Santa Maria - Our final Azore Island

Jungle's ready to go we head out in a few hours. Next update from Europe in 7 or 8 days! Ciao.

For those who care to follow our sailing progress, follow us at: http://live.adventuretracking.com/arceurope2011

The dinner included being entertained by a local violinist. He was great - he did My Way, followed by U2's With or Without You - impressive.

The local town held a farewell dinner for us. In the morning we head out in racing formation with many local sailors who head back to the last island. We'll all head out together, then we'll split off and head to Portugal mainland.

We did find this beach complete with sunbathers - aren't we adorable!

I'm definitely digging the scenery. This place is so untouched, no traffic to speak of and the nicest friendliest people. I'm giddy!

The locals build these natural pools that fill up with seawater. We're here a little early in the summer season to see them in operation.

A beautiful village to visit - Maia.

We've made it down to Sao Lorenco just in time for lunch.

Here's Don with the admiral. Don and his better half, Maryann are live aboard boaters currently anchored in Houston. They've sailed all over and it's always great to have experienced help. Don and I will be swapping sailing stories (and lies) over the next 5-7 days.

This little settlement was tucked away on the northeast corner of Santa Maria. The island is the oldest inhabited land of the chain (closest to Portugal) which puts the settlements at around 1430 AD - wow. We're planning to drive down and check this one out.

We toured the island with our newest crew member - Don Mack. Incredible sights.

An idyllic paradise.

One last tour of another beautiful island in the Azores.

While sometimes camera shy, the Bournes were a tremendous help. On their first real passage they came through like champs. Lennie fought through the effects of motion and sea sickness, but never missed a shift at the helm. Rick couldn't have been a bigger help if he tried - Johnny on the spot whenever help was needed. We already mis them both, not to mention Ricky's soft hands, but again, I digress.

Well, it's time to set sail for our last stop in the Azores - Santa Maria. Before we go, it's time to say goodbye to the Bourne's. After nearly a month together, Rick and Lennie will head home to Brookline, MA. But before that, I wanted to show you Jenée's dinner, or what's left of it. Me personally, I don't like my meal to look like the previous owner - but that don't stop the admiral! We did have a great last supper with our friends Rick and Lennie.