In a posting here last week, we discussed the concerns some potential cruisers have about sailing in Mexican waters these days. Our main point in that and previous reports was that the info we’ve been receiving from many cruisers is that they feel much safer cruising Mexico than visiting urban areas of the U.S. We did, however, note that there has been some cartel-related violence in Zihuatanejo, Acapulco and Mazatlan.

That last comment drew some sharp rebuttals from long-time residents and business people in Mazatlan, so we invited them to share their first-hand perspectives with readers.

Mazatlan residents George and Jackie Krakie wrote: "We’ve been living as full-time residents of Mazatlan for the past six years, and we’re still loving our life here. My wife has been coming to Mazatlan since ’73. The people of Mazatlan are by far the friendliest, most helpful and caring people in Mexico. They go out of their way to help those in need. Mazatlecos are hard-working and most are honest and trustworthy.

"We have seen many changes over the years; some good, some not. The recent ‘gang’ violence in Mexico has impacted all who live here. It’s not the actual violence, it is the exaggerated negative publicity that has caused the tourist industry to virtually dry up. Without tourism, life is very difficult for the people who live here. There is no money. We live by the rules we made over the years as tourists ourselves. 1) Always be cognizant of activities around you; 2) Although the Plaza Machado and Golden Zone are relatively safe both day and night, be vigilant and travel in pairs, especially at night. 3) No walking on the beach at night as the policia are not able to protect you there.

"To all of you in the USA and Canada, do not be wary of coming to Mexico.  Mexico really has not changed all that much. The ‘gangs’ are only targeting each other — pretty much like in the cities throughout the U.S. We feel as safe — or even safer! — than we did living in the U.S. The big difference is the people! The Mexican people are gracious, kind, and caring. ¡Bienvenidos!  Welcome to Mazatlan and relax. Enjoy your time here. We sure do!"

Canadian cruisers Marni and Peter Siddons write: "Once again we are hearing that cruisers are being warned about coming to Mazatlan. Since we have been cruising in Mexico for five years, we have a pretty good idea of what life in this beautiful Mexican city is like. El Cid Marina is our home base because we believe it’s safe, not only from bad weather but from crime. The people in Mazatlan are friendly and extremely helpful to cruisers. Peter has spent a lot of time walking the streets in old town and the areas where cruisers can find boating supplies and equipment from small businesses that are not listed in the local marine guide. It does take some effort to find what you are looking for, but most things are available and the people you meet along the way are worth the walk. He has never been accosted or had any problems regarding safety.  Mazatlan is also an excellent place to have work done on your boat if you are not mechanical yourself.

"We obtain our FM3 permits here in Mazatlan which allows us to stay for a year at a time rather than just using a six-month permit. We have found the Mazatlan Immigration office to be the most efficient one we have utilized, and we have not used an agent — we’ve done the applications ourselves.

"The restaurants are wonderful and the cost of living is much less than at home. The old market downtown and the modern supermarkets such as Mega, Soriana, Sam’s Club, Walmart and Leys provide everything a cruiser could require and more. We take the bus to the market and the wonderful (open-air) pulmonia taxi cabs back to the marina for about $5.00 USD, so a car is not required.

"Mazatlan is an excellent city to use as a jumping off point for the Copper Canyon tour or for inter-city bus travel. The inter-city bus service from Mazatlan is excellent with high-end coaches offering comfortable seats, free movies and in some cases even snack service. Christmas in Mazatlan is not to be missed.  The Angela Peralta Theatre stages excellent musical and dance programs making the season truly special for cruisers and their visiting guests.

"In February, the carnival festivities are a must-see with the highlight being the parade. Thousands of people come out to see this event and we have never seen or experienced any problems. What we do see are many families having a fun time together. We, of course, use our heads and don’t invite trouble by flashing expensive jewelry or cash. Our nights out often involve dinner with friends at one of the great restaurants where we can listen to live music. On New Year’s Eve we generally go out to a place where we can dance and party, but most of our entertainment involves exploring the many shops and galleries in old town. The weekly Art Walk is great fun. Hopefully, our thoughts will encourage others to experience time in cruiser-friendly Mazatlan."

We thank these Mazatlan expats for their insights, and welcome other viewpoints as well.