Spain


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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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This would be our first Christmas afloat at anchor. And Brexit was about to bring the first consequences for Brits who sail the EU. We wanted proof of location to keep our VAT paid status, so chose to obtain marina receipts from our closest marina.

Christmas Afloat and Brexit Looms Large



If we wanted to spend a winter at anchor, it was essential to replace our anchor chain. After 11 seasons of use, the old chain was noticeably deteriorating. This blog looks at our choices and the swapping over process

Emerald’s New Anchor Chain







Time had caught us unawares and it was time to make plans to head south and west. With a distance of 550nm to Gibraltar, we were keen to break the journey into small legs. For that we needed the cooperation of the weather. Did it play ball?

Time to Leave the Med



We spent almost two weeks in Menorca, visiting a variety of anchorages. Softer than it's big sister, but no less beautiful - the jagged coastline softened by idyllic sandy beaches and calas.

Sailing Menorca is Magical


We'd left the west coast of Mallorca to visit the large bay of Pollenca, an all weather anchorage. Being on constant alert for changes in the weather can be exhausting! It was a safe place to catch up with some boat jobs, to explore the area and restock.

What to do in Pollença Bay