A brand new facility opened up in Valencia last year, Marina Real Juan Carlos I. They offer very attractive discounts for long term storage of your yacht. Valencia lies 95 nm NW of Ibiza…just out of range for a day sail. Big winds are in the forecast for a few days however a nice weather window for the 20 hr passage was available to us. First third was to be calm, and it really was. The middle third of the passage was to 10-15 S but turned out to be 20 knots SE – what a rockin’ fast sail with just the genoa. This put us into Valencia way too early. The last third unfolded as predicted – a 10 knot north breeze. Even slowing the boat right down to 2-3 knots we still arrived at the marina at 4 am. The moon was very bright and there were lots of lights in the harbour complex so using slow speeds and the radar we conned our way into the marina to lay alongside the fuel dock. Everyone headed for their bunk for some much needed sleep, so much easier in a berth that is not pitching and rolling.
Which brings me to Nick. His first time on a sailing vessel and his first overnight passage. Big following seas that for most folks will produce the dreaded Mal de Mer. No sign of the seasickness for Nick however. Even ate a hearty meal and stood his watch like a seasoned sailor.
Marina Real a bustling place. Lots of boats, a bike path and numerous cafes. A short tram/subway ride to the city centre and an easy connection for the upcoming crew change.

Marina Real Juan Carlos I
39 27’73’N, 00 18’59” W