FLEET UPDATE 2018-04-13
1) Save the Date
PANAMA POSSE 17-18 PARTY
Wednesday May 23, 2018
Vista Mar Marina, Panama
8° 29.0029 N 79° 56.5525 W
+507 6400-3354
vistamarmarina.com
2) Welcome to the 2017 -2018 Panama Posse
Klickitat (counter Posse) - Bill & Katy - Drake Bay, Costa
Rica
Illusion Doug, Sara & Toby - Puerto Chiapas, Mexico
Distant Drummer - Suzy and Neil - Bahia Sol, El Salvador
73 vessels strong
3) MYLA - Panama
Myla and Respite have been having some fun here in Panama City.
We went to see the Las Flores Locks and Museum yesterday. Local
transportation is excellent here. The bus system is amazing! The
museum was great, and John and I thought it was better than the
Canal Museum in Old Town. Early this morning, Janet and Chris on
Respite, and John on Myla climbed aboard a solid wood sailboat to
be line handlers. This particular couple have been all over the
world! Very seasoned travelers.
Tomorrow, we are getting new sensors and gauges so we don't have any
more issues with phantom overheating. One mechanic wanted to
completely replace the engine. Glad we spoke with several and
thankful for all the input from our posse pals. Couple of tips
should you need parts and such: get a quote, and afterwards let them
know you are a boat in transit, show them your cruising permit, and
you supposedly shouldn't have to pay sales tax. There's also a
fabulous cruisers' community here and a PDF with great resources.
Ill see if I can post it tomorrow. We transit on the 23rd and will
keep the boat in Shelter Bay for about 6 months. From there, not
sure!
Met with the general manager of Shelter Bay Marina today. We are
very excited about the upcoming promotional pricing and support they
are planning to provide members of the Panama Posse. Just waiting on
the final details, but there's going to be haul-out deals, short and
longer term stay deals...and they have a pool, laundry, etc., etc.,
etc! We're excited. Here's his contact info:
JuanjoBoschetti
General Manager
Shelter Bay Marina
www.shelterbaymarina.com
+507-6813-5327
John & Julie
4) EASY - Panama
Isla Las Secas N 07 59.658 W 082 01.888 20.3' dropped in 33'
Beautiful water! Finally. Anchored with Halcyon
Bahia Honda (domingos) N 07 45.883 W 081 32.390 in 38' Mix of motor
and sailing.
Anyone heading to Honda, they really like Batteries any size. They
really like batteries. Gas is another need.
Isla Del Cebaco N 07 29.400 W 081 13.503 42feet
Mike
5) RESPITE - Panama
We checked in in Panama City and it was very easy. From laplayita
anchorage it was a stroll down the malecon to port captain and
immigration, right next to each other above the duty free store. No
cost and quick! Can’t believe I am saying that about a check in
process. Our agent got us our cruising permit and he says we didn’t
have all the paperwork immigration should have given us. So he took
care of it. No wonder it was so easy! Visas are no longer required.
Chris & Janet
6) ANNAPURNA - Panama
From la Playita Marina, Panama.
We went on the taxi ride to get propane in Chilibre. It is
mostly a scenic drive through rain forest.
Propane prices are low. Taxi fare is $20 each way. Best to gang
together.
We got lunch from nice ladies selling traditional Panama food
from the back of their truck as the Panagas plant. Pork steak,
lentils, rice, fried banana. It was good!
Robert & Debbie
7) VOLANTE III - Costa Rica
Latitude: 10.56069
Longitude: -85.69476
GPS location Date/Time: 04/12/2018 11:11:58 CDT
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=10.56069,-85.69476&ll=10.56069,-85.69476&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Latitude: 10.40404
Longitude: -85.81140
GPS location Date/Time: 04/13/2018 07:10:11 CDT http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=10.40404,-85.81140&ll=10.40404,-85.81140&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Tony
8) LIQUID - Costa Rica
Liquid at Isla Cedros / Isla Jesuita anchorage Costa Rica.
09 50 573 N
84 53 097 W
10ft at MLWWe will be at Isla Cedros for a bit. :-)
Latitude: 9.84287
Longitude: -84.88498
GPS location Date/Time: 04/12/2018 12:37:51 PDT http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=9.84287,-84.88498&ll=9.84287,-84.88498&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Marc & Laura
9) GADDABOUT - Costa Rica
Gaddy leaves her mark wherever she goes. #gadaboutlife #panamaposse
Arthur “Wags” & Paula
10) CINDERELLA - Costa Rica
Cinderella arrived in Sámara yesterday, next to our buds on
Pineapple. We had a frustrating sail around Punta Giounes, we felt
that weird current only as we approached that point and getting
around was a windward battle. But we made it and entered Samara at
first light. We used the waypoints on Navionics for the east side
anchorage and had no issues.
Live music tonight at Frank's! Franks's is run by a super cool
Canadian named Frank. He is super friendly to locals and boaters, the service and food is great. He
apparently has the best wifi in town if you want a quiet place
to sit upstairs. We've arranged a Panama Posse deal, drink
specials between the hours of 3-6pm. Let's call it, Hora de
Feliz 🤙
Also, we were told by the locals to not walk the beach at
night because that's when the "cockroaches" come out. There is a
$4-6 taxi from the town to our anchorage area since town is on
the other end of the bay. We parked the dinghy out front of some
resorts and tied her to a tree. The guys also watch the kayaks
at night so seems like a well patrolled area.
We'll be here for awhile, if you are passing through come find
Cindy and say hello!
We are anchored here:
9 52.061 N
85 30.726W
Pavao, Pajo & Ava
11) PINEAPPLE - Costa Rica
Pineapple left Playa del Coco on Sunday and stopped at Guacamaya
for 24 hours. After 20 anchorages in 5 countries over 6 months,
it was the first one we had all to ourselves!
We had no
problems. Anchored at 10°31.2'N 85°47.5'W in 23 feet at low
tide. It appears our Navionics chart has the shoreline in the
wrong place. We were anchored right in the middle, but the chart
showed us in the northeast corner. The typical annoying wind chop from the afternoon thermal
made for a bouncy evening, but the beautiful surroundings made
up for it.
Today we went snorkeling around the rocks in the northeast
corner. I'm no snorkeling expert, but I'd say it was good! I
mean, the water was clear and we saw tons of fish! We did get
a few stings or bites from something, but no lasting effects.
This afternoon we sailed to Bahia Potrero, where we are
anchored off the breakwater at 10°26.4'N 85°47'W in 17 feet at
low tide.
Update from
Potrero: We landed our dinghy on the beach in
the far southern corner of the bay. 10.44°N
85.79°W. Totally calm, easy landing, no surf,
and there's even a tree to lock the dinghy to :)
The town of Playa Potrero is a 1.5-mile walk
up the beach.
Walk to the Costa Rica Sailing Center and take
the road up. There's a bunch of restaurants;
even a microbrewery! The town of Playa
Flamingo is much closer and much smaller.
There's a great restaurant (but very
trendy/gringo-y) called Surf Box. It's best to
walk on the beach as much as possible. The
roads are no good for pedestrians.
Today we sailed Pineapple 55 miles from Bahia Potrero to Bahia
Samara (Costa Rica). Left at 5:30am and arrived 3:30pm.
The entrance to Samara is... exciting. Especially with a swell
running, which it is right now! (We had no idea, as the bays
north of Cabo Velas were totally protected from the swell.)
We had no trouble getting in:
1- Offshore approach: 9°51'N 85°31.5'W
2- Turning point before reef: 9°51.9'N 85°31.1'W
3- Anchored at 9°52'N 85°30.7'W in 15 feet at low tide
This is a totally cool spot, with an island to the south,
dramatic reefs to east and west, and a huge beach to the
north. Five bars 3G mobile internet (no LTE). But it's ROLLY.
We set up the flop stopper immediately :-)
We'll take some pictures if the sun comes out tomorrow!
Overcast today.
John & Michelle
12) DANIKA - Costa Rica
SV Danika is leaving Golfito bright and early in the morning and
starting to head back up north so the boat can spend the summer in
El Salvador. I guess we are now part of the CounterPosse.
Hopefully we’ll run into some of you that are still heading south.
We’ll be in Drake’s Bay tomorrow afternoon.
Next fall, we are heading back down again to cross to the
South Pacific from Panama. That’s right- we are going to
endure those papagayos again not once, but two more times when
all is said and done. It’s a good thing rum is cheap in
Central America. We‘re gonna need lots of it
Danika is anchored in Playa Biesanz in Quepos. 09 24.27N, 84
10.11W. Much more protected than the anchorage near the marina
a couple of miles away. There are some reefs on all sides so
it’s best to anchor during low tide when you can see them, There are a couple of party catamarans that stop by a
couple of times a day with snorkeling tourists, but they only
stay for an hour or so and move on. It makes for some fun
people watching from both sides. Tomorrow, we head to Gulfo de
Nicoya to check out places we didn’t see on our way south.
Hopefully, we’ll run into some of the Posse peeps that have
just arrived in CR.
Jason & Jenn
13) COLMENA - Honduras
Colmena has arrived in Amapala, Isla del Tigre Honduras. I left
Chiapas on Wednesday and after some calms and some incredibly strong
headwinds I anchored behind Punta Amapala, El Salvador Saturday.
Yesterday I had the most amazing sail through the Gulf of Fonseca,
arriving here yesterday afternoon. The gulf of Fonseca is incredibly
beautiful. It's like the San Juans, except it's in the tropics and
there are no power-boaters ruining the view.
Kevin
14) BERTIE - Ecuador
Good Morning Posse!
Bertie still has 3 1/2 weeks to enjoy las Islas Galápagos, then
we'll be making our way to Panama for a haul out, re-provisioning
and some island hopping. A couple of questions:
1) Looking for recommendations for best place to haul out, for
our 23 ton wooden vessel. We would prefer a 75 ton travel lift b/c
they are longer (for 55 ft of boat and bowsprit), but a 50 ton
lift would do. Out ideal yard would be near enough to parts and
supplies or at least have a good
chandlery nearby.
2) And, since we will be coming from the Galápagos, we'll also
be needing to check in to the country. Ideal situation would be
able to check in at or near where we will be hauling out.
Looking forward to any recommendations or experience that you
can offer! Thanks!
svbertie@yahoo.com
Peter & Heidi
15) Picture of the Week
by COLMENA - Kevin
16) Panama Posse Net *
Please tune into the SSB net at 1300 UTC on 8297 Mhz usb .
Propagation has made it difficult to hear everyone everyday, but
tune in to
see if you can share your latest adventures real time.…
Keep em coming and lock your dinghy's !
FLEET UPDATE 2018-01-15
1) LATEST VESSEL SING UP - "FRED AGAIN III" -
Greetings! We are happy to have joined the Panama Possee and
hope to be catching up to some of you within the next few weeks.
Our 8 am report is as follows:
Currently anchored in Tenacatita (anchor depth 29 feet)- just
south of the jungle river. 19.17.118N 104.52.201W.
We plan to depart for Bahía Navidad this afternoon- short motor
sail with light winds. We are trying to get a slip at the marina
for a night.
Thank you!!
Bob, Laura, Michael
2) Crossing the BAR - El Salvador - Crossroads - Carinthia - Liquid
( all over the bar now )
Quick recap
- The Estuary Bar entrance is dangerous to cross at night or with
poor visibility for inbound or outgoing traffic
- The Marina provides a Pilot who will guide you in only at high
tide and during daylight only for safety reasons
- When you are one mile out call "Bahia del Sol" on VHF 16 and
the pilot will come out and bring you in
- Radio note: VHF's are set to "USA" not "INTERNATIONAL"
- El Salvador is on Central Standard Time - there are a
lot of pangas outside mayor ports - best avoid them -
Carinthia snagged a big long line
- Show up exactly on time for high tide ( check with the La
Libertad Tide station for details ) - and send an arrival time
email as you leave Mexico or Guatemala to elsalvadorrally@aol.com
- upon arrival at the dock get ready to
be swamped by drinks welcomes - cruisers - staff - etc -
it's a proper welcoming party - the marina charges 25USD for the
pilot and $1 x day x foot on the dock- most of us stayed one
night to catch up on sleep and then anchored out
- 15 USD gives you 1 week of resort access - wifi - pool - 30 %
discount to meals and dinghy dock access - trash bins - BUT
IMPORTANT water on dock is NOT potable - power is good - make
water on incoming tides only
- you will need to pay in USD - there are no ATM's here so have
about 100 USD avail to get you checked in for visas etc - ATM do
dispense USD - marina takes credit cards - customs and immigration
do not
- the guides and charts are wrong - its' a straight shot over the
bar currently - do not deviate especially with bigger swells -
follow the pilot boat - here is our track in
- Inside the estuary you can anchor in up to 21 feet - max tidal
range is 8 feet
- Bill will rent moorings for 8 USD x day
- Most important there are 2 WELCOME PANAMA POSSE BANNERS IN EL
SALVADOR courtesy of Bill & Jean
- The marina has plenty of slips available. Do you want a
"back in" slip? The "docks" have 30 and 50 amp service.
- You can contact the marina directly for slip costs (gerente@bahiadelsolelsalvador.com).
3) SERAFINA - ACAPULCO
We are in Acapulco! After a great sail from Ixtapa, we arrived this morning around 8. We hooked up with Vincente and he hooked us up with a mooring ball. As soon as we get some sleep, we plan to tour this amazing city. During our night sail, we were visited by dolphins that left streaks of bioluminescence in their wake. We could see them darting under the boat because of their trails. It was magical. We also saw whales off Papanoa. The rest of our little group is on their way here from there, where they stopped for a few hours. Ted and I can’t wait to meet even more of you as we press southward. Ted and Eliza on SV Serafina 4) MYLA - Zihuatanejo Hola,
We left Zihuatenajo today and now we're in Papanoa. We had
very light winds so motor sailed, with the emphasis on motor.
Pretty flat seas, but some swells. We decided to drop the hook
on the south side of the point off of Playa Escondido. Lovely
little cove that reminds us of Chamela. Several other boats
coming in soon, Interlude, Shearwater, and Sarafina. Hoping we
all can snuggle into this cute cove. Meanwhile, a little
excitement on this jaunt. While sticking our bow into the
breakwater entrance of the north cove (Papanoa/Puerto Vicente
Guerrero), we decided that it might be more open to the swell
direction, so at the last second, we did an about face. We were
maybe 20 feet from entering the harbor. Immediately off our
stern after we turned about, a rather large whale surfaced. It
may have been actually exiting the little harbor exactly as we
were considering entering. Whatever prompted us to do an about
face at that precise second and head to the southern cove may
have helped us avoid some unwanted excitement. Nothing like
being within 20 feet of a whale in a relatively confined space!
