Being back in Mazatlan is almost like a homecoming. Hilbre was in fine shape and we have been enjoying the sights and sounds of the city. We met up with David and Carolyn from the “Aztec” who we had met before we took off on the Baja Ha-Ha. They were helpful and informative about cruising in Mexico, as they had already done a few seasons. We did have one brief VHF exchange in February last year while we were in La Paz, they were returning home and we were headed north up the Sea of Cortez so it took until Mazatlan before both boats finally connected in same Marina.
We again have Pasha our ship’s cat with us and he seems quite content with going sailing again. He has become quite the traveler. Our weather has been good with sunny days and temperatures in the 70’s during the day, but making for some nice sleeping with all hatches and ports open at night.
John has been having a Crown replaced at a local Dentist who was recommended by a fellow countryman from Manchester. The dental work is very thorough, it is quicker to get an appointment and at less than half the price of the US. This morning we had glorious breakfast in the old town at the Panama Restaurant, lots of great breakfast food and fresh Mexican coffee. We were tempted by the desert trolley that was roving between the tables but resisted the temptation to start our day off with large pieces of gateaux. We love the bakeries in Mexico, both bread and desserts are wonderful and we always seem to have a supply of fresh Baguettes. Here in Mazatlan it seems the Banana Cream Pie is something of a staple, we see it everywhere; and is it good!
Currently we have one pier of the marina almost full of cruising sailboats so we have a daily safety meeting, usually about 4:00 p.m., at least that is what we call it, drinks and snacks. It is so useful to exchange information about sailing and places to put down the hook; there is always something new to learn and tips to take away. Cruising is about meeting people, seeing new places and sharing in the fun of cruising. It is quite an eclectic crowd, cruisers who have done the West Indies, the Panama Canal and Central America. Others are preparing for the El Salvador Rally which starts in Puerto Bahia de Sol in El Salvador on Mar 16. You make your own way there from where you are; just arrive for the start of the events.