Hiya John
Appreciate the advice. Would have been helpful but it’s a tad late. We finished the Canal yesterday and I started my isthmus crossing this morning- 31 miles today, 20 or so left for tomorrow. I’ve had little internet access, being on the canal and side of the road. Thanks for thinking of us.
Doug

Glad to read that you have reached Panama City. I should have written you about this when I first learned that you were headed that way. One of the stalwarts at the Balboa Yacht Club is Mike Barker who has a nautical business called MARINE SCENE. He is a yacht broker and a rigger (probably the only one in Panama). The man to see if your sailboat has a problem up the mast before setting out to cross the ocean. He does a lot of work at the Shelter Bay Marina near Colon. Would know about yachts planning transit of canal, etc.

Would you like an introduction ?

You have a good idea crossing the isthmus near the Canal, rather than on the rather muddy Interoceanic Trail (between Volcan Baru & the town of Almirante on the Bocas Del Toro). My late cousin, Sandy McMillan, used to walk along the RR right of way, which affords nice views of Lake Gatun.

If I can help in any other way, do not hesitate to ask. Sincerely, Tim Killen. 1 561 659 3742