All is good! Lots of turtles, dolphins, fish boils...the sea is
alive! We plan to head to Acapulco tomorrow or maybe the next
day.
Fairwinds,
Just arrived in Acapulco. Vincente greeted us waving a
PanamaPosse flag and guided us to a mooring. Sarafina joined us
for a sunset beverage, and Shearwater is here, too. Furthest
south we've been and the real adventure is just beginning.
Getting excited!
S/V Myla 5) SY EASY
Tehuantepec Easy's crossing direct from Puerto Angel.
I hit long lines at:
14 59.641 N
93 22.233 W
15 01.517 N
93 22.986 W
14 45.590 N
92 37.640 W
Did hit winds around 30 knots in the first 80 miles. The.
Turned to a lake rapidly. No traffic at a all was easy going.
I found the current was in my favor till halfway across and
turned in my favor the last quarter or so.
I caught an excellent window to go direct from Puerto Angel
took 49 hours with 30.2 hours motoring.
Good Luck
MIKE
6) Respite - FUEL QUALITY - ACAPULCO & beyond
Just a heads up this was in the fuel filter with a Baja filter
6) Fleet locations as of today January 15 2018 ( please fill in the gaps fro next update )
| AIYA | San Diego | USA |
| RAVEN | Bahia Chemela | Mexico |
| CARINTHIA | Bahia Del Sol | El Salvador |
| BULA |
|
Mexico |
| XENIA |
|
Mexico |
| RESPITE | Chiapas | Mexico |
| MAGIC |
|
Mexico |
| MORA |
|
|
| AVANT | Chiapas | Mexico |
| SANS FRONTIERES |
|
|
| GEORGIA | Barra de Navidad | Mexico |
| ISLEÑA | Bahia del Sol | El Salvador |
| REBELLIOUS |
|
|
| GADABOUT | Near Barra | Mexico |
| VOLANTE III | Acapulco | Mexico |
| LIQUID | Bahia Del Sol | El Salvador |
| VITESSE |
|
|
| SEA GLASS | Chiapas | Mexico |
| ANNAPURNA | Acapulco | Mexico |
| WILDFIRE |
|
Mexico |
| CROSSROADS | Bahia Del Sol | El Salvador |
| SEPTEMBER SONG |
|
|
| FIREFLY |
|
Mexico |
| PINEAPPLE |
|
Mexico |
| SAMAYA |
|
|
| TAPPAN ZEE |
|
|
| MYLA |
|
Mexico |
| ARGUS |
|
|
| INTERLUDE | Acapulco | Mexico |
| SYCAMORE |
|
Mexico |
| SHEARWATER |
|
Mexico |
| TRUE BLUE |
|
|
| KEA |
|
Mexico |
| COLIBRI |
|
|
| EASY | Chiapas | Mexico |
| WAPONI WOO |
|
Mexico |
| DAD’S DREAM | Chiapas | Mexico |
| SERAFINA |
|
Mexico |
| JULIA MAX | Chiapas | Mexico |
| EL CAZADOR |
|
Costa Rica |
| EPIPHANY |
|
|
| CHANTEY |
|
Mexico |
| ANILA | Zihuatanejo | Mexico |
| OCTOPUS GARDEN |
|
Mexico |
| BERTIE |
|
Mexico |
| FRED AGAIN III | Tenacatita | Mexico |
7)
if you are not on this list and feel confident about a particular
skill set you could offer to the
Panama Posse Fleet please email us back and we will update the
list.
| RAVEN | |
| Neil, Tally, Jan |
Repairs, Running Rigging, Splicing, Sail making, Movie Library, Check in Procedures |
|
CARINTHIA |
|
| Dietmar, Suzanne |
Computers, Public Relations, Provisioning Scout |
| XENIA | |
| Tara, Mike |
Diving, Commercial Diving |
| RESPITE | |
| Chris & Janet |
Sewing, Physical Rehabilitation, Massages, Problem Solver on Boats, Fix anything |
| MAGIC | |
| Curt & Mary |
Has done the trip knows the coast, anchorages, surfspots and weather |
| GEORGIA | |
| Lucie & Ben |
Net Control, Shipbuilding |
| VOLANTE III | |
| Tony |
Tech, Communications, Radio, Satellite (yes Tony actually launched a satellite ) |
| LIQUID | |
| Marc & Laura |
Welding, Sewing, Shore Based gatherings and special events |
| SEA GLASS | |
| Chris & Amanda |
Sewing, Research |
| ANNAPURNA | |
|
Robert & Debbie |
Fiberglass, Composites, Engineer, |
|
CROSSROADS Stan & Diane |
Fixing a little bit of everything, Researcher for safety procedures, embassy list, note taker |
| SEPTEMBER SONG | |
|
Debbie & Ted |
Spectra Watermakers,SSB |
| INTERLUDE | |
| Mike |
Solar Installations and all boat troubleshooting |
| SHEARWATER | |
| Pati & Eric |
Towing, Mast Rigging, Diver and Dive Compressor |
| KEA | |
| Erik & Kaitlyn | Sewing, bottom cleaning |
| EASY | |
| Mike | Free Diving, Mast climbing |
| COLIBRI | |
| Christopher & Diana Dual license Professional Mechanical and Electrical Engineer, AC & DC power systems, Carrying a plethora of tools that a power boat allows |
|
8)
To contact each other please use this link below - sign in - fill out the captcha and use password after login “posse2017”
https://www.panamaposse.com/2017-vessel-contact-sheet
9)
Chime in on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/panamaposse/
9)
The Panama Posse SSB net operates daily at 15:15 UTC on 8 294 Mhz ( 8 297 fallback)
Panama Posse
FLEET UPDATE 2018-05-02
1) SANS FRONTIERES - Panama
Greetings!
Sans Frontiers is at Shelter Bay Marina, on its way
to San Blas and Jamaica early June.
Question: Does anybody as a couple 5 gallon diesel
Jerrys that they would be willing to sell, need to be in good
condition, at Shelter Bay Marina?
Nicolas
2) MYLA - Panama
We are wrapping up the decommissioning of Myla and fly back to
the states tomorrow. We are loving Shelter Bay. The Caribbean
breeze, the clear water (even in the marina!), the international
sailing community with a ton of great tips, charts, etc for
cruising in the Caribbean are getting us excited to return. We
will come back after Christmas and play in San Blas, and
eventually head up to Annapolis, where we just bought a place.
Here are some pics of our transit.
John & Julie
3) RESPITE - PANAMA
It’s official respites sailing season is completed. We have
sailed Respite from Bara Navidad MX toShelter Bay Panama. I have
to say that sailing in Mexico is less challenging then the Central
America countries. That being said we have seen the MOST
amazing sites, cultures and very kind people where ever we
stopped. Respite will spend 7 month on the hard while Janet
and I head back to Seattle for a few week than off to another
adventure as we go to Alaska to work at the Highliner Fishing
Lodge for the summer.
We are so blessed to be doing what we have done for the last
two winters. We have met some of the most amazing people. That
will always be friends and fellow adventurers. The hardest
part of this life style is say good bye to our friends. Good
Bye friends hope our paths will cross somewhere sometime. Fair
Winds and following Seas to All✌️
Every Days a Holiday every Meal a Banquet
Chris & Janet
(note - safe travels - see you next season ! )
4) EASY - Panama
Panama, getting from Vista Mar Marina to the Port Captain If
your staying in Vista Mar Marina, the Marina will give you a
ride to Coronado.
The bus says Panama, takes you to Albrook mall ( main bus
terminal). Now you need to buy a bus card you need it to board
the bus. Then find and board the Amador bus. The farthest stop
is the stop you want. You may see the lift at the Falmingo
marina. Head to the duty free stores. Enter the building and go
upstairs for the port captain and immigrations. Is free unless
you get the one year cruisers permit. If your in the marina you
don't need it.
When you return get a Taxi from Coronado to Vista Mar. should be
$6. When I asked how much the cabbie said $8. Replied back $5 he
said yes. So it is negotiable.
Hope this helps when you get here
Mike
5) Golfito Marina Village IGY Panama Posse Party - Costa
Rica
Andy from IGY - Welcoming the Posse to the new IGY Golfito Marina
Village
- free shirts - free beer - free fixings - free wifi - great rates
- what's not to like ?
HIP HIP HOORAY !
Dad's Dream - Liquid - Gaddabout - Carinthia - Charly - Sugar
Shack - Betty MC - Volante III
Great event - FYI next years 2018-2019 Posse mark your
calendars.
IGY Golfito Marina Village Panama Posse Party confirmed
for next year Wednesday MAY 1st, 2019 !!!!
6) MANU KAI - Costa Rica
So excited to be in Costa Rica! We had a great passage
from Marina Chiapas to Costa Rica. We decided to skip El
Salvador and Nicaragua this time as we have a friend on board
for two weeks, a great weather window and nice sailing so kept
moving south.
Surf, surf surf was the only thing on the mind of Tristan
our 15 year old. We just watched Endless Summer 2 (thanks Rum
Doxy) in Chiapas and knew our first stops would be in the foot
steps of wingbit and Patrick O'Connell.
We stopped for two nights in Potrero Grande. It was a
beautiful and comfortable anchorage. Surfed Ollie's Point and
enjoyed amazing sunsets. Left early on Sunday to Roca Bruja
aka Witches Rock. Too much sun but the best wave off his
life.
A quick afternoon swim in little bay North of Bahia
Culebra and now anchored. In Playa Coco. Checking in this
mooring. Thanks SV Carinthia for the detailed check
in process. This will make it easy.
PICTURE OF THE WEEK
Thor, Tanya & Crew
7) DAD'S DREAM - Costa Rica
Rincon Anchorage -
At 6’ high tide we were about 75’ from the
mangroves in 21’ of water. We dropped the hook in 35’ with only
120’ of chain. Yeh I know, only 3:1 but as steep as the bottom
is I have no worries of dragging in towards shore. In the pic
“Rincon ANC” is the waypoint in Sarana guide. I think Agape is
pretty close to it. The bummer with anchorage is the highway is
close enough to hear the traffic, be it as minimal as it is,
we’re moving tomorrow.
Rick & Brenda
8) VOLANTE III - Costa Rica
Today I went on a tour of the Osa peninsula. Osa has the
best rain forest in all of Costa Rica. The thing I don’t like
about this area is all the rain. At least half of all the animal
species that live in Costa Rica call Osa home. Osa has all four
monkeys that are native to North America. Today I got to see
three of them, the Holler monkeys, the Spider monkeys and the
Squirrel monkeys. Some of the other animals I got to see
included Toucans, Macaws, Green Parrots and Sloths both mom and
baby. The tour was wonderful, and the guide was great. Oh, and I
got to see the impress blue butterflies. Pictures below
Tony
9) CARINTHIA - Costa Rica
Land Sea Cruiser Club - Golfito
Another affordable place in Golfito - 2 moorings avail only -
but you can anchor out too.
Cruising Critters Always Welcome! ( there are 10+ dogs here)
8° 37.3261´ N 83° 09.1334´ W
For self sufficient sailors only !
Contact Katie / Tim
VHF 16 ( daytime)
+506 886 9360
+506 2775 1614
landseaservices@gmail.com
www.marinaservices-yachtdelivery.com
Between Fish Hook and Banana Bay
Mooring & and club access 12 USD x day
Dinghy dock usage and club access 7 USD x day
Laundry
BBQ
WIFI
Potlucks
Recycling
Water
Workbench
Rooms for rent
Toilets
Showers
Dietmar & Suzanne
10) Welcome to the (counter) Panama Posse
SV CHARLY - currently in Golfito - Costa Rica #
81
André-Philippe & Sylvie
11) CHANTEY - Mexico
We're catching up slowly! Just need a good weather window for
the T-Pec now
We made it 253 miles to Huatulco! You can just see Chantey's
mast anchored behind the cruise ship pier.
And yes, that is a USA Coastguard vessel on the right, they
didn't come to visit us yet...
Jane & Ivan
12) AVANT - El Salvador
Has anyone seen any monocrystaline solar panels for sale in
their travels? Only finding poly in El Salvador. Looking for
a few 150w units.
Rob & Debra (reply with info to:
rob_murray_@hotmail.com)
13) COLMENA - Nicaragua
Kevin
(note: from our local ambassador Ralph Hewitt
What,
you don't like wind? Some
years we sail most months
with double reff and small
head sail. Contact me
nicaralph@gmail.comwww.parkavenuevillas. com
maybe we can show you around
on Saterday.
If you have local phone
8717-2649 )
14) OPEN CPN
If you missed the free OpenCPN seminars in Barra de
Navidad back in November - however the whole shabang of sat
charts is in one BIG 2.7 GB zip file for
Panama Posse
participants - thanks to the hard work of Marc on
SV Liquid -
follow this link - read up and download
them all from
https://panamaposse.com/open-cpn )
15) SSB Panama Posse Net Reminder
1300 UTC ( 7 am local time ) on 8297 Mhz usb and
introduce yourselves to net control
16) The Panama Posse season will come to a close in June.
SAVE THE DATE
The final Panama Posse arrival celebration is scheduled for
Wed May 23rd at the Vista Mar Marina in Panama.
Please gather your thoughts send out submission of pictures
for inclusion in these Fleet Updates ( simply reply to this
email )
Plan to set aside some time to fill out our upcoming
survey.
If you want to you can sign up again for the next
(2018-2019) panama posse - registration is open already at
www.panamaposse.com/sign-up/
Keep 'em coming -
FLEET UPDATE 2018-05-13
1) Season finale Panama Posse Celebration Party at
Vista Mar Marina our Panama Posse Headquarters
Wednesday May 23rd at Boga Bar
5PM - 8PM - Free beer from 5:00 - 6:30 PM
Free fixings - but bring your own proteins to BBQ
PLEASE RSVP for an accurate head-count and
email
us your favorite pictures from this season !
