Well it's time. Surprise is groaning with all of the stores, provisions, fuel, water, and libations. Bottom is clean, crew is aboard and we'll cast off the mooring lines tomorrow morning.

We'll do a couple of tourist stops before heading for the S. Pacific; Isla Isabella is a tiny island about 90 mile south with an extraordinary bird population, and Chacala is a very pretty bay with a gringo run medical facility that AJ has brought supplies for. (Everyone was hugely relieved to hear that the garganutan duffel she brought was at least 1/3 full of supplies that will be offloaded for the clinic.) Timing was everything with AJ and Jorge, the Administador Unico arriving at a few minutes before 4pm with John fresh up from his siesta. AJ took a hint from John and avoided overdoing the Chamberlin's traditional 4 margarita and two cervesa crew welcoming ceremonies, as she had already volunteered to accompany Susan on the early morning trip to the local mercado. Adventurous trip into town included procurments as well as a quick tour of the new arts district and a stop into the local cathedral for a blessing. Good thing, too, 'cause the truck we came home in from Sam's Club was a near-death experience. More later. Lunch!



We expect to weigh anchor Saturday for Hiva Oa. The winds look promising for trades close to the coast.

Mazatlan is a wonderful city with a magnificant cathedral and a vibrant old town. Sunday night we happened on a small festival complete with music, dancing and all manner of food. The challange here is to prevent Steve from ordering yet more margharitas!