Lead around the small island we were anchored behind , then through the narrow channel between, Nester our Kuna guide led us and 4 other boats to open water. We had asked him to assist, as an additional crew member to travel with us to Linton Bay Marina. There we hoped to find a mechanic to solve our engine problems. When we started out, it was a bit unnerving when Nester asked us what the chartplotter was, our navigation system. He only knew how to travel amongst these islands by memory. He pointed out landmarks along the way, we double checked on the charts, he was correct every time.

We had to pump water out of the bilge as we went along at a rate of about 50 gallons every 15 minutes, while our helper steered the boat. There were large swells, but we rode them well, and had a comfortable ride the whole way. While not doing his helm duties, Nester chose to relax on deck. ***click photo on right***

After, around six hours, we rounded Isla Linton and made our way to the marina. Glad to have safely arrived, we could now get repairs done. Linton Bay Marina, will be our home for the next little while. Travelling by bus, which runs every two hours, we can get to the city to shop, or pick up parts  only a two hour ride Trucks stop by the marina loaded with cases of wine, today a great deal,   6 bottles for $30, or smaller vegetable trucks show up often. A 1/2 of Squash, Oranges, Cucumber, Plantains, Lemons, Limes, and a Papaya……..$6 bucks. You can see why, many cruisers have stayed for a while here. At sunset a guy even set up his mat and performed Tai Chi, I chose to relax on the bench watching.

Never thought I would be spending my retirement……waiting for a bus. These music blaring, colourful, racing vehicles, actually, old school buses, will take you to where ever you need to go. For just 3 dollars they will get you to Colon, what a great deal.

Who would have thought a Sloth could swim?????