(simply reply to this email)
2) ANNAPURNA - Panama
Congratulation to S/V Annapurna on there successful 1 day crossing
through the Panama Canal and into the Caribbean Sea! The Posse
line-handlers were from S/V
Annapurna with help from Easy, Interlude and SEA GLASS
Debbie, Rob, Mike, Mike, Chris
(note thank's Chris, Mike and Mike - for helping folks
through the locks)
3) NICARAGUA - San Juan Del Sur
The Posse rode into San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua... Susie &
Neal off Distant Drummer, Lucy & John from Maraki (going
north?), Renda & Ralph Hewitt with Eagle Dancer, your San Juan
del Sure, Nicaragua host. Sundowners at Henry's Iguana then
dinner, drinks, Dancing at the upscale Black Pearl.
Next as a group is Sunday brunch @ "Tree Casa" resort. Fun Times
in Nicaragua, ( if you want to get off the boat here Ralph offers
a full 50% Panama Posse discount at his place )
Ralph Hewitt
nicaralph@gmail.com
Panama
Posse Ambassador in San Juan Del Sur and all around good guy to know
4) CHANTEY - Mexico
Enjoying our pit stop in Bahia Santa Cruz, Huatulco.
Port Captain was happy for us to anchor in the bay, as long as we
paid port dues at API office
(pictured, next to La Guardia on Pemex side of Darsena) Cost $302mx
for 8 nights. Based on 2 people, 15.5 ton boat.
Celebrating arrival in Chiapas with beer and internet! So who
is still in El Salvador? Our next stop...
Ivan & Jane
5) SUGAR SHACK - Cost Rica
Hello Everyone
I was able to put the official Columbia Guide in my Dropbox
folder…please let me know if you can access it from here.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/vfibqx8l3k1n1lq/Cruising%20Guide%20Colombia.pdf?dl=0
If your heading to Costa Rica, I’d highly recommend a tour at
Monkey Mangrove Tours with Crazy Alex. He does all the bird calls,
monkey calls, and other animals. Explains all the flora, plants and
CR history too. Super fun $45/pp
Matthew & Christine
6) CARINTHIA - Panama
We took a day sail route to get from IGY - Marina Village
Golfito Costa Rica to Marina Vista Mar - Panama
This route has several stunning anchorages, schools of dolphins,
chrystal clear waters and breathtaking vistas
We saved the tracks as we found ourselves sometimes sailing on land
and dodging mis-charted rocks and reefs.
If you want them simply email back and we'll send them to you. (bold
= 3g/4g cellphone coverage)
Golfito - Punta Balsa 55 nm
Punta Balsa - Isla Parida NE - Playa del Socorro 47 nm
Isla Parida - Bahia Honda 55 nm
Bahia Honda - Isla Santa Catalina - Bahia Naranjo 55 nm
Bahia Naranjo - Playa Venao 55 nm
Playa Venao - Isla Iguana 18 nm
Isla Iguana - Marina Vista Mar 51 nm
Overview of route
Approaching Isla Parida
Vessel at anchorage at Islas Secas
Threading the needle between Isla Brincanaco (right) towards Isla
Uva
Isla Uva
Inside Passage to Bahia Honda (via Isla Medidor)
Secluded Anchorages along the way
Little churches on the shores of Isla Cebaco
Bahia Naranjo ( more howler monkeys here )
The most difficult part is of course ( other than many
mis-charted rocks and reefs) is of course the aptly named
Punta Mala and the push north against prevailing winds and
current to Marina Vista Mar - we opted to go around Punta Mala
at slack tide and quickly had to tuck into Isla Iguana to avoid the
following steep chop of rip tide currents and headwinds.
Wait for a coastal low and used the lifting southerly winds for the
final 50 nm push (bash) to the Marina.
Another option is the keep a foot on the shore or alternatively tack
out and back to Islas Perlas.
See you at this season's final Panama Posse Celebration Party on
Wednesday May 23rd Vista Mar Marina in Panama !
Dietmar & Suzanne
7) PINEAPPLE - Costa Rica
We (Pineapple) are wrapping up a short stay in Golfito CR, and I
just wanted to put in a plug for the hospitality at Fish Hook
Marina.We're anchored out front (near Marc Blaquiere and Laura
Blaquiere on Liquid, hi guys) and we've used Fish Hook's dock a few
times over the past couple days. Jose greeted us and offered to help
with laundry, WiFi, showers, etc. We took them up on the laundry
service ($20 for two loads), dropped off trash, and had lunch at the
restaurant, which is pretty good and moderately priced (by Costa
Rica standards).We just finished checking out of the country and
will get underway toward Panama tomorrow!
Hey Posse! I just learned that the Clipper Round the World race
fleet is expected to arrive in Panama City (from Seattle) May 23-27.
They'll be berthed at Flamenco Marina before transiting the canal,
then at Shelter Bay before starting their next leg to New York.
Could be a cool thing to see if you're into ocean racing or even
just really big sailboats
John & Michelle
8) VOLANTE III - Costa Rica
I have question for the group. I am planning on getting a one
year cruising permit in Panama. US boats only until your USCG
Documentation expires. Along with that you get a cruising visa
matching the permit. I am planning on flying back to the states but
on return they would give me a 90 day tourist visa. Does anybody
know what needs to be done to make sure I get my cruising visa back
when I return back on an airplane. |
( note - please contact Marina Vista Mar for details
c.ramos-00@hotmail.com and
jacquelinepetti@grupocalpe.com.pa )
Today I went for a hike into the foothills alongside Golfito,
Costa Rica. Besides getting some great views of Golfito and the
bay below, the area has a lot of animals. Well, today I was in
the right place at the right time. I got to see at least 100
monkeys. This area has trees with berries and it appears the
monkeys really like the berries. They were not concerned with my
being right below them, so I got a lot of great pictures. It was
impressive to see. The hardest part was only choosing a few
pictures to share on Facebook.
PICTURES OF THE WEEK
Tony
9) CINDERELLA - Costa Rica
Stellar Sails and Canvas of Costa Rica came to our boat to
pattern the new dodger for Cinderella. David Ware (speaks English
and Spanish) has been awesome to work with and we highly recommend
his expertise. He is based inland but will travel to boats in
transit. Contact him for your canvas and sail needs and tell him
Cinderella sent you!
David Ware www.stellarsails.com Phone:
8995-9770
For all your inflatable repair needs in Costa Rica, located in San
Ramon. The valves and innards were tired and leaking on our rare
little sailing dinghy the Tinker Tramp. We got all 4 valves replaced
and a few other hypalon additions. One week turnaround and they did
a professional, clean job. They also have various parts including
stainless bolts, thru hull fittings and other random things that
came with Cabo Rico sailboats. The factory is really cool and I bet
they'd even sell you an apex dinghy - they also offer trades. We saw
many a tired West Marine dinghy there
https://www.facebook.com/APEX-BOATS-CRYC-394818664036798/
Pavao, Pajo & Ava
10) MOBERT -Mexico
We're getting a late start south, headed to Barra de Navidad today.
Can anyone explain the marina and anchoring situation there? Pros
and cons and costs? I hate to ask, but we discovered yesterday that
our Pacific Mexico book only has the first half! Weird printing
defect, there's a new cover at page 122 right in the middle and the
entire book starts over.
:)
I'm lost without it! Thanks so much.
Note: This is the start location of the Panama Posse - and
well documented on our website at
https://panamaposse.com/start
Note: from Pineapple
Once you pass the
breakwater, you can choose between the marina and
anchoring in the lagoon. Straightforward channel to
the marina and then past marina is lagoon. Very
shallow entrance to lagoon, recommend high tide and
following Sean and Heather WP exactly
to avoid getting stuck in the mud: 19°11.715'N,
104°40.803'W; 19°11.512'N, 104°40.605'W;
19°11.376'N, 104°40.457'W. We anchored and then went
into marina, both very nice. Water taxi monitors
channel 23 to take you into Barra. Marina has a
resort for some pool time and laundry.
Devon & Rich
(we need your pics please)
11) TALIESIN ROSE - Mexico
For folks who have been recently... do you recommend a stop in
Acapulco? Not super interested in sight seeing but considering a one
day stop over on our way to Huatulco and a possible costco run.
We've heard from Mexicans that it's a little rough these days.
Frankly, we could easily skip it and go straight through. Personal
experiences and advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
(Note : Vicente Herrera, phone +52 744-439-8184 for
USD 10 a day moorings fuel - water -
transportation a.m.o.)Victoria & Rowan
(we need your pics please)
12) MANU KAI - COSTA RICA
Manu Kai spent the evening in Garza, a beautiful bay south of
Tamarindo. Fireflies and distant lightning lit up the sky and
even though we tucked behind the reef it was a bit rolly. Went
ashore with a fun surf landing to explore, cut open coconuts and
finish installing our dingy wheels.
Motor sailing now to make some water as we start heading
toward Mal Pais at the tip of Guanacaste.Weather looks favorable
for the next few days to anchor along some of the fun surf
spots. Any boats in the area?
Thor & Tanya & crew
13) BERTIE - Panama
Bertie is heading back from the Galapagos, likely leaving Monday or
Tuesday morning, heading to Panama for a haul out, then ... we shall
see!!
Maybe we will be back in time to find and attend that party I
read about a while back. We loved the Galapagos and will be
happy to answer any questions when we get back to Internet in
Panama!
Peter & Heidi
14) XENIA - Costa Rica
Xenia has left Bahia Del Sol heading towards CR!
Mike & Tara
Keep 'em coming
FLEET UPDATE 2018-05-21
1) Season finale Panama Posse Celebration Party !
Wednesday May 23rd at Boga Bar / Vista Mar Marina / Panama
5PM - 8PM - Free beer from 5:00 - 6:30 PM
Free fixings - but bring your own proteins to BBQ
Even if you can't make it please reply to this email with a quick greeting - picture or toast to your fellow Panama Posse vessels - we'll read them out for you.
RSVP'ed YES - (so far)
Carinthia
Sea Glass
Interlude
Easy
Amante
Higgins
Dad's Dream
2) Our Panama Posse Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/panamaposse/
will stay active, Fleet Updates will be suspended from June - October 2018.
Our mission and tone are always focused on facts, information and solutions - please keep it that way !
Below are the trusted admins.
Mike - SV Easy
Marc - SV Liquid
3) WIND DANCER - Panama
Successful 2 day north-bound passage through the Panama Canal with an overnight stay at Lake Gatun.
Wind Dancer had the following raft up combinations on it's north bound Passage
- 2 x Port tied to a Panama Canal Tug (behind a large Cargo Ship)
- 1 x Center Single tie (all alone in lock)
- 3 x Port tied Lead vessel next to a 42' Sailing Vessel (in front of a large Cargo Ship)
assisted by fellow Panama Posse
Interlude - Mike (Senior Line Handler)
Easy - Mike (Junior Line Handler)
Carinthia - Dietmar (Newbie Line Handler)
(note - if you ever plan to go through the canal helping out a fellow panama posse vessel (or other) volunteer as a line handler.
This provides you with an invaluable insight of what you will go through - as going through the canal is a logistical and tactical challenge with lot's of moving pieces
to the puzzle. As dates and times of your transit can literally change the day of and you can be pushed back days it's best to have "flexible" line handlers with you. The general rule of thumb fro line handler volunteers is - you pay for the line handler transportation to and from your vessel and provide all food libations and cocktails on board your vessel
- for us 3 the transportation cost from Vista Mar Marina to Flamingo Anchorage and back from Shelter Bay Marina to vista Mar Marina came to about
70 USD and total time of 3 1/2 days. Alternatively you can hire local line handlers for about US 100 x day - check with your agent)
Matt, Nancy & crew
3) We wish to welcome the following vessel to the (tail end of this Season's) Panama Posse .
SV RENAISSANCE
Tammy
4) AVANT - EL Salvador
Weather, weather, weather . . .
We all have a favourite weather app or model to use when planning passages, but I have found that that level of attention is not warranted when at anchor or in a marina. But I still want a forecast every day, just in case I need to prepare for *something*. There is a zoned forecast updated every 6 hours from the National Hurricane Center of the National weather Service you can subscribe to get in a text email format via saildocs. Background on these forecasts can be found at https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/pdf/TAFB_experimental_offshores.pdf. You can see a sample of what you will get at https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/experimental/epoffshores/data/WRKOFFPZ8
To subscribe to a free daily text format email for a zoned weather forecast from Mexico to Panama, send an email to query@saildocs.com with the text ‘sub OFFPZ8’ in the body of the Email, and it will start a 14 day subscription, sending you the text every day for 14 days. For a longer term subscription, send ‘sub OFFPZ8 days=30’ for a 30 day subscription, or change the ‘30’ to the number of days you want.
More information on how to use saildocs, vary the timing of the subscriptions, cancel subscriptions, get other stuff sent to you, etc. is available via saildocs.com .
Rob & Debra
5) COLMENA - Costa Rica
Colmena suffered an invasion of sorts last night in Bahia Ballena, Costa Rica. I was sitting in the cockpit enjoying my evening "glass" of wine, when these little flying bugs showed up. At first it was only a couple, then more, then hundreds. I escaped below (yes, the wine survived) and made sure the mosquito net was in place, but they followed me. They flew up, shed their wings and were literally dying to get into the boat; burrowing their way through the netting. Some made it in. Too many. And I spent my night killing little black crawling bugs. This morning I went out into the cockpit to find millions of discarded wings.
For me, this is the stuff of nightmares. I read online that they might be termites from those big black nests you see up in the trees. Have any of you had any experiences with these?
Kevin
6) MARAKI - Costa Rica
We parked our dinghy on the shore very near police station high enough to lock it to a stout tree for our trip to Customs at airport. We returned to dinghy by 1pm to find someone had tried to steal our dinghy wheels from under the dinghy, the oats and our anchor and rode. Luckily for us we had chatted with a gentleman who worked at a restaurant there each morning and he saw a local man at “work” at our dinghy. He called in the police, recovered our things until we returned and described missing items. So beware of this even during broad daylight and ask Johnny D to keep an eye out. Glad we friended him and he received a “tip” from us for his willingness to get involved. FYI
(note - always always lock up your dinghies, valuables and vessel when not near it)
John & Lucy
7) SUGAR SHACK- Costa Rica
Suffered a kiss from Zeus (lightning). Looking for an electrician and refrigeration guy on Pacific side of Panama. Any suggestions or feedback?
