How to Tow a Sailboat

As most of you know, my temporary home base currently is Isla Mujeres, Mexico where I happen to have become some sort of unofficial first responder to all sorts of maritime mishaps and emergencies. During this time I gained a lot of experience in salvaging, searching and rescuing. But before I share some of it…

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Checklist Passage Planning

Passage planning is not only a good habit that is essential for every voyage. It is actually required by law in most countries of the world. All 164 countries that have ratified the International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) require by law that the master of every sea-going vessel prepares a passage…

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Check-in Guide for Cruisers: Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Without doubt Mexico is a great and diversified sailing destination. If there just was not the hassle of checking-in. Mexico sure has one of the most lengthy check-in procedures in the Caribbean. Also the information provided through official channels often is inconsistent or outdated. During the COVID-lockdown in 2020 there was an intense and fruitful…

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Life Under the Yellow Flag

“Open – Rain or Shine” the neon sign over the entrance to Skull’s Landing invites its guests. It is one of those signs that normally can be switched from “open” to “closed” just this one doesn’t have a “closed” option. A great marketing move. Skull’s Landing is the local cruisers’ hangout with Happy Hour from…

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Five Star Ghost Marina

Most sailors dream of sailing the Caribbean at least once in their lives. They dream of warm weather, clear water, secluded anchorages, endless beaches… The reality hits them with unaffordable marinas, crowded anchorages and crazy labor rates. I am not saying there are no hidden gems left off the beaten path anymore but the beaten…

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