Fidel says hi!

So, I made it. All in one piece. And, believe it or not, but we have internet access (on the harbormaster’s computer). How about that.

The crossing was tough, at first things were easy, and I was starting to think that all those gulf stream stories are a little exaggerated. But, the further away from Key West the harder it got. Waves were up to 2 meters and pretty steep. The wind was favorable, so much so, that I had to slow down because I did not want to arrive in the dark. The wind vane steering had a minor problem (the double block for the steering leads broke). Was able to do a band aid repair, but would like to find a replacement block. It sounds like that could be a tough thing to organize here, we shall see. When the wind vane steering does not work, I am not a happy camper.

Arrived here at the marina before 10, which means it took me just under 24 hours. Tried to call the marina on the VHF, but never go a reply. But, when I got close the marina, someone was already waving from the dock where I was supposed to go.

They helped me moor at the T side of the dock and then I was told to wait for the paperwork to start happening. Then 2nd person that came by was a dutchman !

Might miss a few officials, but had someone from the department of health, department of agriculture, customs, immigration, etc.. funny thing is that all these people acted like they rarely came on board boats. Some talked very good english, some just spanish (well, their english was even with my spanish).

They even brought the dogs on board, and looked here and there. But, all in all not a great deal. Was cleared in at 2 in the afternoon (so that took a good 4 hours, though most of that was just waiting).

Judging from todays weather (more 20 knots wind from NE/E) I did get the right weather window.

Someone else is waiting for the computer, more later.

Hasta la vista!