The Gulf of Biscaye has a reputation and is intimidating for any sailor who considers going through. Rochefort to A Coruña is a 370 nautical miles ride. In early September in 2022, the weather has switched already to autumn, with depressions emerging from south-west Atlantic and heading north-east through the Atlantic. "Danielle" its on her way, as is named the tropical hurricane announced. We had just left Rochefort when we heard about her...
Rising sun in the Biscaye Gulf
On Windy, we could see that the tail of Danielle is planned to affect the area of A Coruña with winds up to 18 m/s, which Belisama can handle, but which are certainly not pleasant especially after such a 300+ ride.
All started not bad, with strong head winds increasing over time. During the first night, the wind went up to 12 m/s and we decided to reduce sails by taking two reefs and setting the trinquette. This went ok for most of the crossing.
Later in the night, the wind went up to 14 m/s and we reduced the sail to three reefs, but encountered difficulties is sailing up winds facing high waves making it difficult to progress. We decide to get close to the North Spain coast to reduce the exposure to the waves, and hoping for lighter winds. It ends up working and we make it to Burela, short of Coruña, but safe.
Night sailing along the northern coast of Spain.
After three full days and nights, we made it to Burela, looking as one of the largest harbours along the coast towards A Coruña. It happen to be one of the largest tuna fishing harbour, very active, but with no berth for visitors...
So What?
Biscaye Gulf is very variable: for me , 1 motoring 30 hours, 1 ok, 2 with strong winds and 1 very strong but downwind. SW is the worst when going south, impossible to go W enough. Waves are tho most important danger.
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