The Tehuantepec Terror

Ian C

People at the marina thought we were crazy for setting sail across the Tehuantepec while the jet was blowing. But the lure of mole and margaritas in Oaxaca with buddy boat Teulu was stronger than the winds. After our 2nd rabies shot on Friday morning, we set off for a motor up the coast. The goal was to hug shore as tight as possible to keep the fetch down. Day 1 was calm motor. Day 2 was a rippin reef 3 sandblast sail. There were two wind “tunnels” we needed to get thru. Both were wild to enter with wind close hauled and chopped up white caps everywhere. We stayed 0.2-0.5nm from the beach the whole way thru. As the wind bent to the beam we were flying. Our wind speed transducer broke off Guatemala so we don’t know exact numbers but for sure wind was high 20s to mid 30s. Called out to a tanker in the bay and he was reading 47kts true wind. Being tucked up against the shore made all the difference. As night fell on day 2, we peeled off the coast to avoid port Salina Cruz. Waves were 8ft @ 3s according to models and it sure felt like it with several 12kt surfs. Wild ride for half the night before we were able to get out to the edge of the jet and into more reasonable conditions. Chilaquiles at the beach palapa are in order. Good job Isla. Trip highlight: saw a MASSIVE whale shark in the shore break feasting away.

Boat & Crew

ISLA

Fountaine Pajot, Lavezzi

Ian C

Owner