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Cruising in PortugalLagos NavigatorsViana do Castelo – 41°41.22'N, 08°51.38'W
Povoa de Vazim – 41°22.83'N, 08°46.27'W
Nazare – 39°43.33'N, 09°13.33'W
Nazare Port Entrance – 39°35.48'N, 09°04.70'W
Lisboa – 38°44.00'N, 09°05.00'W
Oeiras Marina 38°40.60'N, 09°19.00'W
Marina Parque das Nacoes – 38°45.36'N, 09°05.55'E
Marina de Portimao – 37°08.00'N, 08°32.00'W
Lagos – 37°06.60'N, 08°40.50'W
Ayamonte – 37°12.62'N, 07°24.69'W
Alcoutim – 37°28.30'N, 07°28.22'W
Guadiana – 37°14.78'N, 07°25.94'W
Foz de Odeleite – 37°21.28'N, 07°26.39'W
Mertola – 37°39.00'N, 07°39.00'W
Faro Town anchorage – 37°00.52'N, 07°56.45'W
Olhau – 37°02.00'N, 07°50.00'W
Olhao – 37°01.36'N, 07°50.48'W
Olhao Town anchorage, Faro Lagoon – 37°01.36'N, 07°50.48'W
Culatra anchorage, Faro Lagoon – 37°00.19'N, 07°50.19'W
Culatra – 36°59.88'N, 07°50.87'W
Faro Lagoon - west entrance – 36°57.60'N, 07°52.20'W
Viana do Castelo – 41°41.22'N, 08°51.38'W Date Submitted: November 2007
The marina is situated in the River Lima.
Avoid the end of the mole as a bar can build up between it and the first port hand buoy.
The leading line actually leads into the shipyard whilst the marina is in the river itself but the channel is well buoyed so once the pier end at the shipyard is identified on the north shore turn to the east and follow the river, favouring the north side.
Channel dredged to 8 metres.
The river is crossed by a metal bridge (built by Eiffel) the marina is to port (north shore) immediately before the Eiffel bridge.
The marina entrance itself is crossed by a pedestrian swing bridge which swings out across the river when open.
There is a reception berth in the main river itself which can be used if the swing bridge over the marina entrance is not open and vessels are also permitted to berth there over night.
Within the marina berthing is alongside but against very short pontoons. The Longest pontoons are located just as you enter under the swing-bridge.
The marina entrance itself has an obstruction at 2.5m depth, LWS.
Reception is in the new buildings 50 yards beyond the marina to the east. Staff are very attentive but do not appear to respond to vhf.
Swing bridge normally left open at night.
Things to see: Santa Luzia Temple on the top of the hill. For those not wanting the walk it can be reached by a vernacular railway. The railway has recently been refurbished and the entrance is quite hard to find, ask for detailed instructions at the marina reception.
At the main docks on the north shore there is an old hospital ship that is now a museum the ‘Gil Eames’.
For those interested in authentic regional food as for the ‘Three Pots’ restaurant ‘Os Tres Pottes’.
Pictures: Marina entrance with swing bridge open. Taken from Santa Luzi.
[attachment=360]viana.jpg[/attachment]
Povoa de Vazim – 41°22.83'N, 08°46.27'W
[attachment=359]povoa-from-south.jpg[/attachment]
Povoa from the South Shore showing West Cardinal Buoy
The staff at this marina are particularly helpful. Berthing is alongside.
Take care to identify the cardinal buoy within the harbour and treat it accordingly, it marks a large shoal area. The diesel/reception berth close to this area is unused (for diesel visit the fishing area) so visitors would be well advised to pass the first hammer head to port, turn to port and berth at the first available berth which will then be bow in to the prevailing wind direction.
There are good haul-out and repair facilities.
If considering leaving your boat for some time this would be a good location, the prices are very reasonable. http://www.marinadapovoa.com but caution the email contact is not as listed above. It is: marinadapovoa@mail.telepac.pt The metro at Povoa (15 min walk from marina) provides access to Lisbon and to Porto Airport (service every 20 mins, journey around 45 mins). Porto Airport can also be reached by taxi if in hurry, booked at the marina reception.
1) Information Submitted by Mark Holbrook , with updates by Tony Fiske (visited June 2010)
2) Date 19/8/07
3) Harbour or Area Covered Include Lat & Long
Povoa de Vazim 41°22.3 N 8°46.1 W
4) Harbour Web Sites and e-mail
Email keeps changing as of August 07 it was marinadapovoa@mail.telepac.pt web site http://www.marinadapovoa.com/
free internet access at reception
free WIFI from yacht club (reaches most of marina)
5) Suitability and Attraction for Yachts
A very relaxed and cheap marina, large amount of hard standing with 35 tonne travel lift helpful staff who can conduct their business in several languages. During summer likely to be a few live-aboards who can provide local information.
6) Marinas, Berthing or Anchorage
Marina is in two parts but under single ownership, depths suitable for yachts at all states of the tide only in the northern most part the yard is also owned by the marina but lifting/propping is the business of a another company on the site
7) Entry Ports
Not a port of entry for non EC yachts but Vianna do Castello is and it is 14 miles to the north
8) Formal Requirements for Yachts Entering/Departing: Single document process although the marina take a copy for the maritime police
a) from/to same country
Single document
b) from/to abroad
Single document if EEC, not a port of entry if entering from outside EEC
9) Location/Existence of:
a) harbour master
At fish dock
11) Attitude of Officials to Visiting Yachtsmen
This is a very friendly, helpful marina with good English spoken by most staff. The main yacht repair business on the site are very flexible and helpful
12) Repair/Hauling Facilities
35 Tonne travel lift, cradles for hire, and large hard-standing provision
13) Sailing Directions or Charts
RCC pilotage foundation ‘Atlantic Spain and Portugal’ but see caution on cardinal mark below
15) Port Radio Services VHF 22
17) Yacht Club(S)
The Club Nautical is adjacent to the marina near the travel lift facility, welcoming but is only a social club
18) Other Facilities: showers, washing machines, wi-fi internet (free) at reception
a) drinking water
Excellent
b) fuel
At fish dock, avoid at times the fishing boats are active
c) gas (propane)/gaz
From chandlers in yard
d) chandlers
In yard
e) bank
Several in town
f) shops/market
Two main supermarkets, the one across the road from the marina looks small but is in fact very well stocked, it has a strange name ‘King of Cod’
g) restaurants/hotels
Many
h) post office/telephones including mobile facilities
In either town, to the north is Vianna, to the south is Villa de Conde
i) internet cafes
Wifi in reception
k) showers
Yes, free
l) laundry
Yes, no tokens but pay by the load
m) transport/air services
15 minutes by taxi to Porto airport, good metro link to Porto
n) medical facilities/hospital
Medical facility immediately opposite marina, very efficient (we had to use it) take your EEC card if appropriate
19) Recommendations or Warnings
As you enter between the moles there is a shoal area north of the Eastern mole marked by green buoys but also spherical green buoys. None of them are lit. In addition there is a West Cardinal marking a shoal which comes out from the shore. The topmark on this buoy is very unclear and many yachts mistake it and pass the wrong side. Leave the Cardinal to port as you enter. The reception dock does not appear to be used and is very close to the shoal area, the visitors pontoon is the first one you come to, the fingers are very short so rig a bow line and a spring from amidships. It is best to moor bow in, facing North so pass the first pontoon and then turn back to moor on the south side of the first pontoon.
