Gijon, Spain

After 44 hours at sea, we arrived in Gijon, Spain, around 10am on June 3. The harbour master met us out in the water and guided us in, making for a very easy docking experience. Port check-in went smoothly, and we were quickly settled into this charming city.

Overlooking the Bay of Biscay, Gijón is a delightful maritime city that serves as a beach escape for local Asturians and Spaniards lured by its beautiful curved bay, golden sands, and gently lapping sapphire blue-coloured waves. The city also boasts beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, adding to its charming appeal. We had fun exploring its maze of alleys and restaurants, particularly the city’s vibrant atmosphere in the evenings.

On our first evening, we went out for drinks, followed by a lovely Italian dinner with a wonderful friend we met at the marina in La Rochelle on our first day in France. Rebin had also purchased an FP Isla and traveled across the Bay of Biscay with us, sailing solo in his boat. For his first time sailing, we were incredibly impressed! The next day, we explored the city, walking along the Playa San Lorenzo beach promenade, stopping for a glass of wine, and continuing to the Roman Baths and Cerro de Santa Catalina (the battlements). It was a nice and relaxing day, enjoying the sunshine and historical architecture and watching people gathering in the streets for drinks and conversation. Another great Spanish dinner concluded our day before heading to bed, ready for an early start the next day en route to Ribadeo, Spain.