22:56.98 S, 044:23.64 W

 

We motored the 15 miles or so to the marina which was recommended to us as a place to leave the boat for a couple of months, arriving at early lunchtime so anchored off for a last swim in clean water. On the way here we caught some fish, a sort of mackerel, so dinner should be assured but we are running down our stores as all perishables need to be used up or thrown away this week.

 

After some confusion on VHF (the marina used a word for berth or mooring which James didn't know and wasn't in the dictionary, but which means parking slot) they were very welcoming and sent a marinero in a rib to show us where to go which turns out to be just outside the office and security guard's post. This makes us a little on display while aboard but should be very good while we're away. Next to explain to the marina receptionist what we wanted. The berth, even for several months, was no issue but a more senior person had to take care of the contract, writing a formal letter to the customs on our behalf setting out that they would take charge of the boat in our absence.

 

That contract in hand, we had to take it to the local town about 45 minutes bus ride away and first to a notary's office to have it duly stamped (for a modest fee) and then to the port captain's office. This took ages to find as nobody we asked had any idea and it was a little way from the port but eventually all was well. The port captain is a branch of the navy and always polite and efficient, although the officer explained that as far as the navy are concerned they really don't need such paperwork. We agreed that it was all for the good of the customs, to whom we went next. However the part of that office we had to see was shut. But when James went back at the time it said on the door the whole building was shut for the day. Ho hum, we had a good lunch anyway and caught the bus back. Next morning James took the bus back to Angra dos Reis and visited the customs, successfully this time and all paperwork is now complete. The boat can stay here as long as 2 years.

 

Another thing to organise is someone who will open up the boat every week or so and give it an airing, brush cushions etc and get a diver to scrub the hull every month. As Brazil is currently having a bit of a heat-wave this is essential to keep the boat fresh. Very kindly we have been taken in hand by two residents here, one who runs the bar and has contacts all over and by another yachtsman who has just bought a yacht to go off round the world following his imminent retirement from a senior rank in the army. Both extremely welcoming and have found someone for us to look after the boat: we are to meet them all in a couple of hours to arrange details.

 

The marina itself resembles the one we have stayed at in Dunstaffnage, near Oban. It's quite a long way from anywhere mainstream, it's quiet with a small restaurant attached, very clean and tidy with mown lawns and gardens, and is surrounded by mountainous country.

 

Birds fishing on the way over to the marina

 

Bracuhy Marina

 

Fishing boats in Angra dos Reis

 

Cabin temperature; it’s a bit too hot!!