Hautalco, Puerto Chiapas and Antigua

We waited in Puerto Vallarta for parts to fix our engines.  When they arrived on another ship, we fixed the problem and left, but we have lost our visit to Hautalco and will be late into Puerto Chiapas.  We spent a wonderful day at sea watching dolphin and turtles.  The wind and seas have picked up.   Since we are late arriving,  it is now low tide in Puerto Chiapas, and we are not able to dock.   Bummer since we were looking forward to visiting ruins.  But we had started to take 8 degree swells and we were still 2 miles out so better to be safe than sorry. 

We were up early the next day to drive from the port to Antigua, Guatemala.  This is a world heritage site and a wonderfully preserved colonial city with narrow cobble stone streets, and friendly colorful people. 

Lots of beautiful churches and architecture in the shadow of three active volcanoes.  The melding of old and new is beautiful.  The old buildings are still being used and there is honor shown to the old while the new lends practicality to structures.

The artifacts are lovely and displayed creatively.  

On the way to Panama

The adventure begins with sun, sun, sun.  We arrive in San Diego to wonderful warm weather and board the ship the next day sailing out past both the old and new Point Loma lighthouses.

 The next day is relaxing at sea, getting to know our ship, reading, eating and touring the decks to walk off the food.  I’m disappointed that not all dishes are up to expectations.  Lucky for us there is plenty and I’m trying not to clean my plate and eat it anyway. 

We have engine problems and can only go 16.5 knots making us late to Puerto Vallarta.  We had a lovely visit to the very busy and enjoyable old town.  Lots going on along the water front.   I was fascinated by a man balancing rocks into towers 5 ft high. 

Beautiful sand castles being built and great statues to pose with.

 Flocks of pelicans diving into the water to feed.