Map of Portosin to Sines

The next stage of our voyage takes us from Portosín to Sines, following the Atlantic coast of Spain and Portugal, a stunning stretch of coastline that combines wild beauty, historic towns, and vibrant cities. This part of the journey offers a mix of open-water passages and coastal cruising, with frequent stops at some of the most charming ports along the Iberian Peninsula. From the lush landscapes of Galicia, we sail south into Portuguese waters, experiencing a blend of traditional fishing villages, bustling marinas, and ancient maritime cities.

Leaving Portosín, we begin by heading out of the Ría de Muros e Noia and rounding the Cabo Fisterra (Cape Finisterre) once more, bidding farewell to the Costa da Morte as we make our way toward Portugal. The waters can be challenging along this rugged stretch, but with good weather, the journey south is exhilarating. After a longer stretch of open water, our first major stop is Viana do Castelo, a charming Portuguese town at the mouth of the Lima River. Viana do Castelo is known for its medieval architecture, grand plazas, and stunning Santuario de Santa Luzia, which sits high above the town, offering panoramic views of the coastline. The marina here is well-protected, providing a safe and tranquil place to rest after the longer passage from Galicia.

Continuing south, we sail along Portugal’s Costa Verde, passing golden beaches and rolling hills. The next stop is Peniche, a historic fishing port that juts out into the Atlantic. Known for its rugged cliffs and dramatic seascapes, Peniche is also a hub for surfing and traditional fishing. Its fortified walls and Forte de Peniche, once a political prison, speak to the town’s long and complex history. This stop offers the opportunity to explore the nearby Berlengas Archipelago, a small group of rocky islands that are a designated nature reserve, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and abundant birdlife.

After Peniche, we make our way to Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal. Entering the Tagus River is a memorable experience, as the river widens and the city reveals itself, with its iconic Ponte 25 de Abril bridge and the towering statue of Cristo Rei on the southern bank. Lisbon is a highlight of this stage of the journey, a city steeped in maritime history, where ancient monuments like the Torre de Belém and the Monastery of Jerónimos stand as reminders of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. The marina at Doca de Alcântara provides easy access to the city’s lively neighborhoods, from the historic streets of Alfama to the trendy bars and restaurants of Cais do Sodré.

After enjoying Lisbon’s energy and culture, we sail back into the open waters of the Atlantic, heading south along Portugal’s Alentejo Coast, a less developed and beautifully rugged stretch of coastline. Here, the land begins to take on a more arid, Mediterranean character, with cliffs and rolling plains stretching inland. The final stop on this leg is Sines, a quiet coastal town with deep historical roots. Sines is known as the birthplace of the great explorer Vasco da Gama, and its small castle overlooking the harbor is a reminder of its strategic importance in centuries past. Despite its history, Sines remains a peaceful and authentic destination, with far fewer tourists than many of Portugal’s more famous coastal towns.

The marina in Sines is a welcome haven, and the surrounding town offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for winding down after this part of the journey. The nearby beaches are long and uncrowded, ideal for a quiet afternoon ashore. This stage of the voyage is a beautiful transition from the wild coasts of northern Spain and Portugal to the warmer, calmer waters of the southern Atlantic, marking the start of a new chapter in our adventure as we prepare to continue toward the Algarve and beyond.