S'Ours: Bermuda to the Azores

Time waits for no man so on 14th June we weighed anchor and headed out through the gap to St George's Harbour and turned NE towards the Azores. Harry phones early in the morning of 15th June to say that geoff's mum had passed away peacefully in her sleep - worst news ever. We had so hoped that she would hold out until we could get home. Love and miss you mum x x

The island of Flores is the westernmost point of the Azores Archipelago and our first Port of call. Flores has area of around 55 square miles (143 Km2), and about 4000 inhabitants. The main Flores municipalities include Santa Cruz and Lajes. After a very wet and windy (40knt+) ride we arrived to find the new marine in Lajes open but not commissioned which meant we were able to use the facilities for free (no water or electricity on pontoon) - a bonus. We quickly found a berth alongside the wall as the pontoons seemed very short and went exploring.

Flores has deep valleys and high peaks, lagoons bordered by hydrangeas, cliffs carved by grottoes, hot springs and the remains of old volcanoes.

Flores (Flowers) takes is names due to a great profusion of wild flowers especially hydrangeas and small size botanical species, many of which are indigenous and part of the original flora. Pastures, farms and vineyards complete the make-up of the landscape.

On the opposite pontoon were Joan and Ez on Pazant. We arranged to hire a car and explore further afield. Along the way we managed to find the gas refill station and got Ez's bottles filled and in Santa Cruz found a supermarket to restock the boats.

Unfortunately in the afternoon the mist came down so cut the day short, but it was well worth the 35euro car hire charge.

We managed to have another day out with Mo and Paul on Tigitu and the weather was very kind to us so managed to see most of the island - absolutely fabulous. One could easily stay awhile as did Terri and Keith "Yachties" who visited some 8 years ago, fell in love with the island, swallowed the anchor and bought a derelict property. Over the years they have managed to created a lovely small hideaway and integrate into local society. Thanks go to them for their local help and advice.

We were anxiously awaiting the arrival of our friends Branko, Maggie and their apprentice ocean sailor Anne on Water Hobo. The subsequent BBQ consisting of many nationalities was a great success and we also managed to made use of the more nimble Anne to climb our mast to repair our mast-head light