Our arrival at Green Island marked a milestone in our journey—it became our anchorage for over two weeks as we paused due to very sad family circumstances: my father passed away in Kyiv, and I went to Ukraine for the funeral. Iryna was staying on the anchored sailboat, taking care of its safety.
Green Island, true to its name, is blanketed in thick vegetation, mostly swaying palm trees that line its sandy shores. A small group of young Guna Yala locals operates a rustic camp here, renting tents to backpacker tourists and bringing a touch of community life to this otherwise remote paradise. The island’s plentiful coconut palms became a natural bonus, allowing us to supplement our diet with fresh coconut meat and milk, which are rich in nutrients and, let’s be honest, pure tropical joy.
Anchored off this lush island, we found ourselves surrounded by a flotilla of sailboats and catamarans for the first time in a while. After the solitude of previous anchorages, we were suddenly back in the vibrant buzz of dinghies zipping around and lively conversations with fellow cruisers. What really stood out, though, was the sense of camaraderie among sailors. Families with young children gathered on the beach, sharing stories and laughter in the shade of the palms, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
This stop also marked our first proper encounter with coral reefs. Accessing them wasn’t easy—breaking waves over the shallow reef demanded careful timing and navigation—but the reward was worth it: crystal-clear water, vibrant corals, and a chance to reconnect with the underwater world.
Green Island may have been an unplanned pause, but it became a chapter of connection, community, and quiet beauty.
