Combarro ⚓

In our last post we explained a bit about our coast hugging tactics when we are on the way. On our trip from Corrubedo to Combarro we were mostly able to do the same. Except, we had to cross the Ria de Arousa and therefore cross through 50-70 meters of ocean. You might wonder why we didn't just go into Ria de Arousa to avoid all this. Especially since this Ria is supposed to be very pretty.

Well, in this Ria there have already been several of orca sightings and even some attacks over the last couple of weeks. On top of that this Ria is very large and therefore it would also take a long time to get past this Ria. That's why we decided to cross this Ria and skip it. We didn't have a lot of wind at the beginning of the trip. Luckily when we were getting closer to Ria de Arousa the wind picked up a bit and we were able to roll out the jib to assist the engine. Just before we would cross the Ria we collected all the goods we would use to scare away the orcas in case we would see them. A peddle to bang on our swimming ladder in case they get near; but mostly, fireworks we can throw in the water the moment we see them to hopefully discourage them to get any nearer.

On we went right across the ria. We couldn't go over it. We couldn't go under it. Oh no. We've got to go through it! The moment we reached about 40+m of water we added some extra engine power to power through. No sight of any orcas. Luckily.

After the "crossing" of about 30 minutes we were able to fully sail again! So we hoisted the main as well as the jib and enjoyed a lovely sail to Ria de Pontevedra. Somewhere in the middle of the Ria the wind decided to turn off again and we did the last bit on the engine again. We made this trip with the Simon Hendrick again. They left a bit later than us but somewhere along the way they hade over taken us. When we arrived at Combarro we were met by the local group of dolphins in the Ria. Later on we unfortunately discovered that local touring boats feed the dolphins. Which explains why they don't feel the need to leave the ria anymore.

After trying to get closer to the dolphins in our dinghy the Simon Hendrick came over for some drinks. Shortly after Square One (Kiki and Harmen) another Dutch boat come onboard as well. We decided to meet up later on the beach to make another bonfire. Which turned out to be a big success again. Before we realized the clock bells only rang once, and it wasn't to announce a half past.. We decided to return to our boats.

The next day we explored the town of Combarro. Which is a very cute, but therefore also very touristy, yet mostly just Spaniards, old fishing town. In the town there are still a lot of granaries. Some sort of elevated sheds where back in the day grains and other foods were stored. They give quite a funny sight to the town. We decided to stay for another night at anchor before moving on to Ria de Aldan.Read more