see. National Geographic named this cave the # 1 most sacred cave in the world.
FOLLOW THIS LINK TO A VIRTUAL TOUR OF THE CAVE AND MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THE ATM CAVE IN BELIZE:
SY ARROW flying her spinnaker in the Sea of Cortez 🇲🇽 Mexico
*37' Performance Cruiser for sale by owner*
Arrow is Fully Equipped and ready to go cruising self sufficiently: water maker, solar and wind power, well insulated fridge, navigation system with radar, GPS chartplotter, AIS, depth sounder and speedo, a quiver of sails for a variety of wind conditions, 10' dinghy with 6hp motor, safety gear including life raft, EPIRB, satellite system, ditchbag, lee cloths for all main salon sea bunks, lots of custom shade and rain awnings/enclosures, topside barbeque, equipped galley down below. Fully equipped to sail, adventure, and cruise coastwise or offshore.
Ready for her next adventure; Arrow is a sweet sailing, seaworthy, live-aboard, performance cruiser from a classic period in yachting history. She is a Carter 37 and has been upgraded and maintained to be an excellent, well prepared, self-sufficient yacht with lots of extras. As her owners we are standing by ready to show Arrow and pass her off to her next Owners/ Sailors/ Adventurers.
Arrow was designed by Dick Carter and built in Greece. She is a masthead sloop with removable inner forestay. Her large fin keel with lead ballast and skeg hung rudder provide a safe platform for coastal and offshore adventures alike. With a moderate ballast to displacement ratio, Arrow is a great light air boat while at the same time maintains a kind motion in a seaway.
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