December 31st, 2010 - New Years Eve Party

2010 first annual Cruisers New Years Party at El Cid Marina. In attendance were the crew of "Passat II", "Queen Mary", "Starsinger" and "N' Joy Boat III". All Canadians!



The cruisers were sponsored by Bob & Jody (Latitudes & Attitudes Magazine) and Armando (El Cid Marina Dock Master). For $20.00 US we had a super lobster diner, unlimited booze, live entertainment, party favors and fireworks.




Lots and lots of smiles. The beauty between us is "Katty" who works in the El Cid Marina office.





The live music by "Endless Summer"and Circus performers were fantastic.


We say good-by to the old year 2010.

December 30th, 2010 - Sad Goodby

We bid a sad farewell to James and Maria as they head home.

Even sadder, (for my wallet) I was caught speeding on the way to Cancun after dropping them off. To avoid having to pay a supposed $180 US fine I paid a 500 peso bribe. Not even 5 miles further on I was stopped by another cop for "speeding". This time I knew I was not. I stuck to my guns and got off with a "warning" and no fine or bribe. Needless to say we were sure to stay 10 km under the posted limit from then on.

December 29th, 2010 - Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins (revisited)

See our March 2010 posting for pictures of our first visit to this, the largest, Mayan ruin restored to date. The first time we were part of a tour group. This time we were on our own and saw parts of the site the tour missed.




The older part was pure Myan, before the influence of the Aztecs. James feeds one of the snake gods.


The Sacred Cenote. Some bones were found at the bottom, suggesting that animals and humans were sacrificed here. James and Maria enjoy a short break.




The main temple. the pillars of the administration buildings. I do my "Sampson" impression again, now with a short beard, with the same nil result. Did the Mayans invent X & Os???

December 28th, 2010 - Grand Cenote

James and I stop at Grand Cenote for a swim. The water is crystal clear and warm. The side caves could go on for miles. A very refreshing end to the day.

December 28th, 2010 - Coba Mayan Ruins

The "high"light at the Coba Ruins is the highest temple discovered so far. You are still allowed to climb it. James, Maria & I did, but Sandra sat this one out.


I pull my "Sampson" impersonation, but even with the long beard I had no effect.




Coba is spread out along one of the major Mayan roads. Many rented bikes or hired bike taxis. Next time we would to.

December 25th, 2010 - Xmas Morning at El Cid Marina

Twas the morning of Xmas and all through the boat, not a creature was stirring...until I anounced "coffee & Baileys".





We enjoy a mid morning coffee and open presents with son James and his fiancee Maria. Sandra surprises me with a Roots watch. I had one for years that was the best, toughest watch I ever owned. It even survived a long stint in our chain locker under 300 feet of 3/8 inch chain and came out ticking.