Calm seas and clear visibility prevailed throughout the night as the LN made the last leg of its voyage. Our team of six was assigned the middle watch from midnight to 4AM, during which we enjoyed watching the glow from the lights of Las Palmas intensify as we approached.
The day also marked the start of the annual migration of yachts from The Canaries to the Carribean known as the ARC. Captain Neal targeted our arrival time to occur before the fleet set sail and entrance to the harbor was restricted. As such, the LN reached its assigned berth and tied up at 0900 alongside two large German cruise ships, a Spanish fire boat and a Swedish naval sailing ship used to train cadets.
Work continued on deck after breakfast with many members of the voyage crew going aloft to assist with stowing of the sails. After an especially delicious lunch we took a shore leave in the afternoon allowing us to stroll through the narrow streets and along the beach promenades.
All returned to the LN by 1800 and gathered for a final debriefing of the voyage as well as an overview of the Jubliee Sailing Trust by Neal.
Afterwards, both the permanent and voyage crew returned to the shore and made their way in a large group to waterfront restaurants for a well-earned meal of tapas and seafood.
The next morning all woke early and finished their personal packing.
Climbing harnesses, Wellingtons and oil skins were collected after our final breakfast together. One more happy hour followed, then handshakes and hugs all around as most of the voyage crew disembarked and started their journey home with the wonderful experience of the past 22 days.
Gary James - Forward Port.