The complexity of the formalities to pass the Canal is part of the myths in the world of sailboats that sail around the world. We fear them, So we inquire by reading everything we find on the subject.... Many evenings are spent between captains comparing the latest news. Une multitude d’agents…
Friday 4 January 2013 – Position 9 21.85N 79 53.61W A little more than 152 miles and 26 sailing hours to reach Puerto Cristobal (Colon). It is the port at the entrance of the Panama Canal (Atlantic side). First half without wind… so to the engine, then in the middle of the night the wind rises… but…
Monday 24 December 2012 – Position 9 19.930N 82 14.875W A hop to anchor in front of the village of Bocas del Toro. Descent ashore to complete entry formalities into Panama. The Office of Maritime Affairs is closed! eh yes, it's Christmas Eve. The police station makes…
Sunday 23 December 2012 – Position 9 24.00N 82 18.75W Distance travelled since 24 hours: 120 miles – Cape due south (180°) Arrival in the rain. The coast and its rocks on which the sea breaks violently is visible only at the last moment. Wind and current are strong… and against us. It's…
Saturday 22 December 2012 – Position 11 42.43N 82 20.27W Distance travelled since 24 hours: 150 miles – Cape due south (180°) Yesterday was marked by a succession of violent squalls with waterspouts and wind greater than 35 Nodes (63 km/h). At the beginning we reduce the surface of the sails to…
Friday 21 December 2012 – Position 13 48.81N 82 20.63W Distance travelled since 24 hours: 140 miles We left Cayo Vivorillo yesterday, 20 December, at 8:00 a.m.… Papuans have already left since 24 hours and we took advantage of this extra day to stock up on lobsters and conch shells. Time…
Thursday 6 December 2012 – Position 16 28.93N 85 54.20W We bypass the island of Guanaja by the south and go up along the north coast. We take the “Michael Rock channel” to pass behind the coral reef and anchor at the foot of Michael Rock. It seems to be a superb place for the…
Tuesday 4 December 2012 – Position 16 27.23N 85 52.22W 46 Motor miles!!! the batteries are full. Anchorage behind Dunbar Rock in a well-protected but mosquito-infested bay. The fridge is empty and we will just stay there while shopping in Bonacca (main city of Guanaja which…