Sailing into Serenity: A Day on Ilha dos Frades
Drawn by the allure of crystalline waters and scenic views, I embarked on a schooner trip from Salvador to Ilha dos Frades. Join me as I recount a day filled with sun, sea, and nostalgia.
Setting Sail from Salvador
As the sun began its gentle ascent over the horizon, I found myself at the Salvador Nautical Terminal, ready to embark on a journey that promised crystalline waters and scenic views. The anticipation of the day ahead was palpable, reminiscent of the excitement I felt during my youthful train journeys across Europe. The schooner, a charming vessel with its sails billowing in the morning breeze, awaited its passengers. As we set sail, the city of Salvador slowly receded into the distance, offering a picturesque view of the São Marcelo Fort and the Itapagipe peninsula.
The gentle rocking of the schooner was soothing, much like the rhythmic clatter of train wheels on tracks. The Baía de Todos os Santos stretched out before us, a vast expanse of shimmering blue. Onboard, a lively pagoda group serenaded us with their vibrant tunes, adding a festive air to the journey. As we sailed, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to my beloved train travels, where the journey itself is as enchanting as the destination.
The Allure of Ilha dos Frades
Upon reaching Ilha dos Frades, I was greeted by the sight of calm, crystal-clear waters that seemed to beckon me for a swim. The island, with its pristine beaches and lush greenery, felt like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. I took a leisurely stroll along the sands, savoring the warmth of the sun on my skin and the gentle lapping of waves at my feet.
The island’s charm was further enhanced by the presence of a quaint chapel dedicated to Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe. Climbing the stairs to the chapel, I was rewarded with a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. It was a moment that transported me back to the scenic vistas I had admired from train windows, each view a snapshot of nature’s beauty.
As the afternoon sun cast a golden hue over the island, I indulged in a refreshing swim, the cool waters providing a welcome respite from the heat. The experience was akin to the leisurely stops I often made during my train journeys, where I would pause to soak in the beauty of the countryside.
A Sunset to Remember
As the day drew to a close, our guide called us back to the schooner for the return journey. The sun began its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. It was a sight that evoked memories of sunsets viewed from train compartments, each one a unique masterpiece.
The return journey was a time for reflection, as I sat on the deck, watching the sun dip below the horizon. The Baía de Todos os Santos was bathed in the soft glow of twilight, a fitting end to a day filled with wonder and discovery. As we approached Salvador, the city’s lights twinkled in the distance, welcoming us back.
This schooner trip was a delightful reminder of the joys of slow travel, where each moment is savored and every view cherished. Much like my train journeys across Europe, this experience was a testament to the beauty of taking the time to truly appreciate the world around us.