We only stayed a couple of days as there was a good weather window for heading across to Morocco. However, we still had time to explore the old part of the city with its narrow streets, ancient city walls, and well kept squares and gardens. We re-stocked with food and wine in preparation for our crossing to North Africa.
Our friend Matt from Bristol, was flying out to join us for a few days over Christmas and New Year. We had planned to meet in Rabat, it had been recommended as a good harbour, despite the 36 hours crossing time from Cadiz. However as we approached Rabat we were informed that the harbour was closed due to the large waves at the entrance.
We decided to continue further south along the Moroccan coast to Mohammedia, near Casablanca. Arriving on Christmas Eve afternoon, just a few hours before strong winds and rough seas struck the coastline.
We received help berthing in the small port reserved for local yachts and visitors, as the space seemed narrower than our boat! Customs and Immigration officers visited our yacht to fill in numerous forms, they were friendly and welcomed us to their country.
The culture shock in comparison to Europe was dramatic, to say the least! The marina and port area was guarded by the police. The local market was filled with street traders selling fresh fruit, veg, chickens and fish from tables on the side of the road and carts pulled by donkeys. We bought a chicken and vegetables for our Christmas day lunch, found the train station where we met Matt and headed back to our boat.
