Friday, April 10, 2015

Whale Sharks, Sunsets and Haul Out

16' whale shark & Baja coast reflection-Photo courtesy of Avant 
Bahia  Concepcion - courtesy of Avant
For the last couple weeks of March, we thoroughly enjoyed great days at Bahia Concepcion, moving from one anchorage to another for different experiences. Whale sharks and babies graced the bay at Coyote Beach and we kayaked alongside as they grazed on plankton. We kayaked over to Burro Bay to try and meet Gary, the Sea of Cortez weather guy we all rely on. From Santispac Beach, you can walk the beach, enjoying wicked margaritas at Armando’s, get a ride the 13 miles to Mulege from locals or RVers who frequent the area. In the bustling town of Mulege, there are two places for internet access, four small grocery stores and wandering streets where it’s easy to get lost. They had a lot of damage from Hurricane Odile. 

Sunset colors astound
Bahia Santispac - another great sunset
Then it was time to head out as Semana Santa (Holy Week) approached. Thousands of Mexicans flock to the various beaches to enjoy the long weekend, and banda music is sure to keep you up into the wee hours.
Sunrise at Guaymas marina
We'll miss these sunsets!


We moved north to begin our voyage across the sea to Guaymas. Our passage was very pleasant, sailing (and motoring) on a beam reach across 78 miles in 16 hours.

Getting Pura Vida ready for haul out
Back in our hangout, Guaymas, we’ve spent 10days prepping Pura Vida for the hot summer on the hard and for our future projects (more, you say?!). Lots of work to set things right, which we think is important – we spend much more time than some to prepare.

the unnerving process of haul
out, getting straps ready

Setting up the ladder in the yard
It’s been a lovely time on the sea. Sometimes systems don’t work as we wish and that’s all part of what makes this rewarding and challenging. We met up with friends and made great new ones. We leave tomorrow heading for Portland where family, friends, work and new adventures await!
The Dougout: Cocteleria de mariscos (seafood cocktails)

Icy cold Indio
& seafood cocktail




Guaymas as we prepare Pura Vida for haul out across the bay. 
Navy yard across from Fonatur Marina



Huge fish at El Chayon seafood roadside stand.
We bought flounder & bbq'd w/
red pepper jelly glaze


Playful dolphins w/ WELCOME sign at the bay in Guaymas 

covering the furlers
from summer sun
Another whale photo, can't get enough.

Agua Verde bird patrol