Carnaval in La Paz!

The INTREPID II crew was just as surprised as our family and friends to find ourselves at the dock in Marina Palmira last Thursday (Feb. 16th) and just in time for Carnaval.  Our plans were find a quiet time in a peaceful anchorage further north!

Punta Salinas with light tower to left, looking north

However, winds and waves were at odds in many of our stops along the way, which kept us moving south.  Our intentions to stay out in the San Evaristo, Islas San Jose and Espirito Santos anchorages for at least another week faded after a very rolly and unsecure night at Punta Salinas, Isla San Jose.  A beautiful spot, with some northwest wind protection, a beautiful sandy beach and the ruins of the salt mining operation.   Waves and wind turned to the south and west and we were somewhat vulnerable.  Not exactly a formal anchor watch all night, but the next best thing. As we headed out the next morning we heard that most everyone found their choice of anchorage was not ideal.  Some of this is 'local conditions' and some is the timing of fronts as they move through.

Abandoned buildings of salt mining operations

After sailing for 5 hours and checking out Ensenada Grande and Caleta Partida on Isla Partida, we observed the south-west waves we were experiencing (2 - 4 feet) continue on in to the mostly western exposure anchorages.  The Captain announced he'd rather be sailing in these conditions than anchored in them.  Agreed!  That added another 4 hours of pounding towards La Paz, but meant we could be at a dock by 5 pm.  A radio call to Marina Palmira brought the unexpected news that there was no room at the inn!  However, we are very grateful that Adriana and her colleague found us a spot for a few nights and we will be shuttling around the marina as space becomes available.

The winds continued blustery. We headed INTREPID II into the La Paz channel, which makes a right turn at Costa Baja marina and contemplated dropping the main in fairly tight conditions.  What a team. A quick pair of sail ties around the main for the moment, then out with the fenders and dock lines; complete with a salty splash bath for Carol as she was at the bow.  Helping hands met us at the dock and we were once again in La Paz, one of our favourite Mexican cities.

Kelly on the Malecon with La Paz anchorages behind

The usual paperwork at the office was a pleasant task as this was our third stay here. We felt welcomed and well treated.  The schematic of the docks on the wall indeed showed a very full picture with far more cruisers staying put than heading out.  With a treat of hot showers, a quick dinner and sleep we were content in spite of the start of the Carnaval celebrations to the south.  Friday morning we caught the shuttle in to Club Cruceros at Marina de La Paz and enjoyed meeting with several cruising friends.

New 'pasarelle' and dinghy dock downtown 

We asked for referals for Spanish tutors, then took our time walking back along the Malecon towards 'home', about a 3 mile meander.  Looking at the Carnaval kiosks set up along the way, dropping into familiar shops and enjoying the views.  The anchorages are also full and Vista Coral has now become an actual, rather than virtual marina.  The City has recently constructed a new pedestrian walkway to a dinghy dock located to the north of Marina de La Paz.  It is a much needed addition to allow cruisers anchored out another option for 'parking the family car' to go shopping.

Coconut drink to share

Nearing 'home' we stopped for a coconut drink.  First you sip the milk through straws and then the vendor chops out the coconut meat which you can munch on.  Not as refreshing as we'd anticipated, but worth a try.  Once back at INTREPID  II, we gave her a good rinse, but the real bath will come later.  All in all a good start to our stay in the "City of Peace".