Nazare – 39°43.33'N, 09°13.33'W
Nazare Port Entrance – 39°35.48'N, 09°04.70'W Date Submitted: November 2007
This is an all-weather harbour thanks to the deep water channel that extends up to and into the harbour itself.
The marina for visiting yachts is in the south of the port – do not confuse it with the yacht club which is to the north. The marina is however small and a visitor arriving at night could consider laying over night on the fuel berth which is at the end of the short wall projecting from the north side of the harbour adjacent to the yacht club.
Captain Mike Hadley is often to be found at the marina and his services will be of value in helping clear-in.
This is one of the ports which does have multiple officials.
Batalha is close by in whose Abbey Henry the Navigator is buried.
Lisboa – 38°44.00'N, 09°05.00'W1) Information Submitted by Jack Tyler (aboard WHOOSH, Pearson 424 Ketch, American flagged)
2) Date 9 Feb 2006
3) Harbour or Area Covered Include Lat & Long Lisbon, Portugal area, including Cascais, Lisbon proper and Seixal 38°44 'N 09°05 'W
4) Suitability and Attraction for Yachts Multiple options for anchoring, berthing and excellent haul-out services
5) Marinas, Berthing or Anchorage Anchoring: available off Cascais, protected except S/SW’ly winds – excellent/cheap train service into Lisbon; also available off Sexial adjacent to mooring field – ferry into Lisbon Marinas: available in Cascais (also best place to fuel), multiple marinas up Tagus R. (Rio Tejo) adjacent to Lisbon; AmEx accepted but not Visa/MC Haul-out & hull/deck repairs: Tagus Marine Center off Tagus R. and beyond Seixal is excellent; full shipyard tooling/metal work capability; marine railway & 50T Travelift;
6) Entry Ports Cascais & Lisbon
7) Formal Requirements for Yachts Entering/Departing:
a) from/to same country Officials do not concern themselves with anchored boats in Cascais; Cascais marina will handle local port clearance, as is common at some other Portuguese marinas
b) from/to abroad
c) visa requirements Schengen treaty applies but officials only seem to understand the max 90 day stay, after which one must leave before re-entering; the 90 day ‘outside all Schengen countries’ requirement does not seem to be understood/enforced
8) Location/Existence of:
a) harbour master Not apparent
b) customs/immigration Both operate regional offices in Lisbon; activity along the rivers is not apparent
c) health authorities Not apparent
d) police Insofar as yacht-related activities are concerned, not apparent
9) Control of Foreign Yachts Not apparent; boats of many nationalities visit here all season long with little apparent formal activity going on
10) Attitude of Officials to Visiting Yachtsmen There has been a lack of ‘officialdom’ during our anchoring in Cascais, multiple week stay in a Tagus R. marina, and when hauling out at TMC; this is contrary to our experience elsewhere in Portuguese ports, which seem to abound in officials and some paperwork
11) Repair/Hauling Facilities Tagus Marine Center: approx. 038 38N, 009.07W in Amora Contact Rafael Venancio at 351 934 892 318 (M) or Susana (Office) at 351 212 221 473 TMC is part of a commercial shipyard that services ferries and large yachts but TMC specializes in small yachts; operates a 50T Travelift and offers a full range of services; massive machining, welding, metal work and related capabilities; (un)stepping of spars possible given the many cranes on-site The same family has operated this yard for 3 generations; they are all wonderful people, warm & welcoming. English languages skills are more than adequate. In time, a true marina and a large hard-stand for yacht storage will probably be added. This is a special place.
12) Sailing Directions or Charts Imray and Yachting World guides both useful, both not current in detail Recommend using local knowledge if going up-river to TMC, which is about 45 mins from one of the Lisbon marinas; TMC will provide a pilot at no charge
13) Cruising Guide and where Obtainable. Include Phone and/or E-Mail Imray & YM guides available at most UK agents and direct from publishers
14) Port Radio Services Not apparent
15) Weather Forecasts Navtex, posted at all marinas, and the various HF/MF services (WxFax, RTTY, Winlink/Sailmail)
16) Yacht Club(S) We can’t comment on this; sorry.
17) Other Facilities: See below for related comments; all normal amenities are available and we don’t know what one would want that couldn’t be secured somewhere in Lisbon drinking water fuel gas (propane)/gaz Gaz cylinders available at Cascais chandlers Adjacent to the Lisbon-Cascais train station in Lisbon bank
Many shops/market Many restaurants/hotels Many post office/telephones including mobile facilities Many internet cafes Available in Cascais & Lisbon; wifi available in some Lisbon locations but they are hard to find best mailing address Via one of the marinas showers Marinas laundry Cascais marina has a large self-service Laundromat; it is difficult to locate laundry services adjacent to the Lisbon marinas
transport/air services Major airport and train station to all parts of Europe found in Lisbon; also, abundant modern ferries take people all over the Tagus estuary medical facilities/hospital Can’t comment personally
18) Recommendations or Warnings Lisbon is a large, interesting city with excellent public transportation. Recommend visiting one of the several Tourist Agencies in the downtown square when first getting oriented. Many yachts find a stop in Cascais to be preferable when visiting Lisbon because train fares are low and the service into Lisbon excellent, while the yacht usually remains well protected in the free anchorage. Large/excellent hypermercado and other stores in Cascais; vast first class/First World malls in Lisbon and reachable by their Metro service Avoid anchoring in amongst the fishing fleet at Cascais, which is closer to the commercial fishing pier. Arriving fishing boats offloading to their ‘buy boats’ pay little attention to anchored yachts. Also, be sure you are well anchored; afternoon winds can be strong and last into the night, and some boats do drag here, even after days of being anchored.
