Espana 10

 

The new day brings a change in aesthetic. One of the great delights, of this cruising life.

This morning Stargazer sailed from beneath the medieval church and castle of Castro Urdiales.

Crossing five nautical miles of bay, as the sea breeze slowly roused itself to its duty.

Making for a row of motionless wind turbines, silhouetted in the heat haze.

Content not to hurry. Because an unladen bulk carrier is evidently closing on the same destination. Tugs roped up bow and stern.

Stargazer follows her in, at a circumspect distance.

Watching as the tugs heave her into a ninety degree turn ; and deftly bring her alongside a row of silos.

Stargazer has a further five nautical miles to travel, to reach her destination. Cliffs to the east. Wharves, warehouses, docks and cranes to the west.

Suburbs spill down toward sandy bays.

Until, an hour since entering the port, Stargazer reaches the inner harbour. Its mouth guarded by gilded light towers.

We have left Cantabria (white over red flag).

And have made landfall in the Basque Country of Spain (Orange, white and green flag). 

 In its capital : the bustling port city of Bilbao. Thronged with the vessels of many nations.