Again???

So, we motored/sailed all the way into Bocas Town and there just seems to be more vibration that usual with the motor. Something isn't right. Dennis spent a sleepless night, and then was up first thing Wednesday morning emptying the lazarette, pulling the stairs off and drilling holes to be able to see things clearly. Four hours later ... the engine mount we had had welded in Colon has broken. This is so not good! We now need to pull into Bocas Marina because we'll need power if we can't run the motor, which has to be hoisted up partway.


The good news is, Mark and Deb on Sea Cycle are going to be here in a day or two. We're excited to see the both of them again. We took the dinghy into town and then over to Bocas Marina to arrange a slip. Wow, what a difference from Shelter Bay. They're friendly, helpful, offer information. Chuck even walked us down the dock to see which slip we'd prefer, and then to the end of the dock to show us the best way to come into the marina. Okay, this staff needs to head down to Shelter Bay and give them lessons on how to treat people! Anyway, walking back to the dinghy we saw Mark and Deb sailing in. Said hi, let them anchor, we'll catch up later.



That night we met Mark and Deb at the Calypso Cantina for Happy Hour. (Paul from Winpipe, it's a Lats and Atts approved hang-out!) Had a great time catching up and stayed for dinner. We've tried different restaurants while we've been here but I have to say, Dyllan does an amazing job. The chicken lasagna was to die for!!!!  Check out the Calypso Cantina on Facebook.



Dyllan taking a break



Anchor up, headed into the marina around 9 a.m. I let Dennis take the helm for the shallow spots (although, we didn't see less than 10 feet). Three or four people from the marina helping us get in was nice. Unfortunately, the marina is in the middle of mangroves and I am being eaten alive!! We have coils burning outside and fans running everywhere down below hoping that the no-see-ums can't find us ... they're finding me just fine!!! Help, they're everywhere!!



I met up with Mark and Deb after we had everything settled in the marina and showed them around Bocas Town. Mark thought Deb and I had time to go shopping while he turned in his papers to the Port Captain. When I told him we'd wait, he was surprised when he was out a minute later. We wandered around town (he said he needs to send us ahead to scope things out and then let him know!) and then had lunch at the Riptide Restaraunt. It's amazing the things you can pick up here, and the prices aren't bad. From memory, less than US prices. While walking around town, all Mark could say is, "Now I know why people stay here". Luckily, Dennis went to the Calypso Cantina for the 'best burgers in Bocas', so I didn't have to cook dinner that night. That is the nice treat about being here - a meal out if you want.



Working away, and you can get out this
way if you wan!



When we were out at the anchorage, we were right beside John and Brenda on Willow, who we haven't seen in a few years. Chatted with them, and we're all going to meet up at the Calypso Cantina for ribs on Friday night.



The engine mount is off and on to Jeff on Homeward Bound, who is going to take it into the welding shop in town. Sitting here, spinning our wheels, not able to do anything, waiting for parts! Frustrating. My husband is spending his time on the internet looking up sites to sell a Bayfield 36!   :(            ~~~_/)~~~