316 nautical miles at an average speed of 17 knots since we left Lisbon, we are now around 16 nautical miles from Spain, and have just been informed that the captain is available for any wedding ceremonies.

Our last port of call, Lisbon yesterday, was a stark contrast to what we experienced in Malta last Friday mainly because of the seemingly omnipresent graffiti. Our day in Lisbon on an insiders tour led by Maria and Ramsay commenced with a walk from Arcadia to the main square then a tram ride to Belem. A picture perfect day to see the sights which for us included Belem Tower, the Momument to the Discoveries and a birdseye view of the whole city from Castelo de S. Jorge.

Obligatory stops included the Pastais de Belem to sample Portugese tarts and lunch in a local restaurant which concluded with free shots of local white port. The afternoon flew by while exploring the shops in the main square, where Greg bought himself an Indiana Jones style hat (inspired by our visit to Petra) and I sourced another layer to wear in anticipation of the cool change we anticipate on arrival in the UK in two days.

Our tentative plans for exploring the UK after leaving Arcadia have been disrupted by an unexpected offer to visit the Isle of Wight by a couple we have met on board who reside there. First stop is now Brighton for a night, then we return to Southampton to catch a ferry to the Isle of Wight for another insiders tour.

Our brief taste of Lisbon has left me craving more, although I made need to ease up on the pastries when we return!