Departure Preparations

Where Next?
Bob Williams
Wed 27 Jan 2016 16:05

Position: At anchor Bahia San Lucas
Wind: variable
Sea: smooth Swell: negligible
Weather: sunny, warm

I have started working towards departing Mexico towards the end of this week. To this end I went to the marina office yesterday to see how much an overnight berth would cost and whether they assisted with the clearing out procedures as the marina in Ensenada had assisted with clearing in. The cost was $11a night and as they did not assist with the departure procedures I decided that the cost outweighed the convenience of completing final preparations with a day alongside. I asked about getting fuel and water and the lady said there was no problem to use the fuel dock and water could also be purchased there. So this morning I weighed anchor and proceeded to the fuel dock. A man came down to assist me tie up and I asked me what I wanted. When I said fuel and water he drew my attention to a sign which indicated a surcharge or tying up alongside to get fuel. The cost was about $130! I had never heard of such a charge before. The man at the fuel dock was quite apologetic but of course could not waive the charge. I looked around at all the large fancy American yachts, shook my head, and went back to anchor. Bother!

I reckon I have enough fuel but will need to top up the water tanks before leaving, so now the only affordable option is to cart water on board via the dinghy and the nearest place where I can buy water is about half a kilometre down the road. This is going to be one of those tedious chores that is going to take several dinghy trips. Oh well, no point complaining, things are what they are, and I had best get stuck into making like a mule.

All is well.