Tern fishing just off Kalyra – he likes our solar panel as a perch to scout out fish

After a day of hopping around the island, we decided to get some boat chores done, like laundry, recycling, grocery shopping. We also had a chance for a quick catch up with Allan and Shiera from Gemeaux, fellow OCC members we had met a few years ago in Maine. They too had made the Atlantic crossing this summer, and it was interesting to compare stories over a glass of wine. Allan was also kind enough to lend us spare batteries so that Trip was able to use the grinder and finish the new windlass handle for managing the anchor.

View of Velas from Morro Grande

The view of Morro Grande (Portuguese for Big hill, they like to be obvious in their names) from the anchorage was intimidating, but Andy assured us that it was an afternoon walk (hmmmmn Andy is a former mountaineer), so off we went. The first part was familiar, winding our way through town along the waterfront up to a little chapel that marks the start of the trail.

Ermida Nossa Senhorha do Livramento

The trail, a switchback like everything else here, was pretty straightforward, and allowed for lots of stops with breathtaking views down on Velas and out to sea.

View from Morro Grande

It was hard to believe that in just 90 minutes, you could be casually hiking around the crater’s ridge of an extinct (dormant?) volcano!

Another view from Morro Grande

And then it was back downhill to showers and a well-earned dinner with Linda and Andy.