Friday, Aug 29, 2014 –
We motored into Barcelona about 4 pm after about 28 hours at sea. There was almost no wind and what we had was on the nose. At least the seas were calm so it was a smooth ride. We are always exhausted after an overnight run as your body does not have time to acclimate. Many days at sea are easier as you get into a routine.
We tried to book a reservation at the Marina Olimpico just on the north end of Barcelona. Other cruisers and the books had said that it was not very convenient, but much less expensive. We can make that work. 
We emailed a reservation and they contacted us back to say they had no slips available for any of the time we wanted (9 nights). So we came along anyway and decided to just wing it and go into Marina Port Vell, the marina in the center city. Normally very expensive, a Russian has bought it and is doing major renovations to develop a super yacht harbor. Since it is under construction they are offering better deals. Sooo, we motored in unannounced, picked out an empty slip, docked our super little yacht, and walked up to the office and said – “Hola, we’re here!” The best part thought is that they claim great security. No one noticed us pulling in a 50 foot boat and docking it. Then, as we walked to the office, we needed to cross the construction area. The guard stopped us only to tell us that we needed to be safe and had us put on bright orange vests to not be injured walking through the area!
The folks in the office were not only extremely friendly and helpful, but spoke perfect English. We got a great rate from them to stay for 2 weeks, so now we are in the middle of Barcelona for less than the inconvenient marina! Even if we leave earlier to keep our schedule we are ahead.
