[WHOOSH]

Rumbo:

When we were cruising off VZ last year, the issue that challenged most cruisers was how to work within - or despite - the clearance and fees rules. If you''re clearing out of VZ and passing the Roques enroute westward, your papers will only entitle you to a short stop in the Roques (provided you are found; provided the rules haven''t changed) and they will expect you to pay the full 14-day fees even tho'' you can''t stay. (Again, this is dated info...). Some recommend entering at the SE corner thru the reef, taking your time working N to the area where the HQ and offices are, checking there if you haven''t already been challenged by staff in one of the work boats, and then taking your time as you depart W for the Aves, as scrutiny is less in the more remote, western cays.

There are many, many anchorages to choose from. Your draft should not present a problem. Assume that Bonaire is your next provisioning stop after VZ (if you''re continuing westward).

Jack