Ramming speed: One way to barge in on Ambergris Caye, Belize

Backing up for a full-throttle run through the shallows and s bludgeoning impact with the landing site. That’s just how you get things done.

The early morning stillness crumbled beneath the blatting, wheezing, rumbling, cries of frustration from diesel engines as the tug helplessly shouldered the sand-banked barge laden with building supplies.

It wouldn’t budge, not one inch toward the Tabony lot landing.

Shallow waters and low tide conspired to thwart the mission. This was no storybook “I think I can” tale. This big muscular engine couldn’t. Let’s face it, rail traction is so much better than water.

The sound of grunting, frustrated diesel engines is such a sad one. These things are meant to push tonnage effortlessly across the seas. But to be tripped up by a pile of sand? Embarrassing.

What’s a barge captain to do?

Back her up to deeper, bluer water. Set the throttle to ramming speed. And full-tilt forward, God save the queen.

The barge, pointed true toward the landing site, picked up speed and didn’t slow a bit until the resounding “Ka-thunk!” of contact resonated far up the beach.

That’s how things get done in Belize, bro.

There are many sides to morning here on Ambergris Caye. Especially in these days of extremely low tides, soft breezes, cool air, and the solar-infused canvases, the rotating retrospective exhibition of favorite cloud formations.

Here are some snaps from our walks up the beach during the past few days.

Morning on Ambergris Caye, Belize.

Morning on Ambergris Caye, Belize.

 A golden morning on Ambergris Caye, Belize.

Low tide creates moonscapes across the shore in early-morning on Ambergris Caye, Belize.

My personal favorite and a recent Facebook favorite! The light was exceptional the other morning, a shimmering gold hue enveloped everything. There is a purity to the early mornings that I have not felt before. We are indeed fortunate to receive this gift from Nature.

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