Ahoy maty's,

It's day 2 here in panama and our wait begins. Our agent is already working on getting us into the lineup. This morning I sent Lance and Roy into the safe zone in Colon to pick up some needed tools we do not have. We have a few boat fixes to attend to and look forward to our transit. Meanwhile, I'm going to remain at the boat and wait for our agent to show up. Lots of fees to be paid when making a canal transit. At that time, we will make arrangements for our tires and dock lines. Hopefully we will be able to set up our boat inspection, however, once inspected it is valid for 3 days only.

I also still need to find a 5th member of our crew. You see when making a canal Transit you need four dock line holders and one helmsman. A canal pilot will also be joining our crew making up a sixth member.

The weather here in Panama is different than I expected. Although mildly humid, temperatures are really not that hot. Don't get me wrong, they are still in the mid to upper 80s but much better than a 100+.

Shelter Bay Marina has expanded since my last visit here four years ago. They have improved and added docs, a little grocery store, more like a 711, A gym and a small chandlery.

I look forward to leaving the marina and getting into the safe so for shopping. But I feel that it's still a few days away. Once I am freed up from all the technical and legal responsibilities the three of us will journey into town to provision the boat and not just for the Canal transit but the journey all up to Costa Rica.