For Cascais, dinghy landing at the commercial fishing pier is possible but watch the tide or dink will get trapped unless you use a stern anchor; 2nd option is to berth the dink behind the fuel dock at the Cascais Marina if that is allowed; sometimes, this isn’t possible and in any case it does require a long walk around the town to reach the popular shops; 3rd option is to land the dink on the beach adjacent to one of the bars/restaurants and secure permission while perhaps buying a beer, in which case the dink is reportedly safe
Consider walking around the train station/ferry terminal in Lisbon (after arriving from Cascais) to visit the fisherman chandleries; there are a wide range of hardware in numerous stores and what one vendor does not have s/he can help you find somewhere else
Pickpocket activity on the trains and tourist areas is abundant. Men: simply don’t carry a conventional wallet in your pocket. Women: think twice about what security you think you might have with your purse or fanny pack.
19) Other Information – please include here general impressions, opinions, comments or any other matter which might be of use to those visiting. Mind the weather forecast if anchoring in Cascais, if there when the Portuguese Trades are not prevailing. With SW’ly gale, the anchorage would be untenable for yachts although Cascais marina recently extended their seawall and now provides excellent protection. A better anchoring option at such times would be to move up the river, or go even further and anchor off Seixal.
Oeiras Marina 38°40.60'N, 09°19.00'WLISBON MARINA DISCOUNT
(received from OCC member José Henrique Azevedo, “Peter”)
Location: 38º40.60’N / 9º19.00’W
There is a nice Marina in the Lisbon area called Oeiras, located between Cascais and Lisbon. It’s placed where the Tejo’s river ends and the Atlantic Sea begins. Please visit the website:
http://portoderecreio.oeirasviva.pt/_porto_de_recreio_2
For the OCC members Oeiras Marina – Yachting Harbour Oeiras - will give you a 50% discount.
Location: 38º40.60’N / 9º19.00’W
Navigable deph: 3 m
Predominant wind: N NW
Communication Channel: VHF – 09
Berthing in floating pontoons: 274
Contacts:
Phone: [+351] 214 401 510; Fax: [+351] 214 401 515 precreio@oeirasviva.pt
www.oeirasviva.pt
You can contact directly Oeiras Marina or by Peter Café Sport (Oeiras). If you need any assistance when in Oeiras Marina, you may look for Duarte Pinto – Peter’s nephew – at Peter Café Sport in Oeiras.
Peter Café Sport (Oeiras)
Phone: [+351] 214 467 335 Fax: [+351] 214 467 335 oeiras@petercafesport.com
Marina Parque das Nacoes – 38°45.36'N, 09°05.55'E[attachment=358]Parque_das_Nacoesa.jpg[/attachment]
Marina Parque das Nacoes is part of the Parque Expo Group and is situated 1.5 miles downstream from the Vasco da Gama Bridge and about 7 miles from the Belem Tower on the Tagus River where the Expo 98 was held.
It was closed a few years back due to silting but has recently reopened and an ideal place to leave your boat especially if flying home as the marina is 5km from Lisbon airport. It is also on the metro for trips into central Lisbon.
Facilities:
Depth and Berthing: 2.40m depth and 600 berths for boats up to 25m. There is a Ponte de Cais which will take vessels up to 250m.
Communications: Call Marina Parque das Nacoes on VHF Channel 9
Security: 24hrs. A Sluice System closes around 20.30 each evening and reopens at 08.30. Should you arrive out of these hours, there is a waiting pontoon. Land access to the pontoons is by electronic card.
Travel Lift and shore storage: Up to 35tons
Fuel: Currently not available
Laundry: None at the marina but laundrette nearby. Reception will assist.
Internet: Currently no wifi to the pontoons but free access to the internet at Reception
Repairs and Maintenance: The Marina has a network of contacts and agents for maintenance and service.
Local Facilities: It is described as an ‘urban’ marina and being based in the former Expo site is part of a large modern development. There are various supermarkets (some of which will deliver to the boat), banks, numerous restaurants, pharmacies, a modern hospital, huge shopping malls and a store called Aki for all DIY. There is a pleasant ‘malecon’ and gardens for stretching your legs and a small playground for those with small children. Bikes may be hired and there are tennis courts for rent.
The one ‘must see’ is the magnificent Oceanarium about 10mins walk from the marina along with the other Pavillions from the Expo.
Nightlife: Lisbon’s Casino is within esy walking distance. Various bars, clubs and discos nearby some with live music and even a Peter’s Café – described as ‘a cultural bar related to the Peters Cafe in the Azores – a meeting place for sailors’.
Rates: As of October 2010. 12-15m = Euro34 p/day Euro564 p/month
15-20m = Euro45 p/day Euro768 p/month
20-25m = Euro51 p/day Euro847 p/month
Storage ashore: Euro0.40 per m2 p/day or Euro6 p/month
These rates are appreciably less than the other Lisbon or Cascais marinas.
General overview: The marina staff are young, efficient and enthusiastic. They all speak English well. At present the marina is not overly busy as people are unaware that it has re-opened so is a hidden gem and well worth checking out. A word of warning though, even the airport taxis are unaware that there is a marina there!
We have recently left Pen Azen at Marina Parque das Nacoes in Lisbon and felt it was worth spreading the news to club members who may be considering a cruise in that part of the world, or needing somewhere to leave their boat.
The staff are very helpful and respond to communication and the office
staff all speak good English.
Contact: Jorge Ferreira speaks excellent English and is efficient.
