Brazil to Caribbean

[SVTatia]

I would stop in Natal before crossing to Fernando.
When leaving Salvador pay attention to the cold fronts and ride the tail of one otherwise it will be a chalenge bucking the current. Depending on your next stop, go as far offshore as you can. If you hug the coast you need a good lookout for the Jangadas specially at night as they are likely not to have any lights.
Get either an Avon skin so soft or something with deet... you'll need it specially in Cabedelo.
You'll have to hurry to make all these calls, but try to enjoy as much as you can as quick as you can. Have fun, most are lovely places.

[Nicholson58]

Originally Posted by B4A

We are planning to arrive mid October. Can you recommend a place where I can haul out to have the bottom done? I also need to replace a floor panel (under warranty).

Power Boats or Peaks in Chaguaramos. You can do your own work or hire. Use only the marina listed contractors and the marinas stand by the work.

Power Boats Ltd. secure, customer friendly boatyard in Trinidad.

Peake Yacht Services: Boatyards, Brokerage, Chandlery & Marine

We prefer Power Boats but Peaks may offer a lower price. I think there are better services at PB. Both are well run, secure marinas. They are back to back, sharing a fence. Make your approach well away from Venezuela. Most of us come south from Grenada and round the north end through the Bocas. Customs is nearby the marinas but when asked, you entered Trinidad waters after 8:30 AM or you pay overtime at check in. Many arrive afternoon and stay overnight in Scotland Bay for an easy morning ride in around 9:00. You can anchor out in front of the marinas or take an open mooring. Someone will come to collect. Street food outside the marina fence is good and inexpensive.

There is good community in the yards, particularly at PB including game nights and music. Many tours available and bicycling into the rain forest.

[B4A]

Originally Posted by Nicholson58

Power Boats or Peaks in Chaguaramos. You can do your own work or hire. Use only the marina listed contractors and the marinas stand by the work.

Power Boats Ltd. secure, customer friendly boatyard in Trinidad.

Peake Yacht Services: Boatyards, Brokerage, Chandlery & Marine

We prefer Power Boats but Peaks may offer a lower price. I think there are better services at PB. Both are well run, secure marinas. They are back to back, sharing a fence. Make your approach well away from Venezuela. Most of us come south from Grenada and round the north end through the Bocas. Customs is nearby the marinas but when asked, you entered Trinidad waters after 8:30 AM or you pay overtime at check in. Many arrive afternoon and stay overnight in Scotland Bay for an easy morning ride in around 9:00. You can anchor out in front of the marinas or take an open mooring. Someone will come to collect. Street food outside the marina fence is good and inexpensive.

There is good community in the yards, particularly at PB including game nights and music. Many tours available and bicycling into the rain forest.

Thank you so much for the useful tips! Yes, we'll be approaching Trinidad from the north, we are sailing in tandem with AIS in silent mode and no VHF communication either. We will keep in touch via sat phone. Is the Venezuelan piracy situation getting any better?

[Nicholson58]

There was a live fire incident last year BUT- We who are close believe it was drug or human trafficking related. No attempt to board. The folks were in the wrong place, wrong time. We travel with other cruisers if possible. Stay east of the two oil platforms between Trinidad and Grenada. Operate active AIS if you have it. File a float plan with the Trinidad CG or through the OCC port captain, Jessie James at Members Only at Power Boats. 'Members Only' Maxi Taxi Service - Home

Jessie can sometimes arrange CG escort if enough cruisers are involved. He has the best recipe for pineapple chow and great tours.

[B4A]

We arrived safely to Trinidad, thanks!

[Nicholson58]

Originally Posted by B4A

We arrived safely to Trinidad, thanks!

Where are you? If at The PB yard knock on the hull of Alegro and say Mark sent you. They can point you towards many local supplies and activities. We are Roxy near Alegro and the fence by Budget Marine. We return November.