The Rear View Mirror

Passages through the Azores: São Jorge

We meant to stop at Velas, São Jorge but miscommunication between Cap’n & Navigator saw us closing in on Calheta, a further 10 miles east.  Either way, the breeze was a swift south-easterly so stopping of any kind (marina or anchor) was certainly now out of the question.  Thus ended our leisurely two day sail to Angra do Heroismo on Terceira; we were full into an overnighter, oh well!

São Jorge's dramatic cliffs. High cliffs mean deep, deep water.

Even so, we hugged the length of São Jorge’s rugged coast amazed at how dark rain clouds lingered over the top of the island.  Dramatic cliffs, plunging ravines and cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush green vegetation made us think back to our time in Bhutan.  These high cliffs were topped with white painted cottages and terraced pastures.  Bird life was in abundance and we’re told the odd cry we hear is Cory’s Shearwaters (for those birdy inclined) that nest high in the cliffs.  It really was an amazing view – one that you could only get from the water.