Marina Vista Mar (Panama).  Costly local politics and cartels; a long-time on the road (some books); perspectives for 2026

December 19, 2025 I arrived at the marina last Monday evening to find poor BEHEMOTH still wrapped in plastic and with her batteries dying.  From the day she was taken out of the water to get new teak on her deck and her bottom painted to the moment I stepped aboard in her slip she … Continue reading Marina Vista Mar (Panama).  Costly local politics and cartels; a long-time on the road (some books); perspectives for 2026

Hua Hin:  Frustration,  Spain and Panama/Galapagos Update

October 19, 2025 In late July, while still in Panama, I had drafted a journal entry about our cruising in Islas las Perlas after we crossed the canal.  A couple of weeks ago I finally got to edit the post but it was gone.  Something went wrong with the Microsoft Apps I had been using … Continue reading Hua Hin:  Frustration,  Spain and Panama/Galapagos Update

La Playita Marina, Panamá: On the Pacific side; missed anniversary.

July 12, 2025 Before departing Shelter Bay marina I got an e-mail from Webb Chiles with a brief commentary about his experience crossing the channel in RESURGAM. “[…]. But overall I don’t like the canal because while in it your boat and your life are not your own.” True. We made it across with almost … Continue reading La Playita Marina, Panamá: On the Pacific side; missed anniversary.

Cartagena to Colon-Panama

November 28th- December 5th This leg was supposed to be just Juan David and me, but delays in Ecuador meant I couldn’t make it to San Diego in time for Thanksgiving with Marina. Instead, she joined me in Quito, where we celebrated at my son’s place with my father, sister, brother, and nephew. We grilled … Continue reading Cartagena to Colon-Panama