Red Frog Marina, Bocas del Toros

Ok, up late, Liz had mimosas ready for the tired travellers. That of course sets the tone for the day. We walked to the "far" side of the island, about a 5 min. walk for some body surfing. The beach was beautiful, palm trees, beach bar in a modern thatched hut, and long sand beach. As it turns out, waves are a rare commodity in this part of the Caribbean, and Bocas is known as a surf spot. We got our fill of waves, then went to the Punta Lava bar for some refreshments. Cute bar, burgers and cheap drinks. But a one million dollar view.
Today we took a cruise to Rana Azul, or the dark lands. It is called this as it's faced away from the sun, and somewhat dark. The trip was again lovely, traveling through the many islands and seeing thatched huts and nice houses along the way. We ended up at the Rana Azul restaurant, which is only open two days a week. It is open-air, with an air rifle to shoot, ring game, and killer mojitos, oh yes, also a karaoke box, much to our embarrassment. Leif and Craig started off the singing, followed by me, and then we noticed that we were the only ones left in he place. They did have the greatest stone fire pizzas, and beef steak dinners.
Next was a trip to Starfish beach, which stands up to it's name. We anchored, swam ashore and snorkeled to see the beautiful starfish and fish. For lunch we drove the dinghy to Yaris Noris, a restaurant on the other side of the island. Bad service, and bad food, not a place to recommend. But, cute bobble heads for Mexican train. We play nightly, and Liz is the queen.
Next day we left for Bocas Marina Anchorage, which amazingly enough had the best snorkeling of the trip. We also went in for some Bocas burgers at Calypso Cantina run by Darin and Dylan, who have circumnavigated.
We spent the morning snorkeling, then off to the Pickeled Parrot and some interesting chat with George, the owner. It's a dinghy up bar and restaurant out near the surf break. Leif and I went for a walk around the corner and found a great beach, pier, and lush mangroves. It pays to get away from the crowd.
Next day, off to Red Frog marina, home for Craig and Liz. The weather has been spotty, lots of rain,yet,enough sun to keep it fun. We went body surfing, hiking and had a dock party with all the yaties. Every night we play Mexican train, it's a highlight, if not a requirement.

   I can't believe it's time to leave already, we have been quite happy, this life of cruising isn't half bad!  But, we are ready to see the Panama Canal, our last big adventure on our way home.  The trip home was rather uneventful so far, we actually caught a plane from Bocas to Panama City, arrived mid-day and had time for a trip out to the canal zone and see all of the ships waiting for the locks.  Hundred or so anchored out, not including all of the smaller yachts waiting as well.  Oh yes, we splurged and stayed at the Marriott, with a tub for me, and internet for all.  It was an expensive treat, but worth it.  Tomorrow the Mirafloras Locks