March 2, Saturday
Flamenco Boat Yard: crossed
Probably the fastest and almost certainly the most expensive crossing of Panama by a sailboat has been successfully completed. The moment I first glimpsed the Pacific Ocean as we came down from the hills was wonderful.
A few have suggested that GANNET’s transit proves the viability of trucking across. This is only true if money is no object. There are more expenses to come, including the boat yard and travel lift fees here, so I do not yet know the total, but it will probably be between $5,000 and $6,000. A good thing I am rich.
As you know I am not, but I have enough and I know it which may be true riches. I can pay these bills, though this was an experience that became a black hole. Once committed there was no way out except forward, and whatever it cost is whatever it cost.
As you know I am not, but I have enough and I know it which may be true riches. I can pay these bills, though this was an experience that became a black hole. Once committed there was no way out except forward, and whatever it cost is whatever it cost.
The truck showed up promptly at 8. GANNET and cradle were lifted onto the truck by the travel lift and strapped in place. There were delays, but we were on the road by 10:30 or 11:00 and on the Pacific side by about 1:30.
From time to time I checked our progress in iNavX on my phone. The maximum speed I saw was 42 knots/48 mph.
GANNET is still on the truck trailer and because of holidays Monday and Tuesday—I think Carnival—will be until next Wednesday.
Steve, the rigger, is due to come over Monday to help raise the mast. I would like also to check out the furling gear, but probably won’t be able to with the boat still in its cradle.
The first thing I did after GANNET was in position at Flamenco—I originally thought it was Flamingo— was to untie the mast and raise it so I can partially open the forward hatch. It is at least as hot on this side as in Colon, and there is less breeze.
The Internet here is almost non-existent, surprising for an upscale marina. I am using my phone with a local sim as a hot spot, but have very limited data.
Until I find a local spot with good Internet my communications will be brief.
