After cruising and living aboard our sailboat for six years.

Underwent the experience of a locked-down Europe amidst the COVID-19 crisis.

Established profound relationships, traversed the unsettling waters of the Bay of Biscay, evading a potent southwestern gale in Cedeira.

Using hours on beach tennis at Spain's Playa de Roda, hosted a sundowner gathering overlooking a nudist beach at Vigo.

Anchored in the centre of Porto, exploring the city and savouring port wine at Caves Cálem. Nearly encountered Orcas off the Portuguese coast.

Swimming in the Gribaltar waters and receiving a somewhat politically guided tour of the British peninsula. Had unique entertainment in front of the boat during a Spanish evening at Puerto Deportivo Marina Del Este.

Sharing memorable times with other long-distance sailors during the second lockdown at Puerto Deportivo Almerimar.

Experiencing a Spanish Christmas Eve, enjoying their traditions on New Year.

Observing Barcelona in unusual silence, a scarce presence of individuals, a lacklustre Rabla de Santa Monica, and a deserted La Boqueria.

Navigated through a desiccated Rhône, wrestling with stretches of opposing current and entire trees drifting down the Saône. Battled extensive seagrass on the Canal de Saint-Quentin.

Patiently waited for Voies navigables de France (VNF) for several days at the Riqueval tunnel due to a COVID-19 outbreak among staff. Getting to know the friendliest of innkeepers at Le Souterrain, whose duck we highly endorse.

Shared the waterways with large barges and ships through Belgium and Flanders. Skillfully steered an 18-meter sailboat into Passantenjachthaven Oudenaarde's tight space to the appreciative applause of the harbour master and other boat owners.

Sailing through Europe during a pandemic was insightful, presenting an understanding of varying national responses.
Denmark appeared to impose the strictest regulations on its inhabitants among all the countries encountered.

We sold the boat and rented a house, but we are now starting to feel restless, hungry for freedom and seeking new adventures!