Down memory creek - Horta

More from 1980's Practical Boat Owner, that looks like Horta with Pico in the distance.

Back in 1998 we were approaching the island of Faial in the Azores archipelago some 24 days out from the British Virgin Islands, all the sailing instructions had warned that we should have capacity for 150Nm or so motoring in the light winds caused by the Azores high.

 In the event we scooted along the southern coast of Faial and sailed right into the outer harbour of Horta before dropping the sails and coming alongside at the customs office.

The islands are probably a great place to explore by boat, but after over a year living on board we became marina dwellers while we were there taking buses around the island and the ferry over to nearby Pico. 

With direct flights  now available from the UK and air B&B's on the island it would be a great place for a holiday even if sailing there isn't a practical proposition.