Back in January whilst we were hiding back in Scotland Portimao had its worst ever weather event. The swell and high tides which affected the UK also made itself felt in Portugal. The Marina suffering substantial damage and the occupants of boats in the North basin particularly having a worrysome night. This had coincided with the marina's annual social event hosted by the Tivoli hotel which was consequently poorly attended. The marina staff were running about trying to save the fuel pontoon, and many boat owners would not leave their boats unattended in the melee.
On our return we heard everyone's story, but the damage to the beach bars, the pontoons and the massive rocks which still lie out of place, having been tossed substantial distances over the breakwaters, bear testament to the spectacle that we missed.
Malibu survived intact in the relatively sheltered South basin. We are indebted to our liveaboard friends that kept an eye on her during our absence.