Phone: 00351 218 949 066
Fax: 351 218 949 0067
Email: info@marinaparquedasnacaoes.pt
Web site http://www.marinaparquedasnacoes.pt/
Marina Parque das Nacoes
Edificio da Capitania
Passeio de Neptuno
1990-193 LISBOA
Marina de Portimao – 37°08.00'N, 08°32.00'W1) Information Submitted by Marina de Portimão
2) Date 24/01/2006) Harbour or Area Covered Include Lat & LongThe Marina de Portimão is situated in the safest harbour of the country and benefits from a privileded location inside the extensive 25-hectare Arade River estuary. Framed by the historical forts of Santa Catarina and S. João.Lat. 37º 8’N ? Long. 8º 32’W
4) Suitability and Attraction for Yachts Marina de Portimão is fast becoming a leading superyacht destination, surrounded by the most famous and beautiful beaches of the world. It is a modern, first class marina designed to meet the exacting needs of the worlds largest ad most advanced luxury yachts.
[attachment=357]marinadeportimao1.jpg[/attachment]
5) Marinas, Berthing or Anchorage World – Class Marina with 620 moorings available for rental for short and long stays, the Marina can receive boats up to 50m long, 10m beam, maximum of 5m draft. The entrance to the Marina is easy to acess given that it is the most ample in Portugal. The boatyard with dry slips and all services and repairs with , its own travelift up to 50tons or a public equipment up to 300 tons.
6) Entry Ports The entrance to the port face south and is about 250m wide. Ponta do Altar with a lighthouse of the same name is located to the east. Once the outer moles have been passed, a course should be set at 020º off the line of the Ferragudo Fore and Aft beacons, leaving buoy no. 2 to port, continuing in the direction of buoy no. 4 until reaching the entrance to the “Marina de Portimão” to the west. The Marina is marked by two moles with beacons at each end. The reception pontoon is located starboard of the Marina entrance.
7) Formal Requirements for Yachts Entering/Departing: On reaching the reception pontoon, located starboard of the Marinaentrance, you will be able to rely on the help of the dockmasters who will provide allall the support and personalised service you may need to moor your boat. They will then direct you to the reception where you can check-in. Every time you go out from the marina or stay out more than 48 hours, you must contact the Marina`s reception.a) from/to same countryN/A
b) from/to abroadEuropean Union Requirements /Legislationc) visa requirementsEuropean Union Requirements /Legislation
8) Location/Existence of:
a) harbour masterMarina Chito Rodrigues
b) customs/immigrationThe customs is located in Marina`s reception and all the customers have to check-in by them.
c) health authorities d) policePolice Maritime is located in Marina`s reception or in Capitania (nearby)
9) Control of Foreign Yachts Brigada Fiscal in the Marina’s reception
10) Attitude of Officials to Visiting Yachtsmen Friendly and hepfull
11) Repair/Hauling FacilitiesBoatyard with dry berths and all services and repairs with travelif up to 50 tons and also a travelift for 300 tons available.
12) Sailing Directions or ChartsAvailable in the Marina`s reception
13) Cruising Guide and where Obtainable. Include Phone and/or E-MailAvailable in the Marina`s reception
14) Port Radio ServicesChannel 9 VHF
15) Weather ForecastsMeteorological information is posted daily in the reception area.
16) Yacht Club(S) Yacht Club Marina de Portimão
17) Other Facilities:
Comprehensive Nautical Facilities: water, electricity, trolleys, fuel, showers, pump- out, tv, wi-fi, ATM, laundry, mini-market, catering services, ship`s chandlery.
Exclusive Access Cards for marina gates and vehicles, CCTV, 24 hours security, underground parking, Public Transportation, Taxi, Rent a Car & heliport on site.
30min away from the Faro International Airport by highway, with regulary flights, daily low cost rates with airline companies only a step from Portugal, private jets facilities (Penina Air-field)
Dedicated facilities for crew, owners & guests.drinking water YesFuelFuel is supplied everyday during the hours specified by the Marina. For safety reasons all supplies shall be provided inside the Northern pontoon. (Petrol and gasoline)gas (propane)/gazIn the
Boatyard you will find several shops with that service (camping gas and bottles).chandlersIn the Boatyard you can find ship chandler, crane services.
High pressure hull cleaning, fibre glass and composite works and repairs, electrical and electronic works, bow thruster installation, general painting and anti foulind, canvas works, engine repairs, mast rigging.
bank:Cash Machine in the commercial area and in Praia da Rocha Avenue, next to the Marina (walking distant)
shops/market Situated on the Fortress of the Marina level, there is a Mini-market open every day for all your needs., also shops in the commercial area. The market is located in Portimão where daily you will find all products like fresh bread, vegetables, meat, fish and fruit.
restaurants/hotels
In the commercial area in the the Marina you will find good restaurants. Resort and convetion Hotel with 200 suites, restaurant, beach and swimming pools.post office/telephones including mobile facilities
Post office (nearby) and public telephones are located next to the Marina`s reception and in the shopping centre.
Wi-Fi in the Marina and Internet acess in the Marina`s reception.internet cafesIn the comercial area (on site), Praia da Rocha Avenue walking distance and Portimão city on site (1 km).best mailing addressAll mail must be properly addressed to Marina de Portimão, Edifício Administrativo, Ponta da Areia, 8500 – 345 Portimão, specifying the name of the boat.
Mail is subject to collection from the Marina`s reception.
showersWC/Showers are located next to the Marina`s reception and in the shopping centre/commercial area. Showers are provided for the exclusive use of Marina users and can be accessed with the magnetic access card.laundryLocated in the north basin next to the Marinas`s reception, the self-service laundry operates by means of tokens available at the reception.transport/air services
Public transportation, taxi, rent a car & heliport on site.30 min away from the Faro International Airport by highway, with regulary schedule flights.
medical facilities/hospitalPrivate and Public Hospital (nearby), pharmacy and private clinic in a 500m distance.
18) Recommendations or WarningsThe south-facing harbour entrance is protected by two jetties. It is easy to enter during daylight hours. Just inside the mouth of the Arade river, the 620-capacity Portimão Marina also caters for all vessels, including larger craft. There are plenty of activities on offer in the area as well. Play a round of golf on one of the nearby courses with their sweeping ocean views, or enjoy an after dinner walk along the river.
19) Other Information – please include here general impressions, opinions, comments or any other matter which might be of use to those visiting.Training basis of ABN AMRO TEAM on the VOLVO OCEAN RACE 05/06.In the hearth of the cosmopolitan city of Portimão – Stage City of the LISBOA –DAKAR rally for 2006.Next to the most South Western point of Europe – SAGRES.Historical sites: Middle Age Castles, Roman and Arabic Ruins, Museums.Sailing, Daily Trips, dolphins watching, Big Game Fishing, Scuba Diving (on site) For golf lovers, the area is served by six 1st quality golf courses in 10 Km range.
