Brakzand

Much to our surprise it is now clear that the rumoured new Dutch ferry which was supposed to commence a new service between the mainland and San Jose del Sur (a town 20mins closer to Totoco than the current arrival port) is a reality. The Brakzand (or newly named Rey de Cocibolca) will reportedly commence service within two months and marks a significant improvement to the island and Totoco´s accessibility. It is larger, faster and more luxurious than its competitors (that´s Roslyn & Co. on the top deck there by the way). Unfortunately it will not make the journey in the 25mins it is capable of making it but will instead spend an hour (like its competitors) in order to save on fuel costs. It is now also quite clear that some of the delay was purely political as it was unveiled just before the municipal elections which were held yesterday. Ironically the ploy doesn´t seem to have worked since the sandinistas (who were responsible for the purchase) appear to have lost.

Back on the project front we are pushing as hard as we can to finish the roofing structure on the main lodge which will allow us to start the kitchen service and at least offer clients private service on their patio. This past week we had a carpenter begin to install the windows and doors on the first lodge and its starting to look like something special.

The foundation and stemwall for the first cabana has now been completed and next will be the pillars. The roof will have to be completed on this cabana before the lightweight walls of the bedroom and patio can be started.