Now anchored in the beautiful bay of Cascais. Weather has been fickle to say the least. Wind has been either non-existant or blowing a gale - and always in the wrong direction! We lost a fan belt on the engine 150 miles south of Ushant. Discovered the alternator bracket had snapped off (due to vibration?) which then allowed the fan belt to chew itself up. Managed to file and drill a replacement bracket but felt seriously ill after 2 hours of pitching and rolling in the engine room.

2/3 of the way across Biscay the fuel was running very low as we had motored for nearly 40 hours. We decided to run into Gijon (Northern Spain) to refuel etc. Made it in there on the 26th May and spent a few days recuperating. Bob decided to run away as time was passing. Very sad to see him go - missing you already Bob!

Set off for La Coruna on 30th May. Usual conditions - motored again for 40 + hours. Winds up to 5kts! Had a few days in La Coruna

Well it's time to raise the mainsail and get back on the high seas! En route Plymouth Monday morning. Probably take a few days but looking forward to getting back on the briny!
Things can only get better!

Well, back in the sultry UK for the present. Had a great Xmas/New Year in Malta even though my stay was a lot longer than planned! Good old Sleazyjet, about as reliable as a bankers promise. Finally made it back on the 15th Jan but at least I avoided the really cold weather and SNOW!!!
Picture of my mate Louise and I - think it was early hours of New Years day (judging by the bleary expressions!) We spent New Years Eve on the Black Pearl, an old square rigger which is on land and has been converted into a great bar/restaurant. Only staggering distance from the boat which was very handy.
Happy New Year to all of you - hope it brings all you need if not all you want!