The Algarve bursts with more than 30 golf courses. Mountains, Spa, Bird watching, Horse Back Riding, Tennis, Wine tasting, Casino, Night club, Mall (nearby).Algarve - South of Portugal - EuropeThe last safe haven on the way to the Mediterranean On account of its location to the east of Praia da Rocha - an area with extensive buildings and ample illumination - the entrance to the Port of Portimão is easily identifiable.
The entrance to the port faces south and is about 250m wide. Ponta do Altar with a lighthouse of the same name is located to the east. On account of the height of this cliff face, the entrance to the port is obscured to those approaching from the east almost until the entrance to the moles. Once the outer moles have been passed, a course should be set at 020º off the line of the Ferragudo Fore and Aft beacons, leaving buoy no. 2 to port, continuing in the direction of buoy no. 4 until reaching the entrance to the "Marina de Portimão" to the west. The Marina is marked by two moles with beacons at each end. The south-facing harbour entrance is protected by two jetties. It is easy to enter during daylight hours, although boats should be aware of the difficulties in the movements of larger vessels.
E-mail: info@marinadeportimao.com.ptSite: www.marinadeportimao.com.ptIn addition the Marina would be glad to offer a 5% discount rate for OCC members that visit the marina in return publicizing the facilities in the CIS.Marina de Portimão is fast becoming a leading superyacht destination, surrounded by the most famous and beautiful beaches of the world. It is a most modern, first class marina designed to meet the exacting needs of the worlds largest ad most advanced luxury yachts. World – Class Marina with 620 berths situated between Lagos and Vilamoura.Boats up to 50 meters lenght, 10 meters beam and 5 meters draft.
Luxury condominium with waterfront Restaurants, Bars and Retail.Comprehensive Nautical Facilities: water, electricity, fuel, showers, pump-out, tv, wi-fi, ATM, laundry, mini-market, catering services, ship`s chandlery. Exclusive Access Cards for marina gates and vehicles, CCTV, 24 hours security, underground parking, Public Transportation, Taxi, Rent a Car & heliport on site.Yacht Club Marina de Portimão. Training basis of ABN AMRO TEAM on the VOLVO OCEAN RACE 05/06.Boatyard with dry slips. All services and repairs with travelift up to 50 tons. Travelift for 300 tons available.Resort and convention Hotel with 200 suites, beach and swimming pools.30 min away from the Faro International Airport by highway, with regulary schedule flights.Private jets facilities (Penina Air-field) Daily low cost rates with airline companies only a step from Portugal.In the hearth of the cosmopolitan city of Portimão – Stage City of the LISBOA –DAKAR rally for 2006.Next to the most South Western point of Europe – SAGRES.Historical sites: Middle Age Castles, Roman and Arabic Ruins, Museums. Private and Public Hospital.International School.Dedicated facilities for crew, owners & guests.Activities: Sailing, Daily Trips, dolphins watching, Big Game Fishing, Scuba Diving, (on site)For golf lovers, the area is served by six 1st quality golf courses in 10 Km range. The Algarve bursts with more than 30 golf courses.Mountains, Spa,
Bird watching, Horse Back Riding, Tennis, Wine tasting, Casino, Night club, Mall (nearby).Contacts: Site: www.marinadeportimao.com.ptE-mail: info@marinadeportimao.com.ptThe OCC Cruising Information Service is provided by the OCC. The information is supplied to the OCC by members and is for OCC members only. The date given in the above is the date that the members supplying the information visited this place and the information may have changed at any time.
Lagos – 37°06.60'N, 08°40.50'WLagos, Portugal Latitude and Longitude: 37º06 ' N, 008º40 ' W Date of Information: January, 2009. Submitted by: Terry O’Brien, OCC Port Officer Lagos. Comments:
AN INTRODUCTION TO Lagos
Suitability and Attraction for Yachts .
Cape St Vincent is well known to all cruising yachtsmen and it is, of course, the most southwesterly point of mainland Europe. Some 20 miles to the east of the headland, Lagos is the first secure harbour after the Cape, and it is a popular point of arrival and departure for transatlantic yachtsmen and for anyone from northern Europe, intending to explore the Mediterranean.
Lagos makes a perfect stopover, either for a short-term visit or for a winter lay-up. Marina de Lagos offers secure berthing on modern finger pontoons, with water and electricity available and included in the price. All the normal marina facilities are available; e.g. fuel, bars, restaurants, self-service launderette, showers, and even a real bathroom! Wi-Fi is also provided by the marina, free of charge.
Entry, Arrival and Administration
[attachment=356]lagos1.jpg[/attachment]
On arrival, berth at the 80-metre reception pontoon while you complete the necessary formalities. The helpful staff are multi-lingual and they complete all the local administration for visitors. Entry to the marina is by passing through a lifting pedestrian bridge. This is opened on demand, but with a maximum of eight, 10-minute periods per day, when pedestrians have right-of-way, just prior to train departures.
Customs, Immigration and Police authorities have offices located in the Marina Reception. These are not normally manned, as only the major commercial ports have permanent staff from Immigration (SEF) and Customs (Alfândega) departments. Foreign yachts (including non-EU) can enter any port and the Marina staff will automatically notify the appropriate authorities at their nearest office. At Lagos, this is done by e-mail to the Portimão offices, c.10 miles east. If the officials wish to see the new arrival, they will come to Lagos Marina and visit the yacht, or ask the skipper to come up to the Marina office. It 's all very relaxed and hassle free. For all yachts, passports (ID cards or Residence Permits for locals) of all crew are required, as well as the yacht’s registration and insurance documents. Visas may be required for non-EU citizens – check with your Embassy. Local skippers require proof of their qualifications and there is an appropriate "ticket" system, similar to the UK structure, but legally enforced. For visitors, there is an acceptance of your own national qualification - and an ICC has been shown without any query being raised. Visitors should be advised that the Maritime Police conduct occasional purges on “Documentation”, "Anchor Balls" and "Motor Sailing Cones" - and it can cost an on-the-spot fine of €60 per discrepancy!
