our blog
On Wednesday we motored up the Rio Dulce enjoying the striking gorge at a leisurely 3-knot pace. The boys scampered aloft (as they now seem to do several times a day) to take in the spectacular views. We had read about the Rio's beauty in many guidebooks and were not let down. This was Eclipse's first escapade in fresh water and she loved it. The clingy barnacles literally fell off the hulls and the unlimited water cleansed the salty decks. As we rounded the last bend the view opened up on Golfete Bay and we anchored as a squall came through washing the boat even more. We heard the marina nearby had a nice restaurant so we all dingyed ashore for happy hour, dinner and socialization. Dinner was weak, but the fellowship and internet were a plus. After a couple days of exploring we sailed across the Bay to marina area where thousands of boats are stored for hurricane seasons. Some looked like they came to die… We left Eclipse anchored near the marina Happy Times checked into for hurricane season and Cheryl was hired to babysit her, along with her own boat, while the rest of us travelled inland.
A bend in the Rio
Happy Times as seen from up our mast.
Morning commute to school
A view from Golfete to the highlands.
Canoes were constantly criss-crossing through our anchorage at Texas Harbor.
The children were very curious and would maneuver close enough to give us a good look.
Our backyard.
Venturing up one of the small tributaries that few sailboats visit.
Again, the local children got very curious and one-by-one came out to visit in their dugout canoes.
At one point we have over 15 kids aboard helping us with Spanish.
Jungle hike
San Felipe de Lara guarding the upper Rio Dulce as it joins Lago de Izabal
The land surrounding Lake Izabal.
The falls at Agua Caliente. We have been to hot springs, and caves, and many waterfalls, but here mother nature has really innovated - Hot waterfalls with caves hidden behind. It takes a while to find the perfect spot but there are a few where the cold water coming out of the cave mixes with the hot from the waterfall and you have a perfect jacuzzi.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Rio Dulce
Rio Dulce
Happy Times as seen from up our mast.