After light winds at the start of Leg 2 from Baiona, the fleet arrived in Povoa de Varzim with gusty winds, making berthing a little challenging. Marina staff, the yellow shirt team and rally friends all worked together to help all boats safely on to their berth. As crews came ashore, they were eager to share their experiences of exhilarating sailing and occasionally a few decisions they had made, which had resulted in damage to downwind sails. Crews appreciated sharing experiences and learning, as one of the great advantages of sailing together in a rally.
Crews were given a warm and friendly welcome to Povoa de Varzim, with local wine and a traditional meal at the Anastacia Marina Restaurant. Prizes of local speciality food and wine were presented to prize winners by Paulo Neves, the President of Clube Naval Povoense.
On Wednesday, participants enjoyed an afternoon guided tour of Guimaraes, with its well-preserved medieval buildings and the hilltop 10th century Guimaraes castle with its sweeping city views. The afternoon concluded with time to explore the Old Town, do a little shopping, or as many chose, to enjoy a cool beer or an ice-cream.
A visit to Porto followed on Thursday, with a morning and afternoon group enjoying a Tuk-tuk tour of the city. Porto, the second largest city in Portugal is perhaps best known for one of Portugal’s most famous exports, port wine, so the visit to Pocas port wine lodge was a must.
With a quieter day on Friday, participants will have an opportunity to explore the local area further and make preparations for the start of leg 3 on Saturday, a 65nm sail to Figueira da Foz.
