Sailing from the Azores to Portugal: An 800NM Ocean Crossing

The Azores Islands were a fantastic surprise, offering breathtaking scenery, friendly people, and plenty of sea adventures. After Hurricane Lorenzo passed near São Miguel Island, where Racheal was anchored, it was time to set sail for Portugal.

Preparing for the 800NM Ocean Crossing

With 800 nautical miles of ocean to cross, we checked the forecast for the upcoming days and made sure to stock up on food and water. Knowing that the first day would be challenging but the following days would be calmer, we set off with confidence.

The First Day: Facing Strong Winds and Rough Seas

As expected, the first day was challenging. We encountered winds of over 35 knots and waves reaching 4-5 meters. It was a tough start to the journey, but after 24 hours, the sea calmed down, and a following wind carried us toward Portugal.

Six Days at Sea: Beautiful Weather and Night Skies

The 6-day journey was a mix of serene and spectacular moments. We sailed under a full moon, and the star-filled sky provided a magical backdrop to the favourable weather conditions. The winds remained steady, pushing us closer to our destination.

Approaching Portugal: Increased Traffic and AIS Navigation

As we neared Portugal, we began to see more large ships in the shipping lanes. The traffic corridor became more prominent, and we relied on the AIS system to determine the direction and speed of nearby vessels, ensuring safe passage.

Arriving at Marina Portimão

After sunset, the loom of the lighthouse on the southwest corner of Portugal became visible. With the distance to the marina now short, we completed our 800-mile journey just before midnight, arriving safely at Marina Portimão.