We’d planned a “field trip” to Cancun.  I wanted to do a run to Walmart, and gather things that I haven’t been able to find here. We’d also been given the name of a place who could look at our alternator, so our agenda was set.

Until, that is, Scott noticed our refrigerator temperature was warm. He checked the compressor, and found that it was locked up. After trying a few things to get it to turn over, Scott “condemned” it, and we now need to replace it. Luckily, we have a 110 volt holding plate back up system (that runs when the generator is on), so we’re not completely dead in the water. With a recommendation from a cruiser, we added a marine store to our list of Cancun stops.

We boarded the ferry, and headed off on our 20 minute ride to Cancun. Of course, we have to sit outside, and in the front seat…where you catch wave spray.

Our boat at anchor is visible from the ferry terminal here in Isla.

We arrived in Puerto Juarez, which is just minutes from Cancun. This terminal  is the main hub for people traveling to and from Isla Mujeres. Toursits, locals and workers all use this ferry. The stern end is always loaded down with luggage and supplies for the island. It can be a real zoo in the afternoons.

We hailed a cab, and made our first stop to drop off our alternator for repair. Scott had a letter he’d translated into Spanish, as to what was wrong, which made things go quickly and smoothly. They agreed to check it over and email us.

Our next stop was to the marine store, Servimar, to ask about a compressor. It seems to be the West Marine of the area.

Luckily, a man behind the counter spoke great English. He helped Scott find the parts in a catalog, and told us that he’d call his rep and then email us with a cost. If he can get the part, shipping will take two weeks. He charges a percentage, and tax here is 16%, so it won’t be a cheap fix, as in, there goes a month of cruising!

Our last, and most exciting stop for me, was to Walmart. Happily, we found a McDonald’s inside, and stopped for some much missed fast food! Ordering was a bit challenging. They still had the breakfast menu up, and we had to struggle through with the girl behind the counter for our lunch order. She got the manager involved, who quickly knew what we wanted. As we were paying, he changed the sign to lunch items..

We cased the entire Walmart, skipping the stove and refrigerator aisles. We loaded up our two rolling duffel bags with snacks, canned goods, meats (pork loin), cheese (all we get on Isla are various kinds of manchego) and other special things that we can’t find in Isla Mujeres…like chocolate chips!

We arrived at the ferry terminal loaded down with our duffel bags in tow, a large soft-sided cooler over a shoulder full of cold things and a backpack full of crushable stuff. Everything but the backpack went onto the back of the ferry, with all of the other luggage and supplies for the island (which included cases and cases of alcohol). We traveled home, to unload our loot…a dry ride this time.

“Shells Sink, Dreams Float. Life’s Good On Our Boat!”