Portimao & Silves, Portugal

During the night and next morning, our little ship sailed north from Casablanca, Morocco to Portimao, Portugal. After breakfast, historian David Barnes expounded upon the history and culture of the Iberian peninsula. Later National Geographic photographer Massimo Bassimo and Lindblad photo specialist Stewart Aitchison began a short program on getting to know one’s digital camera, but were interrupted by dolphins on the bow. Guests attempted to capture images of the quick and elusive cetaceans.

After lunch, we arrived in Portimao, an important fishing and sardine canning center now seemingly being taken over by seaside resorts and luxury apartments. A short coach ride took us to the peaceful town of Silves, once the Moorish capital of the Algarve region. From the mid-11th to mid-13th centuries, Xelb as it was then known, rivaled Lisbon in prosperity and influence. Hooligan crusaders laid siege to town in 1189 on their way to Jerusalem. The Moors retreated to their red sandstone castle atop a big hill. But after three days, they ran out of water and surrendered. Two years later, the Moors retook the place. However, by 1249, the Christians had once again gained control.

We climbed up through town past the church to see the red castle built by the Moors and now being excavated and restored. Afterwards, we explored Silves’ shops, quenched our parched lips with cool sangria, and took photos of the colorful buildings and some of the locals before returning to our ship for the Welcome Aboard Cocktail Party. A wonder end to our first day in western Europe.

Stewart Aitchison, Photo Specialist
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