After only 26 hours we pulled into the marina at Mazatlan(23:16.062N: 106:28.119w) , by 7.30 am. The trip was 4 to 6 hours faster than planned due to winds which allowed us initially to do ½ day 8.5 knots and then also 8 knots for 5 hours last night the rest we were able to maintain at over 7 knots.  The seas and angle continued to improve through out the trip and the family was able to get some good sleep so the boys are in good shape. They have their tricles and bikes out and heading of around the marina to let off steam. We were able to secure someone to do all our laundry so we off loaded 5 bags (yes a full boat wash day) this was one of our big tasks here.

I have tested the washing machine here it works fine in the dock, but not when on inverter need to investigate at least it is not an issue with the washing machine that job can wait.

The other good news was the autopilot with the modifications to location of flux compass worked the whole way here, including following ssteep seas for the first half and it handled it well. So that is a relief and we can finalize plans with it’s installation. I am currently equalizing the batteries to see if it solves the issues I have with different levels of electrolysis  in cells, and see if we can regain some of the performance, we really need shore power to do this.

We have run into 2 people we know from Newport already, they could give us an update on the lay of the land, and this afternoon about 3 we will go into old town for the final Carnival Parade (Mardi Gra) which will be good for the boys.  We will take on the bus and taxi system, will make for a rounding off of a good first day on the mainland, Stay tuned.