We knew that leaving the San Blas Islands would be the next step to getting closer to the Panama Canal. What was planned was a two full day sail with an overnight at the Isla Grande - but it turned into a two-night stay. We tried to leave on Tuesday but the weather and waves forced us to seek a little security back in the bay and wait out enormous rainstorms - one after another … we were safe just really wet ….
Anchoring in Isla Grande
being patient was good … of course we anchored fairly close to the “local establishment” … somehow Ed and the “kids” always find out where the “action” is at!
Kim with the bar owners kids - Kimberly and Almado (kim squared!)
So Wednesday, we left about 7am with waves just over 2 meters (6 to 7 footers) - we sailed most of the way - which the crew enjoyed - about 34 miles - I slept a good chunk of the morning away … arrived at Shelter Bay Marina by 1pm… (Just a thought: I giggle every time I think of this - the last stop on the Atlantic side is the Shelter Bay Marina in Colon, Panama and the final stop /destination on the Pacific side will be our very own Shelter Bay Marina in LaConner - perfect wouldn’t you say?)
Once we were tied into the dock at Shelter Bay - a delightful afternoon with fabulous showers, ice cream treats, swimming pool, a fresh beer supply and dinner at the marina restaurant - also purchased the Panama flag … a real milestone for this boat to be able to raise their colors! Ahhh …. Civilization again!
A good time was had by all ... especially since we were cleaned up ...
a nice treat for all of us!
a nice treat for all of us!
A great way to enjoy our first evening in Colon
The guys scrubbed down the entire boat with “boat wash” and fresh water - we girls did a mini “spring housecleaning” -and provision for the next few days - so we felt fresh and getting ready to greet the Pacific. ….
How many cart loads does it take to fed a crew of 7?
The tires (that will be our fenders) and long lines have been delivered to protect the hulls of Companion - the guys helped protect the solar panels with plywood covers, the wind generator blades removed …. Getting ready for Companion’s big day!
Dale’s planning is paying off as the immigration and officials came this afternoon - our agent for the crossing arrived early evening with plans for the inspector to be here Thursday to measure up Companion… our hope is that we will cross the Panama Canal starting Saturday afternoon and finish up by Sunday evening. A historic memory for all of us!
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