We planned our arrival after the last of the ARC Atlantic Rally boats had left leaving the rest of us with some space. Even though, there were still a lot of boats in the marina and in the adjacent anchorage where stern flags of countries from all over flew.
Swinging room was a concern because the anchorage was relatively deep, and in the calm, we couldn't determine where anchors lay. So we found a nice protected spot in behind the breakwater where we dropped the hook then ran a stern line to a large boulder on the breakwater, keeping us nice and secure in one spot (N28°07.788' W015°25.503').
On shore, we found lots of well equipped shops and services catering to the mariners, local, and transient alike. As you may have noticed in previous photos, our faded and patched sail cover told the tale of years of weather and wear. So we took advantage of the services of a sail loft here that did a quick job making a new one for us. It turned out great and looks so much better!
Spiffy cover
Jordan spent some time repairing the toe rail after our disastrous encounter with the Beast (fishboat) back at the end of November (see posting entitled Beauty and the Beast). Excellent job - can't even tell now!
Battered toe rail and bent chainplates
Beauty restored
We spent a day on a mountainous road trip of the island with a rental car. With map in hand, we traversed the numerous winding mountain roads through sleepy peaceful villages. Jordan was in his glory hitting the curves.
Small portion of the map
A Shangri-La setting
A cute village
Three famous landmarks include the La Fortaleza - a fortress - the last holdout where the Canarian aborigines eventually surrendered to invaders way back in 1483. This imposing natural structure can be hiked through.
La Fortaleza
Another, the Roque Nublo at 1,813 m was created 4.5 million years ago by volcanic eruption and the "hardening off of burning clouds following its formation and latter cooling off".
Roque Nublo
And finally the Pico de las Nieves where we made it all the way up to what is claimed as the highest point of the island at 1,949 m for amazing views of the roads and villages far below. Or is it the second highest as others claim?
Pico de las Nieves
Our next destination is the Cape Verde Islands, 800 nautical miles to the southwest where we expect to spend about a week before departing on our crossing of the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean. We have been experimenting with our Garmin InReach Explorer+, a relatively new product and service that allows us to communicate during the passage and have family and friends watch our progress. We are leaving December 11th from Gran Canaria.
By clicking on the website URL...
https://us0-share.inreach.garmin.com/seaturtleiv
...you can check our voyage. Don't forget to zoom in.
1 comment:
We will be tracking you and wishing a wonderful crossing for you!
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