by Rod Hughes
In one of the most under-promoted events in this country, 50 boats ranging from oar-powered parangasto fishing boats and even a ferry participated in the annual honoring of the Virgen del Carmen, or Virgin of the Sea yesterday in the Gulf of Nicoya off the Pacific port of Puntarenas.
Although this Roman Catholic celebration is heavily touted for international tourists in the Mediterranean islands, here it passes nearly unnoticed to all but a few locals and, of course, to residents of or near Puntarenas.
A different vessel is chosen each year for the honor of carrying the image of the Virgin Mary on its prow during the procession. The boats are decorated with colored balloons and other adornments and most often are crammed to the gunwales with family and friends.
The event has had special significance for Puntarenas since 1913 when legend has it that the Virgin saved the lives of the crew of the foundering fishing boat El Galileo based in that port during a storm off Punta Guiones. In the early afternoon, a priest blessed the assembled vessels.