(note from Andrew Davis : Allen @ cocos marine may be able to point ya in the right direction. hes n expat that run a marine shop on the main street in cocos ( one bay over). very helpful when he chased down some parts for me. +506 8410 8419)
(note: Panama City Cruisers guide has many many qualified electricians and parts)
Christine & Matthew
8) LIQUID - Costa Rica
Our Bahia Drake Guide is up! Let us know what you think and if there is anything else we should add. :-)
https://www.svliquid.com/bahiadrake.html
Device Name: SVLiquid
Latitude: 8.61985
Longitude: -83.15250
GPS location Date/Time: 05/17/2018 14:07:29 PDT
Message: This message serves as our one of our traveling check ins. Just letting you know all is ok :-)
Click the link below to see where I am located.
https://fms.ws/wCZFF/8.61985N/83.15250W
If the above link does not work, try this link:
https://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=8.61985,-83.15250&ll=8.61985,-83.15250&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Marc & Laura
9) TALIESIN ROSE - Mexico
Does anyone have a recommendation for a canvas person in Huatulco?
Also any recommendations for sightseeing while we are here would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
(your pictures PLEASE)
Victoria & Rowan
10) UNTANGLED - PANAMA
Questions about Boca Chica. We've heard good things and thinking of stopping for a bit, maybe going inland.
Some of you may know that Carolyn is working full time so connectivity is critical. Can anyone report on Claro service from the anchorage or Wi-Fi from the nearby Hotels/Restaurants with dinghy docks?
Untangled has a very high aspect ratio mast (air draft 66') Does anyone with a tall mast have experience crossing under those powerlines on the way to Carlos's mooring field?
If we can't make it to Carlos's are there any other reliable moorings/boat watchers in the area on the other side of the power lines?
(respond to svuntangled@gmail.com )
(note SV Easy - Mike went via dinghy and may have some data)
Untangled is currently enjoying SJDS and planning the rest of our trip south with the intention of joining the reverse posse. I read on noonsite that if you leave Costa Rica you cannot return for 3 months. Does anyone have more detail? Do we have any reasonable options if we want to spend only one or two months in Panama with the boat before returning to Costa Rica? Do we do anything special to cancel the 90 day permit on the way out?
(your pictures PLEASE)
Philippe & Carolyn11) CHANTEY - Mexico
Just a heads up for anyone still sailing in Mexico to avoid our immigration mistakes:
1. If you come in by sea or land (not plane) make sure you keep the receipt from Banjercito when you pay your tourist visa fee. We just checked out and were required to pay again as we couldn't produce the receipt. First time we have been asked for it, but Marina staff in Chiapas here said it was usual in their experience.
2. 180 days is exactly that - not 6 months! We checked out exactly 6 months after we entered and that was 182 days! We had to send an email of apology to Mexico City (written by the immigration officer) for being 2 days over, and wait in immigration for the reply, fortunately accepting our apology and no fine. We were told this could be $8000 or more.
Hope this helpful for someone!
Ivan & Jane
12) CARINTHIA - Panama
Lightning Protection and strategies:
As the weather in Central America changes with lot's of lighting and squalls I wanted to just find out what each vessels tactic is - SV Liquid for example is a Steel Boat therefore somewhat immune from lighting - on Carinthia we have installed a lightning rod on top of the mast which is higher than the VHF antenna - on the base of the deck stepped mast we can connect a thick electric cord which drops into the water below our keels ( this works even if we are underway ) - in the Marina we also drop 2 battery cables from the base of the chain plates into the water - next week after the Panama Posse party - we will also drop our anchor at high tide and wrap some of the remaining chain around the base of the mast so as to GROUND the vessel - We will also plan to disconnect some of our electronics - there are no guarantees with lighting and placing small items inside your oven ( laptops - handheld GPS handheld cellphones VHF ) will protect them from what Tony on Volante calls an EMP (so even if items are not connected they can still fry)
We also aimed to be out of Costa Rica area by May as Costa Rica ICE reported 290,000+ lightning strikes in May of 2017 alone (link below)
https://news.co.cr/costa-rica-may-brought-more-rain-and-lighting-2017/61663/
(note Volante III - Sounds like a pretty good plan to me. The only thing I would add is placing one of those lightning arrestors (tube with a bunch of fine wires at the top) at the very top above everything else on the mast. The thinking is a rod will store a charge and the fine wires will dissipate the charge. No perfect solution for sure. I know somebody who has a boat that has been hit three times by lightning. I would recommend not mooring next to their boat. )
(note Avant There is a good collection of articles on this at https://www.kp44.org/LightningProtection.php .
They contain lots of advice, much contradictory)
Dietmar & Suzanne
13) CROSSROADS - Florida
Device Name: CrossRoads Spot
Latitude: 29.89261
Longitude: -81.30740
GPS location Date/Time: 05/18/2018 05:35:22 CDT
Message: Motor vessel CrossRoads is OK!
Click the link below to see where I am located.
https://fms.ws/wDh5c/29.89261N/81.30740W
Stan & Diane
14) VOLANTE III - Costa Rica
Device Name: Volante III
Latitude: 8.63733
Longitude: -83.17153
GPS location Date/Time: 05/19/2018 22:30:52 CDT
Message: Hello from Volante III. Checkout my current location.
Click the link below to see where I am located.
https://fms.ws/wI8G5/8.63733N/83.17153W
If the above link does not work, try this link:
https://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=8.63733,-83.17153&ll=8.63733,-83.17153&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Tony
15) Wind Dancer - PICTURE OF THE WEEK
Since the canal opened in 1914 until today, rowboats are used to run the lines from the large
cargo ships to the locomotives which will pull on average 45 ships per day through these locks.
Matt, Nancy & crew
16) Dear Panama Posse Participants of the 2017- 2018 Panama Posse
Please take some time and email us your journey summary - notes - comments - info - anecdotes and suggestions
THERE IS ONLY ONE MORE FLEET UPDATE for the 2018- 2019 season - please keep 'em coming
FLEET UPDATE 2018-03-11
1) SV GEORGIA - Mexico
SV GEORGIA still has transmission issues (that dang cooler) but we are able to motor short periods at low RPMs. We are currently about 8 miles out of Cabo Corientes on our way to La Cruz. Family visits and the Banderas Bay Regatta follow. We will get a bimini and new stern pulpits installed plus a few other pieces of new gear before we head south. (There is a chance our recalled Volvo engine will be replaced in PV this summer too.) Plenty of turtles and dolphins along the way. Whales elude our gaze.
Cheers!
Lucie & Ben
2) PANAMA POSSE NEEDS YOUR PICTURES
MORA - SEPTEMBER SONG - MY SAMAYA - UTOPIA - SAPPHIRE - QUE SERA - SILHOUETTE - ARGONAUTA - STRIDER
Please email us your lovely pictures.
3) MYLA - PANAMA
We contacted a small cruise ship that goes through the canal both ways while we were in Bahia Baleena and asked them for tips on Panama Crossing.
This is the info they sent:
Here are a few good websites on the transit:
https://www.allatsea.net/tips-and-costs-for-transiting-the-panama-canal/
http://www.cruiserswiki.org/wiki/Panama_Canal
http://www.noonsite.com/Members/sue/R2012-03-14-3
The agent we use for Panama is Associated Steamship Agents (ASA) http://www.shipsagent.com/
They do a very professional job. You can contact them at: +507-211-9400 / asa@shipsagent.com
Meanwhile, we are in Golfito. Just a really cool harbor. We went on a loooong mangrove trip this morning with another couple from a boat waiting to do the puddle jump. We started at 5:30. Other than some egrets and not so distant howls from howler monkeys, we didn't see a lot, but it was a great way to start the morning.
Meanwhile, starting to get paperwork in order, laundry gathered, and will go to shore in a bit to get set to depart beautiful Costa Rica for Panama. From the boat, it appears that this is a really great town, so we're planning on dinner ashore. We will let you know how the check-out process goes.
Cheers, Myla
John & Julie
4) Marina Puesta del Sol - Nicaragua
sent us a very nice "post" card
5) WELCOME TO THE PANAMA POSSE - SV Strider
David & Marcia
31 years at seas
6) MYLA - Costa Rica - Golfito
We are anchored in Golfito, just off Land & Sea, or locally known as Tierra y Mar. Unfortunately, Tim, who usually handles the boat aspect of the business, is in the states, but Katie is handling things along with a pal named Michael from Sweden. We have use of the dingy dock, clubhouse, laundry service, wifi, and local advice. We are anchored at N 08’37.316 and W 083’09.180 in 17 ft. under our keel. We are just off the green houseboat (Land & Sea) and the bright yellow marina (Banana Marina). Anchoring has been fine for us, and we’ve felt quite safe.
The check-out process at Golfito went smoothly, just as described on page 167-168 in the Sarana Guide. In case you don’t have it, and even if you do, here are some additional details.
1) Walk to the copy center which is about two-three blocks from Land & Sea. It’s a pink store, and they sell phone sim cards, too.
Impresiones
ETH 61503760
Leidy Abarca – Golfito. The gal who helped me - her phone number is 88891200.
I had 4 copies made of everything I’d received in Playa de Coco, plus additional copies made of our passports and boat documents. Didn’t need all of it, but figured better safe. Only need to have three. No need to collate as the Migracion (immigration) officer will do it for you. Just have the stacks of documents on hand.
2) Just a little further down, across from the Samoa del Sur Hotel is Immigration. It is on a corner and next to an engine repair place. There were cars parked in the office, so it is difficult to see the long window inside. There are seats and a long counter, which helps when you have all the paperwork out. The coordinates are 08’37.729N, 083’09.446W. The officer will ask for particular documents, give you the crew document forms (three of them) that you have to complete, and then he made collated packets of paperwork for himself, one for the Aduana, and one for the Capitania de Puerto. He kind of told us rather than asked whether we were going to check into Panama in Balboa, so that’s what we indicated on the crew list form as our next port. The Immigration officer then told us to take a cab, and to not pay more than $2.00 ea to get to the Aduana’s office. Good advice not to walk as it was a good 15 minute drive and VERY hard to find. This process took about 15-20 minutes.
3) The Aduana (Customs) office is in a bustling open market area. Its is where people go to buy large ticket items like TVs, plus there were open air stalls selling other things. The office you’re looking for is back a row in from the street inside the maze. You can’t see it from the street and advise you to ask someone there where it is. Coordinates are 08’38.796N 83’10.727 W. We actually thought the cabby had dropped us off in a random place until we walked into the open air market and asked. If you arrive at lunchtime, you’ll have to wait. The gals directly across the Aduana’s office have a thriving lunch counter going, and the food was delicious. This took about 20 minutes once the officer returned from her lunch.
4) In the same area is a bank office – just a short walk. It is in an area further into the open market area past the large ticket items. Once again, ask someone for directions to the Banco National. We handed over a copy of the boat documentation, so they could see the length, and we explained that we were paying for an International Zarpe. There was some confusion about what to charge. We are listed as 42.7 ft, but they kept saying it was $50.00 USD, not $25.00 for under 50ft as is written in the Sarana Guide. They said there was a new law. We had a kind fellow customer help with some translation, and after some conferring with managers, the teller decided to charge us $25.00. May be wise to ask at the customs office what the charge is and have them write it, or perhaps not. Regardless, our paperwork, including a copy of the bank receipt, all went through at our next and final stop, the Port Captain’s office. The bank process took about 20-30 minutes.
5) There’s a bus stop right out from the front of the open-air market area with lots of cabs. We took a cab for a couple of bucks to the Capitania de Puerto’s office, which is near the new mega yacht marina. The door, with a sign saying “Reception” will most likely be locked, and they have to buzz you in. There we presented all the documents, he asked for our Costa Rican National Zarpe, and then asked when we were going to leave. In the Sarana Guide, it indicates that you only have 24 hours after checking out to leave, but we said two days and he was cool about that. This took about 15-20 minutes. We asked our taxi to wait and he took us back to our boat.
We met an ex-pat guy who was dealing with paperwork right along with us. He has a business in town handling boat paperwork for boats coming and going. There’s a large sportfishing business here, plus lots of boats coming and going from Panama. He said he handles the paperwork for at least five boats a day. Anyway, he was very helpful and well known amongst all the offices we visited. We mentioned that we have about 30 plus amigos in the Panama Posse coming down behind us and up from Panama in the counter group. He offered his card and said to have anyone call him if they have any questions. Bruce Blevins at +506-8729-2224 www.BBSEAS.COM He charges $200 to do all the paperwork for you, if you like. I also heard he's very helpful getting boats lined up for boat transport, if anyone wants to have their boat sent on a ship.
There is a small, but decent grocery store on the way to the copy place that you can walk to, plus a gas station a little further down the main drag where we filled up our jerry cans with diesel. We brought our dinghy to shore near the gas station (just off a blue wharf near the red and white cell station, and walked up to the gas station on the main drag. There is a gas dock there, too, and there's another gas dock at the new mega yacht marina. Prices change, but the marina/gas docks and the gas station charged the same price.
We went out to an excellent restaurant last night called Luna Mar. It was a short cab ride away from the the town center, and was quite nice. All locals, many celebrating special occasions. I ordered a fish/shrimp dish that was fabulous. We each had a glass of wine and the bill came to about $50 USD. Heard the restaurant at the Banana Marina isn’t great and is overpriced. The same was said about the one in the new mega-yacht marina. Heard the food and prices were okay in the blue building, opposite side of Tierra y Mar/Land & Sea, the Fish Hook Marina. They have a great happy hour from 4-8 everyday. Banana Marina's happy hour is 5-7, and the mega yacht marina has an outdoor beach bar happy hour, too. Tierra Mar has a great deck where you can bring your own, get off the boat, and gather. Sitting here right now and loving a sunset.
Tons of great boat services here. There's a white ketch in the Banana marina that's been here for a bit - Bill is the owner, Bob is crew. They're getting some work done and have some good referrals. The boat name is Second Summit. Also, Katie has great resources and has been here since about '93.
