Had a lazy start and enjoyed a little more time in Cascais before leaving just after lunch. We actually had quite a good sail despite a light wind at the start. That was to be the pattern for this trip. It was part engine and part sailing. The journey as a result took a bit longer than planned and we ended up having no time in SINES. The entry to the anchorage proved interesting as it was pitch black when we got to the breakwater. We were hassled by a coastal vessel on the way in and John at one point was too busy looking behind to check out what was ahead. Anyway we dropped anchor and settled to tea about 10.30 p.m. (getting into the new dietary routine) with a background party in full swing on the shore. We had a visit from the GNR but we didn’t have the usual formalities to complete. At least these ones spoke which is more than could be said for those who buzzed us off Perniche in the middle of the night.
Apparently it was the build up to their annual festival of the sea. We were crooned to sleep by a would be dolly parton whose basic 4 bar rhythm never changed but speeded or slowed depending on what was required. The dancing appeared to be going at breakneck speed and would challenge a strip the willow any day. Unfortunately, despite the fact that this was the home of Vasco De Gama and the guide book said there was lots to do we were on a mission and had to leave early so never got ashore.
Next stage was to get to Lagos
Lagos: 37 065.8 08.37.0
Another long day but an interesting one. We had a visit from some dolphins who treated us to a display of acrobatics for a while. We were under engine much to the guys disappointment. A couple of us noticed that things were looking a bit foggy. Within a few minutes we were plunged into thick fog. It lasted for over 4 hours and was a little disconcerting, not having radar, as we knew there were boats just ahead of us. John and I had been extolling how beautiful the coastline was and we saw diddlely spit of it. Cape St Vincente was close but we weren’t quite sure how close. Then we heard the fog horn getting louder and louder ( it was a disappointing high toot not like Adrnamurchan). Still couldn’t see the guiding lights. John decided we must have been about round the headland and altered course.
The timing was perfect as we thought we had rounded the Cape the fog began to lift and we were treated to a wonderful view of an inversion of fog round the cap of the lighthouse. The coastline was suddenly clear (thank goodness) and we had a beautiful motor sail into Lagos. It is strange how after 4/5 hours of staring intently into the mist, imagining all sorts of shage looming up at you. Eyes getting weary etc that within a few minutes of it clearing you kinda forget about it. Everyone heaved had heaved a sigh of relief and relaxed.
Entry into Lagos was interesting. It is a huge marina and has a few awards for the services it provides. Thus makingit also the most expensive one in these parts (60 euros a night). A friend keeps his boat here and apparently it is cheaper to lift it out whilst not using it than to keep it in the water! Anyway we only stayed the one night. Doug and Dorothy took in the sights – John and I found a bar ( free internet)!
We had a meal in a Swiss restuarant called Un Vaca – to be avoided! Never eaten macaroni and cheese like it!
Anyway next afternoon we headed towards Alvor. Last time we saw it it was a tiny little fishing village (30 years ago) Now it is built up and sports a golf course with another one in the making. We dropped the anchor in the bay which dries to 1.0 metre at low water. Spent 2 lovely days just having some r and r before Doug and Dorothy leave us. The Sunday was like Brands Hatch as speed boats, sail boats, jet skis and water skiers all had fun. Going for a swim was not an option until after 7.00 p.m. as then we only had to duck for the fishing boats. Anyway it was great and it felt like a bit of a holiday.
Later on Monday we headed in to Portimao in order to give Doug and Dorothy time to get organised to leave. The place is jumping as the Audi Med Cup is on. Some big names racing and lots of sponsorship hospitality to boot. As we were having a leisure drift toward Portimao we found ourselves on their impromtu start line. Doug and John were wanting to go closer and others in the company were doing their usual . Those of you from LVSC will know “You’re getting to close, will you watch out” – “For goodness sake woman – they are miles away” – “No their not” etc etc. Anyway it was fun.
Showers and a wander round the boats left poor Doug with a dog bite. All a bit upsetting. One of the boats had 4 little terriers on board and one took a dislike to Doug. Fortunately he seems to be none the worse of it but worrying nonetheless.
Pizza and sangria were the order of the night – alas we couldn’t manage the fab heladarias.
Hasta luego amigos: So sad to see them go but have had great fun with Doug and Dorothy.
Wednesday.
Still here as we now have a wee problem with the anchor!!!!
