Greetings from Africa: Arrival in Bizerte, Tunisia

Pyxis
Karen & Richard
Sat 18 Apr 2009 21:38

Saturday 18th April – Greetings from Africa:  Arrival in Bizerte, Tunisia

37:16.424N 9:52.819E

 

We had a great sail over and arrived safely this morning.

 

Over the night the wind came onto a broad reach and finally right behind us; eventually, by the time we had reached the TSS area just off the Tunisian coast, with light winds astern it was time to motor on.  Although we were outside of the TSS, crossing the shipping lanes was a bit like being back in the English Channel with ships all around. 

 

As we ran into Bizerte the wind started to build back to F4/5 and we were pleased to be moored up as it looked like rain was on the way.  Otwin and Rosi came in about an hour later but the wind had whipped up to F6-7 as they rounded the last cape – definitely not forecast and fortunately a little less in the harbour for them.   Once in we were duly visited by immigration and customs on board – definitely an experience, but all OK.

 

This afternoon, after some rain, the sun came out and we have been for a walk around Bizerte with Rosi and Otwin.  As they were here last year they were able to give us a guided tour of the market which occupies most of town; really worth a visit – non-touristy and lots of fresh fish, meat, fruit and vegetables – and the prices are good too J  

 

On the way back to the marina we called at a local tea house and had a local peppermint tea which is also very good – this is a non tourist area and we had to choose one that women are allowed into as there are many that are men-only.

 

Once back at the marina, Otwin and Richard went to see the harbour master and they were invited to take coffee with him.  This evening, we have had dinner aboard and fallen asleep early – tired after our passage.