Cheers, Myla
John & Julie
7) JULIA MAX - Panama
Having a Canal Transit Date of March 25th, we have left La Playita Marina for the Las Perlas Islands. Tonight we are at Isla Contadora at anchor, enjoying a gentle breeze. While at La Playita Marina, we met a potential crew member for someone needing crew to go across the South Pacific and beyond. His name is Janis Idler, 24 year old, German, speaks English/Spanish/German well. He is very good with computers! He says: "I'm looking to crew a boat crossing the South Pacific Ocean in direction French Polynesia/Fiji or even further west." His e-mail is Jan12id@aol.com. His phone number is +49 151 539 836 22. Very well-mannered and helpful. I stopped him and asked if he could help me with a computer problem which he was pleased to do. There is also a German woman (22-24 yrs) who is looking to crew as well in La Playita Marina. From Julia Max,
George and Sue
8) SV LIQUID - Costa Rica
This message serves as our one of our traveling check ins. Just letting you know all is ok :-)
Marc & Laura
9) RESPITE - INTERLUDE - CARINTHIA - EASY - AMANTE - STRIDER
Costa Rica - Samara
Puerto Samara
9’52.04N 85’30.70
15 feet very nice calm anchorage
Watch for reefs both sides of the entry very visible at low water not at high water.
Anchor behind Isla Chora
S/V Respite
Interlude and Carinthia on the sail to Samara - gusts to 32 knots - drops to 12 knots within 10 minutes
The name of the best restaurant in Samara town ( Carinthia and Easy )
Mama Gui
10° 09.800 N 085° 31.959 W
what a great Italian Restaurant - simply amazing.
10) WAPONI WOO
Are there any fellow Posse boats traveling with pets? (we only know of one besides us so far)
If you have a pet on board, how has the check-in/check-out experience outside of Mexico been?
Have there been any surprises? Rover says, "Hello!"
Response from SV SEAGLASS - meet Axlelina
11) OCTOPUS GARDEN, WILDEST DREAMS - Mexico
We are on a 5 day tour of Chiapas. Day 1 was an 8 hour bus ride from Tapachula to
San Cristobal de las Casas. Day 2 - we went to Agua Azul, Mishol Ka - high water in Mayan and Palenque ...
Jim & Susy
Grant & Michelle
( note: this tour is very spectacular - so many amazing sights and places to explore )
12) SV SEA GLASS - Protrero Bay - Costa Rica
When anchored off Playa Flamingo in Protrero Bay - Costa Rica you can get a strong Wi-Fi
signal without an extender from the 1st restaurant off the beach "pleamar" password is flamingo.
Chris & Amanda
(Sea Glass leaving the fuel dock at Marina Papagayo to make room for "MY SAVANNAH" a 2015 - 274 ft Feadship)
13) FRED AGAIN III - El Salvador
Fred Again III is happy to share that after a 4 week unexpected stay in beautiful Costa Del Sol, El Salvador (mechanical) we are heading out tomorrow morning for our sail to Playa del Coco, Costa Rica. We are leaving a great country and wonderful new friends, but very happy to be where our hearts call us (to sea!!!).
Robert, Michael & Laura
14) CARINTHIA - Costa Rica - Bahia Brasilito
- aka Playa Conchal
Anchorage Position
10° 24.3461´ N 85° 48.9451´ W
Depth
12.00 ft
3.68 m
Bottom Composition
S - Sand
Nice Spot before Tamarindo, the reef effectively blocks mayor S - SW swell, but the bay shallows to the SW
To land take the dinghy towards the Jet Skies (careful there are small surface balls to guide the jet skies in) @
10° 24.1183 N 85° 48.3083 W - steep sleeping beach - Erik the Manager of the operation and his crew will monitor your dinghy for a small fee and help you drag it up the beach and back down - or alternatively you can head to 10° 24.12833N 85° 49.2066 W near a local eatery
This whole beach is where the Westin has a resort so it's quite nice and no Pangas
- but you do need to tolerate the tourist tossers using your boat as target practice for their 80 USD x hour jet-skies.
Locals love this beach and drive their cars to get there on the edge of the beach. The Parking lot has a whole ecosystem of coconut(s), water, local fruits, beach towels, ice , beer - you name it.
From the dinghy landing walk north towards Playa Brasilito - lots of fun small local restaurants and a bus stop - once you get off the beach, you can take a bus or head to Tamarindo or North to Flamingo - Many taxis and and several small stores at the intersection with the 160 road @ 10° 24.4416 N 85°47.805 W
Tamarindo has 2 supermarkets for provisioning the upscale AUTO and a MEGA. Taxi was 7,000 colones back to the beach ~
Dietmar & Suzanne
15) MV CROSSROADS
Affordable Marinas on the Pacific coast of Panama ?
We are currently at Vista Mar Marina. 40 NM sw if Panama City. $.40/ft/day $.35 if you pay for a month. Brand new marina
Marina is new, and is very nice. The people who work there are very nice and helpful. The marina is a distance from shopping but marina drives you to it. There is a bar/restaurant and mini market at the marina property.
We are told there are winds and surge in all panama marinas in March and maybe some of April but it's supposed to be nice and calm after that. Car rentals pick up at marina and are about $42-$45/day or pay 6 days for 7 days. And it's about an hour drive to Panama City. Marina is too far away for daily sight seeing in Panama City in my opinion but good value for a rest or extended stay while heading home.
We are doing sight seeing around Panama by car and are doing some boat work so marina is great for us at $25.00/ Day!!!!
Marina Manager/Dockmaster: Cesar Ramos
Phone: 507 640 03354
Email:reservations@vistamarmarina.com
Location: 8° 28.985' N 79°56.5783' W
Stan & Diane
16) PANAMA POSSE MEET UP - EASY - AMANTE - SEA GLASS - DAD'S DREAM - CARINTHIA
surf & tourist town Tamarindo - Costa Rica
Mike Joyce - Amante - trying out a local bird whistle
17) Picture of the week - SV RESPITE -
Puerto Guacamaco - Costa Rica
Keep em coming -
FLEET UPDATE 2018-03-04
1) TAPPAN ZEE - Oaxaca City
Enjoying Oaxaca City capital of Oaxaca Mexico. We decided to
leave Hualtulco for the city this week and Annie managed to find a
12 seat Cessna that is a 35 minute direct flight. Home of Mole,
mescal and spicy grasshoppers Oaxaca has something for every
taste. Plane ride is an extra bonus. On schedule for El Salvador
later in March.
Tom & Annie
2) VOLANTE III - El Salvador - Looking for crew
With my arrival in El Salvador, I will be loosing my crew member. So
I am currently looking for a new crew member. At the end of this
crewing season, I am planning to take my boat through the Panama
Canal. Currently, I am about 600 miles from the Panama Canal as the
crow flys. Of course, it is a little longer by boat since boats
don't do the land crossing thing very well. You must be an
experienced sailor capable of doing night crossings by yourself. If
you are interested you can contact me at tonykubis@aol.com
Tony
3) CROSSROADS - Panama
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=8.88011,-79.41095&ll=8.88011,-79.41095&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
We just left Panama City and are anchored out at the Las Perlas
Islands. On our way out we passed by Julia Max going the other way
and chatted with them on the radio. We were in Panama City for
almost a week and spent two days in La Playita Marina. We used an
agent for check-in and Canal paperwork and we have now been measured
and inspected. We have arranged passage through the Canal for March
21.
Panama City is a big busy City loaded with skyscrapers and shopping
malls. You New Yorkers should feel right at home! You can get most
anything you want there. I managed to get two 8D size AGM batteries
for a not too outrageous price! We got local SIM cards for our
phones for Voice and data that are working great! We spent 1/2 a day
in the gigantic Alderbrook Mall and even went to see a movie!
Stan & Diane
4) COCONUTZ Restaurant and Brewery- PLAYAS Del Coco,
Costa Rica
Panama Posse, 12 boats, get together celebrating the ebbing of the
Papagayos.
We played Captain Ron on the big screen as we shared our wind
stories, ripped sails and other broken parts getting into Costa
Rica.
Special thanks to Pete, owner of Coconutz Restaurant, for hosting us
in the upstairs lounge. We enjoyed the smoked bar-b-que, fish
burgers, great fries, $2.00 drinks and great customer service. Be
sure to stop there for a good time, ask for Pete, and look for our
burgee
hanging at at the bar.
RESPITE - SEA GLASS - LIQUID - DANIKA - HALCYON - MYLA - AMANTE -
INTERLUDE - DAD'S DREAM - CARINTHIA - ANILA - EASY
"Diesels love oil like a sailor loves rum"
5) OCTOPUS GARDEN - Mexico -Chiapas
Hi from Puerto Chiapas! I thought I’d share a little about the
Tehuantepec crossing. We are a heavy, slow boat. Overall we
average 4 knots. Sometimes we might hit 7. The boat loves big
winds and big seas.
It’s late in the season now the windows are wider and the
weather calmer. We needed a 4 day window. Having 4 days of light
south wind was great!
We had south winds for the whole window making the “hug the
beach” strategy irrelevant as it was a lee shore. We stayed 5 to 6 miles off shore. We broad reached
almost the entire trip only upwind the penultimate day.
It can go from a calm 5 knots to 20+ in a minute then right
back down to 5. Sometimes I wanted to get up and reef but before
I did all the whitecaps were gone. Be prepared for gusty
conditions and be prepared to ease the main. Most times a good
ease and roll up a little jib for 10 minutes was all that was
needed.
We had strong contrary currents the entire way. Seemed to be
weaker really close to shore in shallow water. Make sure you
have plenty of fuel and plan on slower speeds than normal.
The pattern we saw was: motor in the morning about 6 am to 11.
The afternoon winds allowed pure sailing until about sunset. It
glassed off every evening and we motored until about 11 pm. Then
it got windy again for pure sailing all night.
There were big gusts and big winds each night around 3 to 4
am. Be prepared. Never too much, we enjoyed the wake up call.
Salina Cruz is a refinery town very stinky and lighted by fire
plumes, glad to have that downwind!
After Salina Cruz we saw nothing - no boats no fisherman -
until we were almost to Tapachula. Also no phone signal. A very
lonely stretch.
Our trip took 75 hours. We motored once for 15 hours, once for
5 hours and on the last night and day it was flat calm and we
motored for 19 hours. That’s 39 hours motoring, 36 pure sail.
The pure sail was great, best winds we had since La Paz. From
Double reefed main, rolled up some jib and full mizzen to
conditions where I would have set the spinnaker if I had crew.
We really enjoyed the sailing, nothing broke, but we were heeled
very far at times and the fridge door wouldn’t stay closed
The real phone number that works for Marina Chiapas is: 962
111 8291
There’s plenty of room here. $0.80/ft per day weekly rate,
0.50/ft monthly rate. It’s really nice, quiet and peaceful
Arriving here is like motoring up a river.
Overall I was very worried about the passage but it was mostly
boring- we watched movies, read books, listened to audio books,
played music and sang and danced. Susy once cooked a fantastic
dinner!
We need to improve cockpit entertainment systems for future
long passages!
Jim & Susy
6) Welcome to the (counter) Panama Posse
SV SILHOUETTE - Steve & Liana
SV ARGONAUTA - David & Marylin
7) Panama Posse Net Frequency
New net times are 13:00 UTC (currently 7:00 AM local
time)
Calls on 8297 (8B) and
fallback to 4417 (4C) USB.
We need to fill a few slots
please confirm if you can help - propagation has been challenging.
Monday –
Tuesday
– ANNAPURNA - Confirmed
Wednesday
– EASY - Confirmed
Thursday
– CARINTHIA - Confirmed
Friday –
Saturday
–
Sunday –
8) HALCYON - Costa Rica
The Eastern anchorage at Murcialago Islands in CR. You can see the
puffs coming across the water towards the boat, when its really
blowing Id recommend moving the boat as close into the shallow bay
to avoid the fetch from open water towards Halcyon's nose. The
snorkeling is epic in this bay with a lot of larger predatory fish
lurking about and loads of turtles and rays. We saw 2 types of
turtles, 2 types of rays, wahoo, dorado, a bull shark, big jacks, a
4ft morray eel a small reef shark and all of the smaller fish you
are accustomed to seeing. Be aware the during tide swings the
current out in the middle and going thru the cut is significant but
easy to navigate if you know its there and plan your trajectory
accordingly.
ANCHORAGE @ 10°51.46812'
N, 85° 54.46801' W Depth is a puckering 10 ft.
We ended up stern anchoring with our stern pointed
towards the beach.
John & Becca
9) WAPONI WOO
.. arrived in Huatulco last night around 11:30. I have arranged
for our arrival at Marina Chahué in advance and was greeted by
two reserve police officers who showed us to a slip. I expect we
will be moved today to another slip. It looks like there is a
crossing window late Sunday or Monday morning. If the forecasts
hold out, we will most likely take it.
Caroline & Ryan
10) PINEAPPLE
Recommendation for Huatulco: Pineapple and Wildest Dreams loved our
day tour/trip with Enrique (enriquepinachotours@gmail.com), who I
found on TripAdvisor. We visited 2 beautiful waterfalls and stopped
for an awesome lunch at Finca La Gloria (and a couple surprise stops
along the way). He timed the waterfall stops so we had them mostly
to ourselves, was very knowledgeable, and took nice photos for us on
his GoPro. Private tour. Price based on the size of the group. We
paid $1000 pesos per person and we all felt it was a great value.
Michelle & John
11) RESPITE - Costa Rica
Posse fleet, thought I would pass along a name and a recommendation
for Alejandro Calvo he is a marine electrician and he speaks very
good English. Dan at Papago marina recommended him also.
Here is his contact information
Cell +506-8822-4156
Email acalvow@yahoo.com
Janet & Chris
12) AVANT- Mexico
Update on Marina Chiapas. Due to resurfacing of some areas in the
yard, the access to the long store work and dry storage yard will be
cut off for a week to ten days starting Monday March 5th. It will
still be possible to get a lift and do maintenance or paint the
bottom of one or two boats at a time during this period (this can be
done near the water without access to the yard).
Rob & Debra13) ANNAPURNA - San Juan del Sur - Nicaragua
We caught a taxi to spare Debbie from having to walk (in a lot
of pain). We lucked onto Hector Luis Larios Bonilla. He speaks
English and is very helpful. He took us to the clinic in Riva,
provided translator services, took us to a nice restaurant and a
grocery store.
Call him if you want a ride. 505 85502592
We found out Debbie has a kidney stone. Ouch!
Annapurna made it to San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua in time to see
the moon pop up.
Debbie would like to see a doctor regarding her fall last week
- either here or Liberia.
Are there doctors available? Info and recommendations are much
appreciated.
Robert & Debbie
14) COLMENA - Mexico
Colmena is on the hard in Ixtapa getting bottom paint and some work
done.
I should be heading south from Zihuantanejo in a week...mas o menos.
Fashionably late.