Local Taxation
There is a local boat tax, full details of which can be found on the "FAQ" pages at web site www.lagosnavigators.net . In summary, the boat tax is a sub-set of the local vehicle tax, and it applies to all boats in Portugal. Foreign registered boats become liable after the boat has been in any part of the country, ashore or afloat, for 183 days in any tax year. Note that the tax year is the calendar year in Portugal, so the traditional "9 months winter contract" will escape the tax for each of the two years. This is a locally collected tax, and there is currently no real mechanism for checking time spent in different ports across the country. Real cruisers would probably need to spend over 183 days in one location in any year, before they are likely to be identified by the authorities. For locally registered boats, the tax is paid in advance, in January, while for foreign boats it becomes due when 183 days have been reached in the tax year. There is a short clemency period of 30 days after which, if identified as liable, the tax plus a penalty for late payment, will be demanded.
For full details of the debate, to date, real masochists can go to http://lagosnavigators.net/button-info/Z%20Boat%20Tax.htm.mht .
Regarding VAT (IVA), for USA and other non-EU visitors, the rules are common with the rest of the EU - a total of 18 months stay is allowed in any part(s) of the EU - and then VAT (= IVA) becomes due on the value of the vessel. Two tips that appear to work – but need careful verification! (1) A documented journey, outside the EU – e.g. to Morocco - can “restart the clock” and allow for a further 18 months VAT free status. (2) If you ARE importing - enter via the Açores, where VAT/IVA rates are significantly lower (14% v. 20%).
Repair and Hauling-out Facilities
There is a first-class boatyard and chandlery, "Sopromar", adjoining the marina. They can carry out any repair, modification or maintenance – and the summer temperatures make osmosis treatment almost painless! It is very much a family-run concern, there is no restriction on owners or their crew working on their own boats while in their yard, and the staff are very friendly and helpful to the DIY yachtsman!
In addition, there are about 20 qualified tradesmen who are available to assist the owner on any necessary work while in the Marina – and again, there are no restrictions on DIY activities. See the above link for contact phone numbers.
Sailing Directions and Pilotage
Ponta da Piedade Light (Flashing 7secs) 37º 04’.8 N, 008º40’.1 W, is on a prominent headland, 1.5 NM south of Lagos. This headland also acts to shelter the Bay of Lagos from all westerly winds. The harbour entrance is about 100 mtrs wide, dredged to 3 mtrs LAT, and protected by two moles, marked with red and green pillars and lights. The light characteristics are Gr. Fl. (2) 6secs.
The marina’s situation and the dogleg in the breakwaters mean that it is very well protected. However, entry is not advised if a strong southeasterly is blowing, as a heavy swell builds up at the entrance. Apart from the easily spotted rocks and cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, there is only one minor hazard on the approach. A small sand bank, about 300 mtrs south of the west mole, has a charted depth of 1.6 mtrs – but local testing proves that the bank is building and, in May 2008, had only about 1.3 mtrs clearance at LAT. A safe approach transit is shown on the charts, but the rear mark, a church, can be hard to identify. See the photograph above. Keep north of a bearing of the west mole of 282º True, from about 0.5 NM out.
There are a number of interesting anchorages along the coast. (Alvor should not be missed!) Holding is generally good, on firm sand, with some rocky patches. The coast is exposed in the event of S and SE winds – unusual but not unknown, even in summer.
Radio Services and Weather Forecasts
"Coastal Radio Faro" has local aerials and can be called on Ch 16, - then using Ch 10 or 12 for working. After a warning on VHF Ch 16, they use Ch 10 or 12, for weather forecasts at 1000 & 1600 daily, in Portuguese and English – and they reach the entire Algarve coastline.
Lagos Marina listens and works VHF Ch 9 and, in the high summer season only, the marina broadcast the local Met. Office forecast at 1000 and 1600. There is also an informal “Cruisers’ Net” at 0930 on VHF Ch 9, every Monday and Friday during the remaining 9 months. This includes a comprehensive forecast. Met Office forecasts and synoptic charts are posted in the Marina office daily. Note that none of the forecasts take account of the "Nortada", which can blow Northerly, Force 4 to 6, from 1300 daily.
Local Yacht Clubs
"Lagos Navigators” have their own web site, www.lagosnavigators.net which is a mine of detailed information - your Port Officer is the main contributor! It is an informal group of like-minded sailing people – some locals, some “Lagos Live-aboards” and some cruisers passing through – or spending the winter here. (The September to June 9-month deal is very good value!) They organise a range of activities - depending on what is wanted and who can organise it – but we have had Portuguese language lessons; observatory visits; country walks; technical presentations; whisky tasting – as well as many purely social gatherings.
The Marina management arranges a winter programme of “9 events for 9 months”. These include a boat jumble, sailing on the caravel “Boa Esperanza”, Cruising Conference and a Wine Tasting.
The local “Club de Vela” is primarily interested in dinghy sailing for youngsters, although they do organise races for cruisers over the summer. Each Marina along the Algarve hosts a number of events - so the keen, competitive sailor can keep is hand in, especially over the summer months!
Recommendations and/or Warnings
Lagos is one of the most historic towns in Portugal, having been a base for Henry the Navigator and the Portuguese “Discoverers”, of the 15th Century. The original walls and forts still encircle the old town, which with its narrow streets – now mainly pedestrianised – is well worth exploring. In contrast, there is a vibrant social scene, catering for all tastes and ages. A great joy is that it is still a very safe town and it is common to see 3 or 4 generations of locals - all out together and enjoying themselves as a family.
In addition, there are miles of clean sandy beaches, safe swimming and adventure sports for the young at heart. What more could a tired sailor want?
Nowhere is perfect, of course, and there is still some petty theft and drugs dealing to be found - but it feels much safer here than in the U.K. The local attitude to business is still very laid back – and the people are so polite they don’t like to tell you “it can’t be done in x days”. This can be frustrating – but be patient, go to the beach, and have another beer! That’s why you’re sailing – not running a factory!
Attached, as an appendix, is a list of some of the basic facts about Lagos. Please visit our local web site www.lagosnavigators.net for even more information and FAQs and to see what social activities are available.
Let me know what you think about these notes – and if you are in the area, please call in and say “Hello”! We’ll do our best to make you welcome. Terry O’Brien. 1st January, 2009. Yacht “Selene”, Berth G03, Marina de Lagos. E-mail tmob@sapo.pt or Mobile (00351) 964 872 962
AN INTRODUCTION TO Lagos - APPENDIX ALPHABETICAL LIST OF OTHER FACILITIES
Banks – The town is well supplied with all the local banks, plus a (Portuguese) Barclays Bank. Cash Machines are everywhere – there are two inside the marina!
