Panama.
The name invokes a kind of exotic local feeling. Is this not the country criminals disappear into with new identities?
Everyone knows about the canal. That incredible feat of determination and engineering cutting right through the country.
But no one thinks of beautiful islands, palm trees and sandy beaches. That is the Panama we are headed for. To start with we are going to go exploring the wonderful San Blas Islands.
More on this topic when I have more than a simple single side band radio to send you blog updates.
For now just know that my ‘paws’ are itching to hit the sandy shores of this beautiful and exotic local. 30nm to go!
We have 25 knot winds, but the sea state has settled to a tame 1.5-2m. Ok, tame compared to what it used to be. With all the squalls and wind su rges of yesterday out of the way, we only see clear skys ahead.
Speaking of ahead!
We have certainly seen our share of shipping on this trip. With the rough seas we have gotten into the habit of calling up any shipping that come near us. Thanks to ‘the wonders of ‘AIS’ (automatic identification system) we are able to keep track of most commercial traffic. Unfortunately we have only a receiver, so they do not have the same luxury to keep track of us. Worried about the reduced visibility we have gotten into the habit of calling up the cargo ships and identifying ourselves, our position, heading and speed. All but one has responded and made appropriate course changes to avoid us. Only one ship did not respond and we had to take evasive action to avoid it.
The SSB cruisers nets have been a great fountain of support and information on this trip. It is amazing how far away we are talking to people. We have been chatting with friends hanging out in the Vivarillo Cays and even as far away as Cuba. The cruisers in the San Blas Islands have been the most informative. With official offices closed on Sundays, they have made suggestions for anchorages with easy access to hang out at for the night. We can check into the country tomorrow, Monday.
Can’t say we are not getting excited to be almost there. With the fair winds we should be able to make it to an anchorage in good light. All a great bonus. Did not fancy spending another night at sea hove to until daylight.
All is well and we are looking forward to ‘land based’ adventures for a few days! end:
