We set sail from Cadiz on Sunday, 16th and had another good sail to Gibraltar.

 

We passed several important landmarks on the way, the Cape of Trafalgar probably being the most significant.  We also passed Tarifa, the most southerly point of mainland Europe; the mountains in north Africa briefly revealed themselves through the mist before the ethereal ‘Rock of Gibraltar’ came into view.  (See the photos)

 

We have had a problem with Finnrose’s hydraulic steering since we set off and it has gradually been getting worse.  We have decided to make the repairs whilst we are here in Gib.  We are using the services of Sheppard’s boatyard – a very competent yard and, of course, English speaking.  Looks like we are going to be here a couple of weeks.

 

Gibraltar is a strange, but rather familiar, place.  It is more English than England.  Even a Morrisons supermarket here that is every bit a replica of the one in Preston, including the stock – British bacon and meat and potato pies!  The territory of Gibraltar is tiny, no more than a small town on the side of a huge rock.  It is such an idiosyncratic place, but a welcome bit of the homeland across the sea, and a most welcome place to stock up on the goodies and the duty-free fuel, cigs, and booze.