We arrived at the island of Socorro at the first light of dawn.
This island, as well as Clarion further ahead, is a paradise for scuba diving; there are giant manta rays, whale sharks, tiger sharks, and definitely whales, as one came to greet us upon our arrival. Access to these islands is strictly controlled by the Mexican navy, and it is necessary to request permission to anchor. Such authorization was granted to us via radio, as we explained that we needed to check some boat instruments and that we would depart the next day. Very courteously, they instructed us to anchor in the entrance channel, the only area with a sandy bottom.
The entry channel
Just 10 minutes after we finished anchoring, we were approached by the navy’s boat with 7-8 fully equipped military personnel with rifles and balaclavas. One of them boarded and completed about ten forms to register the entry of our boat. Given the high temperature, the poor fellow quickly removed his balaclava, revealing the features of a friendly young lad. He was pleased that we spoke some Spanish, which simplified the completion of the numerous forms for him. Before warmly bidding us farewell, he offered assistance in case of need, including the help of a military doctor present at the base.The day passed lazily between one small task and another, and we indulged in a refreshing shower in anticipation of future restrictions. Among other things, we equipped the pulpit with plastic straps to prevent the landing of boobies; indeed, these birds often seek a “ride” to rest, resulting in difficult-to-clean droppings.
Socorro, the last land
We arrived at the island of Socorro at the first light of dawn.
This island, as well as Clarion further ahead, is a paradise for scuba diving; there are giant manta rays, whale sharks, tiger sharks, and definitely whales, as one came to greet us upon our arrival. Access to these islands is strictly controlled by the Mexican navy, and it is necessary to request permission to anchor. Such authorization was granted to us via radio, as we explained that we needed to check some boat instruments and that we would depart the next day. Very courteously, they instructed us to anchor in the entrance channel, the only area with a sandy bottom.
Just 10 minutes after we finished anchoring, we were approached by the navy’s boat with 7-8 fully equipped military personnel with rifles and balaclavas. One of them boarded and completed about ten forms to register the entry of our boat. Given the high temperature, the poor fellow quickly removed his balaclava, revealing the features of a friendly young lad. He was pleased that we spoke some Spanish, which simplified the completion of the numerous forms for him. Before warmly bidding us farewell, he offered assistance in case of need, including the help of a military doctor present at the base.The day passed lazily between one small task and another, and we indulged in a refreshing shower in anticipation of future restrictions. Among other things, we equipped the pulpit with plastic straps to prevent the landing of boobies; indeed, these birds often seek a “ride” to rest, resulting in difficult-to-clean droppings.