La Gomera

Approaching San Sebastián we could see a large Fred Olsen ferry in the commercial port, just before the marina. Is it moving ? we asked each other, yes, no, could be ! We motored around in a circle until it had departed, on its way to Tenerife. Once around the mole we followed the small craft channel opposite the beach, radioed ahead and were directed to a great berth well inside the marina. We passed a British yacht who shouted a welcome and asked us if we wanted a hand mooring up, 'yes please' we replied. I read the name on their yacht 'Corramandel'. I had heard of them in our Yactmaster class and had followed their blog for a number of years, sometimes e-mailing them for advice etc. Like two hyperactive pixies, Lynn & Andy had us moored up in no time!

We dined on Corramandel and they dined on Artemis and as we chatted, remembering our Yachtmaster teacher, David Williams.

Rowing the Atlantic!

Headland

Best view of mount Teide

Santiago 

Never seen one of them before.

We were berthed next door to our friends Philippe & Imelda, 'Pilhaouer' - Great! They had their relatives, Lionel & Rosealine visiting for a fortnight and I was asked to entertain them one evening by playing my guitar. I think they enjoyed it!

San Sebatian is a very popular marina with yachts coming & going all the time. Being situated right in the town makes a welcome change from having to get the bus to the supermarket. The marina staff are excellent and are super helpful - and speak great English.

Morning brioche provided by S/V Rouge

We took a bus ride to the other side of the island, Valley Grand Rey, a coastal town/ resort. It was ok but we didn't think it was worth the bottom numbing 1 3/4 hour bus ride to get there.

I have recently been reading the ' Conquest & History' of the Canaries- free on Google books. Fascinating- especially as the latter half of the book is written by a Sea Captain in about 1760. I found it incredible that it took the Spanish 77 yrs to conquer Gran Canaria. They never gave up even though they faced serious opposition. A good read!