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.