Costa rica

[Snkr]

I have tried a search here to find out about sailing to costa rica with stops at cocos isl and galopagues isl but nothing really relevant came from it.
Can anyone tell me about logistics to this trip like where I would have to get visas and any do's or dont's anything would be helpful....
Thanks

[jeremiason]

Snkr

We are currently cruising the west coast of Costa Rica...

It is very simple and requires no real advanced preparation. Visas and boat import permits are issued at your Port of Entry (About $200 US). 90 days is the rule, but you can get the import permit for your boat extended to 2 years. You on he other hand have to leave the country every 90 days.

While cruising here you are issued a "National Zarpe", which has to be re-issued when you check in with Port Captains along your various stops, although not every Port has a Port Captain and no more fees are involved.

The only shocker to use was the difference in prices goiing from Mexico, El Salvador, Nicaragua and then moving into the higher priced Costa Rica...

If you use marinas, expect to pay about $2-4 US a foot. Fuel is currently about $4.50 per gallon, which compared to the US is reasonable, but to Mexico is very high.

There are a number of cruising guides on the subject, including Pat Raines's Central American Cruising Guide and an online guide made by Eric and Sherell of www.SVSarana.com. There are a number of others, but these seem to have the most up to date infomration.

The other information I would point you to is the "Southbound" Yahoo Group, which focuses on Mexico and Central Amercia. With over 1200 members, these are the answer people for all things on the Pacific Coast of Mexico and Central Amercia

Good Luck

[Snkr]

Wow thanks I've read somewhere that one can not go to cocos isl is that true?

[jeremiason]

No yachts visit Cocos all the time...

I forgot to mention Noonsite.com as another sorce of information.

Here is a link to the Isla Cocos:

Noonsite: Cruising Notes Costa Rica, Cocos Island