Kevin
15) HALCYON - PICTURES of the week from Costa Rica
KEEP EM COMING
FLEET UPDATE 2018-03-16
1) Panama Posse SSB net
8297 (8B) and fallback to 4417 (4C) USB @ 13:00 UTC
Anchorages Ballena N 09 43.162 - W 085 00.692 19ft
Anchorages Samara N 09 52.040 - W 085 30.713 15.6ft
Water is more clear and warmer.
A big Panama Posse thank you to Mike from EASY - you are on
frequency every day paying it forward THANK YOU !
2) Welcome to the Panama Posse
MANUKAI - Thor & Tanya - Mexico
WIND DANCER - Matt & Nancy - Mexico
3) KNOT RIGHT - Mexico
Looks like the T-Peck is going to let up for a few days. We are
heading to Chiapas around 5 PM this evening (15 Mar). Haven't gotten
any return phone calls from Memo Garcia at Chiapas. I hope he's
expecting us. I need a haul out for the season. One other question,
anyone down in Chiapas know if they have a pump out station. My
replacement macerator won't get to Chiapas before I'm hauled out and
I'm flying back to the states. BTW, my crew leaves Tuesday 20 March,
and I leave Thursday 22 March. Flat mail delivery if you need it.
Walt
4) CARINTHIA - EASY - Costa Rica
Jungle river cruise from Bahia Ballena - following the tracks of
Dad's Dream - Interlude & Amante
minimum 3 feet at mid tide - so ample room at high tide for your
dinghy - see our track in and out
Dad's Dream - Amante - Easy - Carinthia - Interlude @ anchor in
Bahia Ballena
Wide bay and surprisingly good basic provisioning - sports bar -
pizza
Public dock you can tie up your dinghy to and purchase fish from
local fisherman - quick walk to village
- catch a bus 9 - 11 AM to go to the waterfall at Montezuma - bus
returns 14 - 16 - 18 PM
The anchorage on the north side of the bay is stunning with a
picture perfect white sandy beach open too all.
The yacht club is defunct and are looking to work with the owner's
son to re-open ...
Michael, Mike, Mike, Rick & Brenda, Suzanne & Dietmar
5) OCTOPUS GARDEN - Mexico
Lessons learned on our Chiapas tour
1-carry your passport and visa there are many immigration stops
2-unless you are young and very fit 3 days in a row was too
much, build in a rest stop
3-if guides are included English speaking guides were always
extra and we even had a guide tell us he was here to lead us, if
we wanted him to talk and answer questions that was extra!
4- try to make all long trips in a real bus the 14 passenger
vans are very uncomfortable especially in the back row
5-The drivers are professional, friendly and helpful. They are
NOT tour guides they know nothing about the attractions
6-you will be deluged by little kids selling and begging. Do
not talk with them or engage them in any way. You must totally
ignore them. They will get very aggressive don’t engage them!
7-Chiapas is beautiful. The native guides barely speak Spanish
and can’t read or write in some cases. Don’t expect them to be
naturalists or historians. They are also intolerant of outsiders
(us) yet are in the tourist business. They can appear as rude or
uncaring. So be prepared with a smile.
8-our tour included meals which were good if bland, small
portions, and drinks other than 1 glass of flavored water were
extra. We were always hungry and thirsty. I’d carry something
extra.
9-carry and use bug spray in the jungle. Carry lots of water.
Have a small backpack for each person. Pace yourself you don’t
have to climb every pyramid
Spend extra time in San Cristobal it’s wonderful!
Jim & Susy
6) SEA GLASS - Costa Rica
While in Playa Del Coco see Alan and Danielle at Coco Marine for all
your boat mechanic needs.
(Alan, phone number 8410-8419. Or 6076-8938 Danielle) email cocomarinesupply@gmail.com
He is a Mercury Marine ourboard dealer and certified marine
technician who fixes all make and models.
Repairs generators. He helped us change out the raw water pump on
SEA GLASS and has a fully equipped shop.
(note by Annapourna )
fixed my outboard too. Worked
hard to find parts, got them delivered quickly and
installed them the next day. Hevfound creative ways to
repair without new parts when it became apparent that
some of the parts could not be delivered for several
weeks. He is also a really helpful guy to know in Coco
del Playa.
Chris & Amanda
7) RESPITE - Costa Rica
White faced capuchin monkey. We saw many of them in the Curu Nature
Preserve. Definitely a must visit place!
Chris & Janet
8) AVANT - MEXICO - Marina Chiapas
Marina Chiapas update.
Dry yard refinishing will probably be finished end of this
week (they can still haul for short term, bottom paint, etc.).
This will be my last marina chiapas update, as Avant is
scheduled to depart bound Bahia del Sol later this morning.
Rob & Debra
9) HALCYON - Costa Rica
Thank you
Amanda from Sea Glass for making Halcyon this absolutely
killer surfboard bag, we love the bag almost as much as we loved
getting to spend so much time with you! — at Papagayo Marina
@ Papagayo Peninsula
John & Becca
10) TOTEM - Panama
What's it going to cost for canal transit? I've got a breakdown here
that attempts to gather all the various fees. I wish Is understood
it better before (good news, we thought it would cost more). Happy
to help with any follow up info, resource links, etc. - just let me
know. Kinda jammed this post out while it was fresh!
http://www.sailingtotem.com/2018/03/panama-canal-the-cost-for-a-big-shortcut.html
Closest anchorage to Pacific canal entrance: La Playita side of Isla
Culebra.
Totem had a sweet one-day transit yesterday and is very happy to be
back in the Pacific!
Lat/long and map view at https://farkwar.com/waypoints/37615
or 8 54.40 N / 79 31.51 W.
Northbound in a couple of days.
Behan & Jamie
11) LIQUID - Costa Rica
Is it the end of Papagayo season???
Water temperature has jumped 10 degrees and clarity has improved
dramatically here in Playa del Coco. The wind has even dropped
over the last few days.
Hope this is the sign of the new season
(note from all the Papagayo Survivors YES - this is the end !!!)
Marc & Laura
12) CROSSROADS - Panama
Device Name: CrossRoads Spot
Latitude: 8.47358
Longitude: -79.90573
GPS location Date/Time: 03/16/2018 08:56:00 CDT
Message: Motor vessel CrossRoads is OK!
Stan & Diane
13) Picture of the Week - FRED AGAIN III
Fred Again
III has arrived in Playa Del Coco, CR. We had a smooth sail from
Costa Del Sol with average sustained winds of 15k and no issues
except for cargo ship Anne which attempted to squash us in the
middle of the night (insisting it was a mile away when it was
clearly no more than a half mile away). We are ready for a day
of paperwork cha cha and then tomorrow the crew leaves to go
back to the states.
Here is my favorite pic from the passage- a bird resting on the
back of a tortoise about 10 miles off the shore of Nicaragua.
Robert, Michael & Laura
Keep em coming
FLEET UPDATE 2018-03-24
1) MV CROSSROADS - Panama
It’s been awhile since we reported in. After a fabulous
stay at Vista Mar Marina near the town of Coronado we bid
goodbye to our wonderful new friends Luis & Paula who own
the Marina and made our way back to Panama City. (We highly
recommend Vista Mar, especially for extended stays, which is a
new marina 40 nm SW of Panama City and MUCH more reasonably
priced than the City marinas. You can rent a car nearby and it’s
about an hour’s drive into the City and even less into the
charming Valle de Anton).
Since leaving Vista Mar we enjoyed some of the must sees
and must-dos in and around Panama City while we awaited our
transit date. Our new Panamanian friends arranged a driving tour
around this beautiful, vibrant, modern city. We saw skyscrapers,
convention centers, beautiful neighborhoods (and some not so
beautiful) and shopping malls. We visited the Miraflores Locks
and the museum there, walked around and ate lunch in Casco Viejo
(the Old Town), went to the Panama Canal Museum, and saw the
Frank Gerry designed Biosphere Museum. We also took a cab out to
The Gamboa Rainforest Resort, a beautiful resort hotel in the
jungle. They have many activities from there, including a cable
car over the jungle (closed on Mondays) but we chose a 1-1/2 hr
boat tour on Gatun Lake watching the ships transit, seeing
troops of Capuchin and Howler monkeys, toucans, crocodillos and
numerous birds.
During our stay in Panama City we stayed on a mooring at the
Balboa Yacht Club just south of the Bridge of the Americas. It
is busy, noisy and sometimes huge wakes will roll you severely
but it is reasonably priced and in the heart of the action with
huge ships going by you just 100 yds or so away from you. The
Club provides a free water taxi service to and from your boat
24/7 and there is a Club restaurant and a TGI Friday’s just
on-shore. We also got fuel there at the cheapest price in the
area ($2.66/gal).
A few days ago we transited the Panama Canal. We got quotes
for agent services, line handlers and line and fender rental
from several agents. We chose Erick Galvez (+507 6676 1376; info@centenarioconsulting.com)
who came well recommended to us. He did a great job, provided
good quality proper fenders (not old tires) and good lines. We
hired 4 line handlers, one of whom was Erick’s son. They were
experienced, needed little to no direction, did a great job and
were a pleasure to have aboard.
Our
transit was near perfect. Not only did our line handlers do a
great job, our advisor and his trainee were terrific as well. We
made certain to feed them all well and keep them supplied with
bottled water, Coke and snacks throughout the day.
The 4
line handlers arrived at the boat at 5:00 am and the advisors
(we had two) came at about 8:30 am.
We did the entire transit in one day even though we did not get
into the first lock until about 10:30 am (the last northbound boat that
morning). We were center chamber, not tied to any other boats,
all the way through, which was great! We were able to maintain
8.5 to 9.0 kts when outside of the locks which allowed us to
barely make the Gatun locks that same day. If you get an earlier
start you may make it in one day too if you make it clear to
your advisor that you want to.
We had one problem moving into the last of the Gatun locks on
the north side. Just as we passed the gates the boat suddenly
spun 90 deg. I don’t know where the turbulence came from but we
nearly slammed into the wall. It took a couple of minutes to
gain control and get us straightened out while the gigantic ship
behind us bore down on us. Our hydraulic bow and stern
thrusters and big rudder proved their worth and earned their
keep during that two minutes but I may have lost a year or two
of my life! The rest of the trip was uneventful.
After
dropping off the advisors in the Flats anchorage area In
Cristobal Harbor we headed for the marina to drop off the
linehandlers fenders and lines. We got into Shelter Bay Marina
just after dark. Make certain that you get entrance instructions
from the marina so that you avoid the reef at the entrance.
Happy sailing everybody! We miss the Posse.
Cheers,
Stan & Diane
2) Welcome to the Panama Posse
CINDERELLA Pavao, Pajo & Ava
BETTY MC Rodger & Alison
(please email us your pictures)
3) EASY - Costa Rica
Bahia Herradura High 8' tide anchored 28' N09 38.560 - W084 39.440
Anchored near Halcyon.
Water taxi is $20! Ouch.
Mike
4) LIQUID - Costa Rica
GPS location Date/Time: 03/23/2018 06:58:40 PDT
Latitude: 10.55591
Longitude: -85.7032
Message: This message serves as our one of our traveling check ins.
Just letting you know all is ok :-)
Ok. Next question. Is anyone in Costa Rica or Panama seeing any
rainfall yet?
There has been nothing here in Playa del Coco Costa Rica.
Just wondering when we are going to be able to wash the decks a
bit more often
(note Myla: We’ve had rain off and on
since we’ve been in Panama. Our decks are clean!)
(note Danika: Yeah I think you’re right. I
spoke to someone at Quepos who said it doesn’t usually
happen until May. )
(note Respite: Weather report from Golfito:
enough of a shower last night to close hatches for 10
minutes or so. Small showers night before that but
passed quickly. It does rain down here more which means
everything is very lush and green, starting around Drake
Bay. You may have to wait a bit! Good luck. )
Marc & Laura
5) MYLA - Costa Rica
We’ve kind of been “hoofing it” to get to Panama City to meet
friends on March 23rd. We’re having some alternator and regulator
issues, so we’re now glad we jumped ahead and can get somewhere
where we might be able to get some work done. We’ll let you know how
it all goes with the canal crossing arrangements, too. There’s very
limited cell and wifi between Golfito and Ensenada Benao, as in we
didn’t get any, so you may want to get the ball rolling in Golfito.
After we left Golfito, we headed around Punta Burica for the elusive
Punta Balsa (pg 180 Sarana guide). That was about a 65-mile leg. I
say elusive because there wasn’t much of a punta to judge where the
heck the anchorage was supposed to be. It is just a roadstead
anchorage, and one that requires you to be pretty far off the shore
due to shoal. We were pleasantly surprised to find it a decent
anchorage, and we had a fairly pleasant night’s sleep, but it sure
seemed strange. We anchored out front of a large hotel/estate that
had an expansive low, orange wall all around the yard. Watch the
depth finder as there’s some real shoal water about. We anchored at
08’04.643; 082’51.013, about 20 ft., about a quarter mile off shore,
almost right on top of a little panga mooring. May want to give the
mooring bouy more room, but it wasn’t in use and we didn’t get any
middle of the night surprises. Our approach was somewhere near
08’03.40; 082’50.29. We really did some sniffing about until we
found where to drop the anchor. Kind of weird, but not too rolly and
not too windy.
From Punta Balsa, we went to Islas Las Secas, about 50 miles,
and anchored at 07’59.477;82’01.795, about 20 ft. We went to Isla
Cavada. It was gorgeous! While it is a private island, we had a
pleasant, protected anchorage. Abundant sealife all around, and
there was some lightening off in the distance. Howler monkeys’ cries
filled the air. Feeling quite tropical. Did the bottom and the water
was fabulous.
From Islas Las Secas, we went to Isla Cebaco, about a 61-mile run.
Wasn’t our favorite anchorage, but surprisingly fairly calm. We saw
several sport fishing boats, and what appeared to be a car carrier
mini-ship, and a barge that apparently sells diesel. We anchored
behind the barge and while it wasn’t exactly flat, it was a decent
enough anchorage to allow for sleep. We had a lot of lightening and
some rain. Anchor waypoints were 07’29.435; 081’13.381, about 20ft.
