Povoa de Varsim
Cat-man-do
Wed 13 Jun 2007 12:42
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Left Bayona yesterday to be virtually first across
the delayed start. In the company of a an absolutely stunning yacht by the name
of Bontekoning, not on the rally but probably about 80 ft long or so. She put up
her rather large sails and headed off West. Maybe she knew something we didn't
and we should have followed suit. We turned South after rounding the headland in
Bayona and straight into 19 knots of wind bang on the nose. Sailing, unless we
wanted to head half way to America first was out of the question, so motors on
and off we went. Some yachts headed West to try and take advantage of the
Westerly's that were forecast later in the day. Things weren't looking exactly
bright......then it started raining.
The waterproofs which had been carefully hung away
after Biscay were brought out, and we may as well have been sailing in Morecambe
Bay (though from what we hear we'd have been better off there) At least we were
in good company and everyone was in the same boat. It had a feeling of Mother
Duck at times, with us heading a line of 5 yachts, all heading the same
direction. The generally organised appearance only be spoiled on occasion by the
regular swerving in and out of the huge number of Lobster pots dotted around the
area. Sailing (well ok, motoring) towards our next port and it appeared out of
the gloom like an apparition from Mad Max, a sprawling concrete jungle, not the
best first impression. The marina itself did little improve the situation,
situated behind a large concrete breakwater, in front of, yes you've guessed it,
more concrete buildings.
As night fell, the general scene was much
brightened by the large neon signs declaring the building opposite as the local
Casino. Just like Blackpool but not as pretty. The usual cans and odd measure of
Scotch followed before heading off to bed.
The following day, and we awake to the wind howling
through the rigging, not to worry, it'll get better. It didn't. It then started
to rain. If you like sitting in a damp, soggy concrete jungle, this may just be
the place for you.
General feeling of the fleet seems to be that this
isn't somewhere high on the list of places to re-visit.
Here till Friday, we'll see what the weather
brings. The forecast is........worse.
Take care out there
The Cat Crew.
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