We moored stern to in Bahia Marina this morning. We had quite a time getting moored because there was a cross wind, we were tired, and we do not speak Portuguese. Fortunately everything worked out okay largely because of a very helpful French boat next to us.

After the boat was moored, we went ashore in search of customs, immigration, and the port captain. We were informed by the marina and an off duty policeman that none of these officials would be in their offices until Wednesday after Carnival, but it would be okay for us to go ashore. Or at least this is what we think they told us, as language continues to be a barrier. Frankly, I am not sure how we would have figured anything out with out Julie's Spanish, which Portuguese speakers understand on a limited basis.

We took a taxi in to the Pelourinho district which has charming old buildings and cobblestone streets. We walked around the busy streets preparing for the Carnival festivities beginning in the afternoon. Soon we found a restaurant that looked good and we had sun dried beef and fish moqueca. It was wonderful!

Later we found the elevator that connects the Pelourinho, which is on a hill, to the Comercio, which is adjacent to the waterfront and in walking distance to the Bahia Marina. We also checked out the Centro Nautico public marina, which looked like another viable option and more economical but less secure. As we walked around the Comercio, the Carnival processions were just getting started and there were many costumed men in drag wreaking havoc.

We got back to the boat and planned to head back out to the Pelourinho to watch the Carnival parades. Unfortunately it began to rain and our lack of sleep caught up to us, so we decided to call it an early night and join Carnival the following night.