From Isla Cebaco, we did a short hop over to Ensenada Naranjo, on
the Peninsula de Azuero. This was really a lovely little two
chambered cove. We anchored in the cove to the right, next to the
one indicated for anchorage on most guides. We anchored at
07’16.325; 080’55.617 in 20 ft. It was a little narrower, but better
protected, we thought. There were cows on the shore, and we dinghied
into shore for a nice hike. After making our way across the beach
that was literally crawling with hermit crabs in every possible
size, color, and type of shell, we were then confronted with some
pretty intimidating hollers from some monkeys who didn’t exactly
like our arrival. We sped past them and followed what appeared to be
some kind of path up through some creeks, pastures, and up into some
beautiful hills. The beach cows were at the creek and scattered when
we arrived. I’d make sure you followed the same path back as it got
kind of twisty, but beautiful. There were some panga fishermen who
came into the cove to sleep after putting their long lines out, and
a sport fisher came in just to sleep. Quiet and well worth a visit.
From Ensenada Naranjo, we went 56 miles to Ensenada Benao.
Do not believe what you read in the guides. We feel like we are
right back in the Papaguyos, clinging onto our anchor for dear life.
This isn’t the ideal place to wait it out, but there aren’t any
alternatives. (pg. 201, Sarana Guide). Surf, swells, and did I
mention wind? Gusts about 25k off shore. Kind of rolly, but there
isn’t any alternative. Recommend checking weather gribs and not plan
to be here in a blow, if you can avoid it. It isn’t awful, just not
a lot of fun. We tried the anchorage over behind the island,
(07’25.464; 080’11.352), but it seemed rather precarious. We went
over and dropped the hook just inside of Punta Guanico at 07’42.000;
080’11.352. Still getting swells and the wind kicking the snot out
of us, but at least we have some room to swing. There is a nasty
reef behind us, around the entrance just inside of Punta Guanico, so
take it wide. Weather kept us here longer than we would have liked.
We ended up moving back to the anchorage tucked in by the island to
help with the swells, once the wind kind of piped down. We did,
actually, make it into town. It is a young person’s beach town,
basically. Burning man type structures burned on Saturday night and
techno base booming all night, up until we left at 8am. But the
hotel Villa Marina, near the island in the cove, was quite
welcoming. We were able to make it ashore, although this place gives
surf landing a new meaning. Try behind the island. The gardener at
the hotel was kind enough to take us into town so we could fill our
jeri cans. It was about a 30 min drive each way, and there was a
grocery store, called Mini something, right across the street. It
wasn’t mini; rather, good place to provision. The gardener’s name is
Alexis, and he’s really accommodating. We paid him $30 for the trip,
plus we filled up his car’s tank. Even with that, we ended up paying
about the same for 5 jeri cans to be filled as we were paying in
Costa Rica. Think it is about $2.88 gal in Benao.
We were awaiting a weather window to round Punta Mala, and we found
it. The approach to Panama City, and what we’re experiencing here
will be coming in the next chapter to our epic tale. Just a tease….
There was plenty of current on the last three legs, so rounding a
place called Punta Mala…. How does 1.2 knots of boat speed sound?
Stay tuned!
The
rounding of Punta Mala and approach to Panama City….
Ohhh,
if we only knew then what we know now. Okay, not that dramatic,
but there can be one heck of a wicked current. There’s been some
current on and off, fore and aft, etc. since we left Playa Coco,
but what we experienced coming around Punta Mala and into the bay
was like nothing we’ve seen before. It hit us particularly bad
about 10 miles into the Gulfo de Panama.
Recommendation,
depending upon weather, etc., consider reaching over to the Las
Perlas Islands. We thought we could time the wind bloom by going
straight in, but the current delayed us significantly. Actually,
turned out to be good because we needed the wind since our engine
was overheating. We tried to crack off and head
towards the Perlas about 15 miles into the bay, but the current
was impossible. We cracked off to the left and actually we were
able to make some headway. FYI, when we mention that there was
head current, we’re talking about making our boat almost dead in
the water, seriously.
We
are anchored here in La Playita anchorage. It is okay. There are
some wakes from the pilot boats that can get your attention, but
we’re finding being further inside against the wall near the
entrance of the marina is a bit more manageable. There’s
a $50/week charge to use the dinghy dock at the La Playita Marina.
That doesn’t include use of the laundry facilities. Heard you can
“sneak” in, but we found a great taxi/tour guide who helped us
out. He took us to both a laundry place and a place to fill up our
geri cans with diesel. The fuel was about $3/gal.
The
taxi guy’s name and number: Ricardo - +507-6777-0222.
He’s taking us on a tour tomorrow, too.
Fleet
community: It feels like we’re at a convention of sailors
representing the UN. There are flags flying from all over the
globe. Very cool. Great community, too. Wednesday nights is pizza
night here in Playita. Friday night is another night out on the
town. Met some great cruising folks, all headed for the South
Pacific or Galapagos. There’s quite a fleet here. Getting great
intel for the Caribbean.
Having a wood ladder step repaired by Tomas, he works in marina La
Playita on a boat named Merx, his number is 6569-5700.
Engine mechanic is Amiram at amiram@narvalmarine.com
, Naval Marine +1954-456-4755
Here’s contact info for an electrician who came highly recommended
by several cruisers: Tom
Valentin th.valentin@gmail.com
And
we are happily working with Tina McBride as our agent. She’s very
well respected by everyone here. Her assistant, Elias is very
helpful, too. Tina McBridetinamcbride@hotmail.com
We
should be here for at least a week, then hope to get out to the
Las Perlas for a bit while we await our crossing. We’re thinking
it will be some time in April between the 16-26.
Big shout out to fellow Posse Pals on Julia Max. They were kind
enough to let us use the help from their two pals in town to help
with their crossing. These guys helped diagnose some electrical and
mechanical issues that were very helpful. But then going even
further beyond the call of duty, George and Sue arranged for their
son to pick up a new thermostat in the states before he heads to
Panama where he's going to be another line handler for them, so the
timing and ease of getting the needed part was beyond helpful!
John & Julie
6) DAD'S DREAMS - Costa Rica
Still in Bahia Ballenas...(anchor kind of stuck in the mud😛)
with Sea Glass, FredAgainIII,
and arrived this afternoon, Anapurna.
Yesterday Montezuma waterfalls and today a return to the estuary
(with Sea Glass) in search of those elusive monkeys.
Rick & Brenda
7) ANNAPURNA - Costa Rica
Punta Quepos
Annapurna anchored at 9°24.244'N 84°10.027'W in 18' of water (mlw).
Stern anchor made for a peaceful rest.
Dinghy to shore SW. Big Al (right side of the umbrellas in the
photo) called us a taxi so we could go to Quepos. Taxi driver was
great - Roger telephone 84-66-98-96 if you want to call yourself.
There is a pretty good grocery just a little more than a mile from
playa Biesanz.
Robert & Debbie
8) Raven - Mexico
Raven is in Huatulco after motoring for 28 hours from Acapulco.
Heading for Chiapas when we get a window.
Neil, Tally, Jan
9) PINEAPPLE - Nicaragua
Hola Posse! Pineapple arrived in Puesta del Sol, Nicaragua after
an easy 110-mile passage from Bahia del Sol, El Salvador. (And
true to name, plenty of sun in both places :D).
Here are notes on our passage and on the marina here!
On the passage:
- We left Bahia at 5pm (on the high tide) and had a very smooth
crossing of the bar.
- We went straight south from Bahia for 10 miles. I wanted to get
out of the long line zone before nightfall.
- We chose a window with no papagayos forecasted. This gave us
the confidence to stay further offshore (~10NM) to clear fishing
traffic and long lines. It worked. We saw a fleet of shrimpers
working inshore from 10pm–12am but they never got closer than a
few miles. We didn't see anything or anyone else.
- The next morning, wind built out of the east and we bashed
into choppy seas for a few hours. Thermals or papagayos? It
swung around to the south by late morning... thermals, me thinks
:)
- Never saw more than 12 knots of breeze, mostly forward of the
beam.
On the entrance:
- The entrance was tricky and a bit stressful. There is no sea
buoy. None of the waypoints provided by the marina or the
guidebooks (Rains and Sarana) were very helpful. Looking ashore
with binoculars, it's just miles and miles of waves breaking on
the beach. Scary.
- The marina did not answer on VHF 16. We called them on the
phone, and they told us to look for the entrance buoys "to the
right" of the big palapa on the beach.
- We could not see any buoys, so we proceeded slowly toward
shore, working our way between the two big patches of breakers.
- Finally we saw the buoys—inside the entrance! Doh! The channel
is well-marked and helpful once you're inside, but there's no
help getting there.
- The charts (Navionics and Transas) were remarkably accurate. I
recommend using the palapa as a bearing at 70°M, then angling
toward the entrance (as marked on chart) at 80°M. Use your eyes
and common sense. FWIW the Sarana "Shore Approach" waypoint
would have taken us through breakers.
On the marina:
- The staff is super friendly, the grounds are nice, the docks
etc are in good shape. Juanita at reception helped us. She
speaks very good English.
- The customs/immigration/port check-in went smoothly.
- There is NO ONE here. There are probably six other boats with
no one aboard. We were excited to meet three young Americans at
the bar but it turns out they're not staying here either!
- Our papagayo window closed. It's WINDY here. Gusting up to 25
knots in the marina, but it's nice and still with no surge or
chop at the docks.
Oops, that's more than I meant to write :)
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Michelle & John
10) RESPITE - Costa Rica
Posse
Fish Hook Marina and Lodge in Golfito are going to be giving
Posse Boats a deal in the Marina.
3 days for 2
7 Days for 5
If you stay longer they will work a longer term deal for
those who want to stay more than a week.
Chris is the marina manager, Christy is in the office and Jose
is working the dock.
Note to Posse the current run 2-3 knots, time your arrival VHF
16 or 69
$2.00 x foot x day
Chris & Janet
11) TOTEM - Costa Rica
SV Liquid at sunset last night in Playas del Coco. Good to
meet you Mar and Laura !
Behan & Jamie &
12) XENIA - Mexico
Our first 2018 rain storm here in Chiapas! Light but nice.
Hawaiian blessing for Xenia and our Posse for safe travels.
Sail on Amigos. Dream BIG and don’t quit!!!
Tara, Mike
13) SSB Panama Posse Net 8297usb fall back 4417usb
@13:00utc 7:00 local
3/22/18 SSB net.1 Easy in Leona with Annapurna
2 Xenia in Chiapas with Tapp an zee
3 Dad's Dream in Isla Cedros Carinthia in route the Cedros
14) Punta Leona Resort Deal ! Costa Rica
Thanks to SV EASY Mike we now have acces to a 4 star resort
10 USD p.p. per day)
with a 2 dollar pp round trip water taxi option - access to a
full resort with pools - awesome showers - lots of activates
courtesy shuttle buses - bars - restaurants - karaoke - security
- provisioning - shops and additional discounts on F&B
- this is a large intl. eco resort on 300 acres - you must have
a daily wristband though !
http://www.hotelpuntaleona.com/index.php/en/
nicely protected anchorage 9° 42.4726 N 84° 39.9119 W @ 14 feet
(expect for north - north easterlies )
Room for about 10 Panama Posse vessels at a time .. safe spot
to leave your dinghy on beach
9° 42.3813' N 84° 39.6828' W
To get your all access daily wrist band schedule your arrival
with
Jeoffrey Torres Cel+506 862 91648 or Office +506 263 01030
muelleseco@hotelpuntaleona.info
15) SEAGLASS - DAD'S DREAM - CARINTHIA - Costa Rica Yacht
Club
Our goal was to see Puntarenas - visit the yacht club without
having to check in
with another Port Captain. We all took the ferry to Puntarenas,
which was a very fun experience.
From one for the most comfortable anchorages of the year Isla
Cedros - W )
9° 50.5418 N 84° 53.0998 W @13 feet, we launched the trip
by leaving 2 dinghies next to the ferry dock (locked) at 9°
49.7670' N 84° 54.1828' W
The ferry ride is 820 Colones ( ~ U$ 1.25
p.p. each way ) and holds cars trucks and up to 850 people -
takes about 75 minutes.
On board you have a great view of the Golfo de Nicoya and it's
currents with
music - bar - a fully air conditioned middle section with food
or bring your own.
We took the 9 AM ferry and returned on the 5 PM ferry
Panama Posse - roughing it
Arrival in Puntarenas next to fishing fleet and fuel docks.
You can get several parts and some repairs done here but need to
check in with Port Captain if you bring your vessel
Best Chandlery in town - Borbon - borbonmarino.com +506
8957-5007 and a Yamaha Outboard dealer
There are at least 3 grocery stores ( medium) and lot's of
taxis - tad of a sleepy town which has seen better days...
Big Cruise Ship in town - Chris and Amanda in front of the
obligatory City Sign
The Costa Rica Yacht Club has SOME dredging issues at low tide
otherwise clean facility with pool bar & restaurant, laundry
Service
and haul out facility, but tide dependent.
Magnificent Golfo de Nicoya Sky
Back to the Anchorage
Chris, Amanda, Rick, Brenda, Suzanne & Dietmar
16 ) PICTURE OF THE WEEK - Sea Glass -
Vessel stuck in the mud at the Costa Rica Yacht Club 1 hour before
low tide....
Keep em Coming
FLEET UPDATE 2018-03-07
1) SV ARGONAUTA - Welcome to the Panama (counter) Posse
Hello Everyone
We are new to the group. Had a great time at Gordy and Carol's
yesterday. Special thanks to Sea Glass for including us,
We are heading back North to Pacific Mexico after spending
several years in Central America and the Caribbean Home port
Ventura Ca. We may start 6 months on and off.
Yesterday several
members asked us about our canal and other experiences ..... so
I thought I would share
Have been thru the
canal both ways and Dave has assisted cruisers another 4 times.
It's a great time
and really fun, not hard. Have plenty of bottled water for your
pilot. It 's required ..... Also a "proper lunch" no sandwiches.
We have met cruisers that did not comply and the pilot ordered
his own lunch delivered and a large expense to the vessel! Dave
barbecued chicken thru the lake.
A great read before
you go thru the canal is a Path Between the Seas by David
McCllough. It really makes the canal experience come to life.
You understand what is beneath Gatum lake and all that went into
building of the canal
We did use an agent
both times. We had company flying (two of our line handlers) in
and were date sensitive. Your agent can tell you when you must
arrive in Panama City to obtain the date requested. It varies by
time of year. You need to be measured the first time... under 50
ft is the magic number.
