Pacific Ocean outlook

Pacific Ocean © noonsite.com

Cruiser Melissa White has reported security concerns in La Cruz and Punta Mita, Mexico. It seems that thefts from boats at anchor is an on-going problem in this area, and cruisers should be cautious and lock up when going ashore and at night. Join the Banderas Bay Cruisers group to keep abreast of security issues in this area.

SV Yara, which was dismasted and abandoned in October 2023, remains a navigation hazard for yachts on route to the Pacific islands. The abandoned vessel was spotted still afloat on April 21st, by a yacht sailing from Mexico to French Polynesia, at position 05'15.650N 123'08'.534W.

Yacht agents have reported to Noonsite that cruisers are arriving in Galapagos without a permit (Autografo) and then wandering ashore in the National Park without permission. There are very strict rules for all tourists coming to Galapagos, in particular yachts, and these must be adhered to or you risk arrest and causing problems for those following in your wake, as stricter controls will be brought into play. Know the rules before you go.

More security concerns, this time in Kiribati in the central Pacific. After leaving his catamaran anchored at Betio Islet on Tarawa for three weeks without incident and with on board security employed, Julian Baker returned only to be boarded by thieves his first night back.

Maciej Laskowski reports from Rapa Nui: "Easy entry, wonderful history, friendly locals - but anchoring and fuel a problem." SY Migration put together a very useful anchoring guide for Easter Island with the help of the locals, to help visiting yachts find the best spots and protect the coral.

With the 2024 eastern Pacific hurricane season approaching, cruisers in that part of the world are starting to discuss their strategies and potential hurricane holes for shelter, should storms strike regions where they are sailing. This report has been shared by the Panama Posse.

This article has been provided by the courtesy of noonsite.com.