Sadly there was no wind on Sunday, so having topped up the extra fuel canisters, we motored the 25 miles around the Rock of Gibraltar and along the south coast of Spain to Estepona marina where we had booked for a night's stay. Being Sunday, it was incredibly busy at the marina, but after a short delay we were onto the waiting berth; Simon and Nigel took the boat papers and passports ashore and we were then quickly directed to our berth (stern too on the quay - Med Mooring it’s called). 

There were numerous tripper boats coming and going, but it soon quietened down. After a meal on board we ventured ashore to the marina complex (think Port Solent on steroids for those who know it!), had a quick wander about to get our bearings, then chose a bar for drinks…. Catherine and I went very retro with a Tia Maria and a Baileys🤣. 

We agreed that as the guide books all suggested that the “ Old Town” of Estepona was worth visiting we would prolong our stay by 24 hours. So on Monday, we walked the 20 minutes to the Old Town, which was indeed very pretty; perfect whitewashed houses, beautiful flower boxes and an historic vibe. Much of the area seemed local residential, unlike the marina area which was crowded with hotels, guesthouses, bars and restaurants.
We had a coffee and watched the world go by, split up to explore for an hour or so, and agreed to meet again for Tapas lunch…… it was delicious and accompanied by much needed cold drinks.

A wander back to Cassini, dinner aboard and a peaceful night.

Tuesday morning, after breakfast, shopping, Ninja cooking (chicken) and some washing, we said goodbye to Estepona and set off for Marbella where we hoped to find a spot to anchor.

It was only 15 miles, again no wind, so the trusty diesel did the job again!

We are now anchored off the main beach at Marbella. Currently we are being constantly circled by jet skis , pedallos, parascenders, paddle boarders, planes and helicopters overhead, but we are keeping everything crossed that once the “tourists” feel the need to return to their all-inclusive buffet hotels for cocktails it will quieten down and we will get a peaceful evening.

Sally