Off the Hook

Cascais, Portugal

Ahoy me hearties: two ancient Sea Captains

Evidence that Cascais (said cash kayshh) was important as a fishing harbour goes back to Neolithic times.  If you saw it now, on a Sunday especially, you would wonder that it still retains a fishing industry at all. 

Windjammer is anchored just off a large Marina among other cruisers, fishermen and locals.  We did have plans to go into the Marina but decided it was so nice out on the hook that we would stay and do our touring el cheapo.  Besides, whatever we’ve saved in marina fees has gone straight back into dinners, pre-dinner drinkies and all sorts of other lavish entertainment befitting crew and visiting friends.  Yes, we are doing our best single-handedly to boost Portugal’s economy.

We have neglectfully not visited any of Cascais museums, admired any artworks or followed up on Portugal’s fine handcrafts.  We have not cycled the 5km to Guincho via the coastal cycle path nor purchased any colourful ceramics.  Boat and breakable don’t mix…poor GS.  Never mind, in keeping with local custom, we walk most evenings to a nearby sidewalk café and have a cold one before a late dinner; eating out or cooked on board. 

Elaborate mosaic tiling in Town Hall Square as the sun goes down

We are amazed how little, local flea markets, regular antique markets and grand supermarkets can be squeezed into Cascais old town area.  The Portuguese dress very smartly and Cascais is a very smart part of the world.  We’re even told, confidentially of course, that the local girls all have a certain walk that says “I’m a Cascais girl and I have style (and money)”.  The Cap’n in his bright Lowes boardies and GS in her Miller’s indestructibles don’t quite fit the Costa do Sol image. Oh well, not to worry - he’s too busy admiring topless beauties on sail/motor boats anchored just next door to care.     

Of course this takes us right back to Neanderthal man on the beach right here in Cascais.  At least they were actually catching fish.