Got a call from a buddy who is three days out of Panama and 56 minutes from the equator, headed for Galapagos. Probably headed for a backwater gunkhole destination. Maybe I heard Portia, maybe Puerto, wind noise, any ideas? He doesn't have the special permits so he isn't staying, headed for the Marquesas next.

No, but a friend who has lots of money visited there.

I've been to Panama though.

The Canal is spectacular, especially the one built in 1911. With the new locks I am not sure if they will be keeping the old ones or not.

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

Buddy called. I think he was missing Mardis Gras.

He fell in with the locals in the Galapagos and just left there. On his way to the Marquesas. He said at the rate he was going he should be crossing the Indian Ocean this time next year. I think if he found that much to do in the Galapagos he could be in the Marquesas until this time next year.