Povoa de Varzim to Figueira da Foz

Its 8 in the evening and we are settled on the Club Nautico in Figueira da Foz. Position 40 degrees 8 mins North, 8 degrees 51 mins West.

We have had a cracking day today. The weather was a bit dull overcast and sultry as we prepared to depart for Figueira da Foz. Just as we were about to leave one of the other crew members from another boat Cark Walker,  asked if he could “jump ship” and join us for this leg. We happily agreed, and Carl’s kit was stowed aboard, then we cast off. Having an extra crew member was a real bonus, and we decided to make the most of  it. So for the first time to date we decided to get right to the start line at the beginning of this leg and “go for it”. Much to our amazement we were first over the, line after the motor sailer “Barkus”.

We then had a brilliant sail,  until the wind died (again) at around 12 noon. So it was on with the engine, and out with the fishing lines. Well anything for a laugh. We also decided to prepare an early lunch of salmon salad. As we were having lunch in the sun, the wind started to pick up. We also noticed that Grateful Parrot had erected her Cruising Chute. So it was a rapid job to finish lunch, then get the fishing lines in. At this point I have to report that our untarnished record was blemished, and I caught a mackerel. Regrettably it was too small to keep so it was returned to the sea to grow some more.

Then with the help of Carl. We dragged the Cruising chute out of the bowels of the forepeak, and after some adjustments to the rig, up she went. What a magnificent sight!! The boat just flew along and we rocketed along for  the best part of two and a half hours. Then the weather took a turn for the worst and it was down with the Chute and motor sail to our destination.

It was a great day. Good crack and a good sail.

Now its off to the Sardine barbeque……………………………….