Cadiz, Spain 24th August 2011

Cadiz is a major city and seaport in southern Spain. It is said to be the oldest city in Western Europe, apparently founded by Phoenician sailors about 3,000 years ago, as a commercial stronghold. It lies at the tip of a narrow isthmus that forms the western boundary of Cadiz Bay, and has various watchtowers and forts that were a necessity for a bustling port, protecting its cargo from pirates. Today, a large part of Spain’s exports to America go through Cadiz – exports consist largely of sherry wine, cork, olives, figs, salted fish, and salt.

Carnival in Cadiz, one of the oldest and best in Spain is often cited as the third biggest Carnival in the world (I guess after Rio and Trinidad?)

Charlotte wanted to stay on board, swimming in the pool with Charlie and her sisters and playing in Club HAL. I took the open top tourist bus around the city – a great way to see and get a feel for the town.


Cadiz has an old town, with lots of narrow alleyway and old buildings and then a newer town with lovely wide long beaches. The beaches were packed, as were the cafes, across from the beach. It is a picturesque city, with white buildings and beautiful promenades.


As we sailed out, there were many boats sailing around. About 1am that night we passed through the narrow entrance into the Med between Gibraltar and Africa. At that point both continents could be seen (but not by Charlotte and I who were fast asleep!!)