Places to Visit
1) Gibraltar
2) Spain - Andalusia
3) Morocco
4) Caribbean
1) Gibraltar
From Gibraltar visit every yacht marina along the Costa del Sol, the Mediterranean and Atlantic coast of Spain. Sail the straits of Gibraltar and northerly shores of Morocco with Tomboy Sailing
Gibraltar is a well worth a visit. Here we have the choice of two marinas. Marina Bay a fun and lively marina with bars, restaurants, shops and a casino to keep you entertained. Queensway Quay the quieter of the 2 marinas with a few restaurants and a more relaxed atmosphere. Both have good facilities for the yacht and crew.
There is lots to do around the “Rock” itself. There is the cable car to a spectacular summit viewing point, botanical gardens, St Michaels Cave, Siege Tunnels and Gibraltar’s famous Barbary apes. From the top of Gibraltar you can see the coastlines of both Africa and Spain and the Atlantic and Mediterranean seas meeting in the straits.
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2) Spain - Andalusia
Sotogrande
The first yacht marina east along the coast of Spain from Gibraltar. A salubrious area with a small selection of bars and restaurants to have a drink after a long days sailing. Home to the wealthier clientele with a Beverly Hills feel. There is a large sandy beach and it’s only a short walk to Torre Guadiaro, a traditional Spanish town with some great local tapas bars.
Duquesa
A lively yacht marina along the Costa del Sol with plenty of places to eat and drink. A long Sandy beach great for children as it is protected from the sea by the marina break wall.
Estepona
This town has been developed from an old roman fishing port. There is a restaurant on the marina where you can dine on fish straight off of the boats. Estepona is one of our favourite places to visit along this coast of Spain, as it has kept is Spanish identity.
There is a very traditional feel to the town with great shopping opportunities and many authentic tapas bars we can introduce you to. There is a lovely safe beach for all to use just outside the yacht marina.
Puerto de Jose Banus
This is a favourite playground of the rich and famous with large super yachts visiting regularly. Also a favourite for hen and stag parties with its late night bars and clubs famous along the Costa del Sol.
Tarifa
Europe’s capital of Wind and Kite surfing, with its traditional Spanish streets, surfer lifestyle and fantastic beaches. There is a Moorish castle overlooking the marina, which dominates the skyline. The castle is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the military history of the region. Tarifa is a traditional working fishing port and here you are able to buy fresh fish direct from the boats as they unload their catch. There are few facilities for visiting yachts but a fantastic place to experience.
Barbate
A small costal town with good facilities for yacht and crew. A pleasant coastal walk along some stunning cliffs can be enjoyed to the Canos de Meca lighthouse, the point famous for being the scene of the Battle of Trafalgar.
Sancti Petre
A small but beautiful anchorage with a traditional village on shore with a delightful club nautico. A protected nature sanctuary and a great spot for bird watching and walking.
Cadiz
An old military city with numerous historic buildings. The castle walls still stand proud defending the city to this day.
Cadiz has been one of Spains` principal ports for hundreds of years. Located in a prime position for trade between Europe and Africa with the land itself forming a natural defensive harbour. A must stop place along this coast of Spain!
Rota
A modern marina with good facilities. The traditional Spanish town a short walk away is a maze of narrow streets, tapas bars and restaurants. A long sandy beach five minutes from the marina where you can often catch a glimpse of naval ships. The US Navy have a military base in Rota.
Seville
A beautiful city, steeped in Spanish history. With its narrow streets, historic Muslim quarter and famous cathedral it is a cultural delight. A trip around the sights by horse drawn carriage provides a relaxing way to take in the city. It is possible to reach Seville, which is inland, by sailing up the Rio Guadalquivir. A unique and exciting experience winding your way through the Donana national park teaming with wild horses, pigs, ospreys and flamingoes.
Jerez de la Frontera
Jerez is inland half an hours drive from Cadiz and about an hours drive from Gibraltar. We consider it well worth the effort. Jerez is famous for two things, its dancing horses and its sherry. There are several horse shows throughout the area and we can arrange tickets and transport for you to see one of these amazing exhibitions of Spanish horsemanship using the famed ‘andalucians’. Jerez is steeped in history and there are several cathedrals, churches and a castle to visit. The castle houses one of seven Obscuras in the world. An invention by Leonardo da Vinchi.
The biggest sherry producer in the area is Teo Pepe and you can visit the ‘Bodega’ here and see how it is produced. As you drive through Andalusia you will notice large silhouettes of bulls on the peaks of mountains these are the Teo Pepe`s advertising brand sign.
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3) Morocco
Tangier
This town has a great souk. A short walk uphill you can see the buildings rise from the marina. This network of tiny streets provides an entertaining insight into the local culture. Try the Moroccan mint tea or their fabulous pastries to refresh you whilst exploring.
Ceuta
Ceuta is a multi cultural delight. A favourite trip for us it to take guests in the tender through the cities moat defences, once used to keep out the feuding Moroccans from the territory claimed by the Spanish and in earlier years Portuguese.
A swim in the stunning Parque De Maritimo complex with three enormous outdoor pools surrounded by tropical gardens is a truly unique experience. There is a large Moroccan influence in the architecture of Ceuta due to the positioning of the town.
Smir
The first Moroccan yacht marina reached along the Mediterranean coast. With a modern feel, good facilities and a choice of several restaurants. From Smir excursions into Morocco can be arranged.
Tetouan
A half hour drive from Ceuta with both modern and ancient sectors. A guide here is advised, as one is easily lost in the warrens of alleyways and markets. An array of colours and spices where bargain prices can be bartered for everything!
Chefchouen
Chefchouen is a true gem nestled in a valley wall. The traditional buildings and network of narrow streets provide delights around every corner. With the houses painted in bright blue the town is a photographers dream. Sit and watch the men drinking mint tea and chatting and spot the ladies riding around on their donkeys. Try the traditional ‘Hamman’ scrub down. Definitely an eye opener!
El Jebar
An experience to be remembered here as you tie up with the local fishing fleet. No facilities for the yacht but a friendly small town with a market and a few shops. Trips into the Rift Mountains can be arranged from here.
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4) Caribbean
Shirley Heights
Antigua’s famous hill top bar overlooks the length of the island. From here every Sunday you can enjoy Caribbean style barbecues and party into the sunset with the locals world famous steel band.
English Harbour
Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour is a popular visitor attraction for the island of Antigua. It incorporates a naval museum, nature trail to Fort Berkeley and is the only remaining Georgian dockyard in the World. Many of the interesting historical buildings are open to the public.
Falmouth Harbour
Falmouth harbour is home of the Antigua sailing week and classic yacht regatta and here you will see some of the most impressive classic yachts operating today. An absolute must for anyone with a passion for sailing!
