All except one of the fleet now in Bayona after a challenging crossing of Biscay

The last Rally Portugal boat to have departed Falmouth last Saturday arrived into Bayona this morning. The Warrior 40 Usquabae of Fife, arrived at the Monte Real Club de Yates in Bayona at around 1100 local time, a fraction under six days after the fleet sailed out of Falmouth Estuary last Saturday.

Terry Cairn's Hallberg Rassy Miss Charlotte left Falmouth a day after the rest of the fleet, and took the decision on Wednesday to divert to La Coruna on Spain's north coast, following predicted heavy weather conditions off Finistere. They are currently in the marina there awaiting a break in the winds, and should rejoin the rest of the Rally Portugal fleet in the next day or two.

Despite relatively heavy conditions dished up from the Biscay crossing this year, the crews seemed undisturbed by their first crossing of the famous stretch of water, with many calling it 'a challenging but truly fantastic experience'. With many boats having fixed minor maintenance problems onboard here in Bayona, thanks to the efficient and excellent local services, everyone is now raring to get going south and on to Portugal on Sunday.

Another impromptu crew supper was arranged by the Rally team in town last night, with the excuse this time that it was two of the crew's birthdays! Both Sally from Seraphina and Kel from Viking became the centre of attention at the restaurant as the rest of the crews sang Happy Birthday and produced a cake with candles galore!

After a good couple of night’s sleep in the calm marina in Bayona, most of the crews are off tomorrow inland on an all day tour to the famous historical city of Santiago de Compostela. Two local guides will meet the group in Santiago to lead them on an interesting three hour walking tour of the city’s oldest buildings and imposing Cathedral, where the remains of St James are said to be buried.