A large bus lit up the quay on the 18th at 20.00, filled with tired yet enthusiastic, voyage crew for TNS 295, Caiscais to Las Palmas. However we were beginning this voyage from Leixoes and will soon be bypassing Caiscais.
The new crew were welcomed aboard by the permanent crew with open arms and fed with one of Graham's hearty meals, and were left to settle into their new home for the next ten day's.
After breakfast formal introductions began with Captain Barbara telling one of her jokes, which went down with a bang, partly because it involved "
Paddy and Mick"! Introductions complete, it was time for the training to begin, the crew were mustered at the main mast after smoko, and shown how to brace the yard, climb the rigging and don lifejackets for an emergency evacuation. Now they are looking like they will be able to handle this ship, under the watchful eye of the boss woman, Captain Barbara!
In the afternoon they crew were given time to peruse Porto and of course sample the fine beers and indeed the port! The city of Porto was visited by most, and others chose to find the first coffee shop and settle there for the evening, of course we are in Europe and the coffee shops also served beer, which appeared to be convenient for the crew!
Saturday the 20th was kicked of with breakfast with an aim to have our pilot on board and be leaving out birth at 10.30, however, it didn't happen like that! Unfortunately some piece's of paperwork were not completed by the port officials, this came to light once we were had our gangway onboard and were singled up. 13.15 arrived as did the most enthusiastic, happy and helpful marine police officer (SEVERE SARCASM). In his hand was our departure papers. But he was unwilling to attach them to our heaving line, that our second mate David was throwing towards him. There was only one thing to do with this strict man, set Barbara on him, she will sort it.... and so she did! Soon we will be on our way.......
Ronan
Medical Purser