A stop in the Middle of the Atlantic

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     We have made our annual stop here in Horta, Faial, the Azores. The Azores are a volcanic group of islands held by Portugal and are located about 600 nm west of Portugal. The Azores have become a very popular stop for yachts crossing to Europe, since their location is perfect for refueling and victualing. 
     Sailors drift in here daily from all over the world and from all walks of life. It is one of those places that serves as a natural crossroads, and has a boom-town feel to it when the seasons change and the boats migrate. A unique tradition here is that each boat that passes through will paint a square on the quay to be remembered by. Well....eventually the quays filled up, so now there are paintings all through town- on sidewalks and walls etc.
Touching up and signing the Tilly Mint quay painting
     In 2014, when we first brought Tilly Mint through the Azores, we painted our square on our way to England. In 2015, we added the new crew members' names to the painting and this became a kind of tradition. So this year, the new crew (Rhone and Jeff) were very excited to sign their names into Tilly Mint history.  The picture to the right shows Arwyn touching up the faded paint and Rhone painting his name.  Now if we can only keep people from stepping in it...



Below is our weathered square which we have come to hold in our hearts with pride. This square represents weeks at sea, and hard won miles crossing the Ocean. It is a legacy of sorts to say we passed through these crossroads. 

Tilly Mint's square after three years 


Tomorrow morning, we will continue our voyage on to Lymington, England where we will make our final preparations for our Summer in Norway. We will be underway for about seven days this time. 

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