First time our agent
was quick, easy and cheaper than our second agent but keep
reading.. First agent Eric Galvez, second agent Alex ASA @shipsagent.com .
During our first crossing the canal authority had us sidelined
for another boat, At completion of the locks we were told we
owed the penalty 800.00 US (our crossing was too slow). Our
agent did not help us. He accused us of being beneath our stated
speed. At our request our pilot wrote a letter stating what
really occurred and our penalty was dropped. In many ways the
canal authority does not always know what their counterparts are
doing.
We had one
experienced hired line handler the other two were friends.
Rick(hired line handler was great) he rented us fenders and
lines at a cheaper price and was great company and had a lot of
knowledge of the area. Rick 506-6427-3044 You never know ahead
of time what configuration for the crossing you will have,
despite your request, We were nested that last time, We were the
center boat. The other two boats had no experience causing the
trio to cross like a snake, coming dangerously close to the
cement walls. Lines were too tight and then too loose. At the
end both boats started to un group and forgot to release our
stern lines from theirs We almost lost our cleats. Rick was
great and helped save the sides of our boat mates and our
cleats.
We hired the same
driver both times for Panama city. The four of us to toured old
town, found boat parts and supplies and arranged a panga to
monkey island. He charged 100.00 US per day Much cheaper than
any " tour" for four people Speaks perfect English nice guy and
knowledgeable of the area. Avil 506-6706-8343
It's fun and a good idea to visit the Miraflores locks and
museum before making the crossing. Your friends at home can see
you cross thru a live cam at the Miraflores locks... see website
Hope this helps have
fun
Dave
and Mary
2)
SV MYLA - Costa Rica
Myla and crew are doing well. We left Coco and planned to go to
tamarindo, but it looked pretty wide open, plus we got there
before noon. We continued on to Garza. Got there in time for
cocktails and the sunset. Anchored in 20ft at 09'54.401
85'38.573. Pretty little cove with reefs and breakers on both
sides of the entrance. Lots of surfers. Needless to say, a bit
rolly. Probably might have been better behind the panga fleet.
If we'd left cocos earlier, probably would have continued to
Samara or Carrillo, just about 12 miles further. Garza looked
happening, though. Didn't go to shore but there were lots of
lights and music on shore.
After being rocked to sleep, we continued to Bahia Ballena.
Beautiful bay and heading in to explore soon. We will report
back. Hoping to check out montezuma hike and waterfalls today.
Winds on both legs were close reaches to dead downwind, and
everything in between. Very fluky with some mild 10-15 gusts.
Just as finicky currents. Made for vigilant sail trim. Saw
whales, Dolphins, and tortuas. Nice passages. We did pass a
sailboat heading north. They didn't come up on AIS nor respond
to a vhf hail. Maybe part of the counter posse? We waved.
Tomorrow, Bahia Herradura. May do a night in the marina and do a
little inland tour. Wishing we had some company!
Question: which port to ck into panama? Various guidebooks have
different views. Curious about other's more recent experiences.
Fair winds, Myla
We are at Bahia Baleena in Gulfo de Nicoya and we read all the
guidebooks about the yacht club and dinghy tie-ups. We had visions
of cold beers and a restaurant. Our experience was quite different
from the guidebooks. Maybe off season? We anchored right near the
pangas and the "dock" The shacks that are supposedly the
restaurant were empty and locked up. The "dock" looked like
nothing more than a pier with crumbling steps that looked beyond
scary. A few local fishermen were using the pier area to fish, so
certainly a hazard for inflatables!
Good news, soft beach landing all through the center beach area of
the bay. Major tides so had quite a haul to get the dink up to
lock to a tree, but wheels helped. We walked along a little dirt
road to a little cluster of vacation homes and a little bar. Right
about center of the bay on the beach. We then took a nice hike
back behind the "Yacht Club" and continued down to the Punta
Piedra Amarilla. Heard there are waterfalls around the end of the
Punta. Didn't get that far, but nice hike. Note of caution: when
entering the bay, give both Puntas plenty of room and stay in the
middle. The reef and rocks along Piedra Amarilla go out a lot
further and continue inside off the point further than anticipated
from multiple charts. S/V Myla
We are now in Bahia Drake and will be in Golfito tomorrow. We
should be there a few days to check out of the country, etc.
Couple of could haves, should haves, would haves...
Bahia Baleena-wish we had anchored on the south side. Late night
swells no bueno on anchorage off the "Yacht Club" that was closed,
anyway
Manuel Antonio - gorgeous and just now seeing green, tropics.
Great until middle of the night. Wishing we'd had our stern anchor
out. Swells and surf so big we couldn't get to shore for a park
tour. Follow Serana Guide into anchor. We were at 9'22.921N and
84'08.851 in 14.5 ft under our keel. No mas Papaguyos (until we
are into the Panama Canal Bay approach - ugh!) Had light 7-12 k,
gentle swells across to Drakes. We are anchored outside a bit due
to the shallow slope and swells. We are at 08'41.887/083'40.068 in
16.5 under our keel. Where is everyone? We miss you! We will be in
Panama City to secure a date. Heard from a passing boat, Cats Paw
4, that it took them 3 weeks to get a date. They're heading north
to the Sea. They'd dept their. Pay in Golfito for the rainy season
and had good things to say. After we get a canal crossing date, we
plan to play in the Las Perlas. Hope we see some of you!
John and Julie King
S/V Myla
John & Julie
3) SV JULIA - MAX - Panama
Hola Amigos!
Our Transit Date is March 25th, 3 weeks after the boat was
measured. So it's taking time. The bad part is that our two
crew from the States were coming March 7th and departing March
21st. So we're trying to work out an alternative .
We are currently in La Playita Marina. Rates for 45': $150
first day, $2/foot/day afterwards. Electricity, potable water,
trash, restrooms/showers, fuel dock, 16' tide!!!!
Surge comes and goes. Have laudramat, small chandlery, taxis
and buses to everywhere. Have a dockmaster that arranges for
mechanical work, stainless polishing, bottom cleaning, etc.
WiFi is great at the Office area, not good at the docks. Did I
say having an agent is a great asset? Tina McBride processed us
into Panama, arranged for the slip at La Playita, had her
assistant meet us when we arrived, had the boat measurer come
the next day, and communicated with the Canal Transit Date
setters. She also has arranged for lines, fenders, and line
handlers.
Heard a story today: a large catameran coming south on the
Atlantic side stopped in Guatemala (Rio Dulce) to have engine
work done. Mechanic's name Rocky was to service the eight
injectors, and service the exhaust manifolds for both engines.
The captain was not present for the repair work. Paid over a
thousand dollars for the work, and THE REPAIR WORK WAS NEVER
DONE BY THE MECHANIC!!! They are here in La Playita Marina
having the work done here, and they have lost a month of their
two month cruising plan to Tahiti. Buyer Beware was his message
to me!
Resources in Panama City:
1. Grocery: Rey's has better meat and great produce with
excellent selection. Big 99 had a wide selection, but meat was
below average, and a small produce section.
2. Marine Supply: a. Islamorada Nautical Books: The Panama
Cruising Guide 5th Edition (Eric Bauhaus) Bldg 8 Balboa Road,
507/228-4348, info@islamorada.com b.
Centro Marine (in Amador), Ave. National #45, 507/225-6654, info@centromarino.com
has general marine supplies like a condensed West Marine
3. Propane fills are 55 minutes away, and are often combined
with other boats propane needs, and sent by cab.
4. Albrook is a mega/huge/humongous mall that has everything!
5. Phones are available everywhere. We have a Claro SIMM card on
a 30-day, $15, 175 minutes/75 messages/4 gig data. $15!!!!!!
Available at Albrook Mall for starters.
Cheers,
George and Sue
4) SV EASY - Costa Rica
Tamarindo, Lots of mooring balls. I anchored southwest and was
15' when I dropped. The lowest I saw was 9'. 10 17 943 N 85 50
971 W
I moved this morning. To the northwest 10 18.176N 085 50.807W in
27' should be 20-30' with tide swing.
I suped in and sup surfed yesterday evening. Waves were small
but fun. Great beginner wave.
The anchorage seems tight, I have not gone ashore yet. This
anchorage may not be for everyone. But want you all to come.
Mike
SUP surfed and went to shore today. I took the dink in this
evening. There is a spot where the tours shuttle people to/from.
The waves are small and don't really break. I was too lazy to
drag the dink 100' got lucky. Was after dark.
Mike
5) SV PINEAPPLE - RELAY
Hey Posse. I just got word via Cruisers_Network_Online that
a vessel is overdue from Long Beach, CA to Playa Hermosa, CR.
Since so many of you are cruising along that stretch of Pacific
coast, can you keep an eye out and report to the USCG if you see
anything?
"RCC Alameda has asked for assistance in locating the S/V
Jasman. She is sixty-five feet with two masts, white sails,
white hull with a teal border. Four POB Ronald Peck, Doug
Landers, John Larusso and Josh Graveline. Vessel comms unknown. Vessel is
overdue Longbeach, CA to Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica.
Waypoints unknown. MARINERS TRANSITING THE AREA ARE
REQUESTED TO KEEP A SHARP LOOKOUT, RENDER ASSISTANCE IF
POSSIBLE, AND MAKE REPORTS TO THE U.S. COAST GUARD ALAMEDA
CA. PHONE 510-437-3701, TELEX 230172343,
E-MAIL:RCCALAMEDA1@USCG.MIL. Please have them call their
family to let them know they are okay."
John (asked) & MichelleREPLY FROM - SV DANIKA - Costa Rica
Jasman arrived here in
Playas del Coco yesterday! The guys dinghied over to
us and said hello. They are safely anchored here and
plan to stay awhile now that they’ve arrived in
Costa Rica. We’ll try to radio them or have someone
dinghy to their boat if we can’t reach them. We are
taking off today so the dinghy is already off the
water.
Jenn ( replied ) &
Jason
note - not to say the obvious - GREAT JOB !!!
6) WAPONI WOO
Waponi Woo is in Chiapas. We arrived late last night/early
this morning with Happy Dance right behind us.
The Tehuantepec crossing was pretty uneventful. There was
some good sailing on the first day with SSE winds at
10-16knts. After sunset, the wind disappeared and didn’t not
return until last about ten miles from Chiapas. Yesterday
was a long, hot motoring day with no wind.
We plan to be here for a few weeks before heading to El
Salvador.
Ryan, Caroline
7) CARINTHIA - Costa Rica
It's been 6 weeks since our last marina (Puesta del Sol,
Nicaragua ) so we stayed at the lovely Marina Papagayos and
had an excellent few days of washing the salt of Carinthia.
Chrystal clear water with an aquarium of species surrounding
us.
The marina has clean and modern cement floating docks and we
enjoyed all the amenities.
Showers, laundry facilities, gym, large pool with lounge
chairs, crew lounge with a pool table, potable water on the
docks (155 TPP)
and a wide and floating fuel dock, bar, restaurant - and all
that in the shadow of 6 superyachts.
We are now anchored in Bahia Brasilito (Guanacaste - Costa
Rica) 13 nm north of Tamarindo
@ 10 24. 350 N - 85 48.950 W in 12 Feet Sand - the reef
breaks ( but does not eliminate) the wrap around SW swell
Dietmar & Suzanne
8) SV ANILA - en route to the Galapagos
Anila departed Marina Papagayo on March 2nd after an enjoyable
week-long stay. The staff were extremely helpful and friendly.
Fueling up at the fuel dock was quick and easy the day before
we departed. Oil was available at the fuel dock store also. We
also rented a car for the day on Thursday for $58 and started
the checkout process early. The order was 1) Airport, 2)
Immigration, 3) Port Captain to get fee for 4) Bank, and 5)
back to Port Captain for International Zarpe. The bank stop
should not be necessary for a National Zarpe. The cost was $50
+ $5 bank fee for Anila based on boat size. The bank was very
busy and we waited in line for about 1 hour. It was great to
see everyone and unwind at the happy hour at the end of the
day. We are now halfway to the Galapagos and had great
downwind sail for the first 2 1/2 days until we hit the ITCZ
where the favorable winds mostly disappeared. There's a chance
for more wind Wednesday afternoon (depending on which model
you choose) but for now we are moving forward under the "iron
sail." Unfortunately, we'll miss our new Posse friends in
Panama, but hope to meet up again with some of you in French
Polynesia. We are blogging at http://sailinganila.org.
Dave, Satin, Camille & Kyra
9) KNOT RIGHT - Mexico
After seven and a half weeks in Acapulco, Knot Right,
captain and crew (of one) are on the move again. We are
heading to Huatulco on the morning of March 8th. I have a
crew member from Seattle named Marshal Peabody who had
"Knot" been to Acapulco, but has been to Huatulco and
Chiapas multiple times. Has crossed Tehuantepec three times,
so I think I have acquired some local first hand knowledge.
Looking at the weather, it appears that the window for
the T-Peck crossing is going to close on Monday afternoon,
so when we get into Huatulco on Saturday, we either need to
keep going on, or take some time to absorb the local
culture. Now that I have my cargo netting up, I don't have
to tether my 14 year old, 14 pound Border Terrier Dog named
Bella. She can walk the deck and find her potty station all
by herself.
Fair winds and Following Seas to you all, looking forward
to catching up with some of you. When we get to Chiapas,
going to put her on the hard until November. so looking
forward to next year's Posse with my significant other,
Jeariene at my side..
Walt
(note - Knot Right is part of next years Panama Posse -
registration is up and running with 11 vessels already )
10) OCTOPUS GARDEN - Mexico
Pineapple, Wildest Dreams and Octopus Garden tour the
chocolate maker
Tour in Union Juárez
@ the Eva Braun family house. The all day tour cost
$2200 pesos per couple, lunch was included at the
chocolate house and our guide Luis was terrific and
with excellent English
Jim & Susy
11) AVANT - MEXICO CHIAPPAS PANAMA POSSE AMBASSADOR
Another Chiapas potluck, with posse members Avant,
Kea, Octopus Garden, Pineapple, Shearwater, Wildest
dreams, and many fellow travellers. A good time was
had by all.
Rob & Debra
13) SHEARWATER - Mexico
Hi Panama Posse SV Shearwater is leaving Mexico .
We are heading to Bahia Del Sol and should be there
Sat. AM. Glad to hear all are well
Pati & Eric
(note - YEAH ! )
14) Picture of the Week by Jim & Susy of Octopus
Garden Keep em coming