On Toward the Algarve

We needed to move South so headed for Sines departing at about 8.30am. Malcolm had to depart so we were now 5. Mark had got up early to visit the fish market and bought very fresh Tuna and prawns and Jon bread and Portuguese tarts. 

We had met a Frenchman who had been attacked by 3 Orcas near Sines so we decided to hug the coast as best we could to minimise the risk. It was a beautiful day with warm sunshine and a good breeze.

 Hugging the coast was actually very interesting as you can view the beaches, villages and towns and the different cliff formations with assorted colours, browns, yellow, terracotta and a mix of them all. We passed the towns of Sessimbra and Setubal. During the day we had some cracking fast sailing - reaching 11.2 kts at one stage. Due to the  cliffs it was sometimes a bit fickle and changed direction. Despite this it was some of the best sailing we have had all trip.

 We arrived at Sines ay about 7.45 pm (72.25 nm) after a long day and anchored in its little harbour to the sound of a music concert. We had delicious Tuna sashimi with ginger and soy sauce to start, tuna steaks with prawns and butternut squash followed by tarts and then cheese. A great meal after a lovely day. Thank you Stormbird for being up for it and showing us how great you sail.