The way from Natal to Recife had been the most difficult part of our small big adventure due to the geographical circumstances and the orientation of the wind.

We had to sail exactly into the direction of the wind, which means we had to move the sailing boat on a zigzag course to make progress.

As from Recife the orientation of the coast changed from north/south to northwest/southeast and consequently the wind was more in favor and not right in our direction anymore and sailing was more comfortable, more relaxed, more enjoyable.

It was late afternoon and it was my turn at the steering wheel when we came closer to the island of Santo Alexio.

The only highlight when you are sailing are either appearing and disappearing animals or appearing and disappearing coastlines.

Pilot whales are among the largest of the oceanic dolphins, exceeded in size only by the killer whale. They and other large members of the dolphin family are also known as blackfish.

They are highly social and can be found in oceans nearly worldwide. Pilot whales generally take several breaths before diving for a few minutes, capable of diving to depths of 600 meters with shallow dives yo take place during the day, while deeper ones take place at night.

I had the luck to experience both and met first a small whale taking a breath approximately 50 meters away from the sailing boat and then the island of Santo Alexio. First a very little whale and then a very little island, the island of Santo Alexio.

For a small understanding of the days travel, I have included a Google Earth map. The red pins mark the locations I have stopped and taken pictures.

Please click on map to enlarge!!!

See map and distances / Siehe Karte und Entfernungen / Ver mapa e distâncias / Ver mapa y distancias