Public Discussion Forum

On the subject of taxes I can tell you that in San Diego County if you are in the county for more than 6 months they want property taxes. Approximately 1.15 % of appraised value. I understand from family, that in New England, if you are in a harbor for a season the authorities will come looking for you too.  Here in California I have been told that not all counties pursue the property tax issue. As far as the Pacific NW, the cruising is exceptional. I use to do some commercial fishing in Alaska. In late May we would move the boat from Anacortes Washington to Sitka Alaska. The inside passage I found was wonderful. There are remote stretches where you need to be self-sufficient. In the PNW you are fairly far North. By early May to mid September the sun is up early and in mid season it is up very early until very late. You are correct that the West Coast is not like the East Coast. There are stretches where weather permitting you will want to go to make miles. I will probably get in trouble with my next statement, but. As far as coming from Panama back to the US I would bypass Mexico if possible. I know people who have had problems with criminals and the police and they still go back. I know other people who won't go back to Mexico. As far as border crossings, it is manageable. 2 years ago in the RV I had an issue coming back into the US.  They took exception to the Admirals Orchid plant that we took North with us. they confiscated it. I have found that with immigration & customs that if you are pleasant and try to comply with the rules it will work out. They are good at spotting innocent mistakes from people who are trying to cheat.  On a more positive note I will add that San Diego is a nice city and the weather is very nild. It is a true Mediterranean climate. It is a nice place to spend the winter. Also, whatever marine services you could possibly need they can do here. Should you have more specific questions please feel free to reach out to me. 

Joe Cain Slene 4821 Highlander

I like the blue color. It seemed a little odd at first but it has grown on me. People ask about it. In a good way. I am familiar with the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Yes the water is gin clear. As far as taking the boat from SoCAl to the PNW There are different ideas I can share with you if you wish. I hope to make the trip next year. As they say around here, going NW is going uphill. A series of shorter hops is usually what people do. There is a group of trawlers that go to Cabo each year from San Diego. They have to come back, so I'm guessing they have it figured out. My topsides could use a paint job but Guatemala is a little too far for me. I might just have to bite the bullet and do it here. Let me know if I can be of any assistance. 

Best wishes

Joe Cain

Highlander 48-21

I've transited the west coast a half dozen times in both trawlers and sailboats (three times in a Selene). Happy to share specifics if anybody is interested.

Mark Tilden

Selene 60 "Koinonia"