4 The likely explanation for our broken engine was a hydrolock - water had got into the cylinders of the engine block. With limited resources on the island, we set out to try and fix it ourselves.
Nichola
4 
Following a boisterous sail from Portugal, our engine failed nearing Porto Santo, necessitating a tow into the harbour. Tests indicated we had salt water in the engine, causing major corrosion. We were left contemplating difficult decisions regarding repairs, resources, and our future in sailing amidst this unforeseen misfortune.
A Sailboat With a Broken Engine
5 On a sunny Saturday morning, we raised the main, and turned away from mainland Portugal. Our destination: Porto Santo, part of the Madeira archipelago, 435nm away. We initially had stronger wind than expected with a lively sea, but by day 2 this began to settle and enjoy the passage.
Sail to Porto Santo: Our Full Passage Report
1 The passage report from day two of our sail from Portugal to Porto Santo. We were finding our groove as conditions eased, allowing us to enjoy, rather than endure, the experience.
Portugal to Porto Santo: Position Report Day 2
3 All was well on the first day one of our passage from Portugal to Porto Santo as we settled into sailing life
Portugal to Porto Santo: Position Report Day 1
At long last, the time had come to leave the boatyard. After almost a year, far longer than we'd anticipated, the long list of boat jobs were finally complete. We just had to hope she floated once she was placed back on the water.
Boat Refit: At Long Last It’s Time to Leave the ...
Part one of 2021 refit series. In order to get Emerald out of the water, we have to endure the heart-clenching experience of seeing your precious home be lifted into the air. We look at the factors involved in choosing a boatyard and the types of liftout available for boats.
Refit Part I: Choosing a Boatyard
Looking to visit the Ilha da Culatra in the Algarve? Well read on to find out how to get there and what to do once you're there.
Escape to the Ilha da Culatra, Algarve
1 It was time to leave the river for an appointment at a boatyard in Faro. Emerald was in need of some TLC.
To the Boatyard – Our Escape From Glue River
1 We might as well write our plans in sand at low tide. Sailing plans can be fragile, easily broken by multiple factors - weather, boat problems or myriad unexpected issues. Sometimes the forced plan change can result in a good experience, sometimes its bad.
Plans Are Written in Sand at Low Tide
April and May in the river saw a rise in temperatures and the drying out of the land. We fixed the galley cupboard floor - a job that's been on the list a long time! And I become a water babe.
Springtime in the Rio Guadiana
4 After several boat toilet fails, we began to research alternatives. This year, we bit the bullet and chose to install a custom built composting/waterless toilet.