S1.8 - Exploring Gibraltar: Monkeys, Monuments, and a Walk Across an International Airport Runway!
June 13-14: Navigating the Orcas and Dreaming of Gibraltar
Surviving the longest journey yet, we sailed through waters alive with chatter about orcas causing havoc to sailboats. Luckily, no sightings disrupted our voyage. Despite a lifetime yearning to witness these majestic mammals in the open ocean, recent tales of their mischievous behavior gave us a newfound appreciation for a peaceful crossing at sea.
(Expert Taken Directly From Wikipedia: “…Beginning in 2020, a subpopulation of orcas began ramming boats and acting their rudders in waters off the Iberian Peninsula. The behavior has generally been directed toward slow-moving, medium-sized sailboats in the Straing of Gibraltar and off the Portuguese, Moroccan and Galician coasts….”)
As we anticipate exploring Gibraltar, known for its iconic rock, we reflect on the intriguing and unexpected encounters the ocean has in store. In the meantime, we enjoyed “Happy Hour” followed by an amazing sunrise.
Saúde!
A couple of hours before arriiving in Gibraltar
Spanish Sunrise
June 15 - Docked Drama in Gibraltar
Docked at Alcadeisa Marina Gibraltar, the day took an unexpected turn due to our South African crew’s travel regulations, so we had to dock on the Spanish side vs the UK side. Navigating the bureaucratic maze to check into Spain became a bit of a cluster, involving an amusing mix-up of being checked out before being checked in. The adventures on land mirrored those at sea, proving that even paperwork can have its own unpredictable twists.
June 16 - A Day at Gibraltar: Monkeys, Monuments, and More
Embarking on a day of exploration, Ryan and I strolled across the Spanish border into the UK, setting our sights on the infamous Rock of Gibraltar.
Entrance to the City of Gibraltar
You can imagine Ryan’s delight to have the opportunity to walk cross Gibraltar’s International Airport Runway to get into the city!
Gibraltar’s International Airport Runway Crossing (Stock Footage)
Stock Footage
A leisurely walk througt the streets, punctuated by a few well-deserved beers, led us to a friendly pub owner's suggestion: “take the taxi tour”. Grateful for the advice, our tour guide added a touch of fun as we delved into the Gibraltar Nature Reserve.
In the heart of the reserve, we encountered the Barbary Macaque Monkeys, offering an up-close and personal experience with these fascinating creatures.
“He’s heavier than I thought he’d be!”
Our tour continued to St. Michael Cave …
St. Michael’s Cave made of Limestone - Rock of Gibraltar
The Angel of St. Michael’s Cave
Concerts are hosted at the Amphitheater in the heart of the St. Michale’s Cave.
…and the Old Williss Guard Room, both boasting spectacular views and historical significance.
Site of Old Willis Guard Room - Gibraltar Natural Reserve
Cannon Overlooking Runway
Stopping for infamous fish and chips at “Roys” and enthralled by the day's discoveries, we left with a desire to return, not only for the stunning scenery but also for the promise of future concerts in this unique and historic city.
End of a Beautiful Day in Gibraltar
Fairwinds and following seas, shipmates! Next Stop… Aguadulce!
