3rd May 2009, Figueira da Foz

We left Nazare about 6:45am and the wind should have been about 120 degrees round on the port side and about 15knots, sea about 1 and a half to two metres – then later the wind was due to be lighter for a couple of hours and then come back round to nearer 50 or 60 degrees on the port side, increase to about 15 knots and the seas pick up to 2 – 2 and half metre. And that’s just about exactly what happened except that the light winds were lighter for longer and when it came round to the north-west it was just a little tight on the nose for a brilliant sail – however, it was still the best sailing we’ve had for a long while. Only had the engine on for going in and out of harbour and when the wind was too light to be comfortable in the swell ( and to keep the speed up ). Arrival in Figueira da Foz was a little unusual in the fact that they also (like Nazare) said that they were not really open because they have pontoons removed – however, not a problem because they have managed to find us a couple of comfortable berths away from the (reputed) swell & wash at the entrance to the marina. The marina is also very handy for the town – not too far to walk and has a superb covered market just across the road. We missed this place out on the way south earlier in our trip but are very glad to have seen it this time, it would have been a real shame to have passed it by.
Because we arrived on the 30th of April and the next day being 1st May and a national holiday (Labour Day) there were the compulsory fireworks at midnight (on 30th)….. very loud….. and for those who missed it – there was a repeat performance at 8:00am the following morning (yes; of the fireworks)…. Somebody must have thought it was a good idea…..
There are also displays of national dancing and other various activities during the holiday weekend – I’ve added a few of the better photos below just to give you a flavour of the atmosphere.
We are, as always, watching the weather for the next move up the coast which may be in the middle of the week. Watch this space.