Nichola

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We had a perfect day anchored in Sao Lourenco Bay, with a BBQ, and kayaked to explore a cave. I climbed the Fajazinha Steps for stunning views before the rising wind moved us on to Praia Formosa. The anchorages reminded us of the best bits of life on a sailboat.

Two of The Anchorages of Santa Maria, Azores

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We had a memorable 18-day stay on our first Azorean island. I fell in love with Santa Maria for its rural interior and rugged coastal beauty, and the warm and welcoming community. We enjoyed various adventures, including a picturesque bus tour, coastal walks, and a scooter ride through stunning landscapes.

Love at First Sight With Santa Maria

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LAT|36|09.05|NLON|24|13.34|W VIA Telnet Day 6 of maybe a few more Canary Islands to Santa Maria, Azores. Daily miles sailed: (Tue-Wed) 12 noon-12 noon 89 nm (69.9nm to go. Well the early part of the day was a hard earned 35nm, the rest under the iron genny) Current position: Roughly 70nm […]

Canary Islands Towards Santa Maria, Azores: Day 6

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LAT|35|07.61|NLON|22|46.35|W VIA Telnet Summary Day 5 of many Canary Islands to Santa Maria, AzoresTotal miles sailed: (Tue-Wed) 12 noon-12 noon 117nm (158nm to go. Pleased with that given the conditions yesterday morning and afternoon) Current position: Roughly two thirds of way between Madeira and Santa Maria, heading 285 deg, speed: […]

Canary Islands Towards Santa Maria, Azores: Day 5

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LAT|33|35.59|NLON|21|18.38|W VIA Telnet: Summary Day 4 of many Canary Islands to Santa Maria, AzoresTotal miles sailed: (Tue-Wed) 12 noon-12 noon 106nm (284nm to go – we passed halfway at 18:00 yesterday) Current position: Roughly halfway between Madeira and Santa Maria, heading 321deg, speed: 5.5 knots. Sea state: 1.3m Passage notes: […]

Canary Islands towards Santa Maria, Azores: Day 4

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LAT|32|12.73|NLON|19|51.64|W VIA Telnet: Summary Day 3 of many Canary Islands to Santa Maria, AzoresTotal miles sailed: (Mon-Tue) 12 noon-12 noon 109nm (390nm to go – almost halfway) Current position: Approx 130nm west of Madeira Island , heading 321deg, speed: 3 knots. Sea state: 2m Passage notes: Day three. Another night […]

Canary Islands towards Santa Maria, Azores: Day 3

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After 20 months in Porto Santo, Emerald's crew sailed south, docking at Las Palmas for essential repairs, and upgrades. The uncertainty about availability and the return of Med-mooring challenges had a happy ending. We settled into the convenience of marina life, pleasantly surprised by the peacefulness, despite the city setting.

What Next for Emerald, Having Escaped Porto Santo?

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Departing Porto Santo for Gran Canaria, 310nm south, we anticipated challenging conditions, with 3m seas astern. Departing with a downwind rig and despite uncomfortable movement and little sleep, we managed through changing winds and rig adjustments. After three days and a precarious night entry into Las Palmas, we arrived, relieved.

Full Passage Report: Sailing Porto Santo to Gran Canaria

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Porto Santo's winds are influenced by the Azores High. The harbour provides good protection from the prevailing north/northeast winds. However, south to southwest winds bring challenges, and an occasional named storm can bring uncomfortable conditions for boats both on the moorings and pontoons.

When the Wind Blows in Porto Santo

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After a tricky departure from the pontoon in blustery conditions, we returned to the boatyard to investigate the overheating propeller shaft. We made repairs, replaced damaged cutlass bearings, and recalibrated the alignment between engine and prop shaft. Back in the water, testing showed no overheating, allowing sailing plans to resume.

Why Did We Have An Overheating Propeller Shaft?

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