So, I bought a boat in Panama.

[ty.gregory]

Got a good price, I think. Time will tell...

Islander Freeport 41 Ketch.

First thing I did was move her to the Balboa Yacht Club in Panama City, Panama.

I have the names and numbers of people around here that will help me make it more comfy to live aboard. It's hot here in Panama, and the rainy season is upon us. The boat is in good shape, but it has not been lived upon for six or more months, so I have to get the systems in order. The Reefer/fridge, water-maker, tarps to keep the boat cool, generator needs an oil-pressure gauge. All things I don't know how to do, but will learn. Yes?

Well of course I will--silly question!

I have been waiting and dreaming for a very long time for this. Now I have to up-date my bio to state that I do, at long last, own a boat.

You people on this site have helped me for a long time, and I hope you will continue with your help because I am sure as hell going to need YOU NOW.

Cheers,
Ty

[skipmac]

Congratulations.

So have you started your list(s) yet?

[markpierce]

First/only time I've seen a pleasure boat use a day-shape signifying it was at anchor, was in Panama. I suspect it was professionally captained.



(Get yourself out of Panama. It's rainy, hot, and humid, unless you like it that way.)

[model 10]

Unless you need a haul out, why the Balboa Yacht Club? It is a great place to watch big ships but other than that it's not as quiet as out along the causeway. Boat parts are more handy, food and drink etc..

[sy_gilana]

There is a PDF file floating around called "Panama City Cruiser's guide" I know there is a copy downloadable at the "San Blas Cruisers" Facebook page. Full of useful information.
There is a local canal agent and general helper/driver called Rogelio. He is a mine of information, his number is in the guide.

[ksanders]

I think that fantastic!

I dont know how old you are, but Panama is rated as one of the best retirement spots for an expat

[markpierce]

Regardless, everyone should transit/view the Panama Canal; a wondrous engineering achievement.

[StuM]

Originally Posted by markpierce

Regardless, everyone should transit/view the Panama Canal; a wondrous engineering achievement.

I did it 49 years ago. Looks like it has changed a bit.

[Jim Cate]

Originally Posted by markpierce

First/only time I've seen a pleasure boat use a day-shape signifying it was at anchor, was in Panama. I suspect it was professionally captained.



(Get yourself out of Panama. It's rainy, hot, and humid, unless you like it that way.)

a

Gee, Mark, come by Insatiable II any time we're at anchor and you'll have number two sighting!

And Ty, congratulations! Hope that she is all that you anticipated, and that you have many happy miles aboard.

Re lists: IME, they get long on the bottom much faster than they get short crossing things off of the top. But, ya gotta have them, 'cause at my age if ya don't write the chore down it isn't likely to get done! So, to make a real cruiser's version of an old saying: fair winds, following seas and short lists!

Cheers,

Jim

[captain58sailin]

Congratulations, I hope things turn out well. Anybody that can quote Frank Zappa is alright in my book. I haven't been through Panama in years, it was hot and humid then too. Best of luck, will help where I can. As far as lists go, start with the basics and address them, then move into the other issues. Step 1, Is the boat leaking? If it is stop the leaks an additional item to that is make sure the bilge pumps work. You get the idea. If I were living on the vessel, I would look to getting it cooled off so that you can work comfortably whilst tied up. Then it's about the head, freshwater, etc...

[scottsquared]

Hi Ty,
I arrived in Panama April 30. My long term plan is to transit the canal and head for the eastern Caribbean. Meanwhile, I carry tools, supplies, and wherewithal to work on boat systems, plumbing, electrical, rigging, sail repair, etc. I work reasonably.

As someone already mentioned, why BYC? Great if you don't mind the wake and the expense!

My cell: 6533-1952

[ty.gregory]

Thank you for all your responses. "The List" has begun. I will probably move the boat as soon as some necessities have been completed; learning how to sail it for one. Overall, the BYC works pretty well for me. I don't yet have a dink and the club provides a launch.

Scottsquared- where are you in Panama? I have your number, thank you. I am probably going to need some canvas work for deck shade, if your talents include such.

Cheers,

Ty

[scottsquared]

I'm anchored at Las Brisas de Amador along the causeway. I can do repair. Not set up for fabrication.

[gbanker]

Try to get out of Panama before the thunderstorm season as a lot of boats get struck there by lightning.

[model 10]

Buying a dinghy down there is going to be tricky. Don't be too quick to just buy what is easy to find, like a Mercury. The price is sick for what you get. There are often used dinghy"s for sale on the on the other side at Shelter Bay. The Yamaha dealer along the causeway is pretty high but what else can you do? If you choose an 2 stroke Enduro, remember they don't have parts for them in the US.