Car Hire - There are many car hire outlets – international brand names and local budget operators. The locals are good value and the cars are modern and well maintained. A favourite is the 24-hour, one-way hire, with no CDW or excess, for €40 – ideal for airport connections.
Chandlery - Sopromar have a comprehensive stock and will "order in" from a range of suppliers. There are 3 others in the town; two are angling or speedboat oriented, the other is a real “Aladdin’s Cave”.
Fuel - Both petrol (GASOLINA) and diesel (GASOLEO) are available next to the Marina Reception.
Gas - Propane refills are now only available at a garage 35 miles away - but they do have a lot of adaptors! Butane refills can be obtained for the small (4.5 kg.) cylinders. Camping Gaz is available everywhere. It may pay to change to one of the Portuguese suppliers if you are staying over winter.
Hotels – There are two four-star hotels, 5 three-star; lots of pensions (€40 double room) plus private rooms, flats & villas to rent. NB: It can get busy (i.e. full) in July & August.
Internet – Wi-Fi is available from the marina, free of charge. Other access can be obtained in lots of cafés in the marina and the town.
Medical - There is a public A&E unit in Lagos with the main hospital in Portimão (20 minutes by taxi). We have two private hospitals and also lots of doctors, dentists, clinics and very helpful pharmacies.
Post Office – The normal office is located in the town centre, while parcels and registered post can be collected from the main office, about 15 minutes walk away. It is a 2 to 4 days delivery service for letter post to or from the U.K. For mail to come to the marina, use "YACHT NAME”; C/O Marina de Lagos, Edificío da Administração; 8600-780 Lagos; Algarve, Portugal.
Restaurants - We 're spoilt for choice! Fresh fish in the docks – all you can eat for €10. Eat "local" and give your taste buds a treat! Or be a tourist if you like – good quality and few rip-offs. Be aware that some fish and seafood is sold by weight – check the actual cost for your meal when ordering.
Shops/supermarkets/markets – There are three major supermarkets in Lagos, plus 2 “budget” outlets and local chains. A great fish, meat and vegetable market is 300 mtrs away. For a supply of “real” fruit and vegetables, don’t miss a visit to the “Farmers’ Market”, every Saturday, just across the footbridge.
Telephones - Coin (and credit card) boxes are in the marina and town. For mobiles, the "best buy" is a local pay-as-you-go “SIM” card for €25 and get €10 calls free.
Transport - Lagos is about an hour by motorway from Faro International Airport (Taxi c. €75/80). There are excellent train services to Faro (8 per day; 90 minutes journey; €6. Plus taxi to airport, €8). With a connection at Tunes, to the newly electrified Lisbon line, the capital is only about 3 hours (and €24) away. Local bus and coach services can take you all around Lagos District, and to all parts of the Algarve region at VERY low cost.
Water - Tap water is perfectly safe from the pontoons, though a lot of locals buy bottled water, as the town supply can be chlorinated at times.
Ayamonte – 37°12.62'N, 07°24.69'W
Alcoutim – 37°28.30'N, 07°28.22'W
Guadiana – 37°14.78'N, 07°25.94'W
Foz de Odeleite – 37°21.28'N, 07°26.39'W
Mertola – 37°39.00'N, 07°39.00'W[attachment=355]SanlucarfromAlcoutim.jpg[/attachment]
Do not miss a trip up the Guadiana, it really is a highlight of any cruising in this area.Exactly.
On arrival at the river mouth first pick up the pair of buoys and then follow the buoyed channel into the river. The training wall on the Spanish side is submerged with a tower at its sea-ward end. Once in the river favour the Portuguese side, only crossing to the Spanish side when opposite the marina at Ayamonte. Do not enter before half-flood.
In May 2010, the second green buoy (No. 3) was absent but there was another green just west of the training wall beacon although it is not known whether it was lit. Conversely, the Fl(4) G. 2M off Punta de la Epsada was absent.
The marina at Ayamonte is over-priced for the facilities (see place report). The marina at Vila Real de San Antonio has much better facilities with a friendly, helpful staff but there are strong tidal currents through the marina. The visitors berth is easy enough - it is the marina side of the floating barage that forms the river-side of the marina - but if you are leaving your boat (so that you are not on board to fend off!) beware of mistakes that other boats may (will!) make.
Finding a definitive height of the bridge over the river just upstream from Ayamonte is not easy. I heard that it had been measured at 18 metres - presumabably from MHWS. I draw 17.5m airdraft and I got under it at half-flood with 8m depth under the bridge.
From Ayamonte favour the Spanish side - there is a very large shoal area on the Portuguese side. Keep as close in to the Spanish side as depth will allow, passing close by the moorings and the ferry dock. Pass the bridge between the two central supports but keep closer to the support on the Spanish side - there is a shallow patch under the mid-point of the bridge, marked by No.6 Port hand buoy.
The tide turns about 2 hours later at Alcoutim '>Alcoutim than it does at Ayamonte which favours the trip up the river but then causes problems on the way back. I left Ayamonte at half flood and made the journey to Alcoutim in four hours. The least depth under my (2m) keel was just under 1m and that was off Casa Amarilla (Yellow House, easily seen). Normally favour the outside of bends and mid-stream in the straights.
At Alcoutim I was disappointed to find the depth shoaling as I approached through the boats moored mid-stream. I passed Alcoutim and anchored very happily in 8m of water on the Spanish side.
There are three pontoons at Alcoutim but take care. One of the river pleasure boats is so large they clear the central pontoon and the nothermost and southernmost end of the other two so that it and its hoards can disembarc.
Acoutim is a very pretty town and is a bit more lively than Sanlucar. They are of course on different time zones and it is fun to hear the town clocks arguing over when it is mid-day.
Sanlucar also has pontoons but mention was made of a rat problem there.
Do not miss the tributary at Alcoutim you will see Terrapins, Hoopoes and Bee Eaters.
There is free Wi-Fi (algarvedigital) hotspot in Alcoutim, accessible from (at least) the upstream pontoon.
It is possible to continue to Polmarao where the social club is said to do a very good and inexpensive meal but beware debris that was washed out from the dam during the famous flood. Instructions for Polmarao and for Mertola (for the very brave) can be got from the second hand book shop in Sanlucar. Also there is a pilot (see www.upriverpilot.com) although the chandlers at Vila Real and Ayamonte deny it exists and you would have to get a copy before arriving in the area.
