We arrived under rolling grey clouds, dragons breath on the foothills of the Andes. Patrols of pelican escorted our arrival. A myriad of seabirds, soared in the ships thermals. Colourful fishing boats, bobbed in the harbour.

Simple, brightly painted dwellings rise up from the dock, adorning the steep slopes.

We walked past the many artisan market stalls, on to the fish market.

Colourful Coquimbo, welcome us with smiles and friendly banter. However, the many dogs wondering the streets, left their calling cards for the unwary walker!

We made our way to the tall shopping mall, which, at the top, has an open terrace, where we enjoyed a Chilean coffee and splendid views.

Then the sun broke free. The grey turned to sparkling blue. The mountains gained shape and form, emerging from the mist.

As we left port, a mysterious shroud descended once more, on the far mountain tops. A huge flock of blue footed boobies, dived bombed a ball of fish. Off shore, whales spouted, en route to feeding grounds in Antarctica.

Today we are in San Antonio, where Grahams father Michel, will be joining us for the rest of the cruise.