Captain’s Log - DISPATCH 005 – cNAMMs Expedition, R/V Robert Gray

Renaming Ceremony & Transit to Panama City

25 February 2025
Steaming toward Panama City, Panama

Lat/Long: 8°27'43"N / 80°18'36"W
Conditions: Few clouds, wind 5–8 mph
Low: 77°F     High: 87°F     Humidity: 68%

The Voyagers CLUB UPDATE

After a few days in Bahia Potrero, Costa Rica, the R/V Robert Gray departed Flamingo Marina with a full crew and new fellowship members. Before leaving, Captain Davis led a renaming ceremony to officially restore the ship’s original name, "Robert Gray."

Current Status & Next Steps

In keeping with maritime tradition, Poseidon was asked to strike the ship’s previous name from the records and bless her future journeys. The ceremony had been on hold until all owners and executive officers could be present—a meaningful moment that linked our mission with the vessel’s storied past.

Following the ceremony, we cleared Costa Rican customs and made our way southeast to Collection Site No. 004. A quick hull zinc inspection via Hookah dive setup kicked off the run toward Panama City. Though we expected rough conditions, the first night at sea was calm and still. We passed the time on deck, scanning for sea life—turtles, swordfish, dolphins, and even flying fish.

A strong wind arrived the following night, pushing seas high over the bow and causing a sleepless, wet ride through the darkness. A new plankton microscope helped reenergize the science crew, and spirits remained high as we pressed on.

Collection 004 was a success, and we continued toward the Panama Canal. Having entered Panamanian waters, we began coordinating our canal crossing. Photos from this phase of the expedition will be included in upcoming dispatches.

This leg of the expedition also included the honor of flying The Adventurers’ Club of Los Angeles Flag #129. The Voyagers Club is proud to carry this historic symbol of off-the-beaten-path exploration. The ACLA has deep roots going back to 1912, with a tradition of adventurers, scientists, authors, and explorers documenting their expeditions and sharing knowledge for the greater good.

We invite you to learn more about their history at www.adventurersclub.org.

We're proud to also fly the flags of The Explorers Club, GAC, and Voyagers Club alongside ACLA Flag #129.

Follow our journey @thevoyagersclubllc and stay tuned for future updates as we prepare to transit the Panama Canal and continue our North American circumnavigation.

Forward Together.

For more info, check out The Gentlemens Adventure Club cNAMMs Dispatch here.