👉One minute we’re waving farewell, the next we’re surfing down waves. Just another “normal” day getting to our next stop.

We slipped out of Gruissan early—partly chasing the promise of a good sail, partly avoiding the trauma of seeing 0.0 on the depth gauge ever again. The water was glassy once more, giving us those perfect mirror‑like reflections that make you stop and stare, even when you’re meant to be getting a move on.

As we looked back, the snow‑topped Pyrénées rose behind us. I zoomed in as far as my camera would allow, but nothing captured the sheer magnificence of seeing mountains meet the sea. We’ve sailed plenty in Greece and Türkiye—both stunning in their own right—but those snow‑capped peaks absolutely captivated me.

Once we’d danced our way past the fishing pots, we settled into a lovely sail towards Canet‑en‑Roussillon—which, for the record, is currently winning the award for “Most Difficult Marina Name to Pronounce Over the Radio.” Thankfully, they eventually understood me, and we were guided in to a prime spot right beside the capitainerie and the sanitaires. Pure luxury.

Safely tied up, a sign immediately caught our eye: “Pub sur la mer.” A pub… on the sea? Say no more. The balcony overlooked the water and a long boulevard running alongside 9km of pristine beach. One Espresso Martini and a large beer later, we wandered off for a sunset stroll. It was only a two‑night stop, but the kind that leaves a quietly glowing impression.

Back on board, while cooking up a proper steak feast, I heard someone on the pontoon asking about Novera. That’s how we met our new friends aboard their beautiful Super Maramu. We’re quickly learning that Amel owners are a wonderfully friendly bunch—always ready with a hello, a tip, or a helping hand, whether on Facebook or the pontoon.

After a beer and a tour of their boat, we invited our Belgian neighbours over the following evening. Conversation flowed, stories were swapped, lessons shared, and laughter came easily. One of those simple, perfect sailing evenings that remind you why you’re out here.

The next morning, after exchanging contact details (we never say goodbye), we set off—straight into wind and waves that definitely hadn’t been in the forecast. Novera didn’t mind. She showed off her surfing skills in swell over a metre and waves up to 1.5m. With the sails reefed and the wind finally returning after days of motoring, we flew along—hair wild, feet braced, adrenaline high, grinning like kids.

When the wind eased and we switched back to the engine, a nearby trawler brought a little magic with it. Birds circled, tuna leapt from the water—it felt like following a maritime pied piper. We happily trailed behind, watching nature put on a show. The perfect end to a fun, bouncy day.

Our next stop was Port‑Vendres—a lovely marina with a slightly nerve‑jangling entrance. Tight spaces, ropes everywhere, not much room for error. With earpieces in and our calm voices on, we talked each other through it and slid into our berth like seasoned pros… mostly. I did drop a rather slimy rope, which dented our cool factor a little 🤣. Thankfully, the Capitainerie team were patient and helpful, which made all the difference.

It was only a short stay: a wander, a bit of downtime, and then onward again—this time to Banyuls‑sur‑Mer for a long weekend and our final stop in France.

Spain is just a few hours away.

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