Freya & Us

11/9 Day 1 - Arrived in Olbia by Easyjet and Paul and Lorraine picked us up in hire car and drove across to Castelsardo to meet Freya at about 17-00. Very excited . Had a tour around Freya and Marina and already feel at home. Bus from marina took us to Castelsardo and we explored the old part of the town near the castle which dates to 1,100. Amazing scenery overlooking the harbour and cobbled steep streets with quirky shops mostly selling expensive coral jewellery. We found a restaurant which had a table not leaning too far on the cobbles. We all enjoyed a fish meal and were entertained by the waiters and chef all shouting at each other loudly due to mistake on next table. It was hilarious. We walked back to the marina, had a glass of wine on deck and discussed our plans for first day. Then we looked at the weather forecast which was predicting +25 kt winds so we decided to see what tomorrow brings.

12/9 Day 2 - Too windy to sail today. We walked to the beach along the road on the top of the cliff and with a good view into the marina. The walkway along the cliff was partially blocked so we climbed over the barrier between the path and the road. After about a quarter mile I made a very ungainly clamber across a high rusty barricade while Lorraine Paul and Dave got over with ease. We then realised that the cliff had fallen away and we were walking on air! That was why the barriers were there ! Had a yummy ice cream on the way back and then walked into the town for a pizza. Tomorrow we are sailing to Isola Rossa.

13/9 Day 3 - Yes the wind has died down. We set out for Isola Rossa. Motor sailed cos not much wind. Two hour pleasant journey but no dolphins. Anchored in bay for first swim in Sardinia then a lunch of mozzarella cheese and tomatoes very delicious. We are now in marina next to the beach and we are drinking Spanish cava (sorry I mean the finest French champagne)!

14-15/9 Days 4 & 5 - Weather good so set sail for Santa Teresa Di Gallura which would take about 6 hours. Lovely sail but half way there due to a change in wind direction we changed plan and sailed to Bonifacio in Corsica instead. The entrance to the harbour was dramatic with high white cliffs with an imposing castle and medieval buildings clinging on top of the cliffs. The marina was very crowded with narrow berths but Lorraine skilfully manoeuvred in perfectly. There were restaurants and bars all round the marina and we had a typical French meal of moule frites which was delicious. We decided to stay for another night. We explored the castle walls walkway with spectacular views and we walked along the cliff paths and then through the town which was very busy with throngs of people and lots of shops and bars and cafés. We ate on board and enjoyed a relaxed evening.

16/9 Day 6 - Up early this morning to help our large neighbour leave the berth so we also left early before we were hemmed in again. Lorraine steered easily through the confined spaces and made a smooth exit through the marina and we headed for a small group of islands Ile Lavezzi for lunch and a swim. However we decided to carry on because the bay was crowded with yachts. We arrived in Santa Teresa di Gallura in time for lunch. Plenty of room in marina with large spaces between pontoons. Very good showers and the wi fi works. So all good and we are having such an amazing time.

Click here for the interactive map of our travels