Friday 23^rd August 2013

Up at 08:30 to strip the engine cooling system. No blockage at the usual place, but I found the problem at the entrance to the gear box oil cooler, well blocked with small bits of weed. I also found that the engine air filter casing had broken its spot welds and was flailing around. I fixed that with a drill and couple of small bolts. Everything back together by lunch time. No joy with the lift here at Puerto Sherry, they want 400 euro plus labour plus IVA to even think about lifting her. The prop will have to wait. Set off for Puerto America (Cadiz), stopping for a quick dive around the prop on the way.

Sailing is a very intensive business. Up at 10.00, a bit of breakfast, some tea, think about moving to another marina. Cast off and sail mindlessly for 10 hours and moor at the other marina by about 7.00p.m. and then have a sundowner and off to a restaurant for a fish engorgement. I don't know if we can keep this up? The Captain had to be keel hauled today. I have pictures to prove it! Wearing only a vest and pants he disappeared beneath the boat, only to emerge with word of barnacles on the NEW prop. Average speed has slowed to about 5 knots. It could take us another year to arrive at the final destination. RA JAX

Saturday 24^th August 2013

Spent the day walking the old quarter of Cadiz. Very overcast, South Westerly F4.

Cadiz was a disappointment! No pointy metal hats or Spanish Inquisition. Had a bit of a 'to-do' with some upperty cameraros. Everything comes with Tuna, even the ice cream. When we demanded wine without 'sin' Tuna, there was uproar. They haven't been asked for that since 1563.