← All guides
Pacific Puddle Jump Services Guide
The Puddle Jump from Mexico to the Marquesas is one of cruising's signature passages — 18–30 days non-stop across the largest ocean on Earth. Preparation is everything, and Puerto Vallarta and La Paz have evolved into the main staging ports. Both cluster cruisers preparing for the same passage at the same time, which produces a strong support community.
Staging hubs
| Hub | Notes |
|---|---|
| Puerto Vallarta (La Cruz, Paradise Village) | Largest Puddle Jump community; strong trades |
| La Paz | Sea of Cortez departure base; quieter community |
| Galapagos (optional stop) | Requires agent, hull cleaning, paperwork |
| Panama (Las Perlas departure) | For Panama Canal arrivals |
Pre-departure tasks
- Rigging inspection (mandatory before any ocean passage)
- Sail repair / spare sails verified
- Watermaker fully serviced
- Refrigeration condenser cleaned, system verified
- Solar / wind / battery system tested at full load
- EPIRB battery, liferaft current, ditch bag stocked
- Starlink / Iridium tested
- Provisioning — 45–60 days food + significant water buffer
- Fuel polished if old
- Engine service complete
- Insurance ocean-crossing endorsement
Frequently asked questions
Timing?
Mid-March to early May. Crossing 18–30 days.
Where to stage?
Puerto Vallarta or La Paz primarily.
Services?
Full Mexican-priced cruiser services available.
Provisioning?
Excellent. Stock 45–60 days.
Galapagos stop?
Optional, requires permits. Many skip to avoid paperwork.