We left Utilla midday and almost run into the reefs on the southwest side of the Island. We steered a bit too close to the island in the process of heading away from Honduras mainland and no
clear maps of this small area. First
dropping all sails at record speed then a lot of frantic arm signals and shouting
from the bow, Jaco steered safely through the shallow reefs!
The rest of the 135NM to Livingston was just as calm as the
sea, mostly under motor-sail and clear skies.
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| Livingston |
Livingston is noted for its unusual mix of Garífuna, Afro-Caribbean, Maya and
Latino people and
culture.It is named after American Edward
Livingston who wrote the Livingston Codes which were
used as the basis for the laws of the liberal government of the United Provinces of Central America in
the early 19th century. There is no road access to Livingston yet. The only
access points are via the ocean or the river.
 |
| on anchor in front of the shallow bank |
We arrived at the mouth of the Rio Dulce at about
12pm and decided to wait till 4pm for high tide to go over the shallow area.
Upon arrival we radioed Raul the clearing in agent. His nephew, port captain
and health officer came immediately to our boat. According to them our Central American
Visa of Honduras expired and they did not want to clear us in. We had to stay
on anchor till the next day waiting for the answer of the Immigration officer!
(The Visa is supposed to be valid for 3 months)
 |
| waiting for the tide |
One should NEVER stay on anchor overnight in front
of Livingston. There is almost every evening a huge rain storm in this area. Due
to the incoming river and strong tide, Songerie was at times transverse to the
wind and the waves, needless to say that we were all night on anchor watch.
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| entering the rio dulce |
The following day, Friday, they decided to give us
a 5 day Visa to get an extension on our (valid) Visa in Guatemala City!! In
other words we had to sail up-river, find and arrange a dock to leave Songerie
for a couple of days, then Monday (day 4) is a government holiday, which leaves
us with one day Tuesday (day 5) to get an extension for on our Visa!!!
