June 4, 2020 - Puerto Madero and the Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit crisis

June 4 – The day starts with a crisis regarding the TIP (Temporary vehicle Importation Permit).
A Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit or TIP is a permit that allows non-Mexican citizens to take a vehicle across the border into Mexico from other countries, such as the US and Canada. It is required for areas outside the free or border zone. A TIP can ONLY be obtained through Mexico's Banjercito government agency.
We first find that there are two outstanding TIPS, but one appears to have expired.   However, the second one is still active and assigned to Leela – and we need a copy of the TIP to cancel so we can be issued a new TIP.  Fortunately, Fito at Marina Coral, in Ensenada, keeps records and after a bit of searching finds the TIP associated with Leela and e-mails a copy!  
Unfortunately, the custom officials want a better copy of the TIP, want to validate the HIN, and want the owner of the TIP to allow the continued use of the existing TIP.  Fortunately, Fito is able to search through his paper records and produce a better copy.  And the TIP owner is JOHN RAINS!!  Hallelujah!! 

   

Next, is getting Dennis and Niki to the airport: TAP-MEX-LAX.  But after a month on the boat the first accident occurs as Niki stumbles at the harbor master office.  Scrapped knee and possible broken toe.  Dennis to the rescue with a wheelchair and crutches.


Next are the departure inspection officers checking for the special permit from the Port Captain authorizing departure.  Unfortunately, the Port Captain closes the port for departure due to weather.

Positive events - I think we have a guardian angel:
  • John Rains was the Captain on the prior TIP and could provide authorization for Raven
  • The prior, active, TIP was located enabling import of Raven
  • Successfully made it around three tropical depressions
  • Lightening strike within one boat length of Raven - no damage
  • Nikolay and Camo are able to do a repair as John Captains the boat
  • Re-fueling was looking grim - thanks to the canal agent we are able to get fuel at Shelter Bay
  • Avoided pirates off Nicaragua - possibly the sea state help to discourage any nearby pangas
  • Geary and Lois make the right choice to step off 
  • We were able to find a harbor where we could stop and evaluate the boat and crew
Location: Port Chiapas, Chis., Mexico

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