On the way back I stopped at Foz de Odeleite which I can recommend. Anchor downstream from the town just before the tributary. Good restaurant just over the road from the pontoon.
Faro Town anchorage – 37°00.52'N, 07°56.45'W
The lagoon at Faro is a tranquil place and a good stop when coasting in either direction.
A tidal current of up to 4.5 knots may be encountered in the entrance, escpecially on the ebb. In May 2010 ALIESHA arrived during the 4th hour of a small springs e and entered under power. The various standing waves looked nasty but we on ly took a few splashes on the decks. we have encountered worse in the Little Russell, heading north from St Peter 's Port, Guernsey
If bound for the anchorage off Culatra Island, the best water is found close to the island shore after you pass the lighthouse. Look for the two leading marks, astern of you if entering. These are striped horizontally, red and white and take you very close to the first red can buoy after the light house
The anchorage position given keeps you clear of t worst of the heavy small boat traffic between the island and Olhao. An even quieter anchorage is at 37.00.2N 007 49.0W but beware of the long sand spit running from the island to the north and marked at the northern end by a small white buoy.
Olhao is an unspoiled Portuguese fishing town and well worth a visit. We chose to take our dinghy from the Culatra anchorage, finding a way across the sand and mud banks at half tide by following the locals. The yacht anchorage is very tight. Fuel and water may be obtained in the small harbour to the west of the main fishing docks. Leave your dinghy on the outer pontoon of the small boat marina that is the most westerly of all the berthing facilities.
Ashore is a good Pingo Doce supermarket a short walk from the head of the pontoon plus cafes and restaurants aplenty.
We didn 't go up to Faro town on this visit. We were last there in 2001 and remember a pleasant provincial city with the peace of the anchorage rather spoiled by the frequent aeroplane movements - the airport is just to the west.
Olhao – 37°01.36'N, 07°50.48'WOn the 16th we headed down to the Olhau lagoons, near Faro. We had been receiving radio messages and emails from other Rally boats saying "you must get down here, you won 't believe this place". Since we knew some of the boats were leaving Olhau soon, we set off on a steaming hot day with no wind - so it was out with the 'Italian light airs genoa ' (the engine). We arrived hot and tired about an hour before dusk, so having negotiated some overfalls at the entrance, we didn 't want to push our luck with some tricky pilotage to the lagoons and simply anchored off the village on Isla da Culatra.
The following morning we crept carefully to the east and parked amongst the other boats, near the beach. There were 8 Rally boats there when we arrived although Moonshadow Star was preparing to leave for Gibraltar. I can only describe the place as a beautiful nothing. There is absolutely nothing there except a beautiful beach on the lagoon side, with wide sand dunes that you can walk over to reach the Atlantic side - where there is...nothing, just more miles and miles of the most wonderful beaches and dunes. There are a lot of birds there such as storks and terns and at night if the tide is out you can hear birds calling to each other on the mud flats. We believe the area has a fairly low level conservation order protecting it, which hopefully will keep the developers out. It would be a crying shame if they ever got near this place. The only thing to be aware of is the weed that gets into water filters if you are running the engine/generator/fridge/watermaker. Once aware though regular monitoring and clearance solves any problem.
The other boats told us it was possible to take the dinghy (by various routes through the sand banks, subject to tide level) to the town of Olhau - two big market halls with meat/fish and fruit/vegetables; free Internet access for half an hour etc etc. A really great place.
They also said that with care you could take the yacht up to an unfinished marina (no fuel, water or electricity), which was FREE. They had also sussed out that there was a public water fountain right next to the marina, shove in a short length of hose and fill as many cans as you want. Plus diesel was easily available from a garage, near where we could leave a dinghy.
Olhao Town anchorage, Faro Lagoon – 37°01.36'N, 07°50.48'W
Culatra anchorage, Faro Lagoon – 37°00.19'N, 07°50.19'W
Culatra – 36°59.88'N, 07°50.87'WThe room for anchoring at Olhao is now restricted to no more than four or five boats. The area that was previously available has been filled with small boat marinas and one yacht marina. The yacht marina is not available for visitors - we were waived away even though there was clearly space. When I spoke to the security guard all he said was 'no visitors '.
The only place to anchor is off the market building with the red roof. Right in the middle of even this restricted area is a pontoon for a reproduction Carvel pleasure boat.
This negative report is not about the boatyard which I understand continues to receive good reports (much better than that at Faro).
The (very nice!) alternative is to anchor at Ilha da Culatra and get the regular ferry from there to Olhao.
Faro Lagoon - west entrance – 36°57.60'N, 07°52.20'W
The lagoon at Faro is a tranquil place and a good stop when coasting in either direction.
A tidal current of up to 4.5 knots may be encountered in the entrance, escpecially on the ebb. In May 2010 ALIESHA arrived during the 4th hour of a small springs e and entered under power. The various standing waves looked nasty but we on ly took a few splashes on the decks. we have encountered worse in the Little Russell, heading north from St Peter 's Port, Guernsey
If bound for the anchorage off Culatra Island, the best water is found close to the island shore after you pass the lighthouse. Look for the two leading marks, astern of you if entering. These are striped horizontally, red and white and take you very close to the first red can buoy after the light house
The anchorage position given keeps you clear of t worst of the heavy small boat traffic between the island and Olhao. An even quieter anchorage is at 37.00.2N 007 49.0W but beware of the long sand spit running from the island to the north and marked at the northern end by a small white buoy.
Olhao is an unspoiled Portuguese fishing town and well worth a visit. We chose to take our dinghy from the Culatra anchorage, finding a way across the sand and mud banks at half tide by following the locals. The yacht anchorage is very tight. Fuel and water may be obtained in the small harbour to the west of the main fishing docks. Leave your dinghy on the outer pontoon of the small boat marina that is the most westerly of all the berthing facilities.
Ashore is a good Pingo Doce supermarket a short walk from the head of the pontoon plus cafes and restaurants aplenty.
We didn 't go up to Faro town on this visit. We were last there in 2001 and remember a pleasant provincial city with the peace of the anchorage rather spoiled by the frequent aeroplane movements - the airport is just to the west.
[attachment=354]FaroLagoon.jpg[/attachment]