Portugal has a rich maritime history. It was from Portugal that Great Navigators set sail to discover new worlds. Bartolomeu Dias rounded the Cape of Good Hope in 1487. In 1498 Vasco da Gama would reach Calcutta - the first person ever to have sailed from Europe to Asia around the African continent.  In 1500 Pedro Alvares Cabral discovered Brazil. In 1522 Magellan would become the first Portuguese and the first person in the world to sail around the world.

At its strategic location at the entrance of the Mediterranean and yet facing the World and the Atlantic, modern Portugal is the premier sailing destination in Europe. Unlike the Mediterranean, Portugal offers the seasoned sailor the challenges of the open and turbulant Altantic or more calmer cruising waters off the coast of the Algarve.

Please visit the Yacht Clubs section for more information on yacht clubs on the West Coast and the Events section for the lastest news on all sailing events on the West Coast.

Portugal is also the one of the top spots for surfing in Europe. With the Atlantic winds producing excellent tubes - the surf will not let you down. Some of my favourite places to hit the surf: Sagres (Algarve) Ericeira and Peniche. Or just explore the coast and find your own hot spots.

Portimão Formula Windsurfing - World Championship 2008 - 9th to 14th September - Praia de Alvor, Portimão

Troféu De Portugal TP/52 Audi Med Cup - 15th to 19th September - Portimão

Campeonato Do Mundo de Powerboat P1 - 26th to 28th September - Praia de Rocha, Portimão