Marinas in Portugal West Coast

The west coast of Portugal is a diverse and beautiful part of this country but it is not what you would call a cruising paradise and most yachts use the countries marinas as stop over’s on journeys north or south. The country is split into 5 regions starting in the north with Porto E Norte and heading south through Centro de Portugal, Lisboa Regiao, Alentejo to the Algarve. The northern part of the coast is rugged but softens as you travel south.

But not to spend some time exploring this coast would be a mistake. Many of the world’s great explorers set sail from these shores such as Henry the Navigator and Vasco de Gama and museums and tours are dedicated to their travels. Lisbon is awash with statues to past explorers, Castles of late kings not to mention it being a busy modern city and port with achoice of marinas.

Take time to visit Porto and travel the River Douro, whose vine-filled valley produces the world-famous Port wine, this ancient city gave its name to both Port wine and to the nation of Portugal. Much of its heritage is based on shipping and trade, making it a bustling and passionate city.

Most marinas are well run and offer good protection some of the smaller or commercial ports mean you may have to lay up alongside a fishing boat but the reward is “fresh fish” and this coast and its restaurants are famous for its seafood dishes. the down side to the great fish on offer is the pots that can be found on both coasts and are often poorly marked.